{"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Murder%E2%80%94Virginia%E2%80%94Lexington\u0026view=compact","last":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Murder%E2%80%94Virginia%E2%80%94Lexington\u0026page=1\u0026view=compact"},"meta":{"pages":{"current_page":1,"next_page":null,"prev_page":null,"total_pages":1,"limit_value":10,"offset_value":0,"total_count":6,"first_page?":true,"last_page?":true}},"data":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"Barton family papers, 1855/1869","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThe Barton family papers consist of the papers of three members of the Barton family who attended VMI during the mid-19th century. Papers related to Charles M. Barton (VMI Class of 1856) include a letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles to his cousin Joseph M. Barton in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). Other Charles Barton material is found in a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_104.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00049.xml","title_ssm":["Barton family papers"],"title_tesim":["Barton family papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1855-1869"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1855-1869"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1855/1869"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Barton family papers, 1855/1869"],"text":["Barton family papers, 1855/1869","MS.0020","/repositories/3/resources/104","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1856","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Notebooks","Poetry","There are no restrictions","Charles Marshall Barton, the eldest son of David W. Barton and and Frances (Fanny) Jones Barton, was born in Winchester, Virginia on November 30, 1836. His preparatory education was received at Winchester Academy and at Episcopal High School (Alexandria, Virginia). He entered VMI in 1852 and graduated in 1856. He subsequently returned to the Winchester area where he was a farmer. Charles married Ellen Harvie Marshall of Fauquier County in 1859. During the Civil War, he served with Cutshaw's Artillery Battery and was mortally wounded in action near Winchester on May 25, 1862.","Randolph J. Barton, Charles's younger brother, was born in Winchester on April 24, 1844. He attended the VMI for one year (1860-1861), and joined the 33rd Virginia Infantry Regiment at the beginning of the Civil War. He subsequently served in the 2nd Virginia Infantry and as a Staff Officer for Generals Elisha F. Paxton, James A. Walker, and William R. Terry. Following the War, Randolph practiced law in Baltimore, Maryland. He married Agnes P. Kirkland of Baltimore on December 29, 1869 and the couple had nine children. He died on March 15, 1921.","Bolling W. Barton, a younger brother of Charles and Randolph, was born in Winchester on November 24, 1846. He entered VMI on September 25, 1862, and while at the Institute, took part in the Battle of New Market (Virginia) on May 15, 1864. In November 1864 he joined the 1st Foreign Battalion. After the Civil War, Bolling studied and practiced medicine, and also taught botany at Johns Hopkins University. He married Ella Jane Gibson in 1872 and the couple had no children. He died in Loudoun County, Virginia on February 18, 1924.","V.M.I. Sept. 28th 55.\nDear Joe","In the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026 go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026 the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026 generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026 the other grand rascals.","I can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026 everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026 I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.","I have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026 the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.","I find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026 I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.","The study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026 taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,","The V.M.I. O What a spot\nIn winter cold, in summer hot\nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder\nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026 Thunder","I am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026 ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026 even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026 have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy.","[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin\nC.M. Barton","A larger collection of Barton family papers is located at the Handley Library in Winchester, Virginia.","The Barton family papers consist of the papers of three members of the Barton family who attended VMI during the mid-19th century. Papers related to Charles M. Barton (VMI Class of 1856) include a letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles to his cousin Joseph M. Barton in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). Other Charles Barton material is found in a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook described above, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph Barton (VMI Class of 1864), an attorney.","Material related to Bolling W. Barton (VMI Class of 1866) includes one letter (dated January 18, 1864) from Frank (last name unknown, but a VMI alumnus), and six documents, primarily French language exercises.","Material related to Randolph J. Barton includes a typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph to the VMI Class of 1912.","Includes one letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles M. Barton to his cousin Joseph M. Barton, in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\").","Also included is a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"","The notebook (approximately 250 pages) contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Includes four class exercises and one note indicating math and French marks. Also includes two items of correspondence.","Geometry class exercise submitted to Lieutenant T. B. Robinson.","French exercise submitted to Lieutenant Miller.","One paper that details math and French marks. Additionally, the paper contains an address for Robert T. Barton.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Note requests that cadet Crawford be granted a leave of absence to \"attend to very important business.\"","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter requests that Bolling W. Barton look after \"Mr. Rutherford,\" a cadet soon to be entering VMI.","Includes one typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912.","Typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912. Originial typescript is housed at the Handley Library Archives in Winchester, Virginia.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Barton family","Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Barton family papers, 1855/1869"],"collection_ssim":["Barton family papers, 1855/1869"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0020","/repositories/3/resources/104"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0020","/repositories/3/resources/104"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"creator_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_famname_ssim":["Barton family"],"creators_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Barton family"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1856","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Notebooks","Poetry"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1856","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Notebooks","Poetry"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["10 items"],"extent_tesim":["10 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Notebooks","Poetry"],"date_range_isim":[1855,1856,1857,1858,1859,1860,1861,1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867,1868,1869],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions"],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eCharles Marshall Barton, the eldest son of David W. Barton and and Frances (Fanny) Jones Barton, was born in Winchester, Virginia on November 30, 1836. His preparatory education was received at Winchester Academy and at Episcopal High School (Alexandria, Virginia). He entered VMI in 1852 and graduated in 1856. He subsequently returned to the Winchester area where he was a farmer. Charles married Ellen Harvie Marshall of Fauquier County in 1859. During the Civil War, he served with Cutshaw's Artillery Battery and was mortally wounded in action near Winchester on May 25, 1862.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eRandolph J. Barton, Charles's younger brother, was born in Winchester on April 24, 1844. He attended the VMI for one year (1860-1861), and joined the 33rd Virginia Infantry Regiment at the beginning of the Civil War. He subsequently served in the 2nd Virginia Infantry and as a Staff Officer for Generals Elisha F. Paxton, James A. Walker, and William R. Terry. Following the War, Randolph practiced law in Baltimore, Maryland. He married Agnes P. Kirkland of Baltimore on December 29, 1869 and the couple had nine children. He died on March 15, 1921.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBolling W. Barton, a younger brother of Charles and Randolph, was born in Winchester on November 24, 1846. He entered VMI on September 25, 1862, and while at the Institute, took part in the Battle of New Market (Virginia) on May 15, 1864. In November 1864 he joined the 1st Foreign Battalion. After the Civil War, Bolling studied and practiced medicine, and also taught botany at Johns Hopkins University. He married Ella Jane Gibson in 1872 and the couple had no children. He died in Loudoun County, Virginia on February 18, 1924.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Charles Marshall Barton, the eldest son of David W. Barton and and Frances (Fanny) Jones Barton, was born in Winchester, Virginia on November 30, 1836. His preparatory education was received at Winchester Academy and at Episcopal High School (Alexandria, Virginia). He entered VMI in 1852 and graduated in 1856. He subsequently returned to the Winchester area where he was a farmer. Charles married Ellen Harvie Marshall of Fauquier County in 1859. During the Civil War, he served with Cutshaw's Artillery Battery and was mortally wounded in action near Winchester on May 25, 1862.","Randolph J. Barton, Charles's younger brother, was born in Winchester on April 24, 1844. He attended the VMI for one year (1860-1861), and joined the 33rd Virginia Infantry Regiment at the beginning of the Civil War. He subsequently served in the 2nd Virginia Infantry and as a Staff Officer for Generals Elisha F. Paxton, James A. Walker, and William R. Terry. Following the War, Randolph practiced law in Baltimore, Maryland. He married Agnes P. Kirkland of Baltimore on December 29, 1869 and the couple had nine children. He died on March 15, 1921.","Bolling W. Barton, a younger brother of Charles and Randolph, was born in Winchester on November 24, 1846. He entered VMI on September 25, 1862, and while at the Institute, took part in the Battle of New Market (Virginia) on May 15, 1864. In November 1864 he joined the 1st Foreign Battalion. After the Civil War, Bolling studied and practiced medicine, and also taught botany at Johns Hopkins University. He married Ella Jane Gibson in 1872 and the couple had no children. He died in Loudoun County, Virginia on February 18, 1924."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sept. 28th 55.\u003cbr\u003e\nDear Joe\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026amp; go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026amp; the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026amp; generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026amp; the other grand rascals.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026amp; everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026amp; I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026amp; the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026amp; I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026amp; taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe V.M.I. O What a spot\u003cbr\u003e\nIn winter cold, in summer hot\u003cbr\u003e\nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder\u003cbr\u003e\nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026amp; Thunder\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026amp;, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026amp; ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026amp; even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026amp; have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin\u003cbr\u003e\nC.M. Barton\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I. Sept. 28th 55.\nDear Joe","In the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026 go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026 the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026 generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026 the other grand rascals.","I can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026 everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026 I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.","I have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026 the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.","I find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026 I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.","The study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026 taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,","The V.M.I. O What a spot\nIn winter cold, in summer hot\nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder\nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026 Thunder","I am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026 ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026 even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026 have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy.","[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin\nC.M. Barton"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eBarton family papers, 1855-1869. MS 0020. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Barton family papers, 1855-1869. MS 0020. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"relatedmaterial_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eA larger collection of Barton family papers is located at the Handley Library in Winchester, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"relatedmaterial_heading_ssm":["Related Materials"],"relatedmaterial_tesim":["A larger collection of Barton family papers is located at the Handley Library in Winchester, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe Barton family papers consist of the papers of three members of the Barton family who attended VMI during the mid-19th century. Papers related to Charles M. Barton (VMI Class of 1856) include a letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles to his cousin Joseph M. Barton in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). Other Charles Barton material is found in a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook described above, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph Barton (VMI Class of 1864), an attorney.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMaterial related to Bolling W. Barton (VMI Class of 1866) includes one letter (dated January 18, 1864) from Frank (last name unknown, but a VMI alumnus), and six documents, primarily French language exercises.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMaterial related to Randolph J. Barton includes a typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph to the VMI Class of 1912.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eIncludes one letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles M. Barton to his cousin Joseph M. Barton, in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAlso included is a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook (approximately 250 pages) contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIncludes four class exercises and one note indicating math and French marks. Also includes two items of correspondence.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGeometry class exercise submitted to Lieutenant T. B. Robinson.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eFrench exercise submitted to Lieutenant Miller.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOne paper that details math and French marks. Additionally, the paper contains an address for Robert T. Barton.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Note requests that cadet Crawford be granted a leave of absence to \"attend to very important business.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Richmond, Virginia. Letter requests that Bolling W. Barton look after \"Mr. Rutherford,\" a cadet soon to be entering VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIncludes one typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTypescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912. Originial typescript is housed at the Handley Library Archives in Winchester, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The Barton family papers consist of the papers of three members of the Barton family who attended VMI during the mid-19th century. Papers related to Charles M. Barton (VMI Class of 1856) include a letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles to his cousin Joseph M. Barton in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). Other Charles Barton material is found in a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook described above, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph Barton (VMI Class of 1864), an attorney.","Material related to Bolling W. Barton (VMI Class of 1866) includes one letter (dated January 18, 1864) from Frank (last name unknown, but a VMI alumnus), and six documents, primarily French language exercises.","Material related to Randolph J. Barton includes a typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph to the VMI Class of 1912.","Includes one letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles M. Barton to his cousin Joseph M. Barton, in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\").","Also included is a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"","The notebook (approximately 250 pages) contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Includes four class exercises and one note indicating math and French marks. Also includes two items of correspondence.","Geometry class exercise submitted to Lieutenant T. B. Robinson.","French exercise submitted to Lieutenant Miller.","One paper that details math and French marks. Additionally, the paper contains an address for Robert T. Barton.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Note requests that cadet Crawford be granted a leave of absence to \"attend to very important business.\"","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter requests that Bolling W. Barton look after \"Mr. Rutherford,\" a cadet soon to be entering VMI.","Includes one typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912.","Typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912. Originial typescript is housed at the Handley Library Archives in Winchester, Virginia."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_42cb3f2e301940272676fb2f5080e20a\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"famname_ssim":["Barton family"],"names_coll_ssim":["Barton family","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854"],"persname_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Barton family","Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":17,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:04.198Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_104.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00049.xml","title_ssm":["Barton family papers"],"title_tesim":["Barton family papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1855-1869"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1855-1869"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1855/1869"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Barton family papers, 1855/1869"],"text":["Barton family papers, 1855/1869","MS.0020","/repositories/3/resources/104","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1856","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Notebooks","Poetry","There are no restrictions","Charles Marshall Barton, the eldest son of David W. Barton and and Frances (Fanny) Jones Barton, was born in Winchester, Virginia on November 30, 1836. His preparatory education was received at Winchester Academy and at Episcopal High School (Alexandria, Virginia). He entered VMI in 1852 and graduated in 1856. He subsequently returned to the Winchester area where he was a farmer. Charles married Ellen Harvie Marshall of Fauquier County in 1859. During the Civil War, he served with Cutshaw's Artillery Battery and was mortally wounded in action near Winchester on May 25, 1862.","Randolph J. Barton, Charles's younger brother, was born in Winchester on April 24, 1844. He attended the VMI for one year (1860-1861), and joined the 33rd Virginia Infantry Regiment at the beginning of the Civil War. He subsequently served in the 2nd Virginia Infantry and as a Staff Officer for Generals Elisha F. Paxton, James A. Walker, and William R. Terry. Following the War, Randolph practiced law in Baltimore, Maryland. He married Agnes P. Kirkland of Baltimore on December 29, 1869 and the couple had nine children. He died on March 15, 1921.","Bolling W. Barton, a younger brother of Charles and Randolph, was born in Winchester on November 24, 1846. He entered VMI on September 25, 1862, and while at the Institute, took part in the Battle of New Market (Virginia) on May 15, 1864. In November 1864 he joined the 1st Foreign Battalion. After the Civil War, Bolling studied and practiced medicine, and also taught botany at Johns Hopkins University. He married Ella Jane Gibson in 1872 and the couple had no children. He died in Loudoun County, Virginia on February 18, 1924.","V.M.I. Sept. 28th 55.\nDear Joe","In the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026 go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026 the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026 generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026 the other grand rascals.","I can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026 everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026 I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.","I have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026 the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.","I find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026 I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.","The study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026 taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,","The V.M.I. O What a spot\nIn winter cold, in summer hot\nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder\nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026 Thunder","I am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026 ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026 even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026 have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy.","[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin\nC.M. Barton","A larger collection of Barton family papers is located at the Handley Library in Winchester, Virginia.","The Barton family papers consist of the papers of three members of the Barton family who attended VMI during the mid-19th century. Papers related to Charles M. Barton (VMI Class of 1856) include a letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles to his cousin Joseph M. Barton in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). Other Charles Barton material is found in a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook described above, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph Barton (VMI Class of 1864), an attorney.","Material related to Bolling W. Barton (VMI Class of 1866) includes one letter (dated January 18, 1864) from Frank (last name unknown, but a VMI alumnus), and six documents, primarily French language exercises.","Material related to Randolph J. Barton includes a typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph to the VMI Class of 1912.","Includes one letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles M. Barton to his cousin Joseph M. Barton, in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\").","Also included is a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"","The notebook (approximately 250 pages) contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Includes four class exercises and one note indicating math and French marks. Also includes two items of correspondence.","Geometry class exercise submitted to Lieutenant T. B. Robinson.","French exercise submitted to Lieutenant Miller.","One paper that details math and French marks. Additionally, the paper contains an address for Robert T. Barton.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Note requests that cadet Crawford be granted a leave of absence to \"attend to very important business.\"","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter requests that Bolling W. Barton look after \"Mr. Rutherford,\" a cadet soon to be entering VMI.","Includes one typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912.","Typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912. Originial typescript is housed at the Handley Library Archives in Winchester, Virginia.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Barton family","Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Barton family papers, 1855/1869"],"collection_ssim":["Barton family papers, 1855/1869"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0020","/repositories/3/resources/104"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0020","/repositories/3/resources/104"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"creator_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_famname_ssim":["Barton family"],"creators_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Barton family"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1856","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Notebooks","Poetry"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1856","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Notebooks","Poetry"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["10 items"],"extent_tesim":["10 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Notebooks","Poetry"],"date_range_isim":[1855,1856,1857,1858,1859,1860,1861,1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867,1868,1869],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions"],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eCharles Marshall Barton, the eldest son of David W. Barton and and Frances (Fanny) Jones Barton, was born in Winchester, Virginia on November 30, 1836. His preparatory education was received at Winchester Academy and at Episcopal High School (Alexandria, Virginia). He entered VMI in 1852 and graduated in 1856. He subsequently returned to the Winchester area where he was a farmer. Charles married Ellen Harvie Marshall of Fauquier County in 1859. During the Civil War, he served with Cutshaw's Artillery Battery and was mortally wounded in action near Winchester on May 25, 1862.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eRandolph J. Barton, Charles's younger brother, was born in Winchester on April 24, 1844. He attended the VMI for one year (1860-1861), and joined the 33rd Virginia Infantry Regiment at the beginning of the Civil War. He subsequently served in the 2nd Virginia Infantry and as a Staff Officer for Generals Elisha F. Paxton, James A. Walker, and William R. Terry. Following the War, Randolph practiced law in Baltimore, Maryland. He married Agnes P. Kirkland of Baltimore on December 29, 1869 and the couple had nine children. He died on March 15, 1921.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBolling W. Barton, a younger brother of Charles and Randolph, was born in Winchester on November 24, 1846. He entered VMI on September 25, 1862, and while at the Institute, took part in the Battle of New Market (Virginia) on May 15, 1864. In November 1864 he joined the 1st Foreign Battalion. After the Civil War, Bolling studied and practiced medicine, and also taught botany at Johns Hopkins University. He married Ella Jane Gibson in 1872 and the couple had no children. He died in Loudoun County, Virginia on February 18, 1924.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Charles Marshall Barton, the eldest son of David W. Barton and and Frances (Fanny) Jones Barton, was born in Winchester, Virginia on November 30, 1836. His preparatory education was received at Winchester Academy and at Episcopal High School (Alexandria, Virginia). He entered VMI in 1852 and graduated in 1856. He subsequently returned to the Winchester area where he was a farmer. Charles married Ellen Harvie Marshall of Fauquier County in 1859. During the Civil War, he served with Cutshaw's Artillery Battery and was mortally wounded in action near Winchester on May 25, 1862.","Randolph J. Barton, Charles's younger brother, was born in Winchester on April 24, 1844. He attended the VMI for one year (1860-1861), and joined the 33rd Virginia Infantry Regiment at the beginning of the Civil War. He subsequently served in the 2nd Virginia Infantry and as a Staff Officer for Generals Elisha F. Paxton, James A. Walker, and William R. Terry. Following the War, Randolph practiced law in Baltimore, Maryland. He married Agnes P. Kirkland of Baltimore on December 29, 1869 and the couple had nine children. He died on March 15, 1921.","Bolling W. Barton, a younger brother of Charles and Randolph, was born in Winchester on November 24, 1846. He entered VMI on September 25, 1862, and while at the Institute, took part in the Battle of New Market (Virginia) on May 15, 1864. In November 1864 he joined the 1st Foreign Battalion. After the Civil War, Bolling studied and practiced medicine, and also taught botany at Johns Hopkins University. He married Ella Jane Gibson in 1872 and the couple had no children. He died in Loudoun County, Virginia on February 18, 1924."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sept. 28th 55.\u003cbr\u003e\nDear Joe\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026amp; go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026amp; the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026amp; generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026amp; the other grand rascals.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026amp; everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026amp; I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026amp; the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026amp; I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026amp; taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe V.M.I. O What a spot\u003cbr\u003e\nIn winter cold, in summer hot\u003cbr\u003e\nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder\u003cbr\u003e\nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026amp; Thunder\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026amp;, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026amp; ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026amp; even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026amp; have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin\u003cbr\u003e\nC.M. Barton\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I. Sept. 28th 55.\nDear Joe","In the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026 go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026 the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026 generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026 the other grand rascals.","I can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026 everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026 I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.","I have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026 the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.","I find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026 I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.","The study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026 taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,","The V.M.I. O What a spot\nIn winter cold, in summer hot\nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder\nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026 Thunder","I am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026 ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026 even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026 have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy.","[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin\nC.M. Barton"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eBarton family papers, 1855-1869. MS 0020. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Barton family papers, 1855-1869. MS 0020. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"relatedmaterial_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eA larger collection of Barton family papers is located at the Handley Library in Winchester, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"relatedmaterial_heading_ssm":["Related Materials"],"relatedmaterial_tesim":["A larger collection of Barton family papers is located at the Handley Library in Winchester, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe Barton family papers consist of the papers of three members of the Barton family who attended VMI during the mid-19th century. Papers related to Charles M. Barton (VMI Class of 1856) include a letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles to his cousin Joseph M. Barton in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). Other Charles Barton material is found in a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook described above, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph Barton (VMI Class of 1864), an attorney.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMaterial related to Bolling W. Barton (VMI Class of 1866) includes one letter (dated January 18, 1864) from Frank (last name unknown, but a VMI alumnus), and six documents, primarily French language exercises.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMaterial related to Randolph J. Barton includes a typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph to the VMI Class of 1912.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eIncludes one letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles M. Barton to his cousin Joseph M. Barton, in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAlso included is a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook (approximately 250 pages) contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIncludes four class exercises and one note indicating math and French marks. Also includes two items of correspondence.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGeometry class exercise submitted to Lieutenant T. B. Robinson.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eFrench exercise submitted to Lieutenant Miller.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOne paper that details math and French marks. Additionally, the paper contains an address for Robert T. Barton.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Note requests that cadet Crawford be granted a leave of absence to \"attend to very important business.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Richmond, Virginia. Letter requests that Bolling W. Barton look after \"Mr. Rutherford,\" a cadet soon to be entering VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIncludes one typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTypescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912. Originial typescript is housed at the Handley Library Archives in Winchester, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The Barton family papers consist of the papers of three members of the Barton family who attended VMI during the mid-19th century. Papers related to Charles M. Barton (VMI Class of 1856) include a letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles to his cousin Joseph M. Barton in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). Other Charles Barton material is found in a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook described above, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph Barton (VMI Class of 1864), an attorney.","Material related to Bolling W. Barton (VMI Class of 1866) includes one letter (dated January 18, 1864) from Frank (last name unknown, but a VMI alumnus), and six documents, primarily French language exercises.","Material related to Randolph J. Barton includes a typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph to the VMI Class of 1912.","Includes one letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles M. Barton to his cousin Joseph M. Barton, in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\").","Also included is a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"","The notebook (approximately 250 pages) contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Includes four class exercises and one note indicating math and French marks. Also includes two items of correspondence.","Geometry class exercise submitted to Lieutenant T. B. Robinson.","French exercise submitted to Lieutenant Miller.","One paper that details math and French marks. Additionally, the paper contains an address for Robert T. Barton.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Note requests that cadet Crawford be granted a leave of absence to \"attend to very important business.\"","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter requests that Bolling W. Barton look after \"Mr. Rutherford,\" a cadet soon to be entering VMI.","Includes one typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912.","Typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912. Originial typescript is housed at the Handley Library Archives in Winchester, Virginia."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_42cb3f2e301940272676fb2f5080e20a\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"famname_ssim":["Barton family"],"names_coll_ssim":["Barton family","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854"],"persname_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Barton family","Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":17,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:04.198Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596_c02_c01_c02","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to Margaret Fulkerson (Vance), 1854","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596_c02_c01_c02#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and the trial of Charles Christian for the murder of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596_c02_c01_c02#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596_c02_c01_c02","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596_c02_c01_c02"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596_c02_c01_c02","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596_c02_c01","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596_c02_c01","parent_ssim":["Fulkerson Family papers, 1835/1925","Abram Fulkerson, Jr. papers, 1853/1865","Cadet correspondence, 1853/1854"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596_c02","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596_c02_c01"],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to Margaret Fulkerson (Vance)","title_ssm":["Letter to Margaret Fulkerson (Vance)"],"title_tesim":["Letter to Margaret Fulkerson (Vance)"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to Margaret Fulkerson (Vance), 1854"],"text":["Letter to Margaret Fulkerson (Vance), 1854","Fulkerson Family papers, 1835/1925","Abram Fulkerson, Jr. papers, 1853/1865","Cadet correspondence, 1853/1854","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Fulkerson, Abram, Jr., 1834-1902","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1857","Correspondence","English","Virginia Military Institute\nApr 14 1854","Dear Mother\nI recd your letter a few days ago or weeks I am not certain which but however I have not had time to answer it until to day.","I have nothing very new or of much importance to write to you. Circuit court is going on at present in Lexington They are trying Christian the man that killed Cadet Blackburn  there has been a great deal of excitement with the people since it commenced  there is a great many of C. friends attending the trial. I suppose from all accounts that he will be hung","There was another murder committed in town a few weeks ago almost as bad as B's, a man by the name of Winn killed the proprietor of the Washington Hotel, his name was Moore they had a falling out the day he was killed some five or six hours before the fight occurred.  Winn went to his (Moore's) house that night about ten o'clock and called him out into the street + stabbed him through the heart with a knife the knife cut his heart very near into two pieces. He died in a few minutes afterwards. There is two other men in jail for shooting men besides all of this there was a negro hung in Lexington a few weeks ago for the same offence, but it did not appear to have much affect. It seems like Lexington is going to turn out to be one of the most corrupt and immoral places in the State of Virginia.","Virginia wrote to me a few days ago. Sister Alice and the children are all well.  Virginia say she likes her new home very well considering the short time that she has been there.  She did not say whether she was going to school any more at Rogersville or not.","I wrote to Sam sometime ago to know whether I had better go home this summer or put it off until next. He says he thinks I had better stay another year before I go home and indeed I thought so myself  was the reason I wrote to him about it. Therefore I will not have the opportunity of coming home til next July year. I would be very glad if I could come next year but taking every thing into consideration I think it will be best to stay here another year.","I heard from Catherine lately. She is getting along about as common I believe I understand that Frank is going to marry before long. But I do not know whether it is true or not. Dr. Walker's son was here the other day on his way home from Philadelphia. He has been taking medical lessons there, I had a long talk with him.  e stayed in town one day and night. I must bring my letter to a close as I have nothing more to write, tell Balf and Jim to write to me.","Your affectionate Son,\nA. Fulkerson","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and the trial of Charles Christian for the murder of Cadet Thomas Blackburn."],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["Fulkerson Family papers, 1835/1925","Abram Fulkerson, Jr. papers, 1853/1865","Cadet correspondence, 1853/1854"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Fulkerson Family papers, 1835/1925","Abram Fulkerson, Jr. papers, 1853/1865","Cadet correspondence, 1853/1854"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1854"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1854 April 14"],"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"component_level_isim":[3],"sort_isi":20,"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["Fulkerson Family papers, 1835/1925"],"creator_ssim":["Fulkerson, Abram, Jr., 1834-1902"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"parent_access_restrict_tesm":["There are no restrictions."],"parent_access_terms_tesm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"persname_ssim":["Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Fulkerson, Abram, Jr., 1834-1902"],"names_ssim":["Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Fulkerson, Abram, Jr., 1834-1902"],"access_subjects_ssim":["Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1857","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1857","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English"],"date_range_isim":[1854],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nApr 14 1854\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Mother\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter a few days ago or weeks I am not certain which but however I have not had time to answer it until to day.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have nothing very new or of much importance to write to you. Circuit court is going on at present in Lexington They are trying Christian the man that killed Cadet Blackburn  there has been a great deal of excitement with the people since it commenced  there is a great many of C. friends attending the trial. I suppose from all accounts that he will be hung\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere was another murder committed in town a few weeks ago almost as bad as B's, a man by the name of Winn killed the proprietor of the Washington Hotel, his name was Moore they had a falling out the day he was killed some five or six hours before the fight occurred.  Winn went to his (Moore's) house that night about ten o'clock and called him out into the street + stabbed him through the heart with a knife the knife cut his heart very near into two pieces. He died in a few minutes afterwards. There is two other men in jail for shooting men besides all of this there was a negro hung in Lexington a few weeks ago for the same offence, but it did not appear to have much affect. It seems like Lexington is going to turn out to be one of the most corrupt and immoral places in the State of Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia wrote to me a few days ago. Sister Alice and the children are all well.  Virginia say she likes her new home very well considering the short time that she has been there.  She did not say whether she was going to school any more at Rogersville or not.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI wrote to Sam sometime ago to know whether I had better go home this summer or put it off until next. He says he thinks I had better stay another year before I go home and indeed I thought so myself  was the reason I wrote to him about it. Therefore I will not have the opportunity of coming home til next July year. I would be very glad if I could come next year but taking every thing into consideration I think it will be best to stay here another year.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI heard from Catherine lately. She is getting along about as common I believe I understand that Frank is going to marry before long. But I do not know whether it is true or not. Dr. Walker's son was here the other day on his way home from Philadelphia. He has been taking medical lessons there, I had a long talk with him.  e stayed in town one day and night. I must bring my letter to a close as I have nothing more to write, tell Balf and Jim to write to me.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYour affectionate Son,\u003cbr\u003e\nA. Fulkerson\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Virginia Military Institute\nApr 14 1854","Dear Mother\nI recd your letter a few days ago or weeks I am not certain which but however I have not had time to answer it until to day.","I have nothing very new or of much importance to write to you. Circuit court is going on at present in Lexington They are trying Christian the man that killed Cadet Blackburn  there has been a great deal of excitement with the people since it commenced  there is a great many of C. friends attending the trial. I suppose from all accounts that he will be hung","There was another murder committed in town a few weeks ago almost as bad as B's, a man by the name of Winn killed the proprietor of the Washington Hotel, his name was Moore they had a falling out the day he was killed some five or six hours before the fight occurred.  Winn went to his (Moore's) house that night about ten o'clock and called him out into the street + stabbed him through the heart with a knife the knife cut his heart very near into two pieces. He died in a few minutes afterwards. There is two other men in jail for shooting men besides all of this there was a negro hung in Lexington a few weeks ago for the same offence, but it did not appear to have much affect. It seems like Lexington is going to turn out to be one of the most corrupt and immoral places in the State of Virginia.","Virginia wrote to me a few days ago. Sister Alice and the children are all well.  Virginia say she likes her new home very well considering the short time that she has been there.  She did not say whether she was going to school any more at Rogersville or not.","I wrote to Sam sometime ago to know whether I had better go home this summer or put it off until next. He says he thinks I had better stay another year before I go home and indeed I thought so myself  was the reason I wrote to him about it. Therefore I will not have the opportunity of coming home til next July year. I would be very glad if I could come next year but taking every thing into consideration I think it will be best to stay here another year.","I heard from Catherine lately. She is getting along about as common I believe I understand that Frank is going to marry before long. But I do not know whether it is true or not. Dr. Walker's son was here the other day on his way home from Philadelphia. He has been taking medical lessons there, I had a long talk with him.  e stayed in town one day and night. I must bring my letter to a close as I have nothing more to write, tell Balf and Jim to write to me.","Your affectionate Son,\nA. Fulkerson"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and the trial of Charles Christian for the murder of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and the trial of Charles Christian for the murder of Cadet Thomas Blackburn."],"_nest_path_":"/components#1/components#0/components#1","timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_596.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00012.xml","title_ssm":["Fulkerson Family papers"],"title_tesim":["Fulkerson Family papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1835-1925"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1835-1925"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1835/1925"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Fulkerson Family papers, 1835/1925"],"text":["Fulkerson Family papers, 1835/1925","MS.0363","/repositories/3/resources/596","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 37th","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 31st","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 10th","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 23rd","Confederate States of America. Army—Tennessee Infantry Regiment, 63rd","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1857","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1884","Virginia Military Institute—Board of Visitors","Soldiers—Virginia—Correspondence","Shenandoah Valley Campaign, 1862","Port Republic, Battle of, Port Republic, Va., 1862","Kernstown, 1st Battle of, Winchester, Va., 1862","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Prisoners and prisons","Winchester (Va.)—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Winchester, 1st Battle of, Winchester, Va., 1862 (May 25)","McDowell, Battle of, McDowell, Va., 1862","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1822-1862) was born in Washington County, Virginia to Colonel Abram Fulkerson, Sr. and Margaret Laughlin Vance on October 21, 1822. As a young man he undertook the study of law, and in late 1846 he obtained his license and opened a practice in southwestern Virginia. He served in the United States Army during the Mexican War (1847-1848), and subsequently returned to  practice of law in Estillville and Abingdon, Virginia. In 1857 he was elected judge of the thirteenth judicial district and held this position until the beginning of the Civil War. He was a member of the VMI Board of Visitors from 1852 to 1854 and from 1857 to 1858. During the Civil War he served as Colonel of the 37th Virginia Infantry Regiment. He was killed in the Battle of Gaines's Mill, Virginia on June 26, 1862.","Abram Fulkerson, Jr. (1834-1902) was born on May 13, 1834 in Washington County, Virginia and was the younger brother of Samuel V. Fulkerson (1822-1862). He graduated from VMI in 1857, and after a brief career as a teacher, went on to study law. During the Civil War he served as Colonel of the 63rd Tennessee Infantry Regiment and was a prisoner of war (one of the \"Immortal 600\"). After the War he continued the practice law and was active in politics, serving in the Virginia legislature and in the United States          Congress. He 1862 he married Selina Johnson, of Clarksville,  Tennessee, and the couple had nine children, including Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1863-1926), VMI Class of 1884. Abram Fulkersonm, Jr. died on December 17, 1902 in Bristol, Virginia.","Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1863-1926) was born on October 22, 1863 in Abingdon, Virginia to Abram Fulkerson, Jr. and Selina Johnson. He graduated from VMI in 1884 and subsequently studied law at the University of Virginia. He was a lawyer (partner in the firm of Fulkerson and Davis in Bristol, Virginia) and served two terms as City Attorney. During the Spanish-American War (1898- 1899) he was a member of the Fourth Tennessee Regiment, United States Volunteers. In 1904 he married Lura Bradley of Sherman, Texas, and the couple had twin sons in April 1906. He died on July 2, 1926 in Virginia Beach, Virginia and is buried at East Hill Cemetery, Bristol.","Winchester\n9 March 1862","My Dear Mother\nNot having written or heard from home for sometime, I will write you a short letter today. You will see from the heading of this that we have not yet gone to Manassas and I cannot tell when we will go. We will not get away, unless Winchester is evacuated, while the present state of things exists here.","Genl. Banks with his army has been maneuvering about twelve miles in our front for several days. On day before yesterday we thought that we were certainly in for a fight. Banks attacked our outer posts, when we packed our baggage and sent it to the rear, and marched the men on the Martinsburg road about two miles from Winchester, where we drew up and waited for the approach of the enemy. But after skirmishing with our pickets an hour or two, he withdrew again. We lost only one man, but not of my Regt.","We have not a large force here, and I do not know what Genl. Jackson will do if the enemy advances upon us. All of the public stores have been sent away, and many of the citizens have left. There are a good many here who sympathize with the Yankees, and will be rejoiced if they get possession of Winchester. This is such a beautiful country that I should regret to see it fall into the hands of the Yankees.","Since we came back from Romney we have had three different encampments. First on the Romney Road, but when the enemy crossed at Harper's Ferry we moved and took position on that road about three miles from Winchester; and on yesterday we moved to this place, which is on the Strasburg road about three and a half miles from Winchester near a village called Kernstown.","It is doubtful about how much I will write as I have been over six hours in getting this much written. In a letter from Col. Gibson he asked what I wished you and Kate to do in case the enemy got into our county. If they should get in, and you are willing to do so, I think that you had better remain at home. Refugees have a hard time, and when people leave their homes everything is destroyed. Mr. Faulkner (Honl. Charles J.) told me that his wife had saved his property by staying at home. But if it should come to the worst, and you prefer it, leave and let the property go. I care little for the property except on yours and Kate's account. For myself I feel that I have no home so long as it is threatened by the enemy, and I would willingly give up all I have, and commence the world anew without a thing, rather than that the enemy should subjugate us.","We are very hardly pressed now, and it depends upon the spirit of our people whether we bear up against it, or give way under it. When I see so many men and especially officers shirking duty and who seem to make it a study as to the best manner in which they can get around duty, I almost despair. Many are all the time seeking personal ease or pursuing schemes of personal advancement, and would appear to be willing to sacrifice their country to attain their object. I suppose though that all wars produce the same class of selfish men, and that we must expect to be cursed with them. I do not intend to be troubled hereafter with the reflection that I did not do my duty in this conflict.","I did have some hope that I could go home for a short time this winter, but do not now expect to do so. If I had the permission I would not go now, while we are so near the enemy. Besides, so many of the officers are absent that it would be highly improper for any more to leave. In the absence of Col. Taliaferro I still have command of the 4th Brigade, which now only consists of two regiments and four pieces of artillery.","I learn that we have had very high waters in our country and that much damage has been done. I was sorry to hear that Uncle James had lost his dam. I take it that he will not get his mills to running again for some time. If any of the fence about the creek washed away, get Mr. Hughes or some one to help Lee put it up. Today (Sunday) has been a very spring-like one. Citizens say that this has been a very wet winter here and not as much cold as usual, but still the ground has not been clear of snow since the first of Jany. Scarcely any ploughing has been done here yet, and little else in the farming line. See if you can't get meal and flour from Mrs. Hopkins' mill; If not try at some other place. Henry Roberts might furnish you with meal.","I suffered for two or three weeks with a severe cold, but kept up and am now nearly well again. Jas. Vance is well. He spent this Sunday in building a chimney to his tent. He has said several times that he would not fix up any more. He has built a good many chimneys, but had soon to leave them.","Give my love to Kate and Selina. Tell Selina that she ought to write to me. You and Kate must write soon, and tell me where Ike and Abe are. Tell Amelia Vance that I will write to her when I can. I have nothing to write about but army movements, but they will have as much interest to you as anything else.","Your son,\nSaml. V. Fulkerson","Camp Near New Market\n3 Apl. 1862","Dear Kate\nA few days ago I wrote you giving some account of our fight near Winchester. Since that time we have been marching up and down the valley, one day falling back before the enemy and the next advancing towards him, skirmishing with him almost daily. He is now in strong force about ten miles off. Genl. Jackson has taken a position here, but whether he will fight at this place or not I am unable to say. If he has sufficient force he would not wait to be attacked.","I have been unable to hear from Jas. Vance, though I have [missing word or words] letter to Judge Parker of Winchester about him. I cannot think that he was mortally wounded, from what the men say who put him in the ambulance. I feel very much for Uncle James and family in their repeated bereavements. I miss Jimmy greatly, and would be greatly pleased to hear that his wound is not dangerous. I have seen a list of the prisoners who were taken to Baltimore but Jimmie's name is not among them. However, I am not surprised at this, as the wounded would not for awhile be removed from Winchester. I may yet get some information from Winchester about him.","Capt. Cowan (of Russell) died of his wounds. He was a brave man and good officer. James King was as good a soldier as ever entered the line. He went off with Capt. Jones Co., was transferred to Col. Cummings Regt. and then transferred to mine. After the fight was half over, he remarked that \"he was proud of being in the 37th.\" The poor fellow was shot through the head and did not speak afterwards. Leroy Sherman among others was taken prisoner and is in Baltimore.","The [people along the valley] claim our fight as a victory, but it is not so. We attacked a greatly superior forces and were repulsed with heavy loss. If night had not set in we would all have been captured or killed. The enemy's loss was very heavy, for our men fought with desperate courage. our loss is 469 killed and wounded. The killed wounded and missing amount to 689. This is an uncommonly heavy loss when we did not have over 3000 men in the fight. A loss of 10 per ct. is regarded as great, but ours was but little less than on fourth. My Regt. sustained the greatest loss, the killed and wounded alone being a little less than one fourth, and including the missing is a little less than one third. The northern papers speak of the terrible slaughter on their side in front of the stone fence behind which I had my Brigade. I learn that at this point the 5th Ohio Regt. was nearly [ruined]--they were a part of the rascals who aided in chasing us from Laurel Hill.","The conduct of the late North western army (Loring's) [missing words] the fight, is spoken of by the Genl. in high terms of praise. There is a difficulty with Genl. Garnett who commanded the Stonewall Brigade, but I can't speak of particulars. Genl. Winder is now in command of that Brigade.","Our men are in fine spirits and I think will fight as well now as they did at Winchester, although they feel sad, when they think of the fall of their comrades. Our flagstaff was shot down, but the flag bearer instantly raised it again and kept it floating throughout the fight. The days work hurt my horse worse than anything which he has gone through. He was under the saddle from daylight till 11 at night and was greatly excited. The reports of the guns did not scare him, but the whistling of the balls and particularly the minnie ball excited him to the highest pitch. He has not yet recovered. You will see many exaggerated accounts of the fight in the papers. If we can't get a better and more substantial reputation than a mere newspaper one, I don't want [missing words].\nI told Judge Parker [missing words] stay with you at nights during court. He is a refugee and I want to do all for him that I can. Tell Selina that here she can't write to Abe, she can write to me. Try and get the fence put up in some way. Send the enclosed to Mr. Belkin for Judge Camden. Write soon. Love to Mother \u0026 S.\nYour brother, Saml. V. Fulkerson.","Head Qrs. 37 Regt. VA. Vols. Mason's Cabins, Augusta Co., Va.  \n16 May 1862","Sir-\nIn making my official report of the part borne by my Regt in the battle near McDowell on the 8th inst., I have to say; that when I was ordered to the field, being about one mile distant, I had to pass on a portion of the way, up a very rocky \u0026 brushy hollow, which embarrassed the advance of my men greatly, and it being nothing but a defile, and the men having to advance in a single file, the Regt. necessarily stretched out over a long line. They were also much annoyed on the march after entering the field, by the shell from one of the enemies guns.","When I reached the line of battle at the head of my Regt. (marching by flank) Brig. Genl. Taliaferro informed me that the enemy were endeavoring to turn our right flank by passing over a brushy and thickly wooded ridge, and that the 31st Va Vols were there to prevent the flank movement \u0026 he ordered me to support the 31st. I at once filed into the woods, but not knowing the position of either the 31st or of the enemy, for they were not at that time firing, I got in between the two, but nearer the enemy. On halting to put my men in line, I found that I had with me only my two front companies, Co. A Capt. Terry \u0026 Co. F. Capt. Graham. In pushing forward up the ravine two companies got ahead of the others, and when the remainder got to the line of battle, I with the two first were in the woods. As soon as I formed the two companies I ordered them to give a shout which they did with a hearty good will, and we charged down the hill directly at the enemy, and when we got within forty or fifty yards of him he broke and fled, when we instantly opened fire upon them as they ran. He did not stop running till he got entirely out of the woods around the hill.","When the remainder of the Regt. reached the line of battle in the field they joined in the fight there, but after awhile Maj. Williams brought a portion of it to me in the woods, not knowing that I might be hard pressed there. But before he reached me the woods were clear of the enemy, and I marched all back to the main fight in the field.","When I got on our line it was nearly dark and we could only see the outline of the enemy on the hill side below us, \u0026 that soon disappeared, when we could only direct our fire by the flash of the enemy's guns. The fight was kept up till 9 at night when the enemy withdrew, leaving us in full possession of the field. During the fight some of my men were out of ammunition, but I had them to supply themselves from the boxes of the dead and wounded.","I have to report the loss of some good officers and brave men. Capt. Terry, a gallant man and model officer, was severely wounded in the leg. Lieuts. Wilhelm, May, Dye, and Fletcher were badly wounded, and the two latter have since died. These Lieuts were young officers, but they nobly did their duty. All of my officers and men who went upon the field acted in the most gallant manner, and it would be unjust to discriminate by name, except in the case of the wounded.* The loss of my Regt. is thirty nine killed and wounded and one missing, a list of whom I herewith enclose.","I feel indebted to Surgeon Hinkle and Asst. Surgeon Butler for their prompt and untiring attention to the wounded. My Acting Adjt. C.T. Duncan also deserves special mention for the manner in which he discharged his duties upon the field.","I cannot close this report without saying that my chaplain the Revd. A.B. Carrington deserves the highest praise for his conduct during and since the fight. He was struck by a spent ball, and although it made him very sick for awhile, he was and continued to be unremitting in his attention to the wounded.","Respectfully\nSaml. V. Fulkerson Col. 37 Va. Vols\nCapt Wm. B. Pendleton  AAAGenl. 3d Brigade. V.D.","*I am especially indebted to Maj. T.V. Williams for gallantry and good conduct throughout the fight. He was of great benefit in placing the men in their proper positions.","Camp at Mason's Cabins. Augusta Co.  16 May 1862","Dear Kate\nIt has been a good while since I wrote and the reason is that I have not had an opportunity of writing, and I feel little like it now. We have been constantly marching, fighting and watching for more than a month, and the consequence is that we are all nearly broken down, with fatigue, loss of sleep and irregularity in eating. But his being the day set apart by the President for humiliation and prayer, Genl. Jackson has ordered his army to observe it, and to abstain from all military duty, and that divine service be had in all of the Regts. But as it is now and has been raining for two days, there will be little chance for preaching out of doors.","I believe that I wrote you from Meecham's River Depot in Albemarle Co. A portion of the Regt. took the cars there for Staunton and the remainder marched on to the side of the Blue Ridge where they went on to the cars and got to Staunton about day, not having eaten anything or slept any since the night before. We stayed at Staunton that {night} and left the next day in this direction. We joined Genl. Johnson's (Alleghany) forces about six miles from Staunton. The enemy had one Regt at the east foot of the Shenandoah mountains near this place. This we came near surprising and taking with four pieces of their cannon. But they escaped, leaving all of their baggage and camp equipage and commissary stores in our hands. They fled cross the mountain to the western foot where they had two other Regts, which became alarmed \u0026 fled leaving everything, and all fell back to McDowell where their main body (Genl. Milroy in command) was stationed.","We then went into camp and on the morning of the 8th we moved towards McDowell. This is a village in Highland county about thirty miles from Staunton and ten from Monterey. Genl Johnson with his brigade was sent forward as the advance and our Brigade (10th, 23rd, and 37th Va. Vols) followed. When within about a mile of McDowell light skirmishing began, which was kept up till evening, we in the mean time having been halted about a mile in the rear. In the evening our advance Brigade and the enemy became engaged in a general fight and we were ordered forward at a double quick. A portion of the way over which we had to go was up a very rocky and brushy hollow, and when we reached our line of battle we were nearly out of breath. All along the way we were exposed to the enemy's file by their shooting at our advance and the balls striking among and around us. The whistling of the bullets excited my horse so much that he became unmanageable and I had to send him to the rear before I got upon the field. When I got on the field I asked the Genl. where my Regt. should be placed, when he said that the enemy were trying to turn our right flank over a brushy and thickly wooded ridge, and that the 31st Va. was there for the purpose of holding them back and that I must support the 31st. I at once double quicked into the woods. When I got there I found that I had but two companies (Capt. Terry's \u0026 Capt. Graham's) in consequence of my having hurried the front up the hollow so fast that they left the remainder behind and out of sight. One of the enemy's cannon was also brought to bear upon the Regt. which also embarrassed the rear. I did not know the position either of the 31st or the enemy in the woods, as they were not firing. The consequence was that I entered the woods between the two, but nearer the enemy.","I at once formed my two companies, gave them the order to raise a shout, which they did very lustily, and we charged down the hill right at the foe. They stood till we got within forty or fifty yards of them when they broke and fled and we opened fire upon them as they ran. We ran them entirely out of the woods. Our movement was so sudden and unexpected that the enemy seemed to be surprised and much frightened. It seemed like a bold move, but I think it was the best for my men, as I only lost two men wounded (one of them mortally) at this point. The remainder of the Regt. not knowing where I was went into the main fight when they came upon the field, but after a while a portion of them we ordered to join me in the woods which they did, but there being no enemy in the woods at this time I took them all back and entered the fight in the field.","It was nearly dark and we could only see the outlines of the enemy, which was soon lost \u0026 we had to fire by the flash of their guns. The fight lasted till 9 oclk at night, when the enemy withdrew leaving us in possession of the field. The ground selected by the foe was well chosen and particularly advantageous in a night fight. The enemy had been reinforced the day before by Genl Schenck with three or four thousand men, and they fought obstinately. At one time they approached through the bushes to within 20 yards of two of my companies, but were driven back, leaving their flag bearer and flag upon the field. This was an Ohio Rgt. (32nd). I had the wounded flag bearer taken up \u0026 sent back with my wounded, but I believe he died next day. The flag was so torn to pieces that my men took some of it and some other men some. Col. Campbell's Regt. got into the fight about dark and the remainder of his Brigade did not get in at all I believe. The Stonewall Brigade, being several miles off, did not get on the field till after the fight was over.","I lost forty men in killed and wounded. Some of the wounded have since died, and others are dangerous. Three have had their legs amputated. We stayed upon the field nearly all night gathering up and sending off the killed and wounded. The 12th Geo. Regt. suffered most terribly. They were in the advance and ordered to hold a very exposed position. They lost about 180 men killed and wounded. After their ammunition gave out, they lay down and held the place at the point of the bayonet. Many of my men got out of ammunition, but I had them to supply themselves from the boxes of the dead and wounded, and in that way kept them shooting. We had no cannon in the fight. After the dead were collected on the field and laid in rows of then or fifteen, the dim moonlight gave to their countenances an unusual unearthly appearance. Our loss in officers is heavy, and I think that our whole loss is not less than 400. Genl. Johnson was wounded. Col. Gibbons of the 10th was killed. He was one of the best men I ever saw. Maj. Campbell (James C.) was wounded before he got on the field, but I think not dangerously.","I cannot tell what the enemy's loss was. They left some on the field, some in McDowell and scattered along at other places. Immediately after the fight the enemy burned all their baggage and stores at McDowell and retreated. At daylight they had all gone, and we started in pursuit. We followed three days march and came up with their rear at Franklin in Pendleton Co. We skirmished with them over a day, when we were ordered back, I do not know for what cause. It was reported that Genl. Fremont had brought on reinforcements and that a portion of Rosencranz force had joined Milroy. But I do not know that these reasons influenced Genl. Jackson. I do not know where we are going to, but think that we will not go to Staunton.","I received your letter enclosing copies of Abe's \u0026 Arthur's. I am very anxious to hear what Abe's fate has been. Write about him and Ike. Mr. Carrington is going to preach, and I do not feel like writing more. He was struck by a spent ball in the fight, but it only made him sick for awhile. Write soon and direct to Staunton. My love to Mother and Selina. I have heard nothing from J. Vance since I last wrote.\nYour brother Saml. V. Fulkerson","Head Quarters 3 Brigade, Valley District  \nCamp near Winchester, VA\n28 May 1862","Sir-\nIn making my report of the part acted by the 3rd Brigade in the battle near Winchester on the 25th inst., I have to say that on the morning of the 24th the Brigade left its bivouac four miles south of Front Royal at daylight and marched to Middletown, and thence down the main valley Pike in the direction of Winchester. Owing to delay occasioned by the enemy's skirmishers embarrassing the advance of the head of the column, daylight cam upon us near Kernstown, after which we quickly advanced to the mills south of Winchester, at which time a vigorous fire was going on between our own and the enemy's batteries.","I was ordered to file my Brigade to the left of the Pike and take position under shelter of a hill for the purpose of supporting one of our batteries. I was also ordered to report to Genl. Winder who was already upon the ground. I placed the 23rd \u0026 37th Va. Vols in the position indicated, when Genl Winder ordered me to occupy a wooded hill in an adjoining field, with one Regt, which position he informed me, the enemy were on the move to occupy. I at once ordered Col. Warren with the 10th Va Vols to take position on the hill which he quickly did. In a short time Genl. Winder ordered me to place another Regt. on the hill with the 10th, when I ordered Maj. Williams to march the 37th there which he did with dispatch.","During all of the time of these movements, and in fact from the time when the Brigade first entered the field, it was exposed to a severe fire from the enemy's batteries and long range small arms. After these movements had been executed Col. Taliaferro was ordered to move the 23rd forward and charge a battery of the enemy in his front. He pushed forward with his Regt. in gallant style. But in the meantime Genl. Taylor's Louisiana Brigade had come upon the field, formed and moved in the direction of the enemy, coming up upon the left of Col. Taliaferro.  The 37th \u0026 10th followed immediately after Genl. Taylor's Brigade. On rushing the top of the ridge on which the enemy's batteries had been placed, a sharp musketry fire ensued, but soon a general charge was made by our whole line when the enemy gave way and fled precipitately through Winchester in the wildest confusion. We followed in immediate pursuit on the Martinsburg road, for four miles from Winchester, where we were halted. A list of the casualties is herewith furnished, from which it will be seen that the loss of the Brigade is, comparatively, very light.","Col. Taliaferro commanding the 23rd, Col Warren commanding the 10th and Maj. Williams commanding the 37th acted in the most gallant \u0026 efficient manner. I refer to the reports of Col. Taliaferro, Col. Warren, \u0026 Maj. Williams for the conduct of the officers \u0026 men of their respective Regts. I with pride bear testimony to the gallant conduct of the whole Brigade both officers and men.","I am indebted to Capt. Wm. B. Pendleton A.A.A. Genl. for his gallant conduct and prompt and cheerful manner with which he executed my orders. Capt Wooding's battery was not placed in position during the day. Respectfully\nSaml V. Fulkerson\nCol. Comd. Brigd.","Port Republic, Rockingham Co. \n8 [June] 1862","Dear Kate\nThe place at which this letter is written is a pretty village near the foot of the Blue Ridge and about twelve miles from Harrisonburg, at the junction of the North and South Rivers, which form the Shenandoah.","I wrote you last from Winchester shortly after our arrival there, giving you an account of our march and proceedings up to that time. Since then we have undergone and almost incredible amount of hardship. We stayed at Winchester two days after taking the place and then proceeded to Charles Town and Harper's Ferry. We found a few of the enemy at Charles Town, but soon drove them down to the Ferry, where they made a stand having been largely re-enforced from Washington \u0026 elsewhere. The enemy were in position on Bolivar Heights on the Va. side and on the heights on the Maryland side of the river. Both of these positions had been fortified by Genl. Johnston last summer.","A portion of our forces crossed the Shenandoah river and took possession of Louden Heights. This was in the evening, a brisk cannonading going on, which was renewed the next morning, and continued till the enemy was driven from the Bolivar across the Potomac. About this time Genl. Jackson received information that Genl. Shields was crossing the Blue Ridge and Genl. Fremont was coming from Moorfield to form a junction at Strasburg and thus cut us off. This placed us in the hardest place that we have ever yet been. Genl. Jackson immediately ordered us to march back. We had about fifty miles to make to pass Strasburg, and our men were already terribly broken down by continued and hard marching. We marched to our camps near Winchester that night and next morning at day light started to Strasburg, which we reached before night. We had now marched about 70 miles in less than three days, in going to and returning from Harpers Ferry.","Gen. Shields was now at [Front] Port Royal, some 8 or 9 miles from Strasburg, and Genl. Fremont was 7 miles from Strasburg on the Moorefield road. So you see that we had only a gap of about 15 miles wide to get out at. During Saturday night I received an order from Genl. Jackson (I was still in command of our Brigade) to proceed next morning (Sunday) at daylight, some two or three miles on the Moorefield road, take position and resist the advance of the enemy. Before I could get a position, our scouts informed me that the enemy was advancing, when I hurried forward to a suitable position, and made disposition of my own and two other Brigades which were for the time under my command.","I sent forward a company of cavalry, which soon returned at the top of their speed with the enemy's cavalry close after them. We drove these back, but in a very short time the enemy's infantry came down the road and through the woods at double quick, and when they got within range halted and opened a brisk fire upon us, which was kept up for some time when they were driven back again. By this time Gen. Ewell came upon the field and assumed command of the whole. After the enemy's infantry were driven back, they placed two pieces of cannon in position and the two forces kept up a very pretty and brisk artillery duel for an hour or more, when the enemy withdrew from the field. After this Genl Jackson came out and said that he did not want to bring on a general engagement then, and ordered us to fall back towards Strasburg. I do not think that we had more than 10 or 15 men killed and wounded. My Regt. had none hurt.","[At this point, according to the sentence below, the date is now June 10th]\nA little after dark we left Strasburg for Woodstock to which place the waggon had been sent, and we had a terrible march. (This writing above was suddenly stopped about 8 oclk on Sunday morning last by the enemies cannon, and I will now try to finish on this the 10th). We got to Woodstock about daylight, all broken completely down and seemingly half dead. We were dogged all night by the enemy's cavalry, and I know that they picked up many of our broken down stragglers. I have between thirty and forty men missing, most I fear were taken. It is not to be wondered at. Many of the poor fellows actually walked much of that weary night, fast asleep, so worn out and exhausted were they with their terrible duty. I do not think that our Genl. exercised due diligence in getting his captured stores to a secure place. There was a vast amount of them, the greater portion of which he saved. But Genl. Shields made his appearance so suddenly at Front Royal that a portion of the stores captured there were retaken together with some of our wagons.","We marched from Woodstock to near Harrisonburg, and the next day to near Port Republic, which place we reached on Saturday evening. I thought the next day, being Sunday, that we would rest, and I began to write this letter, when I was stopped by the roar of cannon down at the town. The town is located in the fork of the two rivers, the north and larger branch being bridged, the other not. The enemy's cavalry had dashed into town, with two pieces of artillery, one of which they planted at the end of the bridge, and with a third they began a fire from the opposite side of the river. Genl Jackson was in town and was taken completely by surprise and came near being captured.","We were camped about three quarters of a mile from town on the north side of the river. The enemy (Genl Shields force) had come up the river on the south side from Elk Run. In a very short time we were ordered to double quick to the bridge. My Regt. was just in the act of forming for inspection, and we got the start of the others. We passed through a wheat field with the enemy's gun from the other side of the river playing upon us. When we got to the top of the hill near the bridge the gun at the other end opened with grape upon us. My men returned the fire, when Genl. Jackson ordered me to charge through the bridge and take the gun. I led off and my men followed. We rushed through the bridge, captured the gun, and pursued the enemy through the town and until he crossed the south branch. I could have captured the other cannon in town, but I did not know of but one ford. We rushed to that, but found the enemy crossing higher up. We opened fire on them, killing some horses and two or three men and taking six or eight prisoners.","Charging in at one end of a bridge with a cannon yawning in at the other is no very pleasant past time. But my men went in so well, that it elicited the praise of the Genl. and all who witnessed it. When we got to the cannon, the smoke of the last fire was still issuing from its mouth. We charged them so quickly and so vigorously that my loss was little. Yancey Smith (brother of the Capt) of Russell was killed, and Sergt. E. Johnson and Walter James of Capt. Terry's company each had a thigh badly broken. I fear that Johnson is mortally wounded. We had put some of our artillery in position, which soon silenced the enemy's guns on the opposite side of the river, and drove them back, and they did not again advance on that day.","While this was going on, Genl. Fremont made an attack on our forces next to Harrisonburg. Our Brigade was ordered to hold the bridge and town against Genl. Shields, which we did, but could hear the fight on the other side, which lasted till nearly night with heavy loss on both sides. Our loss in officers was considerable. Genls Elzey \u0026 Stewart were wounded, though I think not dangerously. Our men drove the enemy back about a mile and held possession of the field during the night, having captured more than 100 prisoners.","On our march the day before from Harrisonburg, Fremont pressed our rear very hardly, and our protection subjected us to the heaviest and saddest loss that we have sustained in the valley. Ashby (but a short time a Brigadier) was killed. He had just made a brilliant charge on the enemy, capturing a Col, Maj., and a number of prisoners. Afterwards and about dark he was leading on foot (his horse having been killed), on Infantry Regt. when he was shot through the heart, and the saddest part of it is, that it is generally believed that he was shot by our own men. He was the most gallant man I ever saw, and withal a good man. When Ashby was between us and the enemy we felt perfectly secure against any surprise, and he was always on the enemy's heels. They had great fear of him. He kept them in constant dread. His place cannot be filled, and his death cast a gloom over the whole army. He had performed more feats of daring and had done more hard and perilous service than any man in the army.","As I have placed Sundays proceedings before Saturday, I will now pass over to Monday. During Sunday our train had been sent on the road towards Waynesboro in Augusta Co. But on Sunday night Genl. Jackson threw a foot bridge across the north branch, ordered his train to turn back and take the road through Brown's Gap into Albemarle, and by a little after sun rise he had the greater portion of his army across the foot bridge and marching against Genl. Shields force, which camped the night before in sight of us about three miles off. Our Brigade and Genl. Trimble's were ordered to hold the large bridge and to resist the advance of Fremont. Our force and Shield's soon became hotly engaged, and the fight became a very hard one. Our men were being severely pressed and suffering a great loss, when Genl Jackson galloped back and ordered me to move forward my Regt at double quick, which I did. He also had the other two Regt of the Brigade ordered forward.","When I got upon the field, and was putting my men in position for action, the enemy gave way and we rushed forward, passing his battery which he abandoned, having first killed all the horses. In coming up we received a sharp fire. The enemy rallied and partially formed, but we kept on and they gave way again, and commenced a general run, and scatterment. My Regt happened to get in advance, and hounds never pursued a fox with more eagerness than they pursued the flying yankees. Some kept the road and some took the bushes, all intent on capturing a yankee. We captured about 400 prisoners most of whom were taken by my men, among them a number of officers from Col down. We also captured two Regimental flags, all of the enemies artillery (seven or eight guns), all of his ambulances \u0026 c., and a number of small arms.","The Infantry followed about six miles, and the cavalry having come up followed about six further. My men performed many individual acts of bravery one of which I notice, and you may send it to the Abingdon paper for publication. The rout was complete and entire. The prisoners say that Genl. Shields was not present, but that Genl Tyler was in command. We captured a number of our old acquaintances, the 5th Ohio, and our boys were glad to meet with them. After our Brigade crossed the north branch, Genl. Trimble crossed the large bridge and then set fire to it \u0026 burned it down. In a short time Genl. Fremont appeared at the burnt bridge, but could do nothing but listen to the fight and pursuit. On our return from the pursuit we quietly passed within plain view of Genl Fremont's camp, and marched to this place on the Blue Ridge, where we are staying today.","Our camp extends back to within four or five miles of Port Republic. Men were worse mangled in this fight than any that I have been in. Heads \u0026 limbs off and bodies torn open were frequent sights for several miles.","On Sunday night Capt. Jno. Preston \u0026 Lieut. Jno Humes with fifty men were sent out on picket and were left out when we went into the fight on Monday. After Fremont made his appearance I sent back my Regt to bring in the picket, but he thought that he could not get to them, and come back about midnight last night. I have heard nothing from them since, but think and hope that they have gone to Staunton or Waynesboro, about 18 miles off. I am not in the habit of gathering spoils on the field, but one of me brought me a Col's horse, saddle, bridle \u0026 c. Another gave me a very pretty sword. The horse belonged to Col. Lewis of Pa. He has been a fine horse, but is getting old and is not a good riding horse. I also got the Col's Regimental flag.","You will see from this narrative that we have had a very active and exciting time. We have fought on three Sundays in succession, which will do pretty well for a religious Genl. I got Selina's letter the other day \u0026 will write her when I can. Write soon to Staunton. Don't know when we will go next. Love to Mother \u0026 Selina.\nYour brother\nS.V. Fulkerson","Mr. F.M. Fulkerson","Sir-\nIn reply to your letter of the 7th ult. permit me to say that Col. S.V. Fulkerson was an officer of distinguished worth. I deeply felt his death. He rendered valuable service to his country, and had he lived, would probably have been recommended by me before this time for a brigadier generalcy. So far as my knowledge extends, he enjoyed the confidence of his regiment and all who knew him.","I am Sir your obdt. servt \nT.J. Jackson","V.M. Institute June 4th 1853","Dear Sister,\nI recd your letter the 28th of May. I was very glad to hear that were so well pleased with your school. I suppose that you will come home before you teach another session if you do so at all, Father wrote to me the other day for the first time, they are all well at home Father has sold his mare and bought a buggy, I suppose that he will quit riding horse back and splurge in his buggy for a while, your old Mister Brown was kicked by a horse the other day and broke his leg, his family had bad luck lately.","We will have a great ball on the if nothing happens they are prepareing tolerably rapidly now, the tickets came yesterday. I sent you one of them, I know you will be certain to come or else I would not send it to you","The examination will commence the 20th of June, Sam is on the Board again they meet about the 15th, I have some faint hopes of passing, but it is verry doubtful  I tell you, you must write to me oftener","Your affectionate Brother\nAbram Fulkerson","Virginia Military Institute\nApr 14 1854","Dear Mother\nI recd your letter a few days ago or weeks I am not certain which but however I have not had time to answer it until to day.","I have nothing very new or of much importance to write to you. Circuit court is going on at present in Lexington They are trying Christian the man that killed Cadet Blackburn  there has been a great deal of excitement with the people since it commenced  there is a great many of C. friends attending the trial. I suppose from all accounts that he will be hung","There was another murder committed in town a few weeks ago almost as bad as B's, a man by the name of Winn killed the proprietor of the Washington Hotel, his name was Moore they had a falling out the day he was killed some five or six hours before the fight occurred.  Winn went to his (Moore's) house that night about ten o'clock and called him out into the street + stabbed him through the heart with a knife the knife cut his heart very near into two pieces. He died in a few minutes afterwards. There is two other men in jail for shooting men besides all of this there was a negro hung in Lexington a few weeks ago for the same offence, but it did not appear to have much affect. It seems like Lexington is going to turn out to be one of the most corrupt and immoral places in the State of Virginia.","Virginia wrote to me a few days ago. Sister Alice and the children are all well.  Virginia say she likes her new home very well considering the short time that she has been there.  She did not say whether she was going to school any more at Rogersville or not.","I wrote to Sam sometime ago to know whether I had better go home this summer or put it off until next. He says he thinks I had better stay another year before I go home and indeed I thought so myself  was the reason I wrote to him about it. Therefore I will not have the opportunity of coming home til next July year. I would be very glad if I could come next year but taking every thing into consideration I think it will be best to stay here another year.","I heard from Catherine lately. She is getting along about as common I believe I understand that Frank is going to marry before long. But I do not know whether it is true or not. Dr. Walker's son was here the other day on his way home from Philadelphia. He has been taking medical lessons there, I had a long talk with him.  e stayed in town one day and night. I must bring my letter to a close as I have nothing more to write, tell Balf and Jim to write to me.","Your affectionate Son,\nA. Fulkerson","Cumberland Gap\nMay 18, 1863\n \nMy dear wife-\nYour last kind letter was recd by friday's mail. Your dear letters are my greatest pleasure and do away in a great measure with the horror of separation. The frequency with which we can communicate with each other is a rich blessing and brings us as if we're almost together.","One of our pickets came in the other day and reported that a Mr. Davis was at the lines and desired to enter. This report took me very much by surprise, for although you had mentioned the probability of his coming yet I did not look for him. He only stayed a few hours. After dinner (a very poor one without apology to him) I went [around] to show him some of the curiosities of Cumberland Gap, which he seemed to think would compensate any one for making the visit. He went back up the valley and expected to get home by Wednesday next. Will see you Sunday, if not sooner.","The intelligence of the death of Gen. Jackson came upon us like a shock. We feel that his death is a national calamity. The poorest soldiers among us appreciated his worth - loved the man, and mourn his loss. I knew him well.1  He was my preceptor for more than four years and whilst during that time I did not appreciate the man, as school [schoolboys?]are not like to do, yet I always had great reverence for the man on account of his piety \u0026 uprightness of character. Among the many heroes of this revolution, none have lived so much adored, none have died so much deplored, and none have left a character as spotless as that of Stonewall Jackson. Could his life have been spared till the close of this cruel war, the unanimous voice of a grateful people would have proclaimed him chief ruler of the nation. But God has seen proper to take him from us, and what He does is right and for the best. It is [illegible] therefore that we make the sacrifice cheerfully, th'o we cannot see why our country should be deprived of his services at his her hour of greatest need.","I have no news of importance more than you will see in the papers. The news from Ky is vague and unreliable. It is reported and believed that there are three or four Regmts at Barboursville, 30 miles distant. That Burnsides is preparing to invade E. Tenn. on a large scale there seems no longer to be any doubt. A southern woman the wife of a Lincolnite told Mrs. Patterson today that a runner had just come across the mountain to tell the Union people, they must stay at home, that the Feds would be in, in about three weeks, that where they were found absent it would be an evidence of disloyalty. I will not be surprised if they make an effort about that time.","Mr. Patterson started to the R.R. today - is going to the salt works. I asked him to stop and see you all, but he would not promise. No prospect of any goods yet. Do you want any money? When you need money or any thing else you must not fail to let me know. My love to mother \u0026 Kate. Write often,\nYour affectionate husband\nAF","Field Officers Barracks, Ft. Delaware May 7 1865","My dear wife","I have not heard directly from you since the 4th of Feb. Your letter was directed to Ft. Pulaski. I received on my way here at Hilton Head S.C. Since that time we have passed through the most eventful period of the war. The closing scenes are being enacted, and with hearts overwhelmed with grief \u0026 sadness we bow in deep humiliation in their contemplation. The present, thank God, is only the \"beginning of the end.\" The military power of the South is broken, the spirit is not. The ball has been put in motion by the people of the South, an impetus has been given it, which will eventually result in the destruction of the U.S. Government and if not in the independence of the South, certainly in the disenthrallment of her people. Ten years will see us under the protecting wing of a foreign power, or independent.","I expect to meet you soon, not crowned with the laurels of victory but with the oath crammed down my throat, a quiescent citizen of the United States. I have the sweet consolation of being conscious of having served the cause faithfully. I sacrificed everything but life, and hazarded that, many times \u0026 in many ways, in behalf of my country. I have not the slightest fear that any man can ever point at me the finger of scorn and say \"you done it.\" I have performed my duty and now abandon the cause as (at present) hopeless, without in the least having changed my opinion as to the justness of that cause. I go now to share with the people of the south the deep humiliation which will be dictated by yankee vindictiveness.","I have heard from you thr'o your father up to March 1st. Receive letters from him often. Says he will send you money \u0026 c thr'o Mr. Armstrong. Hope you may have no difficulty in getting along. I cannot tell when I will be released, but probably soon. My love to Kate. Tell the boy, I'll be home soon. Your affect. husband. A. Fulkerson P.W.","Officers Barracks \nFt. Delaware \nMay 13, 1865","My dear wife-\nYour esteemed letter of the 17th April, via Knoxville reached me a few days since. I cannot express my gratification at learning that you were all well, and living. The terrible events which have transpired in the Confederacy within the past two months, and my great anxiety about you, taken together, had rendered me very unhappy, indeed wretched.","The last letter but one from you was dated 4th Feb and recd at Hilton Head S.C. the day after our departure from Ft. Pulaski. I have written you several times since my arrival here, via Richmond. About a week ago I sent you a letter to the care of Mr. Armstrong, but as I was in a very unhappy humor about them \"Cause\" it is probable that much that I said was too harsh and \"contraband\" and caused the\"confiscation\" of the letter.","We left Ft. Pulaski on the 4th March, ordered by Genrl. Grant to be exchanged. When we reached Old Point active operations had commenced on the James, were sent here. The result of the campaign was disastrous to our aims. It has ended our hopes for exchange, if not for liberty itself. I cannot talk about our misfortunes in a letter, but must wait till I see you. It seems at present, that the only means of getting out of prison, is by taking the oath. It is probable therefore I will return to you soon, not crowned with victorious laurels, but as a loyal subject (overpowered) of the U.S. I do not know whether you would recognize me as a citizen or not, perhaps you may, if necessity forces it upon me.","I hear from your father often. He wrote me he was making arrangements to send you money \u0026 clothing th'ro Mr. Armstrong. I hope it will not be inconvenient for Kate to keep you with her til I am released. My health is now very good. Your affectionate husband. A. Fulkerson. \nLove to Mrs. H and the boy (as you may not receive this for months, I will say our boy)","This collection consists of related to three members of the Fulkerson family: Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1822-1862), his brother Abram Fulkerson, Jr.          (1834-1902), and Abram's son, Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1863-1926). Significant items include:\n\nCivil War correspondence (dated March-May 1862) written by Samuel V. Fulkerson (1822-1862)\nSamuel V. Fulkerson's (1822-1862) reports of the Battle of McDowell and the Battle of Winchester (dated May and June 1862)\nWartime correspondence (dated 1863 and 1865) written by Abram Fulkerson, Jr. Two letters were written while he was a prisoner of war.\nA letter of appreciation (dated September 1862) written by General Stonewall Jackson following Samuel V. Fulkerson's (1822-1862) death in battle\n\nIn addition to the battles mentioned above, topics include:\n\nBattles of Port Republic and Kernstown\nDeath of Turner Ashby\nRefugee and civilian life\nCamp life\nReferences to Stonewall Jackson, including Samuel V. Fulkerson's (1822-1862 assessment of his character and Abram Fulkerson, Jr.'s reflections following the Jackson's death\n\nAlso included are biographical and genealogical material, business and financial papers of Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1863-1926), and family correspondence.","Written from Estillville, Scott County, Virginia. Topics include family news and talks of Abram Fulkerson, Jr.'s first days at VMI and encourages him to study, stating \"you now have a chance of getting a better education and of\ndoing more for yourself than any of your brothers have ever had an opportunity of getting or doing for themselves, and if you do not turn you chance to good advantage it will be your own fault.\"","Written from Jonesville, Lee County, Virginia. Topics include Abram Fulkerson, Jr.'s progress at VMI and family news.","Written from Jonesville, Lee County, Virginia. Letter regards VMI examinations and grades. Samuel V. Fulkerson warns Abram Fulkerson, Jr. about the excessive number of demerits and cautions about leaving school, stating \"I do not like to hear you expressing a desire to resign. You know that a great part of your expense is paid by the state, and that you have undertaken to teach two years in the state as a sort of recompense. You will not forget this obligation.\"","Written from Jonesville, Lee County, Virginia. Letter regards VMI finances and Abram Fulkerson, Jr.'s \"unkind conduct.\"","Letter regards a recent trip and family news.","Written from Winchester, Virginia. Letter regards Civil War news and concerns for family.","Written from camp near New Market, Virginia. Letter regards the Battle of Kernstown, Virginia.","Report after the Battle of McDowell, Virginia. The report discusses the participation of 37th Virginia Regiment.","Written from Augusta County, Virginia. Letter regards troop movements and a recent battle.","Report written to Major R. L. Dabney. The report discusses the participation of 37th Virginia Regiment in the Battle of Winchester, Virginia.","Typescript copy. The letter discusses the character of General Stonewall Jackson and the events at the Battle of Port Republic, Virginia.","In the letter, Stonewall Jackson extends condolences after the death of Samuel V. Fulkerson.","Appointment to the VMI Board of Visitors (1853) and to judgeship (1857).","This series includes letters two letters and one letter fragment written while Abram Fulkerson, Jr. was a cadet at VMI and three letters written during his Civil War service.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news, the military ball, and exams. The letter includes an invitation to the military ball.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and the trial of Charles Christian for the murder of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","Written from Cumberland Gap. Letter regards the death of General Stonewall Jackson.","Written from Fort Delaware Prison. Letter regards end of the Civil War and defeat of the South.","Written from Fort Delaware Prison. Letter regards end of the Civil War and being exchanged.","This series contains financial and business papers, and genealogical information.","This series consists of three items of correspondence, including:\n\nLetter from Margaret Fulkerson (Vance) to Mrs. Jane Preston (dated October 24, 1835)\nLetter from J. S. Bradley to his cousin Harriet Fulkerson (dated July 24, 1847)\nLetter from Dolly Bradley to Harriet Fulkerson (dated February 27, 1848)","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1822-1862","Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1863-1926","Fulkerson, Abram, Jr., 1834-1902","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Ashby, Turner, 1828-1862","Williams, Titus V. (Titus Vespasian), 1835-1908","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","English"],"collection_title_tesim":["Fulkerson Family papers, 1835/1925"],"collection_ssim":["Fulkerson Family papers, 1835/1925"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0363","/repositories/3/resources/596"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0363","/repositories/3/resources/596"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1822-1862","Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1863-1926","Fulkerson, Abram, Jr., 1834-1902","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"creator_ssim":["Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1822-1862","Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1863-1926","Fulkerson, Abram, Jr., 1834-1902","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1822-1862","Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1863-1926","Fulkerson, Abram, Jr., 1834-1902","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Ashby, Turner, 1828-1862","Williams, Titus V. (Titus Vespasian), 1835-1908","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1822-1862","Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1863-1926","Fulkerson, Abram, Jr., 1834-1902","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Ashby, Turner, 1828-1862","Williams, Titus V. (Titus Vespasian), 1835-1908","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 37th","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 31st","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 10th","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 23rd","Confederate States of America. Army—Tennessee Infantry Regiment, 63rd","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1857","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1884","Virginia Military Institute—Board of Visitors","Soldiers—Virginia—Correspondence","Shenandoah Valley Campaign, 1862","Port Republic, Battle of, Port Republic, Va., 1862","Kernstown, 1st Battle of, Winchester, Va., 1862","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Prisoners and prisons","Winchester (Va.)—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Winchester, 1st Battle of, Winchester, Va., 1862 (May 25)","McDowell, Battle of, McDowell, Va., 1862","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 37th","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 31st","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 10th","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Infantry Regiment, 23rd","Confederate States of America. Army—Tennessee Infantry Regiment, 63rd","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1857","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1884","Virginia Military Institute—Board of Visitors","Soldiers—Virginia—Correspondence","Shenandoah Valley Campaign, 1862","Port Republic, Battle of, Port Republic, Va., 1862","Kernstown, 1st Battle of, Winchester, Va., 1862","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Prisoners and prisons","Winchester (Va.)—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Winchester, 1st Battle of, Winchester, Va., 1862 (May 25)","McDowell, Battle of, McDowell, Va., 1862","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["0.50 cubic feet approximately 50 items"],"extent_tesim":["0.50 cubic feet approximately 50 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1835,1836,1837,1838,1839,1840,1841,1842,1843,1844,1845,1846,1847,1848,1849,1850,1851,1852,1853,1854,1855,1856,1857,1858,1859,1860,1861,1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867,1868,1869,1870,1871,1872,1873,1874,1875,1876,1877,1878,1879,1880,1881,1882,1883,1884,1885,1886,1887,1888,1889,1890,1891,1892,1893,1894,1895,1896,1897,1898,1899,1900,1901,1902,1903,1904,1905,1906,1907,1908,1909,1910,1911,1912,1913,1914,1915,1916,1917,1918,1919,1920,1921,1922,1923,1924,1925],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eSamuel Vance Fulkerson (1822-1862) was born in Washington County, Virginia to Colonel Abram Fulkerson, Sr. and Margaret Laughlin Vance on October 21, 1822. As a young man he undertook the study of law, and in late 1846 he obtained his license and opened a practice in southwestern Virginia. He served in the United States Army during the Mexican War (1847-1848), and subsequently returned to  practice of law in Estillville and Abingdon, Virginia. In 1857 he was elected judge of the thirteenth judicial district and held this position until the beginning of the Civil War. He was a member of the VMI Board of Visitors from 1852 to 1854 and from 1857 to 1858. During the Civil War he served as Colonel of the 37th Virginia Infantry Regiment. He was killed in the Battle of Gaines's Mill, Virginia on June 26, 1862.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAbram Fulkerson, Jr. (1834-1902) was born on May 13, 1834 in Washington County, Virginia and was the younger brother of Samuel V. Fulkerson (1822-1862). He graduated from VMI in 1857, and after a brief career as a teacher, went on to study law. During the Civil War he served as Colonel of the 63rd Tennessee Infantry Regiment and was a prisoner of war (one of the \"Immortal 600\"). After the War he continued the practice law and was active in politics, serving in the Virginia legislature and in the United States          Congress. He 1862 he married Selina Johnson, of Clarksville,  Tennessee, and the couple had nine children, including Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1863-1926), VMI Class of 1884. Abram Fulkersonm, Jr. died on December 17, 1902 in Bristol, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSamuel Vance Fulkerson (1863-1926) was born on October 22, 1863 in Abingdon, Virginia to Abram Fulkerson, Jr. and Selina Johnson. He graduated from VMI in 1884 and subsequently studied law at the University of Virginia. He was a lawyer (partner in the firm of Fulkerson and Davis in Bristol, Virginia) and served two terms as City Attorney. During the Spanish-American War (1898- 1899) he was a member of the Fourth Tennessee Regiment, United States Volunteers. In 1904 he married Lura Bradley of Sherman, Texas, and the couple had twin sons in April 1906. He died on July 2, 1926 in Virginia Beach, Virginia and is buried at East Hill Cemetery, Bristol.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1822-1862) was born in Washington County, Virginia to Colonel Abram Fulkerson, Sr. and Margaret Laughlin Vance on October 21, 1822. As a young man he undertook the study of law, and in late 1846 he obtained his license and opened a practice in southwestern Virginia. He served in the United States Army during the Mexican War (1847-1848), and subsequently returned to  practice of law in Estillville and Abingdon, Virginia. In 1857 he was elected judge of the thirteenth judicial district and held this position until the beginning of the Civil War. He was a member of the VMI Board of Visitors from 1852 to 1854 and from 1857 to 1858. During the Civil War he served as Colonel of the 37th Virginia Infantry Regiment. He was killed in the Battle of Gaines's Mill, Virginia on June 26, 1862.","Abram Fulkerson, Jr. (1834-1902) was born on May 13, 1834 in Washington County, Virginia and was the younger brother of Samuel V. Fulkerson (1822-1862). He graduated from VMI in 1857, and after a brief career as a teacher, went on to study law. During the Civil War he served as Colonel of the 63rd Tennessee Infantry Regiment and was a prisoner of war (one of the \"Immortal 600\"). After the War he continued the practice law and was active in politics, serving in the Virginia legislature and in the United States          Congress. He 1862 he married Selina Johnson, of Clarksville,  Tennessee, and the couple had nine children, including Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1863-1926), VMI Class of 1884. Abram Fulkersonm, Jr. died on December 17, 1902 in Bristol, Virginia.","Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1863-1926) was born on October 22, 1863 in Abingdon, Virginia to Abram Fulkerson, Jr. and Selina Johnson. He graduated from VMI in 1884 and subsequently studied law at the University of Virginia. He was a lawyer (partner in the firm of Fulkerson and Davis in Bristol, Virginia) and served two terms as City Attorney. During the Spanish-American War (1898- 1899) he was a member of the Fourth Tennessee Regiment, United States Volunteers. In 1904 he married Lura Bradley of Sherman, Texas, and the couple had twin sons in April 1906. He died on July 2, 1926 in Virginia Beach, Virginia and is buried at East Hill Cemetery, Bristol."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWinchester\u003cbr\u003e\n9 March 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Mother\u003cbr\u003e\nNot having written or heard from home for sometime, I will write you a short letter today. You will see from the heading of this that we have not yet gone to Manassas and I cannot tell when we will go. We will not get away, unless Winchester is evacuated, while the present state of things exists here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGenl. Banks with his army has been maneuvering about twelve miles in our front for several days. On day before yesterday we thought that we were certainly in for a fight. Banks attacked our outer posts, when we packed our baggage and sent it to the rear, and marched the men on the Martinsburg road about two miles from Winchester, where we drew up and waited for the approach of the enemy. But after skirmishing with our pickets an hour or two, he withdrew again. We lost only one man, but not of my Regt.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe have not a large force here, and I do not know what Genl. Jackson will do if the enemy advances upon us. All of the public stores have been sent away, and many of the citizens have left. There are a good many here who sympathize with the Yankees, and will be rejoiced if they get possession of Winchester. This is such a beautiful country that I should regret to see it fall into the hands of the Yankees.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSince we came back from Romney we have had three different encampments. First on the Romney Road, but when the enemy crossed at Harper's Ferry we moved and took position on that road about three miles from Winchester; and on yesterday we moved to this place, which is on the Strasburg road about three and a half miles from Winchester near a village called Kernstown.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIt is doubtful about how much I will write as I have been over six hours in getting this much written. In a letter from Col. Gibson he asked what I wished you and Kate to do in case the enemy got into our county. If they should get in, and you are willing to do so, I think that you had better remain at home. Refugees have a hard time, and when people leave their homes everything is destroyed. Mr. Faulkner (Honl. Charles J.) told me that his wife had saved his property by staying at home. But if it should come to the worst, and you prefer it, leave and let the property go. I care little for the property except on yours and Kate's account. For myself I feel that I have no home so long as it is threatened by the enemy, and I would willingly give up all I have, and commence the world anew without a thing, rather than that the enemy should subjugate us.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe are very hardly pressed now, and it depends upon the spirit of our people whether we bear up against it, or give way under it. When I see so many men and especially officers shirking duty and who seem to make it a study as to the best manner in which they can get around duty, I almost despair. Many are all the time seeking personal ease or pursuing schemes of personal advancement, and would appear to be willing to sacrifice their country to attain their object. I suppose though that all wars produce the same class of selfish men, and that we must expect to be cursed with them. I do not intend to be troubled hereafter with the reflection that I did not do my duty in this conflict.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI did have some hope that I could go home for a short time this winter, but do not now expect to do so. If I had the permission I would not go now, while we are so near the enemy. Besides, so many of the officers are absent that it would be highly improper for any more to leave. In the absence of Col. Taliaferro I still have command of the 4th Brigade, which now only consists of two regiments and four pieces of artillery.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI learn that we have had very high waters in our country and that much damage has been done. I was sorry to hear that Uncle James had lost his dam. I take it that he will not get his mills to running again for some time. If any of the fence about the creek washed away, get Mr. Hughes or some one to help Lee put it up. Today (Sunday) has been a very spring-like one. Citizens say that this has been a very wet winter here and not as much cold as usual, but still the ground has not been clear of snow since the first of Jany. Scarcely any ploughing has been done here yet, and little else in the farming line. See if you can't get meal and flour from Mrs. Hopkins' mill; If not try at some other place. Henry Roberts might furnish you with meal.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI suffered for two or three weeks with a severe cold, but kept up and am now nearly well again. Jas. Vance is well. He spent this Sunday in building a chimney to his tent. He has said several times that he would not fix up any more. He has built a good many chimneys, but had soon to leave them.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGive my love to Kate and Selina. Tell Selina that she ought to write to me. You and Kate must write soon, and tell me where Ike and Abe are. Tell Amelia Vance that I will write to her when I can. I have nothing to write about but army movements, but they will have as much interest to you as anything else.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYour son,\u003cbr\u003e\nSaml. V. Fulkerson\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Near New Market\u003cbr\u003e\n3 Apl. 1862 \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Kate\u003cbr\u003e\nA few days ago I wrote you giving some account of our fight near Winchester. Since that time we have been marching up and down the valley, one day falling back before the enemy and the next advancing towards him, skirmishing with him almost daily. He is now in strong force about ten miles off. Genl. Jackson has taken a position here, but whether he will fight at this place or not I am unable to say. If he has sufficient force he would not wait to be attacked.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been unable to hear from Jas. Vance, though I have [missing word or words] letter to Judge Parker of Winchester about him. I cannot think that he was mortally wounded, from what the men say who put him in the ambulance. I feel very much for Uncle James and family in their repeated bereavements. I miss Jimmy greatly, and would be greatly pleased to hear that his wound is not dangerous. I have seen a list of the prisoners who were taken to Baltimore but Jimmie's name is not among them. However, I am not surprised at this, as the wounded would not for awhile be removed from Winchester. I may yet get some information from Winchester about him. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCapt. Cowan (of Russell) died of his wounds. He was a brave man and good officer. James King was as good a soldier as ever entered the line. He went off with Capt. Jones Co., was transferred to Col. Cummings Regt. and then transferred to mine. After the fight was half over, he remarked that \"he was proud of being in the 37th.\" The poor fellow was shot through the head and did not speak afterwards. Leroy Sherman among others was taken prisoner and is in Baltimore. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe [people along the valley] claim our fight as a victory, but it is not so. We attacked a greatly superior forces and were repulsed with heavy loss. If night had not set in we would all have been captured or killed. The enemy's loss was very heavy, for our men fought with desperate courage. our loss is 469 killed and wounded. The killed wounded and missing amount to 689. This is an uncommonly heavy loss when we did not have over 3000 men in the fight. A loss of 10 per ct. is regarded as great, but ours was but little less than on fourth. My Regt. sustained the greatest loss, the killed and wounded alone being a little less than one fourth, and including the missing is a little less than one third. The northern papers speak of the terrible slaughter on their side in front of the stone fence behind which I had my Brigade. I learn that at this point the 5th Ohio Regt. was nearly [ruined]--they were a part of the rascals who aided in chasing us from Laurel Hill.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe conduct of the late North western army (Loring's) [missing words] the fight, is spoken of by the Genl. in high terms of praise. There is a difficulty with Genl. Garnett who commanded the Stonewall Brigade, but I can't speak of particulars. Genl. Winder is now in command of that Brigade.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur men are in fine spirits and I think will fight as well now as they did at Winchester, although they feel sad, when they think of the fall of their comrades. Our flagstaff was shot down, but the flag bearer instantly raised it again and kept it floating throughout the fight. The days work hurt my horse worse than anything which he has gone through. He was under the saddle from daylight till 11 at night and was greatly excited. The reports of the guns did not scare him, but the whistling of the balls and particularly the minnie ball excited him to the highest pitch. He has not yet recovered. You will see many exaggerated accounts of the fight in the papers. If we can't get a better and more substantial reputation than a mere newspaper one, I don't want [missing words].\nI told Judge Parker [missing words] stay with you at nights during court. He is a refugee and I want to do all for him that I can. Tell Selina that here she can't write to Abe, she can write to me. Try and get the fence put up in some way. Send the enclosed to Mr. Belkin for Judge Camden. Write soon. Love to Mother \u0026amp; S.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour brother, Saml. V. Fulkerson.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eHead Qrs. 37 Regt. VA. Vols. Mason's Cabins, Augusta Co., Va.\u003cbr\u003e  \n16 May 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSir-\u003cbr\u003e\nIn making my official report of the part borne by my Regt in the battle near McDowell on the 8th inst., I have to say; that when I was ordered to the field, being about one mile distant, I had to pass on a portion of the way, up a very rocky \u0026amp; brushy hollow, which embarrassed the advance of my men greatly, and it being nothing but a defile, and the men having to advance in a single file, the Regt. necessarily stretched out over a long line. They were also much annoyed on the march after entering the field, by the shell from one of the enemies guns. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhen I reached the line of battle at the head of my Regt. (marching by flank) Brig. Genl. Taliaferro informed me that the enemy were endeavoring to turn our right flank by passing over a brushy and thickly wooded ridge, and that the 31st Va Vols were there to prevent the flank movement \u0026amp; he ordered me to support the 31st. I at once filed into the woods, but not knowing the position of either the 31st or of the enemy, for they were not at that time firing, I got in between the two, but nearer the enemy. On halting to put my men in line, I found that I had with me only my two front companies, Co. A Capt. Terry \u0026amp; Co. F. Capt. Graham. In pushing forward up the ravine two companies got ahead of the others, and when the remainder got to the line of battle, I with the two first were in the woods. As soon as I formed the two companies I ordered them to give a shout which they did with a hearty good will, and we charged down the hill directly at the enemy, and when we got within forty or fifty yards of him he broke and fled, when we instantly opened fire upon them as they ran. He did not stop running till he got entirely out of the woods around the hill.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhen the remainder of the Regt. reached the line of battle in the field they joined in the fight there, but after awhile Maj. Williams brought a portion of it to me in the woods, not knowing that I might be hard pressed there. But before he reached me the woods were clear of the enemy, and I marched all back to the main fight in the field.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhen I got on our line it was nearly dark and we could only see the outline of the enemy on the hill side below us, \u0026amp; that soon disappeared, when we could only direct our fire by the flash of the enemy's guns. The fight was kept up till 9 at night when the enemy withdrew, leaving us in full possession of the field. During the fight some of my men were out of ammunition, but I had them to supply themselves from the boxes of the dead and wounded. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have to report the loss of some good officers and brave men. Capt. Terry, a gallant man and model officer, was severely wounded in the leg. Lieuts. Wilhelm, May, Dye, and Fletcher were badly wounded, and the two latter have since died. These Lieuts were young officers, but they nobly did their duty. All of my officers and men who went upon the field acted in the most gallant manner, and it would be unjust to discriminate by name, except in the case of the wounded.* The loss of my Regt. is thirty nine killed and wounded and one missing, a list of whom I herewith enclose.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI feel indebted to Surgeon Hinkle and Asst. Surgeon Butler for their prompt and untiring attention to the wounded. My Acting Adjt. C.T. Duncan also deserves special mention for the manner in which he discharged his duties upon the field.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI cannot close this report without saying that my chaplain the Revd. A.B. Carrington deserves the highest praise for his conduct during and since the fight. He was struck by a spent ball, and although it made him very sick for awhile, he was and continued to be unremitting in his attention to the wounded.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eRespectfully\u003cbr\u003e\nSaml. V. Fulkerson Col. 37 Va. Vols\u003cbr\u003e\nCapt Wm. B. Pendleton  AAAGenl. 3d Brigade. V.D.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e*I am especially indebted to Maj. T.V. Williams for gallantry and good conduct throughout the fight. He was of great benefit in placing the men in their proper positions.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp at Mason's Cabins. Augusta Co.  16 May 1862 \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Kate\u003cbr\u003e\nIt has been a good while since I wrote and the reason is that I have not had an opportunity of writing, and I feel little like it now. We have been constantly marching, fighting and watching for more than a month, and the consequence is that we are all nearly broken down, with fatigue, loss of sleep and irregularity in eating. But his being the day set apart by the President for humiliation and prayer, Genl. Jackson has ordered his army to observe it, and to abstain from all military duty, and that divine service be had in all of the Regts. But as it is now and has been raining for two days, there will be little chance for preaching out of doors.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI believe that I wrote you from Meecham's River Depot in Albemarle Co. A portion of the Regt. took the cars there for Staunton and the remainder marched on to the side of the Blue Ridge where they went on to the cars and got to Staunton about day, not having eaten anything or slept any since the night before. We stayed at Staunton that {night} and left the next day in this direction. We joined Genl. Johnson's (Alleghany) forces about six miles from Staunton. The enemy had one Regt at the east foot of the Shenandoah mountains near this place. This we came near surprising and taking with four pieces of their cannon. But they escaped, leaving all of their baggage and camp equipage and commissary stores in our hands. They fled cross the mountain to the western foot where they had two other Regts, which became alarmed \u0026amp; fled leaving everything, and all fell back to McDowell where their main body (Genl. Milroy in command) was stationed.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe then went into camp and on the morning of the 8th we moved towards McDowell. This is a village in Highland county about thirty miles from Staunton and ten from Monterey. Genl Johnson with his brigade was sent forward as the advance and our Brigade (10th, 23rd, and 37th Va. Vols) followed. When within about a mile of McDowell light skirmishing began, which was kept up till evening, we in the mean time having been halted about a mile in the rear. In the evening our advance Brigade and the enemy became engaged in a general fight and we were ordered forward at a double quick. A portion of the way over which we had to go was up a very rocky and brushy hollow, and when we reached our line of battle we were nearly out of breath. All along the way we were exposed to the enemy's file by their shooting at our advance and the balls striking among and around us. The whistling of the bullets excited my horse so much that he became unmanageable and I had to send him to the rear before I got upon the field. When I got on the field I asked the Genl. where my Regt. should be placed, when he said that the enemy were trying to turn our right flank over a brushy and thickly wooded ridge, and that the 31st Va. was there for the purpose of holding them back and that I must support the 31st. I at once double quicked into the woods. When I got there I found that I had but two companies (Capt. Terry's \u0026amp; Capt. Graham's) in consequence of my having hurried the front up the hollow so fast that they left the remainder behind and out of sight. One of the enemy's cannon was also brought to bear upon the Regt. which also embarrassed the rear. I did not know the position either of the 31st or the enemy in the woods, as they were not firing. The consequence was that I entered the woods between the two, but nearer the enemy. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI at once formed my two companies, gave them the order to raise a shout, which they did very lustily, and we charged down the hill right at the foe. They stood till we got within forty or fifty yards of them when they broke and fled and we opened fire upon them as they ran. We ran them entirely out of the woods. Our movement was so sudden and unexpected that the enemy seemed to be surprised and much frightened. It seemed like a bold move, but I think it was the best for my men, as I only lost two men wounded (one of them mortally) at this point. The remainder of the Regt. not knowing where I was went into the main fight when they came upon the field, but after a while a portion of them we ordered to join me in the woods which they did, but there being no enemy in the woods at this time I took them all back and entered the fight in the field.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIt was nearly dark and we could only see the outlines of the enemy, which was soon lost \u0026amp; we had to fire by the flash of their guns. The fight lasted till 9 oclk at night, when the enemy withdrew leaving us in possession of the field. The ground selected by the foe was well chosen and particularly advantageous in a night fight. The enemy had been reinforced the day before by Genl Schenck with three or four thousand men, and they fought obstinately. At one time they approached through the bushes to within 20 yards of two of my companies, but were driven back, leaving their flag bearer and flag upon the field. This was an Ohio Rgt. (32nd). I had the wounded flag bearer taken up \u0026amp; sent back with my wounded, but I believe he died next day. The flag was so torn to pieces that my men took some of it and some other men some. Col. Campbell's Regt. got into the fight about dark and the remainder of his Brigade did not get in at all I believe. The Stonewall Brigade, being several miles off, did not get on the field till after the fight was over.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI lost forty men in killed and wounded. Some of the wounded have since died, and others are dangerous. Three have had their legs amputated. We stayed upon the field nearly all night gathering up and sending off the killed and wounded. The 12th Geo. Regt. suffered most terribly. They were in the advance and ordered to hold a very exposed position. They lost about 180 men killed and wounded. After their ammunition gave out, they lay down and held the place at the point of the bayonet. Many of my men got out of ammunition, but I had them to supply themselves from the boxes of the dead and wounded, and in that way kept them shooting. We had no cannon in the fight. After the dead were collected on the field and laid in rows of then or fifteen, the dim moonlight gave to their countenances an unusual unearthly appearance. Our loss in officers is heavy, and I think that our whole loss is not less than 400. Genl. Johnson was wounded. Col. Gibbons of the 10th was killed. He was one of the best men I ever saw. Maj. Campbell (James C.) was wounded before he got on the field, but I think not dangerously.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI cannot tell what the enemy's loss was. They left some on the field, some in McDowell and scattered along at other places. Immediately after the fight the enemy burned all their baggage and stores at McDowell and retreated. At daylight they had all gone, and we started in pursuit. We followed three days march and came up with their rear at Franklin in Pendleton Co. We skirmished with them over a day, when we were ordered back, I do not know for what cause. It was reported that Genl. Fremont had brought on reinforcements and that a portion of Rosencranz force had joined Milroy. But I do not know that these reasons influenced Genl. Jackson. I do not know where we are going to, but think that we will not go to Staunton.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI received your letter enclosing copies of Abe's \u0026amp; Arthur's. I am very anxious to hear what Abe's fate has been. Write about him and Ike. Mr. Carrington is going to preach, and I do not feel like writing more. He was struck by a spent ball in the fight, but it only made him sick for awhile. Write soon and direct to Staunton. My love to Mother and Selina. I have heard nothing from J. Vance since I last wrote.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour brother Saml. V. Fulkerson\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eHead Quarters 3 Brigade, Valley District\u003cbr\u003e  \nCamp near Winchester, VA\u003cbr\u003e\n28 May 1862  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSir-\u003cbr\u003e\nIn making my report of the part acted by the 3rd Brigade in the battle near Winchester on the 25th inst., I have to say that on the morning of the 24th the Brigade left its bivouac four miles south of Front Royal at daylight and marched to Middletown, and thence down the main valley Pike in the direction of Winchester. Owing to delay occasioned by the enemy's skirmishers embarrassing the advance of the head of the column, daylight cam upon us near Kernstown, after which we quickly advanced to the mills south of Winchester, at which time a vigorous fire was going on between our own and the enemy's batteries.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI was ordered to file my Brigade to the left of the Pike and take position under shelter of a hill for the purpose of supporting one of our batteries. I was also ordered to report to Genl. Winder who was already upon the ground. I placed the 23rd \u0026amp; 37th Va. Vols in the position indicated, when Genl Winder ordered me to occupy a wooded hill in an adjoining field, with one Regt, which position he informed me, the enemy were on the move to occupy. I at once ordered Col. Warren with the 10th Va Vols to take position on the hill which he quickly did. In a short time Genl. Winder ordered me to place another Regt. on the hill with the 10th, when I ordered Maj. Williams to march the 37th there which he did with dispatch. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDuring all of the time of these movements, and in fact from the time when the Brigade first entered the field, it was exposed to a severe fire from the enemy's batteries and long range small arms. After these movements had been executed Col. Taliaferro was ordered to move the 23rd forward and charge a battery of the enemy in his front. He pushed forward with his Regt. in gallant style. But in the meantime Genl. Taylor's Louisiana Brigade had come upon the field, formed and moved in the direction of the enemy, coming up upon the left of Col. Taliaferro.  The 37th \u0026amp; 10th followed immediately after Genl. Taylor's Brigade. On rushing the top of the ridge on which the enemy's batteries had been placed, a sharp musketry fire ensued, but soon a general charge was made by our whole line when the enemy gave way and fled precipitately through Winchester in the wildest confusion. We followed in immediate pursuit on the Martinsburg road, for four miles from Winchester, where we were halted. A list of the casualties is herewith furnished, from which it will be seen that the loss of the Brigade is, comparatively, very light.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCol. Taliaferro commanding the 23rd, Col Warren commanding the 10th and Maj. Williams commanding the 37th acted in the most gallant \u0026amp; efficient manner. I refer to the reports of Col. Taliaferro, Col. Warren, \u0026amp; Maj. Williams for the conduct of the officers \u0026amp; men of their respective Regts. I with pride bear testimony to the gallant conduct of the whole Brigade both officers and men.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am indebted to Capt. Wm. B. Pendleton A.A.A. Genl. for his gallant conduct and prompt and cheerful manner with which he executed my orders. Capt Wooding's battery was not placed in position during the day. Respectfully\u003cbr\u003e\nSaml V. Fulkerson\u003cbr\u003e\nCol. Comd. Brigd.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePort Republic, Rockingham Co.\u003cbr\u003e \n8 [June] 1862 \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Kate\u003cbr\u003e\nThe place at which this letter is written is a pretty village near the foot of the Blue Ridge and about twelve miles from Harrisonburg, at the junction of the North and South Rivers, which form the Shenandoah.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI wrote you last from Winchester shortly after our arrival there, giving you an account of our march and proceedings up to that time. Since then we have undergone and almost incredible amount of hardship. We stayed at Winchester two days after taking the place and then proceeded to Charles Town and Harper's Ferry. We found a few of the enemy at Charles Town, but soon drove them down to the Ferry, where they made a stand having been largely re-enforced from Washington \u0026amp; elsewhere. The enemy were in position on Bolivar Heights on the Va. side and on the heights on the Maryland side of the river. Both of these positions had been fortified by Genl. Johnston last summer.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eA portion of our forces crossed the Shenandoah river and took possession of Louden Heights. This was in the evening, a brisk cannonading going on, which was renewed the next morning, and continued till the enemy was driven from the Bolivar across the Potomac. About this time Genl. Jackson received information that Genl. Shields was crossing the Blue Ridge and Genl. Fremont was coming from Moorfield to form a junction at Strasburg and thus cut us off. This placed us in the hardest place that we have ever yet been. Genl. Jackson immediately ordered us to march back. We had about fifty miles to make to pass Strasburg, and our men were already terribly broken down by continued and hard marching. We marched to our camps near Winchester that night and next morning at day light started to Strasburg, which we reached before night. We had now marched about 70 miles in less than three days, in going to and returning from Harpers Ferry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGen. Shields was now at [Front] Port Royal, some 8 or 9 miles from Strasburg, and Genl. Fremont was 7 miles from Strasburg on the Moorefield road. So you see that we had only a gap of about 15 miles wide to get out at. During Saturday night I received an order from Genl. Jackson (I was still in command of our Brigade) to proceed next morning (Sunday) at daylight, some two or three miles on the Moorefield road, take position and resist the advance of the enemy. Before I could get a position, our scouts informed me that the enemy was advancing, when I hurried forward to a suitable position, and made disposition of my own and two other Brigades which were for the time under my command.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI sent forward a company of cavalry, which soon returned at the top of their speed with the enemy's cavalry close after them. We drove these back, but in a very short time the enemy's infantry came down the road and through the woods at double quick, and when they got within range halted and opened a brisk fire upon us, which was kept up for some time when they were driven back again. By this time Gen. Ewell came upon the field and assumed command of the whole. After the enemy's infantry were driven back, they placed two pieces of cannon in position and the two forces kept up a very pretty and brisk artillery duel for an hour or more, when the enemy withdrew from the field. After this Genl Jackson came out and said that he did not want to bring on a general engagement then, and ordered us to fall back towards Strasburg. I do not think that we had more than 10 or 15 men killed and wounded. My Regt. had none hurt.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[At this point, according to the sentence below, the date is now June 10th]\nA little after dark we left Strasburg for Woodstock to which place the waggon had been sent, and we had a terrible march. (This writing above was suddenly stopped about 8 oclk on Sunday morning last by the enemies cannon, and I will now try to finish on this the 10th). We got to Woodstock about daylight, all broken completely down and seemingly half dead. We were dogged all night by the enemy's cavalry, and I know that they picked up many of our broken down stragglers. I have between thirty and forty men missing, most I fear were taken. It is not to be wondered at. Many of the poor fellows actually walked much of that weary night, fast asleep, so worn out and exhausted were they with their terrible duty. I do not think that our Genl. exercised due diligence in getting his captured stores to a secure place. There was a vast amount of them, the greater portion of which he saved. But Genl. Shields made his appearance so suddenly at Front Royal that a portion of the stores captured there were retaken together with some of our wagons.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe marched from Woodstock to near Harrisonburg, and the next day to near Port Republic, which place we reached on Saturday evening. I thought the next day, being Sunday, that we would rest, and I began to write this letter, when I was stopped by the roar of cannon down at the town. The town is located in the fork of the two rivers, the north and larger branch being bridged, the other not. The enemy's cavalry had dashed into town, with two pieces of artillery, one of which they planted at the end of the bridge, and with a third they began a fire from the opposite side of the river. Genl Jackson was in town and was taken completely by surprise and came near being captured. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe were camped about three quarters of a mile from town on the north side of the river. The enemy (Genl Shields force) had come up the river on the south side from Elk Run. In a very short time we were ordered to double quick to the bridge. My Regt. was just in the act of forming for inspection, and we got the start of the others. We passed through a wheat field with the enemy's gun from the other side of the river playing upon us. When we got to the top of the hill near the bridge the gun at the other end opened with grape upon us. My men returned the fire, when Genl. Jackson ordered me to charge through the bridge and take the gun. I led off and my men followed. We rushed through the bridge, captured the gun, and pursued the enemy through the town and until he crossed the south branch. I could have captured the other cannon in town, but I did not know of but one ford. We rushed to that, but found the enemy crossing higher up. We opened fire on them, killing some horses and two or three men and taking six or eight prisoners.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCharging in at one end of a bridge with a cannon yawning in at the other is no very pleasant past time. But my men went in so well, that it elicited the praise of the Genl. and all who witnessed it. When we got to the cannon, the smoke of the last fire was still issuing from its mouth. We charged them so quickly and so vigorously that my loss was little. Yancey Smith (brother of the Capt) of Russell was killed, and Sergt. E. Johnson and Walter James of Capt. Terry's company each had a thigh badly broken. I fear that Johnson is mortally wounded. We had put some of our artillery in position, which soon silenced the enemy's guns on the opposite side of the river, and drove them back, and they did not again advance on that day.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhile this was going on, Genl. Fremont made an attack on our forces next to Harrisonburg. Our Brigade was ordered to hold the bridge and town against Genl. Shields, which we did, but could hear the fight on the other side, which lasted till nearly night with heavy loss on both sides. Our loss in officers was considerable. Genls Elzey \u0026amp; Stewart were wounded, though I think not dangerously. Our men drove the enemy back about a mile and held possession of the field during the night, having captured more than 100 prisoners.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOn our march the day before from Harrisonburg, Fremont pressed our rear very hardly, and our protection subjected us to the heaviest and saddest loss that we have sustained in the valley. Ashby (but a short time a Brigadier) was killed. He had just made a brilliant charge on the enemy, capturing a Col, Maj., and a number of prisoners. Afterwards and about dark he was leading on foot (his horse having been killed), on Infantry Regt. when he was shot through the heart, and the saddest part of it is, that it is generally believed that he was shot by our own men. He was the most gallant man I ever saw, and withal a good man. When Ashby was between us and the enemy we felt perfectly secure against any surprise, and he was always on the enemy's heels. They had great fear of him. He kept them in constant dread. His place cannot be filled, and his death cast a gloom over the whole army. He had performed more feats of daring and had done more hard and perilous service than any man in the army.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAs I have placed Sundays proceedings before Saturday, I will now pass over to Monday. During Sunday our train had been sent on the road towards Waynesboro in Augusta Co. But on Sunday night Genl. Jackson threw a foot bridge across the north branch, ordered his train to turn back and take the road through Brown's Gap into Albemarle, and by a little after sun rise he had the greater portion of his army across the foot bridge and marching against Genl. Shields force, which camped the night before in sight of us about three miles off. Our Brigade and Genl. Trimble's were ordered to hold the large bridge and to resist the advance of Fremont. Our force and Shield's soon became hotly engaged, and the fight became a very hard one. Our men were being severely pressed and suffering a great loss, when Genl Jackson galloped back and ordered me to move forward my Regt at double quick, which I did. He also had the other two Regt of the Brigade ordered forward. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhen I got upon the field, and was putting my men in position for action, the enemy gave way and we rushed forward, passing his battery which he abandoned, having first killed all the horses. In coming up we received a sharp fire. The enemy rallied and partially formed, but we kept on and they gave way again, and commenced a general run, and scatterment. My Regt happened to get in advance, and hounds never pursued a fox with more eagerness than they pursued the flying yankees. Some kept the road and some took the bushes, all intent on capturing a yankee. We captured about 400 prisoners most of whom were taken by my men, among them a number of officers from Col down. We also captured two Regimental flags, all of the enemies artillery (seven or eight guns), all of his ambulances \u0026amp; c., and a number of small arms.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe Infantry followed about six miles, and the cavalry having come up followed about six further. My men performed many individual acts of bravery one of which I notice, and you may send it to the Abingdon paper for publication. The rout was complete and entire. The prisoners say that Genl. Shields was not present, but that Genl Tyler was in command. We captured a number of our old acquaintances, the 5th Ohio, and our boys were glad to meet with them. After our Brigade crossed the north branch, Genl. Trimble crossed the large bridge and then set fire to it \u0026amp; burned it down. In a short time Genl. Fremont appeared at the burnt bridge, but could do nothing but listen to the fight and pursuit. On our return from the pursuit we quietly passed within plain view of Genl Fremont's camp, and marched to this place on the Blue Ridge, where we are staying today.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur camp extends back to within four or five miles of Port Republic. Men were worse mangled in this fight than any that I have been in. Heads \u0026amp; limbs off and bodies torn open were frequent sights for several miles. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOn Sunday night Capt. Jno. Preston \u0026amp; Lieut. Jno Humes with fifty men were sent out on picket and were left out when we went into the fight on Monday. After Fremont made his appearance I sent back my Regt to bring in the picket, but he thought that he could not get to them, and come back about midnight last night. I have heard nothing from them since, but think and hope that they have gone to Staunton or Waynesboro, about 18 miles off. I am not in the habit of gathering spoils on the field, but one of me brought me a Col's horse, saddle, bridle \u0026amp; c. Another gave me a very pretty sword. The horse belonged to Col. Lewis of Pa. He has been a fine horse, but is getting old and is not a good riding horse. I also got the Col's Regimental flag.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYou will see from this narrative that we have had a very active and exciting time. We have fought on three Sundays in succession, which will do pretty well for a religious Genl. I got Selina's letter the other day \u0026amp; will write her when I can. Write soon to Staunton. Don't know when we will go next. Love to Mother \u0026amp; Selina.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour brother\u003cbr\u003e\nS.V. Fulkerson \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMr. F.M. Fulkerson \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSir-\u003cbr\u003e\nIn reply to your letter of the 7th ult. permit me to say that Col. S.V. Fulkerson was an officer of distinguished worth. I deeply felt his death. He rendered valuable service to his country, and had he lived, would probably have been recommended by me before this time for a brigadier generalcy. So far as my knowledge extends, he enjoyed the confidence of his regiment and all who knew him.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am Sir your obdt. servt\u003cbr\u003e \nT.J. Jackson\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M. Institute June 4th 1853\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Sister,\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter the 28th of May. I was very glad to hear that were so well pleased with your school. I suppose that you will come home before you teach another session if you do so at all, Father wrote to me the other day for the first time, they are all well at home Father has sold his mare and bought a buggy, I suppose that he will quit riding horse back and splurge in his buggy for a while, your old Mister Brown was kicked by a horse the other day and broke his leg, his family had bad luck lately.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe will have a great ball on the if nothing happens they are prepareing tolerably rapidly now, the tickets came yesterday. I sent you one of them, I know you will be certain to come or else I would not send it to you\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe examination will commence the 20th of June, Sam is on the Board again they meet about the 15th, I have some faint hopes of passing, but it is verry doubtful  I tell you, you must write to me oftener\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYour affectionate Brother\u003cbr\u003e\nAbram Fulkerson\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nApr 14 1854\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Mother\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter a few days ago or weeks I am not certain which but however I have not had time to answer it until to day.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have nothing very new or of much importance to write to you. Circuit court is going on at present in Lexington They are trying Christian the man that killed Cadet Blackburn  there has been a great deal of excitement with the people since it commenced  there is a great many of C. friends attending the trial. I suppose from all accounts that he will be hung\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere was another murder committed in town a few weeks ago almost as bad as B's, a man by the name of Winn killed the proprietor of the Washington Hotel, his name was Moore they had a falling out the day he was killed some five or six hours before the fight occurred.  Winn went to his (Moore's) house that night about ten o'clock and called him out into the street + stabbed him through the heart with a knife the knife cut his heart very near into two pieces. He died in a few minutes afterwards. There is two other men in jail for shooting men besides all of this there was a negro hung in Lexington a few weeks ago for the same offence, but it did not appear to have much affect. It seems like Lexington is going to turn out to be one of the most corrupt and immoral places in the State of Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia wrote to me a few days ago. Sister Alice and the children are all well.  Virginia say she likes her new home very well considering the short time that she has been there.  She did not say whether she was going to school any more at Rogersville or not.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI wrote to Sam sometime ago to know whether I had better go home this summer or put it off until next. He says he thinks I had better stay another year before I go home and indeed I thought so myself  was the reason I wrote to him about it. Therefore I will not have the opportunity of coming home til next July year. I would be very glad if I could come next year but taking every thing into consideration I think it will be best to stay here another year.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI heard from Catherine lately. She is getting along about as common I believe I understand that Frank is going to marry before long. But I do not know whether it is true or not. Dr. Walker's son was here the other day on his way home from Philadelphia. He has been taking medical lessons there, I had a long talk with him.  e stayed in town one day and night. I must bring my letter to a close as I have nothing more to write, tell Balf and Jim to write to me.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYour affectionate Son,\u003cbr\u003e\nA. Fulkerson\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCumberland Gap\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 18, 1863\n \nMy dear wife-\u003cbr\u003e\nYour last kind letter was recd by friday's mail. Your dear letters are my greatest pleasure and do away in a great measure with the horror of separation. The frequency with which we can communicate with each other is a rich blessing and brings us as if we're almost together.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOne of our pickets came in the other day and reported that a Mr. Davis was at the lines and desired to enter. This report took me very much by surprise, for although you had mentioned the probability of his coming yet I did not look for him. He only stayed a few hours. After dinner (a very poor one without apology to him) I went [around] to show him some of the curiosities of Cumberland Gap, which he seemed to think would compensate any one for making the visit. He went back up the valley and expected to get home by Wednesday next. Will see you Sunday, if not sooner.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe intelligence of the death of Gen. Jackson came upon us like a shock. We feel that his death is a national calamity. The poorest soldiers among us appreciated his worth - loved the man, and mourn his loss. I knew him well.1  He was my preceptor for more than four years and whilst during that time I did not appreciate the man, as school [schoolboys?]are not like to do, yet I always had great reverence for the man on account of his piety \u0026amp; uprightness of character. Among the many heroes of this revolution, none have lived so much adored, none have died so much deplored, and none have left a character as spotless as that of Stonewall Jackson. Could his life have been spared till the close of this cruel war, the unanimous voice of a grateful people would have proclaimed him chief ruler of the nation. But God has seen proper to take him from us, and what He does is right and for the best. It is [illegible] therefore that we make the sacrifice cheerfully, th'o we cannot see why our country should be deprived of his services at his her hour of greatest need.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have no news of importance more than you will see in the papers. The news from Ky is vague and unreliable. It is reported and believed that there are three or four Regmts at Barboursville, 30 miles distant. That Burnsides is preparing to invade E. Tenn. on a large scale there seems no longer to be any doubt. A southern woman the wife of a Lincolnite told Mrs. Patterson today that a runner had just come across the mountain to tell the Union people, they must stay at home, that the Feds would be in, in about three weeks, that where they were found absent it would be an evidence of disloyalty. I will not be surprised if they make an effort about that time.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMr. Patterson started to the R.R. today - is going to the salt works. I asked him to stop and see you all, but he would not promise. No prospect of any goods yet. Do you want any money? When you need money or any thing else you must not fail to let me know. My love to mother \u0026amp; Kate. Write often,\nYour affectionate husband\u003cbr\u003e\nAF\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eField Officers Barracks, Ft. Delaware May 7 1865 \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy dear wife\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have not heard directly from you since the 4th of Feb. Your letter was directed to Ft. Pulaski. I received on my way here at Hilton Head S.C. Since that time we have passed through the most eventful period of the war. The closing scenes are being enacted, and with hearts overwhelmed with grief \u0026amp; sadness we bow in deep humiliation in their contemplation. The present, thank God, is only the \"beginning of the end.\" The military power of the South is broken, the spirit is not. The ball has been put in motion by the people of the South, an impetus has been given it, which will eventually result in the destruction of the U.S. Government and if not in the independence of the South, certainly in the disenthrallment of her people. Ten years will see us under the protecting wing of a foreign power, or independent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI expect to meet you soon, not crowned with the laurels of victory but with the oath crammed down my throat, a quiescent citizen of the United States. I have the sweet consolation of being conscious of having served the cause faithfully. I sacrificed everything but life, and hazarded that, many times \u0026amp; in many ways, in behalf of my country. I have not the slightest fear that any man can ever point at me the finger of scorn and say \"you done it.\" I have performed my duty and now abandon the cause as (at present) hopeless, without in the least having changed my opinion as to the justness of that cause. I go now to share with the people of the south the deep humiliation which will be dictated by yankee vindictiveness.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have heard from you thr'o your father up to March 1st. Receive letters from him often. Says he will send you money \u0026amp; c thr'o Mr. Armstrong. Hope you may have no difficulty in getting along. I cannot tell when I will be released, but probably soon. My love to Kate. Tell the boy, I'll be home soon. Your affect. husband. A. Fulkerson P.W.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOfficers Barracks\u003cbr\u003e \nFt. Delaware \u003cbr\u003e\nMay 13, 1865 \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy dear wife-\u003cbr\u003e\nYour esteemed letter of the 17th April, via Knoxville reached me a few days since. I cannot express my gratification at learning that you were all well, and living. The terrible events which have transpired in the Confederacy within the past two months, and my great anxiety about you, taken together, had rendered me very unhappy, indeed wretched.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe last letter but one from you was dated 4th Feb and recd at Hilton Head S.C. the day after our departure from Ft. Pulaski. I have written you several times since my arrival here, via Richmond. About a week ago I sent you a letter to the care of Mr. Armstrong, but as I was in a very unhappy humor about them \"Cause\" it is probable that much that I said was too harsh and \"contraband\" and caused the\"confiscation\" of the letter. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWe left Ft. Pulaski on the 4th March, ordered by Genrl. Grant to be exchanged. When we reached Old Point active operations had commenced on the James, were sent here. The result of the campaign was disastrous to our aims. It has ended our hopes for exchange, if not for liberty itself. I cannot talk about our misfortunes in a letter, but must wait till I see you. It seems at present, that the only means of getting out of prison, is by taking the oath. It is probable therefore I will return to you soon, not crowned with victorious laurels, but as a loyal subject (overpowered) of the U.S. I do not know whether you would recognize me as a citizen or not, perhaps you may, if necessity forces it upon me.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI hear from your father often. He wrote me he was making arrangements to send you money \u0026amp; clothing th'ro Mr. Armstrong. I hope it will not be inconvenient for Kate to keep you with her til I am released. My health is now very good. Your affectionate husband. A. Fulkerson.\u003cbr\u003e \nLove to Mrs. H and the boy (as you may not receive this for months, I will say our boy)\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Winchester\n9 March 1862","My Dear Mother\nNot having written or heard from home for sometime, I will write you a short letter today. You will see from the heading of this that we have not yet gone to Manassas and I cannot tell when we will go. We will not get away, unless Winchester is evacuated, while the present state of things exists here.","Genl. Banks with his army has been maneuvering about twelve miles in our front for several days. On day before yesterday we thought that we were certainly in for a fight. Banks attacked our outer posts, when we packed our baggage and sent it to the rear, and marched the men on the Martinsburg road about two miles from Winchester, where we drew up and waited for the approach of the enemy. But after skirmishing with our pickets an hour or two, he withdrew again. We lost only one man, but not of my Regt.","We have not a large force here, and I do not know what Genl. Jackson will do if the enemy advances upon us. All of the public stores have been sent away, and many of the citizens have left. There are a good many here who sympathize with the Yankees, and will be rejoiced if they get possession of Winchester. This is such a beautiful country that I should regret to see it fall into the hands of the Yankees.","Since we came back from Romney we have had three different encampments. First on the Romney Road, but when the enemy crossed at Harper's Ferry we moved and took position on that road about three miles from Winchester; and on yesterday we moved to this place, which is on the Strasburg road about three and a half miles from Winchester near a village called Kernstown.","It is doubtful about how much I will write as I have been over six hours in getting this much written. In a letter from Col. Gibson he asked what I wished you and Kate to do in case the enemy got into our county. If they should get in, and you are willing to do so, I think that you had better remain at home. Refugees have a hard time, and when people leave their homes everything is destroyed. Mr. Faulkner (Honl. Charles J.) told me that his wife had saved his property by staying at home. But if it should come to the worst, and you prefer it, leave and let the property go. I care little for the property except on yours and Kate's account. For myself I feel that I have no home so long as it is threatened by the enemy, and I would willingly give up all I have, and commence the world anew without a thing, rather than that the enemy should subjugate us.","We are very hardly pressed now, and it depends upon the spirit of our people whether we bear up against it, or give way under it. When I see so many men and especially officers shirking duty and who seem to make it a study as to the best manner in which they can get around duty, I almost despair. Many are all the time seeking personal ease or pursuing schemes of personal advancement, and would appear to be willing to sacrifice their country to attain their object. I suppose though that all wars produce the same class of selfish men, and that we must expect to be cursed with them. I do not intend to be troubled hereafter with the reflection that I did not do my duty in this conflict.","I did have some hope that I could go home for a short time this winter, but do not now expect to do so. If I had the permission I would not go now, while we are so near the enemy. Besides, so many of the officers are absent that it would be highly improper for any more to leave. In the absence of Col. Taliaferro I still have command of the 4th Brigade, which now only consists of two regiments and four pieces of artillery.","I learn that we have had very high waters in our country and that much damage has been done. I was sorry to hear that Uncle James had lost his dam. I take it that he will not get his mills to running again for some time. If any of the fence about the creek washed away, get Mr. Hughes or some one to help Lee put it up. Today (Sunday) has been a very spring-like one. Citizens say that this has been a very wet winter here and not as much cold as usual, but still the ground has not been clear of snow since the first of Jany. Scarcely any ploughing has been done here yet, and little else in the farming line. See if you can't get meal and flour from Mrs. Hopkins' mill; If not try at some other place. Henry Roberts might furnish you with meal.","I suffered for two or three weeks with a severe cold, but kept up and am now nearly well again. Jas. Vance is well. He spent this Sunday in building a chimney to his tent. He has said several times that he would not fix up any more. He has built a good many chimneys, but had soon to leave them.","Give my love to Kate and Selina. Tell Selina that she ought to write to me. You and Kate must write soon, and tell me where Ike and Abe are. Tell Amelia Vance that I will write to her when I can. I have nothing to write about but army movements, but they will have as much interest to you as anything else.","Your son,\nSaml. V. Fulkerson","Camp Near New Market\n3 Apl. 1862","Dear Kate\nA few days ago I wrote you giving some account of our fight near Winchester. Since that time we have been marching up and down the valley, one day falling back before the enemy and the next advancing towards him, skirmishing with him almost daily. He is now in strong force about ten miles off. Genl. Jackson has taken a position here, but whether he will fight at this place or not I am unable to say. If he has sufficient force he would not wait to be attacked.","I have been unable to hear from Jas. Vance, though I have [missing word or words] letter to Judge Parker of Winchester about him. I cannot think that he was mortally wounded, from what the men say who put him in the ambulance. I feel very much for Uncle James and family in their repeated bereavements. I miss Jimmy greatly, and would be greatly pleased to hear that his wound is not dangerous. I have seen a list of the prisoners who were taken to Baltimore but Jimmie's name is not among them. However, I am not surprised at this, as the wounded would not for awhile be removed from Winchester. I may yet get some information from Winchester about him.","Capt. Cowan (of Russell) died of his wounds. He was a brave man and good officer. James King was as good a soldier as ever entered the line. He went off with Capt. Jones Co., was transferred to Col. Cummings Regt. and then transferred to mine. After the fight was half over, he remarked that \"he was proud of being in the 37th.\" The poor fellow was shot through the head and did not speak afterwards. Leroy Sherman among others was taken prisoner and is in Baltimore.","The [people along the valley] claim our fight as a victory, but it is not so. We attacked a greatly superior forces and were repulsed with heavy loss. If night had not set in we would all have been captured or killed. The enemy's loss was very heavy, for our men fought with desperate courage. our loss is 469 killed and wounded. The killed wounded and missing amount to 689. This is an uncommonly heavy loss when we did not have over 3000 men in the fight. A loss of 10 per ct. is regarded as great, but ours was but little less than on fourth. My Regt. sustained the greatest loss, the killed and wounded alone being a little less than one fourth, and including the missing is a little less than one third. The northern papers speak of the terrible slaughter on their side in front of the stone fence behind which I had my Brigade. I learn that at this point the 5th Ohio Regt. was nearly [ruined]--they were a part of the rascals who aided in chasing us from Laurel Hill.","The conduct of the late North western army (Loring's) [missing words] the fight, is spoken of by the Genl. in high terms of praise. There is a difficulty with Genl. Garnett who commanded the Stonewall Brigade, but I can't speak of particulars. Genl. Winder is now in command of that Brigade.","Our men are in fine spirits and I think will fight as well now as they did at Winchester, although they feel sad, when they think of the fall of their comrades. Our flagstaff was shot down, but the flag bearer instantly raised it again and kept it floating throughout the fight. The days work hurt my horse worse than anything which he has gone through. He was under the saddle from daylight till 11 at night and was greatly excited. The reports of the guns did not scare him, but the whistling of the balls and particularly the minnie ball excited him to the highest pitch. He has not yet recovered. You will see many exaggerated accounts of the fight in the papers. If we can't get a better and more substantial reputation than a mere newspaper one, I don't want [missing words].\nI told Judge Parker [missing words] stay with you at nights during court. He is a refugee and I want to do all for him that I can. Tell Selina that here she can't write to Abe, she can write to me. Try and get the fence put up in some way. Send the enclosed to Mr. Belkin for Judge Camden. Write soon. Love to Mother \u0026 S.\nYour brother, Saml. V. Fulkerson.","Head Qrs. 37 Regt. VA. Vols. Mason's Cabins, Augusta Co., Va.  \n16 May 1862","Sir-\nIn making my official report of the part borne by my Regt in the battle near McDowell on the 8th inst., I have to say; that when I was ordered to the field, being about one mile distant, I had to pass on a portion of the way, up a very rocky \u0026 brushy hollow, which embarrassed the advance of my men greatly, and it being nothing but a defile, and the men having to advance in a single file, the Regt. necessarily stretched out over a long line. They were also much annoyed on the march after entering the field, by the shell from one of the enemies guns.","When I reached the line of battle at the head of my Regt. (marching by flank) Brig. Genl. Taliaferro informed me that the enemy were endeavoring to turn our right flank by passing over a brushy and thickly wooded ridge, and that the 31st Va Vols were there to prevent the flank movement \u0026 he ordered me to support the 31st. I at once filed into the woods, but not knowing the position of either the 31st or of the enemy, for they were not at that time firing, I got in between the two, but nearer the enemy. On halting to put my men in line, I found that I had with me only my two front companies, Co. A Capt. Terry \u0026 Co. F. Capt. Graham. In pushing forward up the ravine two companies got ahead of the others, and when the remainder got to the line of battle, I with the two first were in the woods. As soon as I formed the two companies I ordered them to give a shout which they did with a hearty good will, and we charged down the hill directly at the enemy, and when we got within forty or fifty yards of him he broke and fled, when we instantly opened fire upon them as they ran. He did not stop running till he got entirely out of the woods around the hill.","When the remainder of the Regt. reached the line of battle in the field they joined in the fight there, but after awhile Maj. Williams brought a portion of it to me in the woods, not knowing that I might be hard pressed there. But before he reached me the woods were clear of the enemy, and I marched all back to the main fight in the field.","When I got on our line it was nearly dark and we could only see the outline of the enemy on the hill side below us, \u0026 that soon disappeared, when we could only direct our fire by the flash of the enemy's guns. The fight was kept up till 9 at night when the enemy withdrew, leaving us in full possession of the field. During the fight some of my men were out of ammunition, but I had them to supply themselves from the boxes of the dead and wounded.","I have to report the loss of some good officers and brave men. Capt. Terry, a gallant man and model officer, was severely wounded in the leg. Lieuts. Wilhelm, May, Dye, and Fletcher were badly wounded, and the two latter have since died. These Lieuts were young officers, but they nobly did their duty. All of my officers and men who went upon the field acted in the most gallant manner, and it would be unjust to discriminate by name, except in the case of the wounded.* The loss of my Regt. is thirty nine killed and wounded and one missing, a list of whom I herewith enclose.","I feel indebted to Surgeon Hinkle and Asst. Surgeon Butler for their prompt and untiring attention to the wounded. My Acting Adjt. C.T. Duncan also deserves special mention for the manner in which he discharged his duties upon the field.","I cannot close this report without saying that my chaplain the Revd. A.B. Carrington deserves the highest praise for his conduct during and since the fight. He was struck by a spent ball, and although it made him very sick for awhile, he was and continued to be unremitting in his attention to the wounded.","Respectfully\nSaml. V. Fulkerson Col. 37 Va. Vols\nCapt Wm. B. Pendleton  AAAGenl. 3d Brigade. V.D.","*I am especially indebted to Maj. T.V. Williams for gallantry and good conduct throughout the fight. He was of great benefit in placing the men in their proper positions.","Camp at Mason's Cabins. Augusta Co.  16 May 1862","Dear Kate\nIt has been a good while since I wrote and the reason is that I have not had an opportunity of writing, and I feel little like it now. We have been constantly marching, fighting and watching for more than a month, and the consequence is that we are all nearly broken down, with fatigue, loss of sleep and irregularity in eating. But his being the day set apart by the President for humiliation and prayer, Genl. Jackson has ordered his army to observe it, and to abstain from all military duty, and that divine service be had in all of the Regts. But as it is now and has been raining for two days, there will be little chance for preaching out of doors.","I believe that I wrote you from Meecham's River Depot in Albemarle Co. A portion of the Regt. took the cars there for Staunton and the remainder marched on to the side of the Blue Ridge where they went on to the cars and got to Staunton about day, not having eaten anything or slept any since the night before. We stayed at Staunton that {night} and left the next day in this direction. We joined Genl. Johnson's (Alleghany) forces about six miles from Staunton. The enemy had one Regt at the east foot of the Shenandoah mountains near this place. This we came near surprising and taking with four pieces of their cannon. But they escaped, leaving all of their baggage and camp equipage and commissary stores in our hands. They fled cross the mountain to the western foot where they had two other Regts, which became alarmed \u0026 fled leaving everything, and all fell back to McDowell where their main body (Genl. Milroy in command) was stationed.","We then went into camp and on the morning of the 8th we moved towards McDowell. This is a village in Highland county about thirty miles from Staunton and ten from Monterey. Genl Johnson with his brigade was sent forward as the advance and our Brigade (10th, 23rd, and 37th Va. Vols) followed. When within about a mile of McDowell light skirmishing began, which was kept up till evening, we in the mean time having been halted about a mile in the rear. In the evening our advance Brigade and the enemy became engaged in a general fight and we were ordered forward at a double quick. A portion of the way over which we had to go was up a very rocky and brushy hollow, and when we reached our line of battle we were nearly out of breath. All along the way we were exposed to the enemy's file by their shooting at our advance and the balls striking among and around us. The whistling of the bullets excited my horse so much that he became unmanageable and I had to send him to the rear before I got upon the field. When I got on the field I asked the Genl. where my Regt. should be placed, when he said that the enemy were trying to turn our right flank over a brushy and thickly wooded ridge, and that the 31st Va. was there for the purpose of holding them back and that I must support the 31st. I at once double quicked into the woods. When I got there I found that I had but two companies (Capt. Terry's \u0026 Capt. Graham's) in consequence of my having hurried the front up the hollow so fast that they left the remainder behind and out of sight. One of the enemy's cannon was also brought to bear upon the Regt. which also embarrassed the rear. I did not know the position either of the 31st or the enemy in the woods, as they were not firing. The consequence was that I entered the woods between the two, but nearer the enemy.","I at once formed my two companies, gave them the order to raise a shout, which they did very lustily, and we charged down the hill right at the foe. They stood till we got within forty or fifty yards of them when they broke and fled and we opened fire upon them as they ran. We ran them entirely out of the woods. Our movement was so sudden and unexpected that the enemy seemed to be surprised and much frightened. It seemed like a bold move, but I think it was the best for my men, as I only lost two men wounded (one of them mortally) at this point. The remainder of the Regt. not knowing where I was went into the main fight when they came upon the field, but after a while a portion of them we ordered to join me in the woods which they did, but there being no enemy in the woods at this time I took them all back and entered the fight in the field.","It was nearly dark and we could only see the outlines of the enemy, which was soon lost \u0026 we had to fire by the flash of their guns. The fight lasted till 9 oclk at night, when the enemy withdrew leaving us in possession of the field. The ground selected by the foe was well chosen and particularly advantageous in a night fight. The enemy had been reinforced the day before by Genl Schenck with three or four thousand men, and they fought obstinately. At one time they approached through the bushes to within 20 yards of two of my companies, but were driven back, leaving their flag bearer and flag upon the field. This was an Ohio Rgt. (32nd). I had the wounded flag bearer taken up \u0026 sent back with my wounded, but I believe he died next day. The flag was so torn to pieces that my men took some of it and some other men some. Col. Campbell's Regt. got into the fight about dark and the remainder of his Brigade did not get in at all I believe. The Stonewall Brigade, being several miles off, did not get on the field till after the fight was over.","I lost forty men in killed and wounded. Some of the wounded have since died, and others are dangerous. Three have had their legs amputated. We stayed upon the field nearly all night gathering up and sending off the killed and wounded. The 12th Geo. Regt. suffered most terribly. They were in the advance and ordered to hold a very exposed position. They lost about 180 men killed and wounded. After their ammunition gave out, they lay down and held the place at the point of the bayonet. Many of my men got out of ammunition, but I had them to supply themselves from the boxes of the dead and wounded, and in that way kept them shooting. We had no cannon in the fight. After the dead were collected on the field and laid in rows of then or fifteen, the dim moonlight gave to their countenances an unusual unearthly appearance. Our loss in officers is heavy, and I think that our whole loss is not less than 400. Genl. Johnson was wounded. Col. Gibbons of the 10th was killed. He was one of the best men I ever saw. Maj. Campbell (James C.) was wounded before he got on the field, but I think not dangerously.","I cannot tell what the enemy's loss was. They left some on the field, some in McDowell and scattered along at other places. Immediately after the fight the enemy burned all their baggage and stores at McDowell and retreated. At daylight they had all gone, and we started in pursuit. We followed three days march and came up with their rear at Franklin in Pendleton Co. We skirmished with them over a day, when we were ordered back, I do not know for what cause. It was reported that Genl. Fremont had brought on reinforcements and that a portion of Rosencranz force had joined Milroy. But I do not know that these reasons influenced Genl. Jackson. I do not know where we are going to, but think that we will not go to Staunton.","I received your letter enclosing copies of Abe's \u0026 Arthur's. I am very anxious to hear what Abe's fate has been. Write about him and Ike. Mr. Carrington is going to preach, and I do not feel like writing more. He was struck by a spent ball in the fight, but it only made him sick for awhile. Write soon and direct to Staunton. My love to Mother and Selina. I have heard nothing from J. Vance since I last wrote.\nYour brother Saml. V. Fulkerson","Head Quarters 3 Brigade, Valley District  \nCamp near Winchester, VA\n28 May 1862","Sir-\nIn making my report of the part acted by the 3rd Brigade in the battle near Winchester on the 25th inst., I have to say that on the morning of the 24th the Brigade left its bivouac four miles south of Front Royal at daylight and marched to Middletown, and thence down the main valley Pike in the direction of Winchester. Owing to delay occasioned by the enemy's skirmishers embarrassing the advance of the head of the column, daylight cam upon us near Kernstown, after which we quickly advanced to the mills south of Winchester, at which time a vigorous fire was going on between our own and the enemy's batteries.","I was ordered to file my Brigade to the left of the Pike and take position under shelter of a hill for the purpose of supporting one of our batteries. I was also ordered to report to Genl. Winder who was already upon the ground. I placed the 23rd \u0026 37th Va. Vols in the position indicated, when Genl Winder ordered me to occupy a wooded hill in an adjoining field, with one Regt, which position he informed me, the enemy were on the move to occupy. I at once ordered Col. Warren with the 10th Va Vols to take position on the hill which he quickly did. In a short time Genl. Winder ordered me to place another Regt. on the hill with the 10th, when I ordered Maj. Williams to march the 37th there which he did with dispatch.","During all of the time of these movements, and in fact from the time when the Brigade first entered the field, it was exposed to a severe fire from the enemy's batteries and long range small arms. After these movements had been executed Col. Taliaferro was ordered to move the 23rd forward and charge a battery of the enemy in his front. He pushed forward with his Regt. in gallant style. But in the meantime Genl. Taylor's Louisiana Brigade had come upon the field, formed and moved in the direction of the enemy, coming up upon the left of Col. Taliaferro.  The 37th \u0026 10th followed immediately after Genl. Taylor's Brigade. On rushing the top of the ridge on which the enemy's batteries had been placed, a sharp musketry fire ensued, but soon a general charge was made by our whole line when the enemy gave way and fled precipitately through Winchester in the wildest confusion. We followed in immediate pursuit on the Martinsburg road, for four miles from Winchester, where we were halted. A list of the casualties is herewith furnished, from which it will be seen that the loss of the Brigade is, comparatively, very light.","Col. Taliaferro commanding the 23rd, Col Warren commanding the 10th and Maj. Williams commanding the 37th acted in the most gallant \u0026 efficient manner. I refer to the reports of Col. Taliaferro, Col. Warren, \u0026 Maj. Williams for the conduct of the officers \u0026 men of their respective Regts. I with pride bear testimony to the gallant conduct of the whole Brigade both officers and men.","I am indebted to Capt. Wm. B. Pendleton A.A.A. Genl. for his gallant conduct and prompt and cheerful manner with which he executed my orders. Capt Wooding's battery was not placed in position during the day. Respectfully\nSaml V. Fulkerson\nCol. Comd. Brigd.","Port Republic, Rockingham Co. \n8 [June] 1862","Dear Kate\nThe place at which this letter is written is a pretty village near the foot of the Blue Ridge and about twelve miles from Harrisonburg, at the junction of the North and South Rivers, which form the Shenandoah.","I wrote you last from Winchester shortly after our arrival there, giving you an account of our march and proceedings up to that time. Since then we have undergone and almost incredible amount of hardship. We stayed at Winchester two days after taking the place and then proceeded to Charles Town and Harper's Ferry. We found a few of the enemy at Charles Town, but soon drove them down to the Ferry, where they made a stand having been largely re-enforced from Washington \u0026 elsewhere. The enemy were in position on Bolivar Heights on the Va. side and on the heights on the Maryland side of the river. Both of these positions had been fortified by Genl. Johnston last summer.","A portion of our forces crossed the Shenandoah river and took possession of Louden Heights. This was in the evening, a brisk cannonading going on, which was renewed the next morning, and continued till the enemy was driven from the Bolivar across the Potomac. About this time Genl. Jackson received information that Genl. Shields was crossing the Blue Ridge and Genl. Fremont was coming from Moorfield to form a junction at Strasburg and thus cut us off. This placed us in the hardest place that we have ever yet been. Genl. Jackson immediately ordered us to march back. We had about fifty miles to make to pass Strasburg, and our men were already terribly broken down by continued and hard marching. We marched to our camps near Winchester that night and next morning at day light started to Strasburg, which we reached before night. We had now marched about 70 miles in less than three days, in going to and returning from Harpers Ferry.","Gen. Shields was now at [Front] Port Royal, some 8 or 9 miles from Strasburg, and Genl. Fremont was 7 miles from Strasburg on the Moorefield road. So you see that we had only a gap of about 15 miles wide to get out at. During Saturday night I received an order from Genl. Jackson (I was still in command of our Brigade) to proceed next morning (Sunday) at daylight, some two or three miles on the Moorefield road, take position and resist the advance of the enemy. Before I could get a position, our scouts informed me that the enemy was advancing, when I hurried forward to a suitable position, and made disposition of my own and two other Brigades which were for the time under my command.","I sent forward a company of cavalry, which soon returned at the top of their speed with the enemy's cavalry close after them. We drove these back, but in a very short time the enemy's infantry came down the road and through the woods at double quick, and when they got within range halted and opened a brisk fire upon us, which was kept up for some time when they were driven back again. By this time Gen. Ewell came upon the field and assumed command of the whole. After the enemy's infantry were driven back, they placed two pieces of cannon in position and the two forces kept up a very pretty and brisk artillery duel for an hour or more, when the enemy withdrew from the field. After this Genl Jackson came out and said that he did not want to bring on a general engagement then, and ordered us to fall back towards Strasburg. I do not think that we had more than 10 or 15 men killed and wounded. My Regt. had none hurt.","[At this point, according to the sentence below, the date is now June 10th]\nA little after dark we left Strasburg for Woodstock to which place the waggon had been sent, and we had a terrible march. (This writing above was suddenly stopped about 8 oclk on Sunday morning last by the enemies cannon, and I will now try to finish on this the 10th). We got to Woodstock about daylight, all broken completely down and seemingly half dead. We were dogged all night by the enemy's cavalry, and I know that they picked up many of our broken down stragglers. I have between thirty and forty men missing, most I fear were taken. It is not to be wondered at. Many of the poor fellows actually walked much of that weary night, fast asleep, so worn out and exhausted were they with their terrible duty. I do not think that our Genl. exercised due diligence in getting his captured stores to a secure place. There was a vast amount of them, the greater portion of which he saved. But Genl. Shields made his appearance so suddenly at Front Royal that a portion of the stores captured there were retaken together with some of our wagons.","We marched from Woodstock to near Harrisonburg, and the next day to near Port Republic, which place we reached on Saturday evening. I thought the next day, being Sunday, that we would rest, and I began to write this letter, when I was stopped by the roar of cannon down at the town. The town is located in the fork of the two rivers, the north and larger branch being bridged, the other not. The enemy's cavalry had dashed into town, with two pieces of artillery, one of which they planted at the end of the bridge, and with a third they began a fire from the opposite side of the river. Genl Jackson was in town and was taken completely by surprise and came near being captured.","We were camped about three quarters of a mile from town on the north side of the river. The enemy (Genl Shields force) had come up the river on the south side from Elk Run. In a very short time we were ordered to double quick to the bridge. My Regt. was just in the act of forming for inspection, and we got the start of the others. We passed through a wheat field with the enemy's gun from the other side of the river playing upon us. When we got to the top of the hill near the bridge the gun at the other end opened with grape upon us. My men returned the fire, when Genl. Jackson ordered me to charge through the bridge and take the gun. I led off and my men followed. We rushed through the bridge, captured the gun, and pursued the enemy through the town and until he crossed the south branch. I could have captured the other cannon in town, but I did not know of but one ford. We rushed to that, but found the enemy crossing higher up. We opened fire on them, killing some horses and two or three men and taking six or eight prisoners.","Charging in at one end of a bridge with a cannon yawning in at the other is no very pleasant past time. But my men went in so well, that it elicited the praise of the Genl. and all who witnessed it. When we got to the cannon, the smoke of the last fire was still issuing from its mouth. We charged them so quickly and so vigorously that my loss was little. Yancey Smith (brother of the Capt) of Russell was killed, and Sergt. E. Johnson and Walter James of Capt. Terry's company each had a thigh badly broken. I fear that Johnson is mortally wounded. We had put some of our artillery in position, which soon silenced the enemy's guns on the opposite side of the river, and drove them back, and they did not again advance on that day.","While this was going on, Genl. Fremont made an attack on our forces next to Harrisonburg. Our Brigade was ordered to hold the bridge and town against Genl. Shields, which we did, but could hear the fight on the other side, which lasted till nearly night with heavy loss on both sides. Our loss in officers was considerable. Genls Elzey \u0026 Stewart were wounded, though I think not dangerously. Our men drove the enemy back about a mile and held possession of the field during the night, having captured more than 100 prisoners.","On our march the day before from Harrisonburg, Fremont pressed our rear very hardly, and our protection subjected us to the heaviest and saddest loss that we have sustained in the valley. Ashby (but a short time a Brigadier) was killed. He had just made a brilliant charge on the enemy, capturing a Col, Maj., and a number of prisoners. Afterwards and about dark he was leading on foot (his horse having been killed), on Infantry Regt. when he was shot through the heart, and the saddest part of it is, that it is generally believed that he was shot by our own men. He was the most gallant man I ever saw, and withal a good man. When Ashby was between us and the enemy we felt perfectly secure against any surprise, and he was always on the enemy's heels. They had great fear of him. He kept them in constant dread. His place cannot be filled, and his death cast a gloom over the whole army. He had performed more feats of daring and had done more hard and perilous service than any man in the army.","As I have placed Sundays proceedings before Saturday, I will now pass over to Monday. During Sunday our train had been sent on the road towards Waynesboro in Augusta Co. But on Sunday night Genl. Jackson threw a foot bridge across the north branch, ordered his train to turn back and take the road through Brown's Gap into Albemarle, and by a little after sun rise he had the greater portion of his army across the foot bridge and marching against Genl. Shields force, which camped the night before in sight of us about three miles off. Our Brigade and Genl. Trimble's were ordered to hold the large bridge and to resist the advance of Fremont. Our force and Shield's soon became hotly engaged, and the fight became a very hard one. Our men were being severely pressed and suffering a great loss, when Genl Jackson galloped back and ordered me to move forward my Regt at double quick, which I did. He also had the other two Regt of the Brigade ordered forward.","When I got upon the field, and was putting my men in position for action, the enemy gave way and we rushed forward, passing his battery which he abandoned, having first killed all the horses. In coming up we received a sharp fire. The enemy rallied and partially formed, but we kept on and they gave way again, and commenced a general run, and scatterment. My Regt happened to get in advance, and hounds never pursued a fox with more eagerness than they pursued the flying yankees. Some kept the road and some took the bushes, all intent on capturing a yankee. We captured about 400 prisoners most of whom were taken by my men, among them a number of officers from Col down. We also captured two Regimental flags, all of the enemies artillery (seven or eight guns), all of his ambulances \u0026 c., and a number of small arms.","The Infantry followed about six miles, and the cavalry having come up followed about six further. My men performed many individual acts of bravery one of which I notice, and you may send it to the Abingdon paper for publication. The rout was complete and entire. The prisoners say that Genl. Shields was not present, but that Genl Tyler was in command. We captured a number of our old acquaintances, the 5th Ohio, and our boys were glad to meet with them. After our Brigade crossed the north branch, Genl. Trimble crossed the large bridge and then set fire to it \u0026 burned it down. In a short time Genl. Fremont appeared at the burnt bridge, but could do nothing but listen to the fight and pursuit. On our return from the pursuit we quietly passed within plain view of Genl Fremont's camp, and marched to this place on the Blue Ridge, where we are staying today.","Our camp extends back to within four or five miles of Port Republic. Men were worse mangled in this fight than any that I have been in. Heads \u0026 limbs off and bodies torn open were frequent sights for several miles.","On Sunday night Capt. Jno. Preston \u0026 Lieut. Jno Humes with fifty men were sent out on picket and were left out when we went into the fight on Monday. After Fremont made his appearance I sent back my Regt to bring in the picket, but he thought that he could not get to them, and come back about midnight last night. I have heard nothing from them since, but think and hope that they have gone to Staunton or Waynesboro, about 18 miles off. I am not in the habit of gathering spoils on the field, but one of me brought me a Col's horse, saddle, bridle \u0026 c. Another gave me a very pretty sword. The horse belonged to Col. Lewis of Pa. He has been a fine horse, but is getting old and is not a good riding horse. I also got the Col's Regimental flag.","You will see from this narrative that we have had a very active and exciting time. We have fought on three Sundays in succession, which will do pretty well for a religious Genl. I got Selina's letter the other day \u0026 will write her when I can. Write soon to Staunton. Don't know when we will go next. Love to Mother \u0026 Selina.\nYour brother\nS.V. Fulkerson","Mr. F.M. Fulkerson","Sir-\nIn reply to your letter of the 7th ult. permit me to say that Col. S.V. Fulkerson was an officer of distinguished worth. I deeply felt his death. He rendered valuable service to his country, and had he lived, would probably have been recommended by me before this time for a brigadier generalcy. So far as my knowledge extends, he enjoyed the confidence of his regiment and all who knew him.","I am Sir your obdt. servt \nT.J. Jackson","V.M. Institute June 4th 1853","Dear Sister,\nI recd your letter the 28th of May. I was very glad to hear that were so well pleased with your school. I suppose that you will come home before you teach another session if you do so at all, Father wrote to me the other day for the first time, they are all well at home Father has sold his mare and bought a buggy, I suppose that he will quit riding horse back and splurge in his buggy for a while, your old Mister Brown was kicked by a horse the other day and broke his leg, his family had bad luck lately.","We will have a great ball on the if nothing happens they are prepareing tolerably rapidly now, the tickets came yesterday. I sent you one of them, I know you will be certain to come or else I would not send it to you","The examination will commence the 20th of June, Sam is on the Board again they meet about the 15th, I have some faint hopes of passing, but it is verry doubtful  I tell you, you must write to me oftener","Your affectionate Brother\nAbram Fulkerson","Virginia Military Institute\nApr 14 1854","Dear Mother\nI recd your letter a few days ago or weeks I am not certain which but however I have not had time to answer it until to day.","I have nothing very new or of much importance to write to you. Circuit court is going on at present in Lexington They are trying Christian the man that killed Cadet Blackburn  there has been a great deal of excitement with the people since it commenced  there is a great many of C. friends attending the trial. I suppose from all accounts that he will be hung","There was another murder committed in town a few weeks ago almost as bad as B's, a man by the name of Winn killed the proprietor of the Washington Hotel, his name was Moore they had a falling out the day he was killed some five or six hours before the fight occurred.  Winn went to his (Moore's) house that night about ten o'clock and called him out into the street + stabbed him through the heart with a knife the knife cut his heart very near into two pieces. He died in a few minutes afterwards. There is two other men in jail for shooting men besides all of this there was a negro hung in Lexington a few weeks ago for the same offence, but it did not appear to have much affect. It seems like Lexington is going to turn out to be one of the most corrupt and immoral places in the State of Virginia.","Virginia wrote to me a few days ago. Sister Alice and the children are all well.  Virginia say she likes her new home very well considering the short time that she has been there.  She did not say whether she was going to school any more at Rogersville or not.","I wrote to Sam sometime ago to know whether I had better go home this summer or put it off until next. He says he thinks I had better stay another year before I go home and indeed I thought so myself  was the reason I wrote to him about it. Therefore I will not have the opportunity of coming home til next July year. I would be very glad if I could come next year but taking every thing into consideration I think it will be best to stay here another year.","I heard from Catherine lately. She is getting along about as common I believe I understand that Frank is going to marry before long. But I do not know whether it is true or not. Dr. Walker's son was here the other day on his way home from Philadelphia. He has been taking medical lessons there, I had a long talk with him.  e stayed in town one day and night. I must bring my letter to a close as I have nothing more to write, tell Balf and Jim to write to me.","Your affectionate Son,\nA. Fulkerson","Cumberland Gap\nMay 18, 1863\n \nMy dear wife-\nYour last kind letter was recd by friday's mail. Your dear letters are my greatest pleasure and do away in a great measure with the horror of separation. The frequency with which we can communicate with each other is a rich blessing and brings us as if we're almost together.","One of our pickets came in the other day and reported that a Mr. Davis was at the lines and desired to enter. This report took me very much by surprise, for although you had mentioned the probability of his coming yet I did not look for him. He only stayed a few hours. After dinner (a very poor one without apology to him) I went [around] to show him some of the curiosities of Cumberland Gap, which he seemed to think would compensate any one for making the visit. He went back up the valley and expected to get home by Wednesday next. Will see you Sunday, if not sooner.","The intelligence of the death of Gen. Jackson came upon us like a shock. We feel that his death is a national calamity. The poorest soldiers among us appreciated his worth - loved the man, and mourn his loss. I knew him well.1  He was my preceptor for more than four years and whilst during that time I did not appreciate the man, as school [schoolboys?]are not like to do, yet I always had great reverence for the man on account of his piety \u0026 uprightness of character. Among the many heroes of this revolution, none have lived so much adored, none have died so much deplored, and none have left a character as spotless as that of Stonewall Jackson. Could his life have been spared till the close of this cruel war, the unanimous voice of a grateful people would have proclaimed him chief ruler of the nation. But God has seen proper to take him from us, and what He does is right and for the best. It is [illegible] therefore that we make the sacrifice cheerfully, th'o we cannot see why our country should be deprived of his services at his her hour of greatest need.","I have no news of importance more than you will see in the papers. The news from Ky is vague and unreliable. It is reported and believed that there are three or four Regmts at Barboursville, 30 miles distant. That Burnsides is preparing to invade E. Tenn. on a large scale there seems no longer to be any doubt. A southern woman the wife of a Lincolnite told Mrs. Patterson today that a runner had just come across the mountain to tell the Union people, they must stay at home, that the Feds would be in, in about three weeks, that where they were found absent it would be an evidence of disloyalty. I will not be surprised if they make an effort about that time.","Mr. Patterson started to the R.R. today - is going to the salt works. I asked him to stop and see you all, but he would not promise. No prospect of any goods yet. Do you want any money? When you need money or any thing else you must not fail to let me know. My love to mother \u0026 Kate. Write often,\nYour affectionate husband\nAF","Field Officers Barracks, Ft. Delaware May 7 1865","My dear wife","I have not heard directly from you since the 4th of Feb. Your letter was directed to Ft. Pulaski. I received on my way here at Hilton Head S.C. Since that time we have passed through the most eventful period of the war. The closing scenes are being enacted, and with hearts overwhelmed with grief \u0026 sadness we bow in deep humiliation in their contemplation. The present, thank God, is only the \"beginning of the end.\" The military power of the South is broken, the spirit is not. The ball has been put in motion by the people of the South, an impetus has been given it, which will eventually result in the destruction of the U.S. Government and if not in the independence of the South, certainly in the disenthrallment of her people. Ten years will see us under the protecting wing of a foreign power, or independent.","I expect to meet you soon, not crowned with the laurels of victory but with the oath crammed down my throat, a quiescent citizen of the United States. I have the sweet consolation of being conscious of having served the cause faithfully. I sacrificed everything but life, and hazarded that, many times \u0026 in many ways, in behalf of my country. I have not the slightest fear that any man can ever point at me the finger of scorn and say \"you done it.\" I have performed my duty and now abandon the cause as (at present) hopeless, without in the least having changed my opinion as to the justness of that cause. I go now to share with the people of the south the deep humiliation which will be dictated by yankee vindictiveness.","I have heard from you thr'o your father up to March 1st. Receive letters from him often. Says he will send you money \u0026 c thr'o Mr. Armstrong. Hope you may have no difficulty in getting along. I cannot tell when I will be released, but probably soon. My love to Kate. Tell the boy, I'll be home soon. Your affect. husband. A. Fulkerson P.W.","Officers Barracks \nFt. Delaware \nMay 13, 1865","My dear wife-\nYour esteemed letter of the 17th April, via Knoxville reached me a few days since. I cannot express my gratification at learning that you were all well, and living. The terrible events which have transpired in the Confederacy within the past two months, and my great anxiety about you, taken together, had rendered me very unhappy, indeed wretched.","The last letter but one from you was dated 4th Feb and recd at Hilton Head S.C. the day after our departure from Ft. Pulaski. I have written you several times since my arrival here, via Richmond. About a week ago I sent you a letter to the care of Mr. Armstrong, but as I was in a very unhappy humor about them \"Cause\" it is probable that much that I said was too harsh and \"contraband\" and caused the\"confiscation\" of the letter.","We left Ft. Pulaski on the 4th March, ordered by Genrl. Grant to be exchanged. When we reached Old Point active operations had commenced on the James, were sent here. The result of the campaign was disastrous to our aims. It has ended our hopes for exchange, if not for liberty itself. I cannot talk about our misfortunes in a letter, but must wait till I see you. It seems at present, that the only means of getting out of prison, is by taking the oath. It is probable therefore I will return to you soon, not crowned with victorious laurels, but as a loyal subject (overpowered) of the U.S. I do not know whether you would recognize me as a citizen or not, perhaps you may, if necessity forces it upon me.","I hear from your father often. He wrote me he was making arrangements to send you money \u0026 clothing th'ro Mr. Armstrong. I hope it will not be inconvenient for Kate to keep you with her til I am released. My health is now very good. Your affectionate husband. A. Fulkerson. \nLove to Mrs. H and the boy (as you may not receive this for months, I will say our boy)"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eFulkerson Family papers, 1835-1925. MS 0363. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Fulkerson Family papers, 1835-1925. MS 0363. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of related to three members of the Fulkerson family: Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1822-1862), his brother Abram Fulkerson, Jr.          (1834-1902), and Abram's son, Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1863-1926). Significant items include:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCivil War correspondence (dated March-May 1862) written by Samuel V. Fulkerson (1822-1862)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSamuel V. Fulkerson's (1822-1862) reports of the Battle of McDowell and the Battle of Winchester (dated May and June 1862)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWartime correspondence (dated 1863 and 1865) written by Abram Fulkerson, Jr. Two letters were written while he was a prisoner of war.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA letter of appreciation (dated September 1862) written by General Stonewall Jackson following Samuel V. Fulkerson's (1822-1862) death in battle\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\nIn addition to the battles mentioned above, topics include:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBattles of Port Republic and Kernstown\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeath of Turner Ashby\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRefugee and civilian life\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCamp life\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReferences to Stonewall Jackson, including Samuel V. Fulkerson's (1822-1862 assessment of his character and Abram Fulkerson, Jr.'s reflections following the Jackson's death\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\nAlso included are biographical and genealogical material, business and financial papers of Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1863-1926), and family correspondence.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Estillville, Scott County, Virginia. Topics include family news and talks of Abram Fulkerson, Jr.'s first days at VMI and encourages him to study, stating \"you now have a chance of getting a better education and of\ndoing more for yourself than any of your brothers have ever had an opportunity of getting or doing for themselves, and if you do not turn you chance to good advantage it will be your own fault.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Jonesville, Lee County, Virginia. Topics include Abram Fulkerson, Jr.'s progress at VMI and family news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Jonesville, Lee County, Virginia. Letter regards VMI examinations and grades. Samuel V. Fulkerson warns Abram Fulkerson, Jr. about the excessive number of demerits and cautions about leaving school, stating \"I do not like to hear you expressing a desire to resign. You know that a great part of your expense is paid by the state, and that you have undertaken to teach two years in the state as a sort of recompense. You will not forget this obligation.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Jonesville, Lee County, Virginia. Letter regards VMI finances and Abram Fulkerson, Jr.'s \"unkind conduct.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards a recent trip and family news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Winchester, Virginia. Letter regards Civil War news and concerns for family.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from camp near New Market, Virginia. Letter regards the Battle of Kernstown, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eReport after the Battle of McDowell, Virginia. The report discusses the participation of 37th Virginia Regiment.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Augusta County, Virginia. Letter regards troop movements and a recent battle.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eReport written to Major R. L. Dabney. The report discusses the participation of 37th Virginia Regiment in the Battle of Winchester, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTypescript copy. The letter discusses the character of General Stonewall Jackson and the events at the Battle of Port Republic, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn the letter, Stonewall Jackson extends condolences after the death of Samuel V. Fulkerson.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAppointment to the VMI Board of Visitors (1853) and to judgeship (1857).\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThis series includes letters two letters and one letter fragment written while Abram Fulkerson, Jr. was a cadet at VMI and three letters written during his Civil War service.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news, the military ball, and exams. The letter includes an invitation to the military ball.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and the trial of Charles Christian for the murder of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Cumberland Gap. Letter regards the death of General Stonewall Jackson.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Fort Delaware Prison. Letter regards end of the Civil War and defeat of the South.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Fort Delaware Prison. Letter regards end of the Civil War and being exchanged.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThis series contains financial and business papers, and genealogical information.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThis series consists of three items of correspondence, including:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLetter from Margaret Fulkerson (Vance) to Mrs. Jane Preston (dated October 24, 1835)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLetter from J. S. Bradley to his cousin Harriet Fulkerson (dated July 24, 1847)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLetter from Dolly Bradley to Harriet Fulkerson (dated February 27, 1848) \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of related to three members of the Fulkerson family: Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1822-1862), his brother Abram Fulkerson, Jr.          (1834-1902), and Abram's son, Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1863-1926). Significant items include:\n\nCivil War correspondence (dated March-May 1862) written by Samuel V. Fulkerson (1822-1862)\nSamuel V. Fulkerson's (1822-1862) reports of the Battle of McDowell and the Battle of Winchester (dated May and June 1862)\nWartime correspondence (dated 1863 and 1865) written by Abram Fulkerson, Jr. Two letters were written while he was a prisoner of war.\nA letter of appreciation (dated September 1862) written by General Stonewall Jackson following Samuel V. Fulkerson's (1822-1862) death in battle\n\nIn addition to the battles mentioned above, topics include:\n\nBattles of Port Republic and Kernstown\nDeath of Turner Ashby\nRefugee and civilian life\nCamp life\nReferences to Stonewall Jackson, including Samuel V. Fulkerson's (1822-1862 assessment of his character and Abram Fulkerson, Jr.'s reflections following the Jackson's death\n\nAlso included are biographical and genealogical material, business and financial papers of Samuel Vance Fulkerson (1863-1926), and family correspondence.","Written from Estillville, Scott County, Virginia. Topics include family news and talks of Abram Fulkerson, Jr.'s first days at VMI and encourages him to study, stating \"you now have a chance of getting a better education and of\ndoing more for yourself than any of your brothers have ever had an opportunity of getting or doing for themselves, and if you do not turn you chance to good advantage it will be your own fault.\"","Written from Jonesville, Lee County, Virginia. Topics include Abram Fulkerson, Jr.'s progress at VMI and family news.","Written from Jonesville, Lee County, Virginia. Letter regards VMI examinations and grades. Samuel V. Fulkerson warns Abram Fulkerson, Jr. about the excessive number of demerits and cautions about leaving school, stating \"I do not like to hear you expressing a desire to resign. You know that a great part of your expense is paid by the state, and that you have undertaken to teach two years in the state as a sort of recompense. You will not forget this obligation.\"","Written from Jonesville, Lee County, Virginia. Letter regards VMI finances and Abram Fulkerson, Jr.'s \"unkind conduct.\"","Letter regards a recent trip and family news.","Written from Winchester, Virginia. Letter regards Civil War news and concerns for family.","Written from camp near New Market, Virginia. Letter regards the Battle of Kernstown, Virginia.","Report after the Battle of McDowell, Virginia. The report discusses the participation of 37th Virginia Regiment.","Written from Augusta County, Virginia. Letter regards troop movements and a recent battle.","Report written to Major R. L. Dabney. The report discusses the participation of 37th Virginia Regiment in the Battle of Winchester, Virginia.","Typescript copy. The letter discusses the character of General Stonewall Jackson and the events at the Battle of Port Republic, Virginia.","In the letter, Stonewall Jackson extends condolences after the death of Samuel V. Fulkerson.","Appointment to the VMI Board of Visitors (1853) and to judgeship (1857).","This series includes letters two letters and one letter fragment written while Abram Fulkerson, Jr. was a cadet at VMI and three letters written during his Civil War service.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news, the military ball, and exams. The letter includes an invitation to the military ball.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and the trial of Charles Christian for the murder of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","Written from Cumberland Gap. Letter regards the death of General Stonewall Jackson.","Written from Fort Delaware Prison. Letter regards end of the Civil War and defeat of the South.","Written from Fort Delaware Prison. Letter regards end of the Civil War and being exchanged.","This series contains financial and business papers, and genealogical information.","This series consists of three items of correspondence, including:\n\nLetter from Margaret Fulkerson (Vance) to Mrs. Jane Preston (dated October 24, 1835)\nLetter from J. S. Bradley to his cousin Harriet Fulkerson (dated July 24, 1847)\nLetter from Dolly Bradley to Harriet Fulkerson (dated February 27, 1848)"],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_037e0e501ef493707a01e4a9bf4b0596\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1822-1862","Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1863-1926","Fulkerson, Abram, Jr., 1834-1902","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Ashby, Turner, 1828-1862","Williams, Titus V. (Titus Vespasian), 1835-1908","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854"],"names_coll_ssim":["Ashby, Turner, 1828-1862"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1822-1862","Fulkerson, Samuel V. (Samuel Vance), 1863-1926","Fulkerson, Abram, Jr., 1834-1902","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Ashby, Turner, 1828-1862","Williams, Titus V. (Titus Vespasian), 1835-1908","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854"],"language_ssim":["English"],"total_component_count_is":25,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_596_c02_c01_c02"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615_c05","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to Mary Gunn, 1854","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615_c05#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from Lexington, Virginia. Topics include the murder of VMI cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a local law student.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615_c05#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615_c05","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615_c05"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615_c05","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615","parent_ssim":["Giles Gunn papers, 1848/1854"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615"],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to Mary Gunn","title_ssm":["Letter to Mary Gunn"],"title_tesim":["Letter to Mary Gunn"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to Mary Gunn, 1854"],"text":["Letter to Mary Gunn, 1854","Giles Gunn papers, 1848/1854","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Correspondence","English","Dear Molly,\nI have received your letter this very day and am determined for once to toe the mark. I have just seated myself and if I don't get to tired I intend to give you and Sue a piece of my mind even if it be a very small broken piece.","1stly I am still pedagoguing and I tell you it goes mightily against the grain such a day as today for it is one of the pleasantest days I ever knew. The thermometer at noon was nearly up to summer heat at noon and I had no fire in the schoolhouse. My school consists of about forty scholars most of them large boys some of them taller than I am. I have enjoyed myself first rate so far especially in bad weather but when it is fine I intend to do the best I can but I long to be out aboard of the old pump wagon scouring the country. It gives a person a chance to see the world and though it may make me wild now when I come to settle down, I shall put on as long a face as I deacon.","2ndly. Ol. (though I had ought to have put him first) is now in Randolph County which is about one hundred and fifty miles west or northwest from here. He has been gone now about three weeks and I do not much expect him back before the middle or last of March. It is a great region there for pumps. I intend to go there as soon as my school is out and shall probably be there off and on the greater part of the summer.","The people around here are getting up to murdering. Last August in Staunton a man was found dead in his bed with his head staved in with a hammer. In December they hung a man for it and he died protesting his innocence; day after tomorrow they are to hang another man as his accomplice who as yet declares himself innocent.","They were both convicted by another man who turned states evidence; and it is now the  general opinion that he did the deed himself.","Two weeks last Sunday was noted in Lexington for a tragedy worse than that. It seems that a young man by the name of Christian had engaged the company of a young lady to go to preaching. She was advised not to go with him by a cousin of hers, a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute. Christian (who was a law student) found out who it was and prepared himself with weapons and on Sunday night waited till he saw Blackburn the Cadet come into the church with a lady then he stepped up and touched him requesting to say a word to him. He took him out into the street and by his tale demanded of him to retract what he had said upon Blackburn's refusing so to do he let in on him and before any one could interfere had stabbed him in several places and cut his throat from ear to ear with a bowie knife and killed him so dead that he never kicked. Christian then went and delivered himself up to the authorities and it is now the general opinion that he will get clear as the prosecution was so great. You see how nice a sense of humor the southerners have. In law here if our man calls another a liar and he beats him almost to death for it the law does nothing with him for it is considered sufficient provocation.","I reckon you have heard enough about murders if not I could tell you of some half dozen more that have happened in this region during the last six week. I do not expect I will come home this summer. I wish you were here to take my school when it is out. Virge says \"do tell her to come down here and I will go back with her when she wants to go\". Hess is not at home but will be next Saturday (if I can get time to go after her).","If mother has that carnation rooted if she will send it over to John's he will attend to it and give it to Bob Dunlap before he come home.\n    \nI bought a cooking stove for Mr. Morrison in NY last August and last week it got here. If you want to come on here you can come with Bob. I know he will take good care of you.","Where is Father going to plant and how is his health?  Have you had much cold weather this winter? Give my best love to Father and Mother and Sam and tell Sam I want to hear from him before long.","I shall write to Jen as often as you write to me whilst I am teaching school but farther than that I can't answer for. Ol was down to Bransons during Christmas they were all well.","Give me love to Louis if you are still up there. My candle is out. Write soon and give me all your news.\nYour brother\nGiles Gunn","PS Virge says tell him I am wearing carpet as strong as a horse\n(Don't you believe that-Virge)","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Topics include the murder of VMI cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a local law student."],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["Giles Gunn papers, 1848/1854"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Giles Gunn papers, 1848/1854"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1854"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1854 February 1"],"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"component_level_isim":[1],"sort_isi":5,"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["Giles Gunn papers, 1848/1854"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"parent_access_restrict_tesm":["There are no restrictions."],"parent_access_terms_tesm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"persname_ssim":["Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"names_ssim":["Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"access_subjects_ssim":["Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English"],"date_range_isim":[1854],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eDear Molly,\u003cbr\u003e\nI have received your letter this very day and am determined for once to toe the mark. I have just seated myself and if I don't get to tired I intend to give you and Sue a piece of my mind even if it be a very small broken piece.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e1stly I am still pedagoguing and I tell you it goes mightily against the grain such a day as today for it is one of the pleasantest days I ever knew. The thermometer at noon was nearly up to summer heat at noon and I had no fire in the schoolhouse. My school consists of about forty scholars most of them large boys some of them taller than I am. I have enjoyed myself first rate so far especially in bad weather but when it is fine I intend to do the best I can but I long to be out aboard of the old pump wagon scouring the country. It gives a person a chance to see the world and though it may make me wild now when I come to settle down, I shall put on as long a face as I deacon.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e2ndly. Ol. (though I had ought to have put him first) is now in Randolph County which is about one hundred and fifty miles west or northwest from here. He has been gone now about three weeks and I do not much expect him back before the middle or last of March. It is a great region there for pumps. I intend to go there as soon as my school is out and shall probably be there off and on the greater part of the summer.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe people around here are getting up to murdering. Last August in Staunton a man was found dead in his bed with his head staved in with a hammer. In December they hung a man for it and he died protesting his innocence; day after tomorrow they are to hang another man as his accomplice who as yet declares himself innocent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThey were both convicted by another man who turned states evidence; and it is now the  general opinion that he did the deed himself.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTwo weeks last Sunday was noted in Lexington for a tragedy worse than that. It seems that a young man by the name of Christian had engaged the company of a young lady to go to preaching. She was advised not to go with him by a cousin of hers, a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute. Christian (who was a law student) found out who it was and prepared himself with weapons and on Sunday night waited till he saw Blackburn the Cadet come into the church with a lady then he stepped up and touched him requesting to say a word to him. He took him out into the street and by his tale demanded of him to retract what he had said upon Blackburn's refusing so to do he let in on him and before any one could interfere had stabbed him in several places and cut his throat from ear to ear with a bowie knife and killed him so dead that he never kicked. Christian then went and delivered himself up to the authorities and it is now the general opinion that he will get clear as the prosecution was so great. You see how nice a sense of humor the southerners have. In law here if our man calls another a liar and he beats him almost to death for it the law does nothing with him for it is considered sufficient provocation.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI reckon you have heard enough about murders if not I could tell you of some half dozen more that have happened in this region during the last six week. I do not expect I will come home this summer. I wish you were here to take my school when it is out. Virge says \"do tell her to come down here and I will go back with her when she wants to go\". Hess is not at home but will be next Saturday (if I can get time to go after her).\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIf mother has that carnation rooted if she will send it over to John's he will attend to it and give it to Bob Dunlap before he come home.\n    \nI bought a cooking stove for Mr. Morrison in NY last August and last week it got here. If you want to come on here you can come with Bob. I know he will take good care of you.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhere is Father going to plant and how is his health?  Have you had much cold weather this winter? Give my best love to Father and Mother and Sam and tell Sam I want to hear from him before long.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI shall write to Jen as often as you write to me whilst I am teaching school but farther than that I can't answer for. Ol was down to Bransons during Christmas they were all well.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGive me love to Louis if you are still up there. My candle is out. Write soon and give me all your news.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour brother\u003cbr\u003e\nGiles Gunn\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePS Virge says tell him I am wearing carpet as strong as a horse\u003cbr\u003e\n(Don't you believe that-Virge)\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Dear Molly,\nI have received your letter this very day and am determined for once to toe the mark. I have just seated myself and if I don't get to tired I intend to give you and Sue a piece of my mind even if it be a very small broken piece.","1stly I am still pedagoguing and I tell you it goes mightily against the grain such a day as today for it is one of the pleasantest days I ever knew. The thermometer at noon was nearly up to summer heat at noon and I had no fire in the schoolhouse. My school consists of about forty scholars most of them large boys some of them taller than I am. I have enjoyed myself first rate so far especially in bad weather but when it is fine I intend to do the best I can but I long to be out aboard of the old pump wagon scouring the country. It gives a person a chance to see the world and though it may make me wild now when I come to settle down, I shall put on as long a face as I deacon.","2ndly. Ol. (though I had ought to have put him first) is now in Randolph County which is about one hundred and fifty miles west or northwest from here. He has been gone now about three weeks and I do not much expect him back before the middle or last of March. It is a great region there for pumps. I intend to go there as soon as my school is out and shall probably be there off and on the greater part of the summer.","The people around here are getting up to murdering. Last August in Staunton a man was found dead in his bed with his head staved in with a hammer. In December they hung a man for it and he died protesting his innocence; day after tomorrow they are to hang another man as his accomplice who as yet declares himself innocent.","They were both convicted by another man who turned states evidence; and it is now the  general opinion that he did the deed himself.","Two weeks last Sunday was noted in Lexington for a tragedy worse than that. It seems that a young man by the name of Christian had engaged the company of a young lady to go to preaching. She was advised not to go with him by a cousin of hers, a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute. Christian (who was a law student) found out who it was and prepared himself with weapons and on Sunday night waited till he saw Blackburn the Cadet come into the church with a lady then he stepped up and touched him requesting to say a word to him. He took him out into the street and by his tale demanded of him to retract what he had said upon Blackburn's refusing so to do he let in on him and before any one could interfere had stabbed him in several places and cut his throat from ear to ear with a bowie knife and killed him so dead that he never kicked. Christian then went and delivered himself up to the authorities and it is now the general opinion that he will get clear as the prosecution was so great. You see how nice a sense of humor the southerners have. In law here if our man calls another a liar and he beats him almost to death for it the law does nothing with him for it is considered sufficient provocation.","I reckon you have heard enough about murders if not I could tell you of some half dozen more that have happened in this region during the last six week. I do not expect I will come home this summer. I wish you were here to take my school when it is out. Virge says \"do tell her to come down here and I will go back with her when she wants to go\". Hess is not at home but will be next Saturday (if I can get time to go after her).","If mother has that carnation rooted if she will send it over to John's he will attend to it and give it to Bob Dunlap before he come home.\n    \nI bought a cooking stove for Mr. Morrison in NY last August and last week it got here. If you want to come on here you can come with Bob. I know he will take good care of you.","Where is Father going to plant and how is his health?  Have you had much cold weather this winter? Give my best love to Father and Mother and Sam and tell Sam I want to hear from him before long.","I shall write to Jen as often as you write to me whilst I am teaching school but farther than that I can't answer for. Ol was down to Bransons during Christmas they were all well.","Give me love to Louis if you are still up there. My candle is out. Write soon and give me all your news.\nYour brother\nGiles Gunn","PS Virge says tell him I am wearing carpet as strong as a horse\n(Don't you believe that-Virge)"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from Lexington, Virginia. Topics include the murder of VMI cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a local law student.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from Lexington, Virginia. Topics include the murder of VMI cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a local law student."],"_nest_path_":"/components#4","timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_615.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00030.xml","title_ssm":["Giles Gunn papers"],"title_tesim":["Giles Gunn papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1848-1854"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1848-1854"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1848/1854"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Giles Gunn papers, 1848/1854"],"text":["Giles Gunn papers, 1848/1854","MS.0292","/repositories/3/resources/615","Lexington (Va.)—History","Virginia Military Institute—Band—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Giles Gunn was born on December 19, 1825 in Connecticut, most likely in Washington, Litchfield County. He was the son of John Northrup Gunn, Jr. (1798-1883) and Lora Smith (1800-1841), who were married on June 16, 1819.","By 1848, Gunn was working as a teacher in Lexington, Virginia, where he married Virginia W. Morrison of Rockbridge County on December 19, 1859. Birth records indicate that the couple had several children, all born in Rockbridge: Lora (1860-?), Johnella (1871-?), Effa (or Effie) (1875-?), Fred (187?-?). This listing of children may not be complete.","Gunn died on November 24, 1892. No other biographical information was available at the time the collection was processed.","Lexington, VA\nJuly 8th, 1848","Dear Sister Mary,\nHaving a few spare moments I will improve them by commencing a letter to you and if I get it begun I know that I shall finish it some time or other.","You are at school I suppose taking in learning in junks as big as my fist and then to settle it go home and trot little May on your knee. Wa'll there is nothing like improvement \"go it while you are young\", if I could live over my life again I would study and no mistake. Oliver is well or was last Sunday he was down here and as fine as a new band boy, it would make you laugh and no mistake to see him try to drink buttermilk. The people here use that as \"the drink\" as much as we do water, if you should drop into where he is about noon, you would find him seated on a stump with what is call a \"corn dogger\" in his hand that is made of indian meal wet up with water and baked in the ashes and is his other  hand a gourd of buttermilk that is as thick as ice cream, on this he is growing fat, it is enough to make any one grin their eye teeth out, to see what a pretty face he makes as he devours this tempting feast. He looks as though he would have \"snake and mild\" that father used to tell of before it.","I suppose that you are all well. It is healthy here I have not heard of half a dozen deaths since I have been round here. The farmers have all finished harvest and never was better weather but it has rained now two days and looks as though it meant to keep it up.","Last Tuesday was the fourth of July. I left out school and went into town. It was commencement day at the Virginia Military Institute and the Governor of the State was there to sign the diplomas attended by the State Brass Band.  The cadets marched from the Institute which is about half of a mile from the town preceded by the band which consisted of about a dozen old rusty looking fellows that blew a soul stirring march with fury enough to wake the dead and make live ones hold their ears. The cadets were about 90 in number dressed in gray coats with skirts about as wide as my hand an 8 inches long and white pants, they are a good looking company and after going through with their evolutions they marched into the meeting house then the cadets made several speeches in praise of war of the institute telling what her sons had done on the plains of Mexico and with what pride the people ought to cherish it.  After they were all through, Gov. Smith was introduced.  He was received with much applause and with many bows commenced. He was just about as venerable looking a man as Uncle Gersham  Finn. He said \"that he was happy to be called upon to give advice to young men like them just entering upon life and the first thing that he wished them to do was to hope for a bright day for tomorrow. The next thing that he advised them to do was to get married no young man could be any thing till he was married.  He never heard of a smart man that was a bachelor, (never heard of John Randolph) never knew of a quarrel to take place between a man and a woman but the man was to blame.  He had lived a long life and was capable of giving advice to young men as a father to his children. There was two books that he would recommend to all young men The first was the Bible, the next Shakespeare, all young men should read and profit by both\" and so he went on in a regular stirring speech praising the ladies then telling the young men they must not try to win them by flattery for they were rational beings and despised flattery. He went into the praise of Va, he said that while other states were progressing in dollars Va was progressing in the mind, and so he went on in a soul stirring amid cheers that were deafening. This was my first sight of a real Gov. and it did not give me a very good opinion of the race.","My knife is just about as good as a tool one would be.  Tell father if he will send by Orve Platt to Litchfield and get one of the Holleys pen knives I will pay him for his trouble, get on about the size of this if he can. If he can find more of Holleys send me a good hard one of somebodies that is sharp to begin with and I will send him another dollar as soon as I receive it.","I have got some flower seeds and will send them one of these days, my school is half out and then I don't know what I shall do, whether I shall come home or stay, or\nThere is no news stirring here not so much as a weeding, it is too hot even for that. Give my love to all and write soon, have you heard anything of Julia yet and where is she, I expect a letter from home at the office if it is there I will put a mark on the outside of this to let you know it is rec'd.","I have not got a letter from Mrs. Garnett yet if she has written send no word.\nFrom your brother,\nGiles Gunn","Westwood, Lexington, Va\nSunday, Aug 13th 1848","Dear Sister Mary,\nYour letter came to hand a week ago but I have not had time to answer it till now. I got one from Father last night dated the first day of Aug. I can't see why they are so long coming through; some of the time they have got to me in four days from the time they are dated. There is not much news stirring in these parts, mighty still time. About eight miles from here is a sacrament (quite a rare thing in this country) today, I had intended to go but as it is rainy I shall stay at home. You would like to see them partake. A table is made in front of the pulpit and all that can get round it set down, then the minister at the head of the table cuts the bread, and blesses it, and gives it to another priest who takes it on one side of the table and passes it to each person and says \"may this emblem of the dying savior be blessed to your sanctification\", thus a minister on each side of the table goes through with his ceremony and the same motions over the blood, on wine then the head priest gives a short exhortation and a  prayer and these rise and make room for another table full thus they go it till all have had a bite then they call upon the colored brethren, on past of the ministers do to come down out of the gallery. In some of the churches they climb up to the gallery by a ladder on the outside and go in at the window Monday Night Oliver and Loveridge came here just after I begun to write as I had to put it off. Oliver sends his best love to all and to you in particular. The Doctor that I board with has sold his place and the new owner has moved on; he has six children. The two oldest girls, one eighteen and the other sixteen. They have a piano and are just thundering at it all of the time. They made just about as much music as the cow that Ralph Smith had. The house is a large one, but for all that we are thick as three in a bed. There are thirty three in all black and white in the establishment for the kitchen is a part of the house. I am going to the mountains in a few weeks to hunt for deer and I expect I will have some fun.","There was a sale here the other day of the Doctor's goods and the way the liquor flew want to be beat. The raw material was set before them by the pail full and two thirds of those assembled went home scarcely able to set on their horse. Is all that spree of marrying over. I was coming home expecting to find Lev All, Sam Hollister, John Hine, Jim Mitchen with a baby on each knee and rocking a cradle with each foot, if they don't look out their day of grace will soon be over. If Uncle Andrew don't get married now he has got to quit having his sprees. If the boys had any life they would plague him till he would butt his brains out against a pumpkin or leave the world and climb a tree. If the girls are all engaged let me know and I will look out elsewhere as I have no doubt the best fish are yet to be caught.\n    \nYou would probably like to know how Oliver looks. I will give you his appearance as he looked when he retuned from preaching yesterday. His hair is long and black, his whiskers as black as a coal, his long mustaches black as you please, give him quite a dignified appearance. He has grown taller than he was last fall and his belly shows the effects of buttermilk and its rising qualities. It puts one in mind of a toad that has just swallowed a snake. I tell him that he will crack open like Gid Hollister's sheep and let the tallow out, if he don't refrain from the use of buttermilk as a beverage tea totally and entirely.  You must write as soon as you get this, as the Lord only knows whether I shall stay round here and longer than this quarter and I hardly believe he does for I alter my mind so often. Tell Aunt Amarilli's that she must not entirely forget the Yankee boys in the Old Dominion. That she must take time to give us a few lines of motherly advice as now is the time that we need it. I often think of her and her counsel and if I was religious I would put up a prayer for her but as I am not I will send my love. Also a huge slice to little Albie with half a dozen kisses.","Give my love to all my kith and kiss and make a bow to deacon Albernatha for me the first time you see him. Tell Mrs. Garret that I am well and I hope she is the same. I shall answer Father's letter in about a week. Tell him to have his pen sharpened as to answer instantly.\nFrom your brother\nGiles Gunn","Lexington, Va\nMarch 15th, 1850","Dear Mary and Susan,\nYour letter has been on hand over a week but if you do not get time to write when you go to school. What do you think of a poor fellow who has the charge of a school and you want to know what I am doing? Well not much of any thing.  In the morning I go to the school house about eight o'clock at half past I commence school. Then comes hearing lessons that they have had to learn over night. This is the first thing and it generally takes me about an hour and a half for I have all the lessons learned out of school. After I get through with this I hear them all read then I have a class in Arithmetic after that I spell and then it is noon. In the afternoon I hear them read all round. Then I have a class in passing then a class in arithmetic and spell and get through about five. Though in the time I have two recesses of half an hour and a noon spell of an hour and a half. The history of one day is the history of every day for it is always necessary to have the work go on as regular as clock work and that makes the children regular. Mary if you go to teaching school begin right at first make them know that you are the master. If any thing comes up that you don't know never let the scholars see that you are at a loss. Give your opinion freely and if they show you a book different declare that you are right and the book wrong. If I was you I would never whip unless absolutely necessary, make them set on the floor it hurts a great deal worse than whipping if they refuse to some do not tell them half a dozen times but take them by the hair and drop them one or two [?] in this way will be a lesson, that the whole school will remember. Never threaten without performing. Always be regular. Follow these rules so far as you go and they will reach and you need have no fear of succeeding. Explain your lessons as much as you can, for you can learn as much in one day by talking it to the as they will learn in a week from the book.  Get ambition in your school by some means. I have not a scholar in school but if they get down in the class they will cry and I have some grown. Always make it a practice to review once a week all they have learned that week and once a month for the month. Susan what do you intend to do this summer? You said nothing about your prospects. I have been almost sorry that I came home last summer, if I had not I would come this and go to school to Uncle Fred. I would like to study surveying and some other things. You should have wrapped your flower seeds in something if they were in the letter when I got it for I lost them out in the dirt as I opened it as I walked along. I hope by this time Aunt Amarilis and Don will be well. Since I wrote to father two have died right close to my schoolhouse and three more have been taken sick. I am up watching almost every night for everybody round here are afraid of the fever. In some of the houses there is no once goes in through the week but the Dr. and me.  How is Louis now. You must both of you write to me so soon as you can and let me know what is going on for I have no correspondent in Washington except at home. How many scholars have Uncle Fred. Send me some more seeds if you can find any but wrap them up better. Give my love to all inquiring friends. Tell Father that I received two newspapers from him this week for which he has my thanks.  Has Oliver got around there yet? Write soon. Be good girls and don't forget\nGiles","[Hand-written upside down at the top of this page]\nDo not read Sam's letter but see how he likes it and tell me the next time you write","Lexington, Va\nJan 6th 1851","Dear Mary\nYour letter was duly received about a week ago and as it was in Christmas times I think I shall be excusable that I did not answer it sooner. I have let out school 8 days for Christmas holidays and tomorrow morning I shall again commence beating the brats. I have got almost tired of the business and think this is the last winter I shall work at it in this country.","They had a monstrous fuss round here the other day. A letter was found in the road \"purporting to be from one niggar to another holding forth that on such a night they were to rise. 300 men were to attack the Military Institute and get possession of the 20,000 stand of arms in the arsenal there. Then they were to walk into the city of Lexington killing all they could get hold of\". You had better believe that it made some stir.  he  militia was called out and they now parade the streets from night to morning It is curious how quick the people of this country can be roused to a state of watchfulness for their all depends upon this. The blacks must have no chance to make a beginning and they know this. I think the letter was a hoax written by some one to see what they could do, but if it was written by a niggar, it was by some one who knew the state of things at the Institute well and if their plans had succeeded it would have been right hard to stop.","I has been right dull times this Christmas not more than three or four frolicks all the times I wish I could drop in there and see how you all look but I do not think you would any of you know me. I have altered a good deal in the last six months.","How does Uncle Sherman and Sam do this winter? Do you like to live there? How is Aunt Jennette heal and all of Uncle Truman's folks? How is Grandfather's folks? All well and how does he stand the times? I meant to write a letter to Father before this time but there is nothing going on here that will interest him when there is I shall write to him.  \n    \nTell Susan that I want her to write to me, and I will answer it, but if she don't write soon I will get mad and write a long one to her.","Ellen I suppose is still in New Preston and Oliver is peddling. How does Sam do this winter and is he going to school? Has Father got all of his thrashing done and h9ow is his health?","There is nothing new to write about here so what is the use of writing.","Give my love to all inquiring friends let me know all the news at home when you write. Farewell.\nGod's blessings attend you\nFrom your brother\nG. Gunn","Dear Molly,\nI have received your letter this very day and am determined for once to toe the mark. I have just seated myself and if I don't get to tired I intend to give you and Sue a piece of my mind even if it be a very small broken piece.","1stly I am still pedagoguing and I tell you it goes mightily against the grain such a day as today for it is one of the pleasantest days I ever knew. The thermometer at noon was nearly up to summer heat at noon and I had no fire in the schoolhouse. My school consists of about forty scholars most of them large boys some of them taller than I am. I have enjoyed myself first rate so far especially in bad weather but when it is fine I intend to do the best I can but I long to be out aboard of the old pump wagon scouring the country. It gives a person a chance to see the world and though it may make me wild now when I come to settle down, I shall put on as long a face as I deacon.","2ndly. Ol. (though I had ought to have put him first) is now in Randolph County which is about one hundred and fifty miles west or northwest from here. He has been gone now about three weeks and I do not much expect him back before the middle or last of March. It is a great region there for pumps. I intend to go there as soon as my school is out and shall probably be there off and on the greater part of the summer.","The people around here are getting up to murdering. Last August in Staunton a man was found dead in his bed with his head staved in with a hammer. In December they hung a man for it and he died protesting his innocence; day after tomorrow they are to hang another man as his accomplice who as yet declares himself innocent.","They were both convicted by another man who turned states evidence; and it is now the  general opinion that he did the deed himself.","Two weeks last Sunday was noted in Lexington for a tragedy worse than that. It seems that a young man by the name of Christian had engaged the company of a young lady to go to preaching. She was advised not to go with him by a cousin of hers, a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute. Christian (who was a law student) found out who it was and prepared himself with weapons and on Sunday night waited till he saw Blackburn the Cadet come into the church with a lady then he stepped up and touched him requesting to say a word to him. He took him out into the street and by his tale demanded of him to retract what he had said upon Blackburn's refusing so to do he let in on him and before any one could interfere had stabbed him in several places and cut his throat from ear to ear with a bowie knife and killed him so dead that he never kicked. Christian then went and delivered himself up to the authorities and it is now the general opinion that he will get clear as the prosecution was so great. You see how nice a sense of humor the southerners have. In law here if our man calls another a liar and he beats him almost to death for it the law does nothing with him for it is considered sufficient provocation.","I reckon you have heard enough about murders if not I could tell you of some half dozen more that have happened in this region during the last six week. I do not expect I will come home this summer. I wish you were here to take my school when it is out. Virge says \"do tell her to come down here and I will go back with her when she wants to go\". Hess is not at home but will be next Saturday (if I can get time to go after her).","If mother has that carnation rooted if she will send it over to John's he will attend to it and give it to Bob Dunlap before he come home.\n    \nI bought a cooking stove for Mr. Morrison in NY last August and last week it got here. If you want to come on here you can come with Bob. I know he will take good care of you.","Where is Father going to plant and how is his health?  Have you had much cold weather this winter? Give my best love to Father and Mother and Sam and tell Sam I want to hear from him before long.","I shall write to Jen as often as you write to me whilst I am teaching school but farther than that I can't answer for. Ol was down to Bransons during Christmas they were all well.","Give me love to Louis if you are still up there. My candle is out. Write soon and give me all your news.\nYour brother\nGiles Gunn","PS Virge says tell him I am wearing carpet as strong as a horse\n(Don't you believe that-Virge)","This collection consists of five letters (dated 1848 to 1854) written by Giles Gunn while he was a schoolteacher in Lexington, Virginia. The letters, addressed primarily to his sister Mary (living at the Gunn home in Washington, Litchfield County, Connecticut), include discussions of interesting local events as well as references to family. Topics include:\n\nVMI commencement\nA detailed description of his school and his methods of instruction\nA description of the communion service at a local church, including references to black communicants\nReferences to the townspeople's reaction to a rumored slave insurrection\nA discussion of the murder of VMI cadet Thomas Blackburn.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards commencement at the VMI and a speech by the governor of Virginia.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes communion at a local church.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter includes a detailed description of teaching at the local school, including a discussion of the curriculum and his discipline methods.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter includes a description of the town's response to rumors of a slave insurrection.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Topics include the murder of VMI cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a local law student.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Gunn, Giles, 1825-1892","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)","English"],"collection_title_tesim":["Giles Gunn papers, 1848/1854"],"collection_ssim":["Giles Gunn papers, 1848/1854"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0292","/repositories/3/resources/615"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0292","/repositories/3/resources/615"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Gunn, Giles, 1825-1892"],"creator_ssim":["Gunn, Giles, 1825-1892"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Gunn, Giles, 1825-1892","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Gunn, Giles, 1825-1892","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"acqinfo_ssim":["The Giles Gunn papers were donated to the Virginia\n            Military Institute in 1933 by Mary Maigret, Gunn's\n            niece."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Lexington (Va.)—History","Virginia Military Institute—Band—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Lexington (Va.)—History","Virginia Military Institute—Band—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["5 items"],"extent_tesim":["5 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1848,1849,1850,1851,1852,1853,1854],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eGiles Gunn was born on December 19, 1825 in Connecticut, most likely in Washington, Litchfield County. He was the son of John Northrup Gunn, Jr. (1798-1883) and Lora Smith (1800-1841), who were married on June 16, 1819. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBy 1848, Gunn was working as a teacher in Lexington, Virginia, where he married Virginia W. Morrison of Rockbridge County on December 19, 1859. Birth records indicate that the couple had several children, all born in Rockbridge: Lora (1860-?), Johnella (1871-?), Effa (or Effie) (1875-?), Fred (187?-?). This listing of children may not be complete. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGunn died on November 24, 1892. No other biographical information was available at the time the collection was processed.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Giles Gunn was born on December 19, 1825 in Connecticut, most likely in Washington, Litchfield County. He was the son of John Northrup Gunn, Jr. (1798-1883) and Lora Smith (1800-1841), who were married on June 16, 1819.","By 1848, Gunn was working as a teacher in Lexington, Virginia, where he married Virginia W. Morrison of Rockbridge County on December 19, 1859. Birth records indicate that the couple had several children, all born in Rockbridge: Lora (1860-?), Johnella (1871-?), Effa (or Effie) (1875-?), Fred (187?-?). This listing of children may not be complete.","Gunn died on November 24, 1892. No other biographical information was available at the time the collection was processed."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eLexington, VA\u003cbr\u003e\nJuly 8th, 1848\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Sister Mary,\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving a few spare moments I will improve them by commencing a letter to you and if I get it begun I know that I shall finish it some time or other. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eYou are at school I suppose taking in learning in junks as big as my fist and then to settle it go home and trot little May on your knee. Wa'll there is nothing like improvement \"go it while you are young\", if I could live over my life again I would study and no mistake. Oliver is well or was last Sunday he was down here and as fine as a new band boy, it would make you laugh and no mistake to see him try to drink buttermilk. The people here use that as \"the drink\" as much as we do water, if you should drop into where he is about noon, you would find him seated on a stump with what is call a \"corn dogger\" in his hand that is made of indian meal wet up with water and baked in the ashes and is his other  hand a gourd of buttermilk that is as thick as ice cream, on this he is growing fat, it is enough to make any one grin their eye teeth out, to see what a pretty face he makes as he devours this tempting feast. He looks as though he would have \"snake and mild\" that father used to tell of before it.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI suppose that you are all well. It is healthy here I have not heard of half a dozen deaths since I have been round here. The farmers have all finished harvest and never was better weather but it has rained now two days and looks as though it meant to keep it up.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLast Tuesday was the fourth of July. I left out school and went into town. It was commencement day at the Virginia Military Institute and the Governor of the State was there to sign the diplomas attended by the State Brass Band.  The cadets marched from the Institute which is about half of a mile from the town preceded by the band which consisted of about a dozen old rusty looking fellows that blew a soul stirring march with fury enough to wake the dead and make live ones hold their ears. The cadets were about 90 in number dressed in gray coats with skirts about as wide as my hand an 8 inches long and white pants, they are a good looking company and after going through with their evolutions they marched into the meeting house then the cadets made several speeches in praise of war of the institute telling what her sons had done on the plains of Mexico and with what pride the people ought to cherish it.  After they were all through, Gov. Smith was introduced.  He was received with much applause and with many bows commenced. He was just about as venerable looking a man as Uncle Gersham  Finn. He said \"that he was happy to be called upon to give advice to young men like them just entering upon life and the first thing that he wished them to do was to hope for a bright day for tomorrow. The next thing that he advised them to do was to get married no young man could be any thing till he was married.  He never heard of a smart man that was a bachelor, (never heard of John Randolph) never knew of a quarrel to take place between a man and a woman but the man was to blame.  He had lived a long life and was capable of giving advice to young men as a father to his children. There was two books that he would recommend to all young men The first was the Bible, the next Shakespeare, all young men should read and profit by both\" and so he went on in a regular stirring speech praising the ladies then telling the young men they must not try to win them by flattery for they were rational beings and despised flattery. He went into the praise of Va, he said that while other states were progressing in dollars Va was progressing in the mind, and so he went on in a soul stirring amid cheers that were deafening. This was my first sight of a real Gov. and it did not give me a very good opinion of the race.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy knife is just about as good as a tool one would be.  Tell father if he will send by Orve Platt to Litchfield and get one of the Holleys pen knives I will pay him for his trouble, get on about the size of this if he can. If he can find more of Holleys send me a good hard one of somebodies that is sharp to begin with and I will send him another dollar as soon as I receive it. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have got some flower seeds and will send them one of these days, my school is half out and then I don't know what I shall do, whether I shall come home or stay, or\nThere is no news stirring here not so much as a weeding, it is too hot even for that. Give my love to all and write soon, have you heard anything of Julia yet and where is she, I expect a letter from home at the office if it is there I will put a mark on the outside of this to let you know it is rec'd. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have not got a letter from Mrs. Garnett yet if she has written send no word.\u003cbr\u003e\nFrom your brother,\u003cbr\u003e\nGiles Gunn\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWestwood, Lexington, Va\u003cbr\u003e\nSunday, Aug 13th 1848\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Sister Mary,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter came to hand a week ago but I have not had time to answer it till now. I got one from Father last night dated the first day of Aug. I can't see why they are so long coming through; some of the time they have got to me in four days from the time they are dated. There is not much news stirring in these parts, mighty still time. About eight miles from here is a sacrament (quite a rare thing in this country) today, I had intended to go but as it is rainy I shall stay at home. You would like to see them partake. A table is made in front of the pulpit and all that can get round it set down, then the minister at the head of the table cuts the bread, and blesses it, and gives it to another priest who takes it on one side of the table and passes it to each person and says \"may this emblem of the dying savior be blessed to your sanctification\", thus a minister on each side of the table goes through with his ceremony and the same motions over the blood, on wine then the head priest gives a short exhortation and a  prayer and these rise and make room for another table full thus they go it till all have had a bite then they call upon the colored brethren, on past of the ministers do to come down out of the gallery. In some of the churches they climb up to the gallery by a ladder on the outside and go in at the window Monday Night Oliver and Loveridge came here just after I begun to write as I had to put it off. Oliver sends his best love to all and to you in particular. The Doctor that I board with has sold his place and the new owner has moved on; he has six children. The two oldest girls, one eighteen and the other sixteen. They have a piano and are just thundering at it all of the time. They made just about as much music as the cow that Ralph Smith had. The house is a large one, but for all that we are thick as three in a bed. There are thirty three in all black and white in the establishment for the kitchen is a part of the house. I am going to the mountains in a few weeks to hunt for deer and I expect I will have some fun.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere was a sale here the other day of the Doctor's goods and the way the liquor flew want to be beat. The raw material was set before them by the pail full and two thirds of those assembled went home scarcely able to set on their horse. Is all that spree of marrying over. I was coming home expecting to find Lev All, Sam Hollister, John Hine, Jim Mitchen with a baby on each knee and rocking a cradle with each foot, if they don't look out their day of grace will soon be over. If Uncle Andrew don't get married now he has got to quit having his sprees. If the boys had any life they would plague him till he would butt his brains out against a pumpkin or leave the world and climb a tree. If the girls are all engaged let me know and I will look out elsewhere as I have no doubt the best fish are yet to be caught.\n    \nYou would probably like to know how Oliver looks. I will give you his appearance as he looked when he retuned from preaching yesterday. His hair is long and black, his whiskers as black as a coal, his long mustaches black as you please, give him quite a dignified appearance. He has grown taller than he was last fall and his belly shows the effects of buttermilk and its rising qualities. It puts one in mind of a toad that has just swallowed a snake. I tell him that he will crack open like Gid Hollister's sheep and let the tallow out, if he don't refrain from the use of buttermilk as a beverage tea totally and entirely.  You must write as soon as you get this, as the Lord only knows whether I shall stay round here and longer than this quarter and I hardly believe he does for I alter my mind so often. Tell Aunt Amarilli's that she must not entirely forget the Yankee boys in the Old Dominion. That she must take time to give us a few lines of motherly advice as now is the time that we need it. I often think of her and her counsel and if I was religious I would put up a prayer for her but as I am not I will send my love. Also a huge slice to little Albie with half a dozen kisses.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGive my love to all my kith and kiss and make a bow to deacon Albernatha for me the first time you see him. Tell Mrs. Garret that I am well and I hope she is the same. I shall answer Father's letter in about a week. Tell him to have his pen sharpened as to answer instantly.\u003cbr\u003e\nFrom your brother\u003cbr\u003e\nGiles Gunn\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLexington, Va\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 15th, 1850\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Mary and Susan,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter has been on hand over a week but if you do not get time to write when you go to school. What do you think of a poor fellow who has the charge of a school and you want to know what I am doing? Well not much of any thing.  In the morning I go to the school house about eight o'clock at half past I commence school. Then comes hearing lessons that they have had to learn over night. This is the first thing and it generally takes me about an hour and a half for I have all the lessons learned out of school. After I get through with this I hear them all read then I have a class in Arithmetic after that I spell and then it is noon. In the afternoon I hear them read all round. Then I have a class in passing then a class in arithmetic and spell and get through about five. Though in the time I have two recesses of half an hour and a noon spell of an hour and a half. The history of one day is the history of every day for it is always necessary to have the work go on as regular as clock work and that makes the children regular. Mary if you go to teaching school begin right at first make them know that you are the master. If any thing comes up that you don't know never let the scholars see that you are at a loss. Give your opinion freely and if they show you a book different declare that you are right and the book wrong. If I was you I would never whip unless absolutely necessary, make them set on the floor it hurts a great deal worse than whipping if they refuse to some do not tell them half a dozen times but take them by the hair and drop them one or two [?] in this way will be a lesson, that the whole school will remember. Never threaten without performing. Always be regular. Follow these rules so far as you go and they will reach and you need have no fear of succeeding. Explain your lessons as much as you can, for you can learn as much in one day by talking it to the as they will learn in a week from the book.  Get ambition in your school by some means. I have not a scholar in school but if they get down in the class they will cry and I have some grown. Always make it a practice to review once a week all they have learned that week and once a month for the month. Susan what do you intend to do this summer? You said nothing about your prospects. I have been almost sorry that I came home last summer, if I had not I would come this and go to school to Uncle Fred. I would like to study surveying and some other things. You should have wrapped your flower seeds in something if they were in the letter when I got it for I lost them out in the dirt as I opened it as I walked along. I hope by this time Aunt Amarilis and Don will be well. Since I wrote to father two have died right close to my schoolhouse and three more have been taken sick. I am up watching almost every night for everybody round here are afraid of the fever. In some of the houses there is no once goes in through the week but the Dr. and me.  How is Louis now. You must both of you write to me so soon as you can and let me know what is going on for I have no correspondent in Washington except at home. How many scholars have Uncle Fred. Send me some more seeds if you can find any but wrap them up better. Give my love to all inquiring friends. Tell Father that I received two newspapers from him this week for which he has my thanks.  Has Oliver got around there yet? Write soon. Be good girls and don't forget\u003cbr\u003e\nGiles\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[Hand-written upside down at the top of this page]\u003cbr\u003e\nDo not read Sam's letter but see how he likes it and tell me the next time you write\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLexington, Va\u003cbr\u003e\nJan 6th 1851\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Mary\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter was duly received about a week ago and as it was in Christmas times I think I shall be excusable that I did not answer it sooner. I have let out school 8 days for Christmas holidays and tomorrow morning I shall again commence beating the brats. I have got almost tired of the business and think this is the last winter I shall work at it in this country.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThey had a monstrous fuss round here the other day. A letter was found in the road \"purporting to be from one niggar to another holding forth that on such a night they were to rise. 300 men were to attack the Military Institute and get possession of the 20,000 stand of arms in the arsenal there. Then they were to walk into the city of Lexington killing all they could get hold of\". You had better believe that it made some stir.  he  militia was called out and they now parade the streets from night to morning It is curious how quick the people of this country can be roused to a state of watchfulness for their all depends upon this. The blacks must have no chance to make a beginning and they know this. I think the letter was a hoax written by some one to see what they could do, but if it was written by a niggar, it was by some one who knew the state of things at the Institute well and if their plans had succeeded it would have been right hard to stop.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e\nI has been right dull times this Christmas not more than three or four frolicks all the times I wish I could drop in there and see how you all look but I do not think you would any of you know me. I have altered a good deal in the last six months.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eHow does Uncle Sherman and Sam do this winter? Do you like to live there? How is Aunt Jennette heal and all of Uncle Truman's folks? How is Grandfather's folks? All well and how does he stand the times? I meant to write a letter to Father before this time but there is nothing going on here that will interest him when there is I shall write to him.  \n    \nTell Susan that I want her to write to me, and I will answer it, but if she don't write soon I will get mad and write a long one to her.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eEllen I suppose is still in New Preston and Oliver is peddling. How does Sam do this winter and is he going to school? Has Father got all of his thrashing done and h9ow is his health?\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThere is nothing new to write about here so what is the use of writing.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGive my love to all inquiring friends let me know all the news at home when you write. Farewell.\u003cbr\u003e\nGod's blessings attend you\u003cbr\u003e\nFrom your brother\u003cbr\u003e\nG. Gunn\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Molly,\u003cbr\u003e\nI have received your letter this very day and am determined for once to toe the mark. I have just seated myself and if I don't get to tired I intend to give you and Sue a piece of my mind even if it be a very small broken piece.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e1stly I am still pedagoguing and I tell you it goes mightily against the grain such a day as today for it is one of the pleasantest days I ever knew. The thermometer at noon was nearly up to summer heat at noon and I had no fire in the schoolhouse. My school consists of about forty scholars most of them large boys some of them taller than I am. I have enjoyed myself first rate so far especially in bad weather but when it is fine I intend to do the best I can but I long to be out aboard of the old pump wagon scouring the country. It gives a person a chance to see the world and though it may make me wild now when I come to settle down, I shall put on as long a face as I deacon.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e2ndly. Ol. (though I had ought to have put him first) is now in Randolph County which is about one hundred and fifty miles west or northwest from here. He has been gone now about three weeks and I do not much expect him back before the middle or last of March. It is a great region there for pumps. I intend to go there as soon as my school is out and shall probably be there off and on the greater part of the summer.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe people around here are getting up to murdering. Last August in Staunton a man was found dead in his bed with his head staved in with a hammer. In December they hung a man for it and he died protesting his innocence; day after tomorrow they are to hang another man as his accomplice who as yet declares himself innocent.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThey were both convicted by another man who turned states evidence; and it is now the  general opinion that he did the deed himself.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTwo weeks last Sunday was noted in Lexington for a tragedy worse than that. It seems that a young man by the name of Christian had engaged the company of a young lady to go to preaching. She was advised not to go with him by a cousin of hers, a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute. Christian (who was a law student) found out who it was and prepared himself with weapons and on Sunday night waited till he saw Blackburn the Cadet come into the church with a lady then he stepped up and touched him requesting to say a word to him. He took him out into the street and by his tale demanded of him to retract what he had said upon Blackburn's refusing so to do he let in on him and before any one could interfere had stabbed him in several places and cut his throat from ear to ear with a bowie knife and killed him so dead that he never kicked. Christian then went and delivered himself up to the authorities and it is now the general opinion that he will get clear as the prosecution was so great. You see how nice a sense of humor the southerners have. In law here if our man calls another a liar and he beats him almost to death for it the law does nothing with him for it is considered sufficient provocation.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI reckon you have heard enough about murders if not I could tell you of some half dozen more that have happened in this region during the last six week. I do not expect I will come home this summer. I wish you were here to take my school when it is out. Virge says \"do tell her to come down here and I will go back with her when she wants to go\". Hess is not at home but will be next Saturday (if I can get time to go after her).\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIf mother has that carnation rooted if she will send it over to John's he will attend to it and give it to Bob Dunlap before he come home.\n    \nI bought a cooking stove for Mr. Morrison in NY last August and last week it got here. If you want to come on here you can come with Bob. I know he will take good care of you.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhere is Father going to plant and how is his health?  Have you had much cold weather this winter? Give my best love to Father and Mother and Sam and tell Sam I want to hear from him before long.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI shall write to Jen as often as you write to me whilst I am teaching school but farther than that I can't answer for. Ol was down to Bransons during Christmas they were all well.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGive me love to Louis if you are still up there. My candle is out. Write soon and give me all your news.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour brother\u003cbr\u003e\nGiles Gunn\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePS Virge says tell him I am wearing carpet as strong as a horse\u003cbr\u003e\n(Don't you believe that-Virge)\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Lexington, VA\nJuly 8th, 1848","Dear Sister Mary,\nHaving a few spare moments I will improve them by commencing a letter to you and if I get it begun I know that I shall finish it some time or other.","You are at school I suppose taking in learning in junks as big as my fist and then to settle it go home and trot little May on your knee. Wa'll there is nothing like improvement \"go it while you are young\", if I could live over my life again I would study and no mistake. Oliver is well or was last Sunday he was down here and as fine as a new band boy, it would make you laugh and no mistake to see him try to drink buttermilk. The people here use that as \"the drink\" as much as we do water, if you should drop into where he is about noon, you would find him seated on a stump with what is call a \"corn dogger\" in his hand that is made of indian meal wet up with water and baked in the ashes and is his other  hand a gourd of buttermilk that is as thick as ice cream, on this he is growing fat, it is enough to make any one grin their eye teeth out, to see what a pretty face he makes as he devours this tempting feast. He looks as though he would have \"snake and mild\" that father used to tell of before it.","I suppose that you are all well. It is healthy here I have not heard of half a dozen deaths since I have been round here. The farmers have all finished harvest and never was better weather but it has rained now two days and looks as though it meant to keep it up.","Last Tuesday was the fourth of July. I left out school and went into town. It was commencement day at the Virginia Military Institute and the Governor of the State was there to sign the diplomas attended by the State Brass Band.  The cadets marched from the Institute which is about half of a mile from the town preceded by the band which consisted of about a dozen old rusty looking fellows that blew a soul stirring march with fury enough to wake the dead and make live ones hold their ears. The cadets were about 90 in number dressed in gray coats with skirts about as wide as my hand an 8 inches long and white pants, they are a good looking company and after going through with their evolutions they marched into the meeting house then the cadets made several speeches in praise of war of the institute telling what her sons had done on the plains of Mexico and with what pride the people ought to cherish it.  After they were all through, Gov. Smith was introduced.  He was received with much applause and with many bows commenced. He was just about as venerable looking a man as Uncle Gersham  Finn. He said \"that he was happy to be called upon to give advice to young men like them just entering upon life and the first thing that he wished them to do was to hope for a bright day for tomorrow. The next thing that he advised them to do was to get married no young man could be any thing till he was married.  He never heard of a smart man that was a bachelor, (never heard of John Randolph) never knew of a quarrel to take place between a man and a woman but the man was to blame.  He had lived a long life and was capable of giving advice to young men as a father to his children. There was two books that he would recommend to all young men The first was the Bible, the next Shakespeare, all young men should read and profit by both\" and so he went on in a regular stirring speech praising the ladies then telling the young men they must not try to win them by flattery for they were rational beings and despised flattery. He went into the praise of Va, he said that while other states were progressing in dollars Va was progressing in the mind, and so he went on in a soul stirring amid cheers that were deafening. This was my first sight of a real Gov. and it did not give me a very good opinion of the race.","My knife is just about as good as a tool one would be.  Tell father if he will send by Orve Platt to Litchfield and get one of the Holleys pen knives I will pay him for his trouble, get on about the size of this if he can. If he can find more of Holleys send me a good hard one of somebodies that is sharp to begin with and I will send him another dollar as soon as I receive it.","I have got some flower seeds and will send them one of these days, my school is half out and then I don't know what I shall do, whether I shall come home or stay, or\nThere is no news stirring here not so much as a weeding, it is too hot even for that. Give my love to all and write soon, have you heard anything of Julia yet and where is she, I expect a letter from home at the office if it is there I will put a mark on the outside of this to let you know it is rec'd.","I have not got a letter from Mrs. Garnett yet if she has written send no word.\nFrom your brother,\nGiles Gunn","Westwood, Lexington, Va\nSunday, Aug 13th 1848","Dear Sister Mary,\nYour letter came to hand a week ago but I have not had time to answer it till now. I got one from Father last night dated the first day of Aug. I can't see why they are so long coming through; some of the time they have got to me in four days from the time they are dated. There is not much news stirring in these parts, mighty still time. About eight miles from here is a sacrament (quite a rare thing in this country) today, I had intended to go but as it is rainy I shall stay at home. You would like to see them partake. A table is made in front of the pulpit and all that can get round it set down, then the minister at the head of the table cuts the bread, and blesses it, and gives it to another priest who takes it on one side of the table and passes it to each person and says \"may this emblem of the dying savior be blessed to your sanctification\", thus a minister on each side of the table goes through with his ceremony and the same motions over the blood, on wine then the head priest gives a short exhortation and a  prayer and these rise and make room for another table full thus they go it till all have had a bite then they call upon the colored brethren, on past of the ministers do to come down out of the gallery. In some of the churches they climb up to the gallery by a ladder on the outside and go in at the window Monday Night Oliver and Loveridge came here just after I begun to write as I had to put it off. Oliver sends his best love to all and to you in particular. The Doctor that I board with has sold his place and the new owner has moved on; he has six children. The two oldest girls, one eighteen and the other sixteen. They have a piano and are just thundering at it all of the time. They made just about as much music as the cow that Ralph Smith had. The house is a large one, but for all that we are thick as three in a bed. There are thirty three in all black and white in the establishment for the kitchen is a part of the house. I am going to the mountains in a few weeks to hunt for deer and I expect I will have some fun.","There was a sale here the other day of the Doctor's goods and the way the liquor flew want to be beat. The raw material was set before them by the pail full and two thirds of those assembled went home scarcely able to set on their horse. Is all that spree of marrying over. I was coming home expecting to find Lev All, Sam Hollister, John Hine, Jim Mitchen with a baby on each knee and rocking a cradle with each foot, if they don't look out their day of grace will soon be over. If Uncle Andrew don't get married now he has got to quit having his sprees. If the boys had any life they would plague him till he would butt his brains out against a pumpkin or leave the world and climb a tree. If the girls are all engaged let me know and I will look out elsewhere as I have no doubt the best fish are yet to be caught.\n    \nYou would probably like to know how Oliver looks. I will give you his appearance as he looked when he retuned from preaching yesterday. His hair is long and black, his whiskers as black as a coal, his long mustaches black as you please, give him quite a dignified appearance. He has grown taller than he was last fall and his belly shows the effects of buttermilk and its rising qualities. It puts one in mind of a toad that has just swallowed a snake. I tell him that he will crack open like Gid Hollister's sheep and let the tallow out, if he don't refrain from the use of buttermilk as a beverage tea totally and entirely.  You must write as soon as you get this, as the Lord only knows whether I shall stay round here and longer than this quarter and I hardly believe he does for I alter my mind so often. Tell Aunt Amarilli's that she must not entirely forget the Yankee boys in the Old Dominion. That she must take time to give us a few lines of motherly advice as now is the time that we need it. I often think of her and her counsel and if I was religious I would put up a prayer for her but as I am not I will send my love. Also a huge slice to little Albie with half a dozen kisses.","Give my love to all my kith and kiss and make a bow to deacon Albernatha for me the first time you see him. Tell Mrs. Garret that I am well and I hope she is the same. I shall answer Father's letter in about a week. Tell him to have his pen sharpened as to answer instantly.\nFrom your brother\nGiles Gunn","Lexington, Va\nMarch 15th, 1850","Dear Mary and Susan,\nYour letter has been on hand over a week but if you do not get time to write when you go to school. What do you think of a poor fellow who has the charge of a school and you want to know what I am doing? Well not much of any thing.  In the morning I go to the school house about eight o'clock at half past I commence school. Then comes hearing lessons that they have had to learn over night. This is the first thing and it generally takes me about an hour and a half for I have all the lessons learned out of school. After I get through with this I hear them all read then I have a class in Arithmetic after that I spell and then it is noon. In the afternoon I hear them read all round. Then I have a class in passing then a class in arithmetic and spell and get through about five. Though in the time I have two recesses of half an hour and a noon spell of an hour and a half. The history of one day is the history of every day for it is always necessary to have the work go on as regular as clock work and that makes the children regular. Mary if you go to teaching school begin right at first make them know that you are the master. If any thing comes up that you don't know never let the scholars see that you are at a loss. Give your opinion freely and if they show you a book different declare that you are right and the book wrong. If I was you I would never whip unless absolutely necessary, make them set on the floor it hurts a great deal worse than whipping if they refuse to some do not tell them half a dozen times but take them by the hair and drop them one or two [?] in this way will be a lesson, that the whole school will remember. Never threaten without performing. Always be regular. Follow these rules so far as you go and they will reach and you need have no fear of succeeding. Explain your lessons as much as you can, for you can learn as much in one day by talking it to the as they will learn in a week from the book.  Get ambition in your school by some means. I have not a scholar in school but if they get down in the class they will cry and I have some grown. Always make it a practice to review once a week all they have learned that week and once a month for the month. Susan what do you intend to do this summer? You said nothing about your prospects. I have been almost sorry that I came home last summer, if I had not I would come this and go to school to Uncle Fred. I would like to study surveying and some other things. You should have wrapped your flower seeds in something if they were in the letter when I got it for I lost them out in the dirt as I opened it as I walked along. I hope by this time Aunt Amarilis and Don will be well. Since I wrote to father two have died right close to my schoolhouse and three more have been taken sick. I am up watching almost every night for everybody round here are afraid of the fever. In some of the houses there is no once goes in through the week but the Dr. and me.  How is Louis now. You must both of you write to me so soon as you can and let me know what is going on for I have no correspondent in Washington except at home. How many scholars have Uncle Fred. Send me some more seeds if you can find any but wrap them up better. Give my love to all inquiring friends. Tell Father that I received two newspapers from him this week for which he has my thanks.  Has Oliver got around there yet? Write soon. Be good girls and don't forget\nGiles","[Hand-written upside down at the top of this page]\nDo not read Sam's letter but see how he likes it and tell me the next time you write","Lexington, Va\nJan 6th 1851","Dear Mary\nYour letter was duly received about a week ago and as it was in Christmas times I think I shall be excusable that I did not answer it sooner. I have let out school 8 days for Christmas holidays and tomorrow morning I shall again commence beating the brats. I have got almost tired of the business and think this is the last winter I shall work at it in this country.","They had a monstrous fuss round here the other day. A letter was found in the road \"purporting to be from one niggar to another holding forth that on such a night they were to rise. 300 men were to attack the Military Institute and get possession of the 20,000 stand of arms in the arsenal there. Then they were to walk into the city of Lexington killing all they could get hold of\". You had better believe that it made some stir.  he  militia was called out and they now parade the streets from night to morning It is curious how quick the people of this country can be roused to a state of watchfulness for their all depends upon this. The blacks must have no chance to make a beginning and they know this. I think the letter was a hoax written by some one to see what they could do, but if it was written by a niggar, it was by some one who knew the state of things at the Institute well and if their plans had succeeded it would have been right hard to stop.","I has been right dull times this Christmas not more than three or four frolicks all the times I wish I could drop in there and see how you all look but I do not think you would any of you know me. I have altered a good deal in the last six months.","How does Uncle Sherman and Sam do this winter? Do you like to live there? How is Aunt Jennette heal and all of Uncle Truman's folks? How is Grandfather's folks? All well and how does he stand the times? I meant to write a letter to Father before this time but there is nothing going on here that will interest him when there is I shall write to him.  \n    \nTell Susan that I want her to write to me, and I will answer it, but if she don't write soon I will get mad and write a long one to her.","Ellen I suppose is still in New Preston and Oliver is peddling. How does Sam do this winter and is he going to school? Has Father got all of his thrashing done and h9ow is his health?","There is nothing new to write about here so what is the use of writing.","Give my love to all inquiring friends let me know all the news at home when you write. Farewell.\nGod's blessings attend you\nFrom your brother\nG. Gunn","Dear Molly,\nI have received your letter this very day and am determined for once to toe the mark. I have just seated myself and if I don't get to tired I intend to give you and Sue a piece of my mind even if it be a very small broken piece.","1stly I am still pedagoguing and I tell you it goes mightily against the grain such a day as today for it is one of the pleasantest days I ever knew. The thermometer at noon was nearly up to summer heat at noon and I had no fire in the schoolhouse. My school consists of about forty scholars most of them large boys some of them taller than I am. I have enjoyed myself first rate so far especially in bad weather but when it is fine I intend to do the best I can but I long to be out aboard of the old pump wagon scouring the country. It gives a person a chance to see the world and though it may make me wild now when I come to settle down, I shall put on as long a face as I deacon.","2ndly. Ol. (though I had ought to have put him first) is now in Randolph County which is about one hundred and fifty miles west or northwest from here. He has been gone now about three weeks and I do not much expect him back before the middle or last of March. It is a great region there for pumps. I intend to go there as soon as my school is out and shall probably be there off and on the greater part of the summer.","The people around here are getting up to murdering. Last August in Staunton a man was found dead in his bed with his head staved in with a hammer. In December they hung a man for it and he died protesting his innocence; day after tomorrow they are to hang another man as his accomplice who as yet declares himself innocent.","They were both convicted by another man who turned states evidence; and it is now the  general opinion that he did the deed himself.","Two weeks last Sunday was noted in Lexington for a tragedy worse than that. It seems that a young man by the name of Christian had engaged the company of a young lady to go to preaching. She was advised not to go with him by a cousin of hers, a cadet at the Virginia Military Institute. Christian (who was a law student) found out who it was and prepared himself with weapons and on Sunday night waited till he saw Blackburn the Cadet come into the church with a lady then he stepped up and touched him requesting to say a word to him. He took him out into the street and by his tale demanded of him to retract what he had said upon Blackburn's refusing so to do he let in on him and before any one could interfere had stabbed him in several places and cut his throat from ear to ear with a bowie knife and killed him so dead that he never kicked. Christian then went and delivered himself up to the authorities and it is now the general opinion that he will get clear as the prosecution was so great. You see how nice a sense of humor the southerners have. In law here if our man calls another a liar and he beats him almost to death for it the law does nothing with him for it is considered sufficient provocation.","I reckon you have heard enough about murders if not I could tell you of some half dozen more that have happened in this region during the last six week. I do not expect I will come home this summer. I wish you were here to take my school when it is out. Virge says \"do tell her to come down here and I will go back with her when she wants to go\". Hess is not at home but will be next Saturday (if I can get time to go after her).","If mother has that carnation rooted if she will send it over to John's he will attend to it and give it to Bob Dunlap before he come home.\n    \nI bought a cooking stove for Mr. Morrison in NY last August and last week it got here. If you want to come on here you can come with Bob. I know he will take good care of you.","Where is Father going to plant and how is his health?  Have you had much cold weather this winter? Give my best love to Father and Mother and Sam and tell Sam I want to hear from him before long.","I shall write to Jen as often as you write to me whilst I am teaching school but farther than that I can't answer for. Ol was down to Bransons during Christmas they were all well.","Give me love to Louis if you are still up there. My candle is out. Write soon and give me all your news.\nYour brother\nGiles Gunn","PS Virge says tell him I am wearing carpet as strong as a horse\n(Don't you believe that-Virge)"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eGiles Gunn papers, MS 0292, Virginia Military\n            Institute Archives, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Giles Gunn papers, MS 0292, Virginia Military\n            Institute Archives, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of five letters (dated 1848 to 1854) written by Giles Gunn while he was a schoolteacher in Lexington, Virginia. The letters, addressed primarily to his sister Mary (living at the Gunn home in Washington, Litchfield County, Connecticut), include discussions of interesting local events as well as references to family. Topics include:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVMI commencement\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA detailed description of his school and his methods of instruction\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA description of the communion service at a local church, including references to black communicants\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReferences to the townspeople's reaction to a rumored slave insurrection\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA discussion of the murder of VMI cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards commencement at the VMI and a speech by the governor of Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes communion at a local church.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Lexington, Virginia. Letter includes a detailed description of teaching at the local school, including a discussion of the curriculum and his discipline methods.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Lexington, Virginia. Letter includes a description of the town's response to rumors of a slave insurrection.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Lexington, Virginia. Topics include the murder of VMI cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a local law student.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of five letters (dated 1848 to 1854) written by Giles Gunn while he was a schoolteacher in Lexington, Virginia. The letters, addressed primarily to his sister Mary (living at the Gunn home in Washington, Litchfield County, Connecticut), include discussions of interesting local events as well as references to family. Topics include:\n\nVMI commencement\nA detailed description of his school and his methods of instruction\nA description of the communion service at a local church, including references to black communicants\nReferences to the townspeople's reaction to a rumored slave insurrection\nA discussion of the murder of VMI cadet Thomas Blackburn.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards commencement at the VMI and a speech by the governor of Virginia.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes communion at a local church.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter includes a detailed description of teaching at the local school, including a discussion of the curriculum and his discipline methods.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter includes a description of the town's response to rumors of a slave insurrection.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Topics include the murder of VMI cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a local law student."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may \nnot be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_4b69e904f0eac0cc1658da5c7475032f\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Gunn, Giles, 1825-1892","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"names_coll_ssim":["Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Gunn, Giles, 1825-1892","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"language_ssim":["English"],"total_component_count_is":5,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_615_c05"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239_c01","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to Walter H. Taylor, 1854","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239_c01#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThe letter describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of Richard C. Taylor's classmate Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239_c01#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239_c01","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239_c01"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239_c01","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","parent_ssim":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239"],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to Walter H. Taylor","title_ssm":["Letter to Walter H. Taylor"],"title_tesim":["Letter to Walter H. Taylor"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to Walter H. Taylor, 1854"],"text":["Letter to Walter H. Taylor, 1854","Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)","Lexington (Va.)—History","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1854","Washington College (Lexington, Va.)–Students","Washington and Lee University—Students","Correspondence","English.","January 15, 1854","Dearest Father:\nThis was to be a letter of congratulations at my stand first on everything but tis a sad time here now. The body of one of our classmates lies bloody in a room below. He was murdered last night. The greatest excitement prevails and it is only by mildness and the prayers of the minister of the gospel last night that the lynch law was not executed. In order to give something for my feelings to dwell upon and quiet them I will write you a detailed account of the whole of this sad affair. At a party which I attended uptown a law student by the name of Christian, having been introduced to Miss Anderson, engaged her company for church. Her cousin in the Corps, our classmate Blackburn, having heard of it and not liking the character of the gentleman told her to write and decline his invitation. This was some weeks ago. This fellow Christian who has the name of a numskull, wrote her a very amusing note having Latin, French \u0026 etc. quotations in it, only part of which was at all serious where he desired to know who was the calumniator. This was shown to Blackburn in fun, nothing being thought of it.","Our dear classmate who never knew fear went up and told him he was the man answerable for everything. C. told him that I have heard the expression that \"he acted nobly in seeing after his cousin.\" He was very much frightened and seemed glad to get out of the scrape. Everybody thought all parties were satisfied. This was Saturday. This was all of the difficulty previous to last night. A classmate and myself went up last night for Miss May Kerr and Miss Julia Lewis to go to church. Miss J was not there. He walked down with Miss M and I alongside of them. As we got opposite to the Doctor's door we saw a man run up and tell him there was something the matter at Mr. White's down the street. We thinking that a child or somebody was sick paid no attention to it. When we were opposite the church, seeing a light and some 1 or 3 of our fellows on the fence, I ran across to see what was the matter, Miss M telling me to immediately return and tell her. One of the cadets saw me and jumped down and told me B. was stabbed. I knowing of the difficulty between B \u0026 C and thinking the students \u0026 cadets were going to fight and not dreaming that B was anything more than scratched and was still fighting over the fence or in fact scarcely knowing what I thought, ran back and told Lightfoot that some of our boys were in difficulty \u0026 to carry Miss M in Church and hurry out, she begging us to keep cool and not fight. I immediately ran across and jumped up on the fence and Oh God, can never forget what a sight. There was a classmate whom but a few hours before I was laughing and joking with in his dying struggle. I was perfectly paralyzed. He was stabbed in three places on his head and once under his ear, the latter cutting his jugular vein and killing him almost instantly. What my first feelings were I can scarcely describe. I felt as if I could see the author of that deed burned to a crisp. As soon as he had breathed his last I jumped from the fence. There were but five of us there at the time. On first promptings we with one accord cried for vengeance and were about to collect our Corps who now came pouring up and take the author of this dreadful, dreadful deed from the jail where they had lodged him. But thank God better feelings soon came and we who were first so excited endeavored to calm those who now came up panting and crying death to the cowardly villain. By and by those cadets were quieted by the exertions of many of the citizens of the peace and professors and when his remains were carried down they were persuaded to follow him a mournful, mournful crowd. I know we were wrong dearest Father to entertain ideas of vengeance against a man who must have suffered unutterable torments the whole of last night, but think of seeing his cold a bloody form, his proud spirit send to its last accounts by one who was not worthy to enter his noble mind and then you can look upon us with leniency. At first I was the only 1st classman there and Christian's knife and stick were brought to me by a Cadet who found them behind the church where the fight took place. I could scarcely hold the knife in my hand. It was a long wooden handle butcher knife and clodded with his blood and flesh. I immediately looked out a magistrate and put them in his hand. There was great dread lest the law student should get them and hide them. The lower part of barracks is now crowded with citizens. The inquest is being held over the body. Our class sat up with it last night. Immediately after we came down Col. Smith made a very touching address recommending us in the strongest terms to pursue an orderly course and let the law have its way. There is no doubt that the murderer will be hanged. He carried B down from the church telling him that he wished to see him. This was the last that was seen of them until C had finished his blows and ran away. B was totally unarmed. He went to the church with Miss Julia Junkins. Poor Miss Anderson is dreadfully distressed, he was her cousin. She heard of it in church and came out when she heard he was really dead. It was awful to see her. I hope I may never see such excitement again. In a little while the street was blocked to you could hardly walk. We will bury poor Blackburn tomorrow. All feelings of revenge have died away in everybody's heart and there will be no disturbance.","When we returned to Barracks some of his room mates expressed a desire the bell should be tolled. Bruce a fellow classman and myself went up and tolled it for half an hour. It sounded very solemn on the still midnight air and as I thought that the young man whose spirit had just winged its flight to its creator and whose sad requiem we were then performing, but a few hours before was sitting next to me in church and afterwards was in our room talking and joking and the last words I think he uttered to me he was endeavoring to plague me because a young lady whom he said I was in love with up town had sent some message or something to him. I could but say to myself how true is the text \"in the midst of life we are in death.\" Poor fellow he was one of my best friends and our society has suffered a sad, sad loss. It was a sad warning to us all and one I hope that will have great effect. Nothing at all is known about the fight. Something more will be brought to light after awhile I expect. Excuse dearest father this doleful letter but it was a relief to tell you all about it. I commenced to writing to you on Friday but thought I would let the report get home first and give you the good news of my stand. Succeeded at last, first in all my studies. Tis true I had to study like five hundred and when we came out for the last time I could hardly talk, went to bed and slept and slept. Goodbye dearest father, love to dear ma and all sisters \u0026 brothers. Your own dear son.\nExcuse bad spelling writing in haste,\nYr Dick","The letter describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of Richard C. Taylor's classmate Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student."],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1854"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1854 January 15"],"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"component_level_isim":[1],"sort_isi":1,"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"parent_access_restrict_tesm":["There are no restrictions."],"parent_access_terms_tesm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"persname_ssim":["Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"names_ssim":["Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"access_subjects_ssim":["Lexington (Va.)—History","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1854","Washington College (Lexington, Va.)–Students","Washington and Lee University—Students","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Lexington (Va.)—History","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1854","Washington College (Lexington, Va.)–Students","Washington and Lee University—Students","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English."],"date_range_isim":[1854],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["January 15, 1854","Dearest Father:\nThis was to be a letter of congratulations at my stand first on everything but tis a sad time here now. The body of one of our classmates lies bloody in a room below. He was murdered last night. The greatest excitement prevails and it is only by mildness and the prayers of the minister of the gospel last night that the lynch law was not executed. In order to give something for my feelings to dwell upon and quiet them I will write you a detailed account of the whole of this sad affair. At a party which I attended uptown a law student by the name of Christian, having been introduced to Miss Anderson, engaged her company for church. Her cousin in the Corps, our classmate Blackburn, having heard of it and not liking the character of the gentleman told her to write and decline his invitation. This was some weeks ago. This fellow Christian who has the name of a numskull, wrote her a very amusing note having Latin, French \u0026 etc. quotations in it, only part of which was at all serious where he desired to know who was the calumniator. This was shown to Blackburn in fun, nothing being thought of it.","Our dear classmate who never knew fear went up and told him he was the man answerable for everything. C. told him that I have heard the expression that \"he acted nobly in seeing after his cousin.\" He was very much frightened and seemed glad to get out of the scrape. Everybody thought all parties were satisfied. This was Saturday. This was all of the difficulty previous to last night. A classmate and myself went up last night for Miss May Kerr and Miss Julia Lewis to go to church. Miss J was not there. He walked down with Miss M and I alongside of them. As we got opposite to the Doctor's door we saw a man run up and tell him there was something the matter at Mr. White's down the street. We thinking that a child or somebody was sick paid no attention to it. When we were opposite the church, seeing a light and some 1 or 3 of our fellows on the fence, I ran across to see what was the matter, Miss M telling me to immediately return and tell her. One of the cadets saw me and jumped down and told me B. was stabbed. I knowing of the difficulty between B \u0026 C and thinking the students \u0026 cadets were going to fight and not dreaming that B was anything more than scratched and was still fighting over the fence or in fact scarcely knowing what I thought, ran back and told Lightfoot that some of our boys were in difficulty \u0026 to carry Miss M in Church and hurry out, she begging us to keep cool and not fight. I immediately ran across and jumped up on the fence and Oh God, can never forget what a sight. There was a classmate whom but a few hours before I was laughing and joking with in his dying struggle. I was perfectly paralyzed. He was stabbed in three places on his head and once under his ear, the latter cutting his jugular vein and killing him almost instantly. What my first feelings were I can scarcely describe. I felt as if I could see the author of that deed burned to a crisp. As soon as he had breathed his last I jumped from the fence. There were but five of us there at the time. On first promptings we with one accord cried for vengeance and were about to collect our Corps who now came pouring up and take the author of this dreadful, dreadful deed from the jail where they had lodged him. But thank God better feelings soon came and we who were first so excited endeavored to calm those who now came up panting and crying death to the cowardly villain. By and by those cadets were quieted by the exertions of many of the citizens of the peace and professors and when his remains were carried down they were persuaded to follow him a mournful, mournful crowd. I know we were wrong dearest Father to entertain ideas of vengeance against a man who must have suffered unutterable torments the whole of last night, but think of seeing his cold a bloody form, his proud spirit send to its last accounts by one who was not worthy to enter his noble mind and then you can look upon us with leniency. At first I was the only 1st classman there and Christian's knife and stick were brought to me by a Cadet who found them behind the church where the fight took place. I could scarcely hold the knife in my hand. It was a long wooden handle butcher knife and clodded with his blood and flesh. I immediately looked out a magistrate and put them in his hand. There was great dread lest the law student should get them and hide them. The lower part of barracks is now crowded with citizens. The inquest is being held over the body. Our class sat up with it last night. Immediately after we came down Col. Smith made a very touching address recommending us in the strongest terms to pursue an orderly course and let the law have its way. There is no doubt that the murderer will be hanged. He carried B down from the church telling him that he wished to see him. This was the last that was seen of them until C had finished his blows and ran away. B was totally unarmed. He went to the church with Miss Julia Junkins. Poor Miss Anderson is dreadfully distressed, he was her cousin. She heard of it in church and came out when she heard he was really dead. It was awful to see her. I hope I may never see such excitement again. In a little while the street was blocked to you could hardly walk. We will bury poor Blackburn tomorrow. All feelings of revenge have died away in everybody's heart and there will be no disturbance.","When we returned to Barracks some of his room mates expressed a desire the bell should be tolled. Bruce a fellow classman and myself went up and tolled it for half an hour. It sounded very solemn on the still midnight air and as I thought that the young man whose spirit had just winged its flight to its creator and whose sad requiem we were then performing, but a few hours before was sitting next to me in church and afterwards was in our room talking and joking and the last words I think he uttered to me he was endeavoring to plague me because a young lady whom he said I was in love with up town had sent some message or something to him. I could but say to myself how true is the text \"in the midst of life we are in death.\" Poor fellow he was one of my best friends and our society has suffered a sad, sad loss. It was a sad warning to us all and one I hope that will have great effect. Nothing at all is known about the fight. Something more will be brought to light after awhile I expect. Excuse dearest father this doleful letter but it was a relief to tell you all about it. I commenced to writing to you on Friday but thought I would let the report get home first and give you the good news of my stand. Succeeded at last, first in all my studies. Tis true I had to study like five hundred and when we came out for the last time I could hardly talk, went to bed and slept and slept. Goodbye dearest father, love to dear ma and all sisters \u0026 brothers. Your own dear son.\nExcuse bad spelling writing in haste,\nYr Dick"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe letter describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of Richard C. Taylor's classmate Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The letter describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of Richard C. Taylor's classmate Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student."],"_nest_path_":"/components#0","timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJanuary 15, 1854\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDearest Father:\u003cbr\u003e\nThis was to be a letter of congratulations at my stand first on everything but tis a sad time here now. The body of one of our classmates lies bloody in a room below. He was murdered last night. The greatest excitement prevails and it is only by mildness and the prayers of the minister of the gospel last night that the lynch law was not executed. In order to give something for my feelings to dwell upon and quiet them I will write you a detailed account of the whole of this sad affair. At a party which I attended uptown a law student by the name of Christian, having been introduced to Miss Anderson, engaged her company for church. Her cousin in the Corps, our classmate Blackburn, having heard of it and not liking the character of the gentleman told her to write and decline his invitation. This was some weeks ago. This fellow Christian who has the name of a numskull, wrote her a very amusing note having Latin, French \u0026amp; etc. quotations in it, only part of which was at all serious where he desired to know who was the calumniator. This was shown to Blackburn in fun, nothing being thought of it.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur dear classmate who never knew fear went up and told him he was the man answerable for everything. C. told him that I have heard the expression that \"he acted nobly in seeing after his cousin.\" He was very much frightened and seemed glad to get out of the scrape. Everybody thought all parties were satisfied. This was Saturday. This was all of the difficulty previous to last night. A classmate and myself went up last night for Miss May Kerr and Miss Julia Lewis to go to church. Miss J was not there. He walked down with Miss M and I alongside of them. As we got opposite to the Doctor's door we saw a man run up and tell him there was something the matter at Mr. White's down the street. We thinking that a child or somebody was sick paid no attention to it. When we were opposite the church, seeing a light and some 1 or 3 of our fellows on the fence, I ran across to see what was the matter, Miss M telling me to immediately return and tell her. One of the cadets saw me and jumped down and told me B. was stabbed. I knowing of the difficulty between B \u0026amp; C and thinking the students \u0026amp; cadets were going to fight and not dreaming that B was anything more than scratched and was still fighting over the fence or in fact scarcely knowing what I thought, ran back and told Lightfoot that some of our boys were in difficulty \u0026amp; to carry Miss M in Church and hurry out, she begging us to keep cool and not fight. I immediately ran across and jumped up on the fence and Oh God, can never forget what a sight. There was a classmate whom but a few hours before I was laughing and joking with in his dying struggle. I was perfectly paralyzed. He was stabbed in three places on his head and once under his ear, the latter cutting his jugular vein and killing him almost instantly. What my first feelings were I can scarcely describe. I felt as if I could see the author of that deed burned to a crisp. As soon as he had breathed his last I jumped from the fence. There were but five of us there at the time. On first promptings we with one accord cried for vengeance and were about to collect our Corps who now came pouring up and take the author of this dreadful, dreadful deed from the jail where they had lodged him. But thank God better feelings soon came and we who were first so excited endeavored to calm those who now came up panting and crying death to the cowardly villain. By and by those cadets were quieted by the exertions of many of the citizens of the peace and professors and when his remains were carried down they were persuaded to follow him a mournful, mournful crowd. I know we were wrong dearest Father to entertain ideas of vengeance against a man who must have suffered unutterable torments the whole of last night, but think of seeing his cold a bloody form, his proud spirit send to its last accounts by one who was not worthy to enter his noble mind and then you can look upon us with leniency. At first I was the only 1st classman there and Christian's knife and stick were brought to me by a Cadet who found them behind the church where the fight took place. I could scarcely hold the knife in my hand. It was a long wooden handle butcher knife and clodded with his blood and flesh. I immediately looked out a magistrate and put them in his hand. There was great dread lest the law student should get them and hide them. The lower part of barracks is now crowded with citizens. The inquest is being held over the body. Our class sat up with it last night. Immediately after we came down Col. Smith made a very touching address recommending us in the strongest terms to pursue an orderly course and let the law have its way. There is no doubt that the murderer will be hanged. He carried B down from the church telling him that he wished to see him. This was the last that was seen of them until C had finished his blows and ran away. B was totally unarmed. He went to the church with Miss Julia Junkins. Poor Miss Anderson is dreadfully distressed, he was her cousin. She heard of it in church and came out when she heard he was really dead. It was awful to see her. I hope I may never see such excitement again. In a little while the street was blocked to you could hardly walk. We will bury poor Blackburn tomorrow. All feelings of revenge have died away in everybody's heart and there will be no disturbance.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhen we returned to Barracks some of his room mates expressed a desire the bell should be tolled. Bruce a fellow classman and myself went up and tolled it for half an hour. It sounded very solemn on the still midnight air and as I thought that the young man whose spirit had just winged its flight to its creator and whose sad requiem we were then performing, but a few hours before was sitting next to me in church and afterwards was in our room talking and joking and the last words I think he uttered to me he was endeavoring to plague me because a young lady whom he said I was in love with up town had sent some message or something to him. I could but say to myself how true is the text \"in the midst of life we are in death.\" Poor fellow he was one of my best friends and our society has suffered a sad, sad loss. It was a sad warning to us all and one I hope that will have great effect. Nothing at all is known about the fight. Something more will be brought to light after awhile I expect. Excuse dearest father this doleful letter but it was a relief to tell you all about it. I commenced to writing to you on Friday but thought I would let the report get home first and give you the good news of my stand. Succeeded at last, first in all my studies. Tis true I had to study like five hundred and when we came out for the last time I could hardly talk, went to bed and slept and slept. Goodbye dearest father, love to dear ma and all sisters \u0026amp; brothers. Your own dear son.\u003cbr\u003e\nExcuse bad spelling writing in haste,\u003cbr\u003e\nYr Dick\u003c/p\u003e"],"collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_239.xml","title_ssm":["Richard C. Taylor letter"],"title_tesim":["Richard C. Taylor letter"],"unitdate_ssm":["1854 January 15"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1854 January 15"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1854"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854"],"text":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854","MS.0159","/repositories/3/resources/239","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Washington and Lee University—Students","Washington College (Lexington, Va.)–Students","Lexington (Va.)—History","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1854","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Richard Cornelius Taylor was born in 1835 in Norfolk, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1854. During the Civil War he was a Major, artillery, with the Confederate States of America. After the War he was a railroad official and teacher. Taylor died in 1917 in Norfolk.","January 15, 1854","Dearest Father:\nThis was to be a letter of congratulations at my stand first on everything but tis a sad time here now. The body of one of our classmates lies bloody in a room below. He was murdered last night. The greatest excitement prevails and it is only by mildness and the prayers of the minister of the gospel last night that the lynch law was not executed. In order to give something for my feelings to dwell upon and quiet them I will write you a detailed account of the whole of this sad affair. At a party which I attended uptown a law student by the name of Christian, having been introduced to Miss Anderson, engaged her company for church. Her cousin in the Corps, our classmate Blackburn, having heard of it and not liking the character of the gentleman told her to write and decline his invitation. This was some weeks ago. This fellow Christian who has the name of a numskull, wrote her a very amusing note having Latin, French \u0026 etc. quotations in it, only part of which was at all serious where he desired to know who was the calumniator. This was shown to Blackburn in fun, nothing being thought of it.","Our dear classmate who never knew fear went up and told him he was the man answerable for everything. C. told him that I have heard the expression that \"he acted nobly in seeing after his cousin.\" He was very much frightened and seemed glad to get out of the scrape. Everybody thought all parties were satisfied. This was Saturday. This was all of the difficulty previous to last night. A classmate and myself went up last night for Miss May Kerr and Miss Julia Lewis to go to church. Miss J was not there. He walked down with Miss M and I alongside of them. As we got opposite to the Doctor's door we saw a man run up and tell him there was something the matter at Mr. White's down the street. We thinking that a child or somebody was sick paid no attention to it. When we were opposite the church, seeing a light and some 1 or 3 of our fellows on the fence, I ran across to see what was the matter, Miss M telling me to immediately return and tell her. One of the cadets saw me and jumped down and told me B. was stabbed. I knowing of the difficulty between B \u0026 C and thinking the students \u0026 cadets were going to fight and not dreaming that B was anything more than scratched and was still fighting over the fence or in fact scarcely knowing what I thought, ran back and told Lightfoot that some of our boys were in difficulty \u0026 to carry Miss M in Church and hurry out, she begging us to keep cool and not fight. I immediately ran across and jumped up on the fence and Oh God, can never forget what a sight. There was a classmate whom but a few hours before I was laughing and joking with in his dying struggle. I was perfectly paralyzed. He was stabbed in three places on his head and once under his ear, the latter cutting his jugular vein and killing him almost instantly. What my first feelings were I can scarcely describe. I felt as if I could see the author of that deed burned to a crisp. As soon as he had breathed his last I jumped from the fence. There were but five of us there at the time. On first promptings we with one accord cried for vengeance and were about to collect our Corps who now came pouring up and take the author of this dreadful, dreadful deed from the jail where they had lodged him. But thank God better feelings soon came and we who were first so excited endeavored to calm those who now came up panting and crying death to the cowardly villain. By and by those cadets were quieted by the exertions of many of the citizens of the peace and professors and when his remains were carried down they were persuaded to follow him a mournful, mournful crowd. I know we were wrong dearest Father to entertain ideas of vengeance against a man who must have suffered unutterable torments the whole of last night, but think of seeing his cold a bloody form, his proud spirit send to its last accounts by one who was not worthy to enter his noble mind and then you can look upon us with leniency. At first I was the only 1st classman there and Christian's knife and stick were brought to me by a Cadet who found them behind the church where the fight took place. I could scarcely hold the knife in my hand. It was a long wooden handle butcher knife and clodded with his blood and flesh. I immediately looked out a magistrate and put them in his hand. There was great dread lest the law student should get them and hide them. The lower part of barracks is now crowded with citizens. The inquest is being held over the body. Our class sat up with it last night. Immediately after we came down Col. Smith made a very touching address recommending us in the strongest terms to pursue an orderly course and let the law have its way. There is no doubt that the murderer will be hanged. He carried B down from the church telling him that he wished to see him. This was the last that was seen of them until C had finished his blows and ran away. B was totally unarmed. He went to the church with Miss Julia Junkins. Poor Miss Anderson is dreadfully distressed, he was her cousin. She heard of it in church and came out when she heard he was really dead. It was awful to see her. I hope I may never see such excitement again. In a little while the street was blocked to you could hardly walk. We will bury poor Blackburn tomorrow. All feelings of revenge have died away in everybody's heart and there will be no disturbance.","When we returned to Barracks some of his room mates expressed a desire the bell should be tolled. Bruce a fellow classman and myself went up and tolled it for half an hour. It sounded very solemn on the still midnight air and as I thought that the young man whose spirit had just winged its flight to its creator and whose sad requiem we were then performing, but a few hours before was sitting next to me in church and afterwards was in our room talking and joking and the last words I think he uttered to me he was endeavoring to plague me because a young lady whom he said I was in love with up town had sent some message or something to him. I could but say to myself how true is the text \"in the midst of life we are in death.\" Poor fellow he was one of my best friends and our society has suffered a sad, sad loss. It was a sad warning to us all and one I hope that will have great effect. Nothing at all is known about the fight. Something more will be brought to light after awhile I expect. Excuse dearest father this doleful letter but it was a relief to tell you all about it. I commenced to writing to you on Friday but thought I would let the report get home first and give you the good news of my stand. Succeeded at last, first in all my studies. Tis true I had to study like five hundred and when we came out for the last time I could hardly talk, went to bed and slept and slept. Goodbye dearest father, love to dear ma and all sisters \u0026 brothers. Your own dear son.\nExcuse bad spelling writing in haste,\nYr Dick","The book titled \"Murder in Lexington: VMI, Honor and Justice in Antebellum Virginia\" (The History Press) by Daniel Morrow is an account of Thomas Blackburn's murder and subsequent events.","This collection consists of one letter (dated January 15, 1854) from Richard C. Taylor to his father, Walter H. Taylor. Taylor describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of his classmate Cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.","The letter describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of Richard C. Taylor's classmate Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Taylor, Richard C. (Richard Cornelius), 1835-1917","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854"],"collection_ssim":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0159","/repositories/3/resources/239"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0159","/repositories/3/resources/239"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Taylor, Richard C. (Richard Cornelius), 1835-1917"],"creator_ssim":["Taylor, Richard C. (Richard Cornelius), 1835-1917"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Taylor, Richard C. (Richard Cornelius), 1835-1917","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Taylor, Richard C. (Richard Cornelius), 1835-1917","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Washington and Lee University—Students","Washington College (Lexington, Va.)–Students","Lexington (Va.)—History","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1854","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Washington and Lee University—Students","Washington College (Lexington, Va.)–Students","Lexington (Va.)—History","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1854","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["1 items"],"extent_tesim":["1 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1854],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eRichard Cornelius Taylor was born in 1835 in Norfolk, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1854. During the Civil War he was a Major, artillery, with the Confederate States of America. After the War he was a railroad official and teacher. Taylor died in 1917 in Norfolk.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Richard Cornelius Taylor was born in 1835 in Norfolk, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1854. During the Civil War he was a Major, artillery, with the Confederate States of America. After the War he was a railroad official and teacher. Taylor died in 1917 in Norfolk."],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["January 15, 1854","Dearest Father:\nThis was to be a letter of congratulations at my stand first on everything but tis a sad time here now. The body of one of our classmates lies bloody in a room below. He was murdered last night. The greatest excitement prevails and it is only by mildness and the prayers of the minister of the gospel last night that the lynch law was not executed. In order to give something for my feelings to dwell upon and quiet them I will write you a detailed account of the whole of this sad affair. At a party which I attended uptown a law student by the name of Christian, having been introduced to Miss Anderson, engaged her company for church. Her cousin in the Corps, our classmate Blackburn, having heard of it and not liking the character of the gentleman told her to write and decline his invitation. This was some weeks ago. This fellow Christian who has the name of a numskull, wrote her a very amusing note having Latin, French \u0026 etc. quotations in it, only part of which was at all serious where he desired to know who was the calumniator. This was shown to Blackburn in fun, nothing being thought of it.","Our dear classmate who never knew fear went up and told him he was the man answerable for everything. C. told him that I have heard the expression that \"he acted nobly in seeing after his cousin.\" He was very much frightened and seemed glad to get out of the scrape. Everybody thought all parties were satisfied. This was Saturday. This was all of the difficulty previous to last night. A classmate and myself went up last night for Miss May Kerr and Miss Julia Lewis to go to church. Miss J was not there. He walked down with Miss M and I alongside of them. As we got opposite to the Doctor's door we saw a man run up and tell him there was something the matter at Mr. White's down the street. We thinking that a child or somebody was sick paid no attention to it. When we were opposite the church, seeing a light and some 1 or 3 of our fellows on the fence, I ran across to see what was the matter, Miss M telling me to immediately return and tell her. One of the cadets saw me and jumped down and told me B. was stabbed. I knowing of the difficulty between B \u0026 C and thinking the students \u0026 cadets were going to fight and not dreaming that B was anything more than scratched and was still fighting over the fence or in fact scarcely knowing what I thought, ran back and told Lightfoot that some of our boys were in difficulty \u0026 to carry Miss M in Church and hurry out, she begging us to keep cool and not fight. I immediately ran across and jumped up on the fence and Oh God, can never forget what a sight. There was a classmate whom but a few hours before I was laughing and joking with in his dying struggle. I was perfectly paralyzed. He was stabbed in three places on his head and once under his ear, the latter cutting his jugular vein and killing him almost instantly. What my first feelings were I can scarcely describe. I felt as if I could see the author of that deed burned to a crisp. As soon as he had breathed his last I jumped from the fence. There were but five of us there at the time. On first promptings we with one accord cried for vengeance and were about to collect our Corps who now came pouring up and take the author of this dreadful, dreadful deed from the jail where they had lodged him. But thank God better feelings soon came and we who were first so excited endeavored to calm those who now came up panting and crying death to the cowardly villain. By and by those cadets were quieted by the exertions of many of the citizens of the peace and professors and when his remains were carried down they were persuaded to follow him a mournful, mournful crowd. I know we were wrong dearest Father to entertain ideas of vengeance against a man who must have suffered unutterable torments the whole of last night, but think of seeing his cold a bloody form, his proud spirit send to its last accounts by one who was not worthy to enter his noble mind and then you can look upon us with leniency. At first I was the only 1st classman there and Christian's knife and stick were brought to me by a Cadet who found them behind the church where the fight took place. I could scarcely hold the knife in my hand. It was a long wooden handle butcher knife and clodded with his blood and flesh. I immediately looked out a magistrate and put them in his hand. There was great dread lest the law student should get them and hide them. The lower part of barracks is now crowded with citizens. The inquest is being held over the body. Our class sat up with it last night. Immediately after we came down Col. Smith made a very touching address recommending us in the strongest terms to pursue an orderly course and let the law have its way. There is no doubt that the murderer will be hanged. He carried B down from the church telling him that he wished to see him. This was the last that was seen of them until C had finished his blows and ran away. B was totally unarmed. He went to the church with Miss Julia Junkins. Poor Miss Anderson is dreadfully distressed, he was her cousin. She heard of it in church and came out when she heard he was really dead. It was awful to see her. I hope I may never see such excitement again. In a little while the street was blocked to you could hardly walk. We will bury poor Blackburn tomorrow. All feelings of revenge have died away in everybody's heart and there will be no disturbance.","When we returned to Barracks some of his room mates expressed a desire the bell should be tolled. Bruce a fellow classman and myself went up and tolled it for half an hour. It sounded very solemn on the still midnight air and as I thought that the young man whose spirit had just winged its flight to its creator and whose sad requiem we were then performing, but a few hours before was sitting next to me in church and afterwards was in our room talking and joking and the last words I think he uttered to me he was endeavoring to plague me because a young lady whom he said I was in love with up town had sent some message or something to him. I could but say to myself how true is the text \"in the midst of life we are in death.\" Poor fellow he was one of my best friends and our society has suffered a sad, sad loss. It was a sad warning to us all and one I hope that will have great effect. Nothing at all is known about the fight. Something more will be brought to light after awhile I expect. Excuse dearest father this doleful letter but it was a relief to tell you all about it. I commenced to writing to you on Friday but thought I would let the report get home first and give you the good news of my stand. Succeeded at last, first in all my studies. Tis true I had to study like five hundred and when we came out for the last time I could hardly talk, went to bed and slept and slept. Goodbye dearest father, love to dear ma and all sisters \u0026 brothers. Your own dear son.\nExcuse bad spelling writing in haste,\nYr Dick"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eRichard C. Taylor letter, 1854 January 15. MS 0159. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854 January 15. MS 0159. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"relatedmaterial_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe book titled \"Murder in Lexington: VMI, Honor and Justice in Antebellum Virginia\" (The History Press) by Daniel Morrow is an account of Thomas Blackburn's murder and subsequent events.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"relatedmaterial_heading_ssm":["Related Materials"],"relatedmaterial_tesim":["The book titled \"Murder in Lexington: VMI, Honor and Justice in Antebellum Virginia\" (The History Press) by Daniel Morrow is an account of Thomas Blackburn's murder and subsequent events."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (dated January 15, 1854) from Richard C. Taylor to his father, Walter H. Taylor. Taylor describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of his classmate Cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eThe letter describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of Richard C. Taylor's classmate Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of one letter (dated January 15, 1854) from Richard C. Taylor to his father, Walter H. Taylor. Taylor describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of his classmate Cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.","The letter describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of Richard C. Taylor's classmate Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_cb0eda99fbffba5eef1439f8eedb5bb6\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Taylor, Richard C. (Richard Cornelius), 1835-1917","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"names_coll_ssim":["Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Taylor, Richard C. (Richard Cornelius), 1835-1917","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":1,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJanuary 15, 1854\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDearest Father:\u003cbr\u003e\nThis was to be a letter of congratulations at my stand first on everything but tis a sad time here now. The body of one of our classmates lies bloody in a room below. He was murdered last night. The greatest excitement prevails and it is only by mildness and the prayers of the minister of the gospel last night that the lynch law was not executed. In order to give something for my feelings to dwell upon and quiet them I will write you a detailed account of the whole of this sad affair. At a party which I attended uptown a law student by the name of Christian, having been introduced to Miss Anderson, engaged her company for church. Her cousin in the Corps, our classmate Blackburn, having heard of it and not liking the character of the gentleman told her to write and decline his invitation. This was some weeks ago. This fellow Christian who has the name of a numskull, wrote her a very amusing note having Latin, French \u0026amp; etc. quotations in it, only part of which was at all serious where he desired to know who was the calumniator. This was shown to Blackburn in fun, nothing being thought of it.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur dear classmate who never knew fear went up and told him he was the man answerable for everything. C. told him that I have heard the expression that \"he acted nobly in seeing after his cousin.\" He was very much frightened and seemed glad to get out of the scrape. Everybody thought all parties were satisfied. This was Saturday. This was all of the difficulty previous to last night. A classmate and myself went up last night for Miss May Kerr and Miss Julia Lewis to go to church. Miss J was not there. He walked down with Miss M and I alongside of them. As we got opposite to the Doctor's door we saw a man run up and tell him there was something the matter at Mr. White's down the street. We thinking that a child or somebody was sick paid no attention to it. When we were opposite the church, seeing a light and some 1 or 3 of our fellows on the fence, I ran across to see what was the matter, Miss M telling me to immediately return and tell her. One of the cadets saw me and jumped down and told me B. was stabbed. I knowing of the difficulty between B \u0026amp; C and thinking the students \u0026amp; cadets were going to fight and not dreaming that B was anything more than scratched and was still fighting over the fence or in fact scarcely knowing what I thought, ran back and told Lightfoot that some of our boys were in difficulty \u0026amp; to carry Miss M in Church and hurry out, she begging us to keep cool and not fight. I immediately ran across and jumped up on the fence and Oh God, can never forget what a sight. There was a classmate whom but a few hours before I was laughing and joking with in his dying struggle. I was perfectly paralyzed. He was stabbed in three places on his head and once under his ear, the latter cutting his jugular vein and killing him almost instantly. What my first feelings were I can scarcely describe. I felt as if I could see the author of that deed burned to a crisp. As soon as he had breathed his last I jumped from the fence. There were but five of us there at the time. On first promptings we with one accord cried for vengeance and were about to collect our Corps who now came pouring up and take the author of this dreadful, dreadful deed from the jail where they had lodged him. But thank God better feelings soon came and we who were first so excited endeavored to calm those who now came up panting and crying death to the cowardly villain. By and by those cadets were quieted by the exertions of many of the citizens of the peace and professors and when his remains were carried down they were persuaded to follow him a mournful, mournful crowd. I know we were wrong dearest Father to entertain ideas of vengeance against a man who must have suffered unutterable torments the whole of last night, but think of seeing his cold a bloody form, his proud spirit send to its last accounts by one who was not worthy to enter his noble mind and then you can look upon us with leniency. At first I was the only 1st classman there and Christian's knife and stick were brought to me by a Cadet who found them behind the church where the fight took place. I could scarcely hold the knife in my hand. It was a long wooden handle butcher knife and clodded with his blood and flesh. I immediately looked out a magistrate and put them in his hand. There was great dread lest the law student should get them and hide them. The lower part of barracks is now crowded with citizens. The inquest is being held over the body. Our class sat up with it last night. Immediately after we came down Col. Smith made a very touching address recommending us in the strongest terms to pursue an orderly course and let the law have its way. There is no doubt that the murderer will be hanged. He carried B down from the church telling him that he wished to see him. This was the last that was seen of them until C had finished his blows and ran away. B was totally unarmed. He went to the church with Miss Julia Junkins. Poor Miss Anderson is dreadfully distressed, he was her cousin. She heard of it in church and came out when she heard he was really dead. It was awful to see her. I hope I may never see such excitement again. In a little while the street was blocked to you could hardly walk. We will bury poor Blackburn tomorrow. All feelings of revenge have died away in everybody's heart and there will be no disturbance.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhen we returned to Barracks some of his room mates expressed a desire the bell should be tolled. Bruce a fellow classman and myself went up and tolled it for half an hour. It sounded very solemn on the still midnight air and as I thought that the young man whose spirit had just winged its flight to its creator and whose sad requiem we were then performing, but a few hours before was sitting next to me in church and afterwards was in our room talking and joking and the last words I think he uttered to me he was endeavoring to plague me because a young lady whom he said I was in love with up town had sent some message or something to him. I could but say to myself how true is the text \"in the midst of life we are in death.\" Poor fellow he was one of my best friends and our society has suffered a sad, sad loss. It was a sad warning to us all and one I hope that will have great effect. Nothing at all is known about the fight. Something more will be brought to light after awhile I expect. Excuse dearest father this doleful letter but it was a relief to tell you all about it. I commenced to writing to you on Friday but thought I would let the report get home first and give you the good news of my stand. Succeeded at last, first in all my studies. Tis true I had to study like five hundred and when we came out for the last time I could hardly talk, went to bed and slept and slept. Goodbye dearest father, love to dear ma and all sisters \u0026amp; brothers. Your own dear son.\u003cbr\u003e\nExcuse bad spelling writing in haste,\u003cbr\u003e\nYr Dick\u003c/p\u003e"]}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239_c01"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Taylor, Richard C. (Richard Cornelius), 1835-1917","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (dated January 15, 1854) from Richard C. Taylor to his father, Walter H. Taylor. Taylor describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of his classmate Cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_239.xml","title_ssm":["Richard C. Taylor letter"],"title_tesim":["Richard C. Taylor letter"],"unitdate_ssm":["1854 January 15"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1854 January 15"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1854"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854"],"text":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854","MS.0159","/repositories/3/resources/239","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Washington and Lee University—Students","Washington College (Lexington, Va.)–Students","Lexington (Va.)—History","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1854","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Richard Cornelius Taylor was born in 1835 in Norfolk, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1854. During the Civil War he was a Major, artillery, with the Confederate States of America. After the War he was a railroad official and teacher. Taylor died in 1917 in Norfolk.","January 15, 1854","Dearest Father:\nThis was to be a letter of congratulations at my stand first on everything but tis a sad time here now. The body of one of our classmates lies bloody in a room below. He was murdered last night. The greatest excitement prevails and it is only by mildness and the prayers of the minister of the gospel last night that the lynch law was not executed. In order to give something for my feelings to dwell upon and quiet them I will write you a detailed account of the whole of this sad affair. At a party which I attended uptown a law student by the name of Christian, having been introduced to Miss Anderson, engaged her company for church. Her cousin in the Corps, our classmate Blackburn, having heard of it and not liking the character of the gentleman told her to write and decline his invitation. This was some weeks ago. This fellow Christian who has the name of a numskull, wrote her a very amusing note having Latin, French \u0026 etc. quotations in it, only part of which was at all serious where he desired to know who was the calumniator. This was shown to Blackburn in fun, nothing being thought of it.","Our dear classmate who never knew fear went up and told him he was the man answerable for everything. C. told him that I have heard the expression that \"he acted nobly in seeing after his cousin.\" He was very much frightened and seemed glad to get out of the scrape. Everybody thought all parties were satisfied. This was Saturday. This was all of the difficulty previous to last night. A classmate and myself went up last night for Miss May Kerr and Miss Julia Lewis to go to church. Miss J was not there. He walked down with Miss M and I alongside of them. As we got opposite to the Doctor's door we saw a man run up and tell him there was something the matter at Mr. White's down the street. We thinking that a child or somebody was sick paid no attention to it. When we were opposite the church, seeing a light and some 1 or 3 of our fellows on the fence, I ran across to see what was the matter, Miss M telling me to immediately return and tell her. One of the cadets saw me and jumped down and told me B. was stabbed. I knowing of the difficulty between B \u0026 C and thinking the students \u0026 cadets were going to fight and not dreaming that B was anything more than scratched and was still fighting over the fence or in fact scarcely knowing what I thought, ran back and told Lightfoot that some of our boys were in difficulty \u0026 to carry Miss M in Church and hurry out, she begging us to keep cool and not fight. I immediately ran across and jumped up on the fence and Oh God, can never forget what a sight. There was a classmate whom but a few hours before I was laughing and joking with in his dying struggle. I was perfectly paralyzed. He was stabbed in three places on his head and once under his ear, the latter cutting his jugular vein and killing him almost instantly. What my first feelings were I can scarcely describe. I felt as if I could see the author of that deed burned to a crisp. As soon as he had breathed his last I jumped from the fence. There were but five of us there at the time. On first promptings we with one accord cried for vengeance and were about to collect our Corps who now came pouring up and take the author of this dreadful, dreadful deed from the jail where they had lodged him. But thank God better feelings soon came and we who were first so excited endeavored to calm those who now came up panting and crying death to the cowardly villain. By and by those cadets were quieted by the exertions of many of the citizens of the peace and professors and when his remains were carried down they were persuaded to follow him a mournful, mournful crowd. I know we were wrong dearest Father to entertain ideas of vengeance against a man who must have suffered unutterable torments the whole of last night, but think of seeing his cold a bloody form, his proud spirit send to its last accounts by one who was not worthy to enter his noble mind and then you can look upon us with leniency. At first I was the only 1st classman there and Christian's knife and stick were brought to me by a Cadet who found them behind the church where the fight took place. I could scarcely hold the knife in my hand. It was a long wooden handle butcher knife and clodded with his blood and flesh. I immediately looked out a magistrate and put them in his hand. There was great dread lest the law student should get them and hide them. The lower part of barracks is now crowded with citizens. The inquest is being held over the body. Our class sat up with it last night. Immediately after we came down Col. Smith made a very touching address recommending us in the strongest terms to pursue an orderly course and let the law have its way. There is no doubt that the murderer will be hanged. He carried B down from the church telling him that he wished to see him. This was the last that was seen of them until C had finished his blows and ran away. B was totally unarmed. He went to the church with Miss Julia Junkins. Poor Miss Anderson is dreadfully distressed, he was her cousin. She heard of it in church and came out when she heard he was really dead. It was awful to see her. I hope I may never see such excitement again. In a little while the street was blocked to you could hardly walk. We will bury poor Blackburn tomorrow. All feelings of revenge have died away in everybody's heart and there will be no disturbance.","When we returned to Barracks some of his room mates expressed a desire the bell should be tolled. Bruce a fellow classman and myself went up and tolled it for half an hour. It sounded very solemn on the still midnight air and as I thought that the young man whose spirit had just winged its flight to its creator and whose sad requiem we were then performing, but a few hours before was sitting next to me in church and afterwards was in our room talking and joking and the last words I think he uttered to me he was endeavoring to plague me because a young lady whom he said I was in love with up town had sent some message or something to him. I could but say to myself how true is the text \"in the midst of life we are in death.\" Poor fellow he was one of my best friends and our society has suffered a sad, sad loss. It was a sad warning to us all and one I hope that will have great effect. Nothing at all is known about the fight. Something more will be brought to light after awhile I expect. Excuse dearest father this doleful letter but it was a relief to tell you all about it. I commenced to writing to you on Friday but thought I would let the report get home first and give you the good news of my stand. Succeeded at last, first in all my studies. Tis true I had to study like five hundred and when we came out for the last time I could hardly talk, went to bed and slept and slept. Goodbye dearest father, love to dear ma and all sisters \u0026 brothers. Your own dear son.\nExcuse bad spelling writing in haste,\nYr Dick","The book titled \"Murder in Lexington: VMI, Honor and Justice in Antebellum Virginia\" (The History Press) by Daniel Morrow is an account of Thomas Blackburn's murder and subsequent events.","This collection consists of one letter (dated January 15, 1854) from Richard C. Taylor to his father, Walter H. Taylor. Taylor describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of his classmate Cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.","The letter describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of Richard C. Taylor's classmate Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Taylor, Richard C. (Richard Cornelius), 1835-1917","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854"],"collection_ssim":["Richard C. 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Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Washington and Lee University—Students","Washington College (Lexington, Va.)–Students","Lexington (Va.)—History","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1854","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Washington and Lee University—Students","Washington College (Lexington, Va.)–Students","Lexington (Va.)—History","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1854","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["1 items"],"extent_tesim":["1 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1854],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eRichard Cornelius Taylor was born in 1835 in Norfolk, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1854. During the Civil War he was a Major, artillery, with the Confederate States of America. After the War he was a railroad official and teacher. Taylor died in 1917 in Norfolk.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Richard Cornelius Taylor was born in 1835 in Norfolk, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1854. During the Civil War he was a Major, artillery, with the Confederate States of America. After the War he was a railroad official and teacher. Taylor died in 1917 in Norfolk."],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["January 15, 1854","Dearest Father:\nThis was to be a letter of congratulations at my stand first on everything but tis a sad time here now. The body of one of our classmates lies bloody in a room below. He was murdered last night. The greatest excitement prevails and it is only by mildness and the prayers of the minister of the gospel last night that the lynch law was not executed. In order to give something for my feelings to dwell upon and quiet them I will write you a detailed account of the whole of this sad affair. At a party which I attended uptown a law student by the name of Christian, having been introduced to Miss Anderson, engaged her company for church. Her cousin in the Corps, our classmate Blackburn, having heard of it and not liking the character of the gentleman told her to write and decline his invitation. This was some weeks ago. This fellow Christian who has the name of a numskull, wrote her a very amusing note having Latin, French \u0026 etc. quotations in it, only part of which was at all serious where he desired to know who was the calumniator. This was shown to Blackburn in fun, nothing being thought of it.","Our dear classmate who never knew fear went up and told him he was the man answerable for everything. C. told him that I have heard the expression that \"he acted nobly in seeing after his cousin.\" He was very much frightened and seemed glad to get out of the scrape. Everybody thought all parties were satisfied. This was Saturday. This was all of the difficulty previous to last night. A classmate and myself went up last night for Miss May Kerr and Miss Julia Lewis to go to church. Miss J was not there. He walked down with Miss M and I alongside of them. As we got opposite to the Doctor's door we saw a man run up and tell him there was something the matter at Mr. White's down the street. We thinking that a child or somebody was sick paid no attention to it. When we were opposite the church, seeing a light and some 1 or 3 of our fellows on the fence, I ran across to see what was the matter, Miss M telling me to immediately return and tell her. One of the cadets saw me and jumped down and told me B. was stabbed. I knowing of the difficulty between B \u0026 C and thinking the students \u0026 cadets were going to fight and not dreaming that B was anything more than scratched and was still fighting over the fence or in fact scarcely knowing what I thought, ran back and told Lightfoot that some of our boys were in difficulty \u0026 to carry Miss M in Church and hurry out, she begging us to keep cool and not fight. I immediately ran across and jumped up on the fence and Oh God, can never forget what a sight. There was a classmate whom but a few hours before I was laughing and joking with in his dying struggle. I was perfectly paralyzed. He was stabbed in three places on his head and once under his ear, the latter cutting his jugular vein and killing him almost instantly. What my first feelings were I can scarcely describe. I felt as if I could see the author of that deed burned to a crisp. As soon as he had breathed his last I jumped from the fence. There were but five of us there at the time. On first promptings we with one accord cried for vengeance and were about to collect our Corps who now came pouring up and take the author of this dreadful, dreadful deed from the jail where they had lodged him. But thank God better feelings soon came and we who were first so excited endeavored to calm those who now came up panting and crying death to the cowardly villain. By and by those cadets were quieted by the exertions of many of the citizens of the peace and professors and when his remains were carried down they were persuaded to follow him a mournful, mournful crowd. I know we were wrong dearest Father to entertain ideas of vengeance against a man who must have suffered unutterable torments the whole of last night, but think of seeing his cold a bloody form, his proud spirit send to its last accounts by one who was not worthy to enter his noble mind and then you can look upon us with leniency. At first I was the only 1st classman there and Christian's knife and stick were brought to me by a Cadet who found them behind the church where the fight took place. I could scarcely hold the knife in my hand. It was a long wooden handle butcher knife and clodded with his blood and flesh. I immediately looked out a magistrate and put them in his hand. There was great dread lest the law student should get them and hide them. The lower part of barracks is now crowded with citizens. The inquest is being held over the body. Our class sat up with it last night. Immediately after we came down Col. Smith made a very touching address recommending us in the strongest terms to pursue an orderly course and let the law have its way. There is no doubt that the murderer will be hanged. He carried B down from the church telling him that he wished to see him. This was the last that was seen of them until C had finished his blows and ran away. B was totally unarmed. He went to the church with Miss Julia Junkins. Poor Miss Anderson is dreadfully distressed, he was her cousin. She heard of it in church and came out when she heard he was really dead. It was awful to see her. I hope I may never see such excitement again. In a little while the street was blocked to you could hardly walk. We will bury poor Blackburn tomorrow. All feelings of revenge have died away in everybody's heart and there will be no disturbance.","When we returned to Barracks some of his room mates expressed a desire the bell should be tolled. Bruce a fellow classman and myself went up and tolled it for half an hour. It sounded very solemn on the still midnight air and as I thought that the young man whose spirit had just winged its flight to its creator and whose sad requiem we were then performing, but a few hours before was sitting next to me in church and afterwards was in our room talking and joking and the last words I think he uttered to me he was endeavoring to plague me because a young lady whom he said I was in love with up town had sent some message or something to him. I could but say to myself how true is the text \"in the midst of life we are in death.\" Poor fellow he was one of my best friends and our society has suffered a sad, sad loss. It was a sad warning to us all and one I hope that will have great effect. Nothing at all is known about the fight. Something more will be brought to light after awhile I expect. Excuse dearest father this doleful letter but it was a relief to tell you all about it. I commenced to writing to you on Friday but thought I would let the report get home first and give you the good news of my stand. Succeeded at last, first in all my studies. Tis true I had to study like five hundred and when we came out for the last time I could hardly talk, went to bed and slept and slept. Goodbye dearest father, love to dear ma and all sisters \u0026 brothers. Your own dear son.\nExcuse bad spelling writing in haste,\nYr Dick"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eRichard C. Taylor letter, 1854 January 15. MS 0159. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854 January 15. MS 0159. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"relatedmaterial_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe book titled \"Murder in Lexington: VMI, Honor and Justice in Antebellum Virginia\" (The History Press) by Daniel Morrow is an account of Thomas Blackburn's murder and subsequent events.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"relatedmaterial_heading_ssm":["Related Materials"],"relatedmaterial_tesim":["The book titled \"Murder in Lexington: VMI, Honor and Justice in Antebellum Virginia\" (The History Press) by Daniel Morrow is an account of Thomas Blackburn's murder and subsequent events."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (dated January 15, 1854) from Richard C. Taylor to his father, Walter H. Taylor. Taylor describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of his classmate Cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eThe letter describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of Richard C. Taylor's classmate Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of one letter (dated January 15, 1854) from Richard C. Taylor to his father, Walter H. Taylor. Taylor describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of his classmate Cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.","The letter describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of Richard C. Taylor's classmate Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_cb0eda99fbffba5eef1439f8eedb5bb6\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Taylor, Richard C. (Richard Cornelius), 1835-1917","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"names_coll_ssim":["Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Taylor, Richard C. (Richard Cornelius), 1835-1917","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":1,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJanuary 15, 1854\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDearest Father:\u003cbr\u003e\nThis was to be a letter of congratulations at my stand first on everything but tis a sad time here now. The body of one of our classmates lies bloody in a room below. He was murdered last night. The greatest excitement prevails and it is only by mildness and the prayers of the minister of the gospel last night that the lynch law was not executed. In order to give something for my feelings to dwell upon and quiet them I will write you a detailed account of the whole of this sad affair. At a party which I attended uptown a law student by the name of Christian, having been introduced to Miss Anderson, engaged her company for church. Her cousin in the Corps, our classmate Blackburn, having heard of it and not liking the character of the gentleman told her to write and decline his invitation. This was some weeks ago. This fellow Christian who has the name of a numskull, wrote her a very amusing note having Latin, French \u0026amp; etc. quotations in it, only part of which was at all serious where he desired to know who was the calumniator. This was shown to Blackburn in fun, nothing being thought of it.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur dear classmate who never knew fear went up and told him he was the man answerable for everything. C. told him that I have heard the expression that \"he acted nobly in seeing after his cousin.\" He was very much frightened and seemed glad to get out of the scrape. Everybody thought all parties were satisfied. This was Saturday. This was all of the difficulty previous to last night. A classmate and myself went up last night for Miss May Kerr and Miss Julia Lewis to go to church. Miss J was not there. He walked down with Miss M and I alongside of them. As we got opposite to the Doctor's door we saw a man run up and tell him there was something the matter at Mr. White's down the street. We thinking that a child or somebody was sick paid no attention to it. When we were opposite the church, seeing a light and some 1 or 3 of our fellows on the fence, I ran across to see what was the matter, Miss M telling me to immediately return and tell her. One of the cadets saw me and jumped down and told me B. was stabbed. I knowing of the difficulty between B \u0026amp; C and thinking the students \u0026amp; cadets were going to fight and not dreaming that B was anything more than scratched and was still fighting over the fence or in fact scarcely knowing what I thought, ran back and told Lightfoot that some of our boys were in difficulty \u0026amp; to carry Miss M in Church and hurry out, she begging us to keep cool and not fight. I immediately ran across and jumped up on the fence and Oh God, can never forget what a sight. There was a classmate whom but a few hours before I was laughing and joking with in his dying struggle. I was perfectly paralyzed. He was stabbed in three places on his head and once under his ear, the latter cutting his jugular vein and killing him almost instantly. What my first feelings were I can scarcely describe. I felt as if I could see the author of that deed burned to a crisp. As soon as he had breathed his last I jumped from the fence. There were but five of us there at the time. On first promptings we with one accord cried for vengeance and were about to collect our Corps who now came pouring up and take the author of this dreadful, dreadful deed from the jail where they had lodged him. But thank God better feelings soon came and we who were first so excited endeavored to calm those who now came up panting and crying death to the cowardly villain. By and by those cadets were quieted by the exertions of many of the citizens of the peace and professors and when his remains were carried down they were persuaded to follow him a mournful, mournful crowd. I know we were wrong dearest Father to entertain ideas of vengeance against a man who must have suffered unutterable torments the whole of last night, but think of seeing his cold a bloody form, his proud spirit send to its last accounts by one who was not worthy to enter his noble mind and then you can look upon us with leniency. At first I was the only 1st classman there and Christian's knife and stick were brought to me by a Cadet who found them behind the church where the fight took place. I could scarcely hold the knife in my hand. It was a long wooden handle butcher knife and clodded with his blood and flesh. I immediately looked out a magistrate and put them in his hand. There was great dread lest the law student should get them and hide them. The lower part of barracks is now crowded with citizens. The inquest is being held over the body. Our class sat up with it last night. Immediately after we came down Col. Smith made a very touching address recommending us in the strongest terms to pursue an orderly course and let the law have its way. There is no doubt that the murderer will be hanged. He carried B down from the church telling him that he wished to see him. This was the last that was seen of them until C had finished his blows and ran away. B was totally unarmed. He went to the church with Miss Julia Junkins. Poor Miss Anderson is dreadfully distressed, he was her cousin. She heard of it in church and came out when she heard he was really dead. It was awful to see her. I hope I may never see such excitement again. In a little while the street was blocked to you could hardly walk. We will bury poor Blackburn tomorrow. All feelings of revenge have died away in everybody's heart and there will be no disturbance.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhen we returned to Barracks some of his room mates expressed a desire the bell should be tolled. Bruce a fellow classman and myself went up and tolled it for half an hour. It sounded very solemn on the still midnight air and as I thought that the young man whose spirit had just winged its flight to its creator and whose sad requiem we were then performing, but a few hours before was sitting next to me in church and afterwards was in our room talking and joking and the last words I think he uttered to me he was endeavoring to plague me because a young lady whom he said I was in love with up town had sent some message or something to him. I could but say to myself how true is the text \"in the midst of life we are in death.\" Poor fellow he was one of my best friends and our society has suffered a sad, sad loss. It was a sad warning to us all and one I hope that will have great effect. Nothing at all is known about the fight. Something more will be brought to light after awhile I expect. Excuse dearest father this doleful letter but it was a relief to tell you all about it. I commenced to writing to you on Friday but thought I would let the report get home first and give you the good news of my stand. Succeeded at last, first in all my studies. Tis true I had to study like five hundred and when we came out for the last time I could hardly talk, went to bed and slept and slept. Goodbye dearest father, love to dear ma and all sisters \u0026amp; brothers. Your own dear son.\u003cbr\u003e\nExcuse bad spelling writing in haste,\u003cbr\u003e\nYr Dick\u003c/p\u003e"],"collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_239.xml","title_ssm":["Richard C. Taylor letter"],"title_tesim":["Richard C. Taylor letter"],"unitdate_ssm":["1854 January 15"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1854 January 15"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1854"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854"],"text":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854","MS.0159","/repositories/3/resources/239","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Washington and Lee University—Students","Washington College (Lexington, Va.)–Students","Lexington (Va.)—History","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1854","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Richard Cornelius Taylor was born in 1835 in Norfolk, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1854. During the Civil War he was a Major, artillery, with the Confederate States of America. After the War he was a railroad official and teacher. Taylor died in 1917 in Norfolk.","January 15, 1854","Dearest Father:\nThis was to be a letter of congratulations at my stand first on everything but tis a sad time here now. The body of one of our classmates lies bloody in a room below. He was murdered last night. The greatest excitement prevails and it is only by mildness and the prayers of the minister of the gospel last night that the lynch law was not executed. In order to give something for my feelings to dwell upon and quiet them I will write you a detailed account of the whole of this sad affair. At a party which I attended uptown a law student by the name of Christian, having been introduced to Miss Anderson, engaged her company for church. Her cousin in the Corps, our classmate Blackburn, having heard of it and not liking the character of the gentleman told her to write and decline his invitation. This was some weeks ago. This fellow Christian who has the name of a numskull, wrote her a very amusing note having Latin, French \u0026 etc. quotations in it, only part of which was at all serious where he desired to know who was the calumniator. This was shown to Blackburn in fun, nothing being thought of it.","Our dear classmate who never knew fear went up and told him he was the man answerable for everything. C. told him that I have heard the expression that \"he acted nobly in seeing after his cousin.\" He was very much frightened and seemed glad to get out of the scrape. Everybody thought all parties were satisfied. This was Saturday. This was all of the difficulty previous to last night. A classmate and myself went up last night for Miss May Kerr and Miss Julia Lewis to go to church. Miss J was not there. He walked down with Miss M and I alongside of them. As we got opposite to the Doctor's door we saw a man run up and tell him there was something the matter at Mr. White's down the street. We thinking that a child or somebody was sick paid no attention to it. When we were opposite the church, seeing a light and some 1 or 3 of our fellows on the fence, I ran across to see what was the matter, Miss M telling me to immediately return and tell her. One of the cadets saw me and jumped down and told me B. was stabbed. I knowing of the difficulty between B \u0026 C and thinking the students \u0026 cadets were going to fight and not dreaming that B was anything more than scratched and was still fighting over the fence or in fact scarcely knowing what I thought, ran back and told Lightfoot that some of our boys were in difficulty \u0026 to carry Miss M in Church and hurry out, she begging us to keep cool and not fight. I immediately ran across and jumped up on the fence and Oh God, can never forget what a sight. There was a classmate whom but a few hours before I was laughing and joking with in his dying struggle. I was perfectly paralyzed. He was stabbed in three places on his head and once under his ear, the latter cutting his jugular vein and killing him almost instantly. What my first feelings were I can scarcely describe. I felt as if I could see the author of that deed burned to a crisp. As soon as he had breathed his last I jumped from the fence. There were but five of us there at the time. On first promptings we with one accord cried for vengeance and were about to collect our Corps who now came pouring up and take the author of this dreadful, dreadful deed from the jail where they had lodged him. But thank God better feelings soon came and we who were first so excited endeavored to calm those who now came up panting and crying death to the cowardly villain. By and by those cadets were quieted by the exertions of many of the citizens of the peace and professors and when his remains were carried down they were persuaded to follow him a mournful, mournful crowd. I know we were wrong dearest Father to entertain ideas of vengeance against a man who must have suffered unutterable torments the whole of last night, but think of seeing his cold a bloody form, his proud spirit send to its last accounts by one who was not worthy to enter his noble mind and then you can look upon us with leniency. At first I was the only 1st classman there and Christian's knife and stick were brought to me by a Cadet who found them behind the church where the fight took place. I could scarcely hold the knife in my hand. It was a long wooden handle butcher knife and clodded with his blood and flesh. I immediately looked out a magistrate and put them in his hand. There was great dread lest the law student should get them and hide them. The lower part of barracks is now crowded with citizens. The inquest is being held over the body. Our class sat up with it last night. Immediately after we came down Col. Smith made a very touching address recommending us in the strongest terms to pursue an orderly course and let the law have its way. There is no doubt that the murderer will be hanged. He carried B down from the church telling him that he wished to see him. This was the last that was seen of them until C had finished his blows and ran away. B was totally unarmed. He went to the church with Miss Julia Junkins. Poor Miss Anderson is dreadfully distressed, he was her cousin. She heard of it in church and came out when she heard he was really dead. It was awful to see her. I hope I may never see such excitement again. In a little while the street was blocked to you could hardly walk. We will bury poor Blackburn tomorrow. All feelings of revenge have died away in everybody's heart and there will be no disturbance.","When we returned to Barracks some of his room mates expressed a desire the bell should be tolled. Bruce a fellow classman and myself went up and tolled it for half an hour. It sounded very solemn on the still midnight air and as I thought that the young man whose spirit had just winged its flight to its creator and whose sad requiem we were then performing, but a few hours before was sitting next to me in church and afterwards was in our room talking and joking and the last words I think he uttered to me he was endeavoring to plague me because a young lady whom he said I was in love with up town had sent some message or something to him. I could but say to myself how true is the text \"in the midst of life we are in death.\" Poor fellow he was one of my best friends and our society has suffered a sad, sad loss. It was a sad warning to us all and one I hope that will have great effect. Nothing at all is known about the fight. Something more will be brought to light after awhile I expect. Excuse dearest father this doleful letter but it was a relief to tell you all about it. I commenced to writing to you on Friday but thought I would let the report get home first and give you the good news of my stand. Succeeded at last, first in all my studies. Tis true I had to study like five hundred and when we came out for the last time I could hardly talk, went to bed and slept and slept. Goodbye dearest father, love to dear ma and all sisters \u0026 brothers. Your own dear son.\nExcuse bad spelling writing in haste,\nYr Dick","The book titled \"Murder in Lexington: VMI, Honor and Justice in Antebellum Virginia\" (The History Press) by Daniel Morrow is an account of Thomas Blackburn's murder and subsequent events.","This collection consists of one letter (dated January 15, 1854) from Richard C. Taylor to his father, Walter H. Taylor. Taylor describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of his classmate Cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.","The letter describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of Richard C. Taylor's classmate Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. Christian, a Washington College law student.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Taylor, Richard C. (Richard Cornelius), 1835-1917","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Christian, Charles B. (Charles Burks)","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854"],"collection_ssim":["Richard C. 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He graduated VMI in 1854. During the Civil War he was a Major, artillery, with the Confederate States of America. After the War he was a railroad official and teacher. Taylor died in 1917 in Norfolk.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Richard Cornelius Taylor was born in 1835 in Norfolk, Virginia. He graduated VMI in 1854. During the Civil War he was a Major, artillery, with the Confederate States of America. After the War he was a railroad official and teacher. Taylor died in 1917 in Norfolk."],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["January 15, 1854","Dearest Father:\nThis was to be a letter of congratulations at my stand first on everything but tis a sad time here now. The body of one of our classmates lies bloody in a room below. He was murdered last night. The greatest excitement prevails and it is only by mildness and the prayers of the minister of the gospel last night that the lynch law was not executed. In order to give something for my feelings to dwell upon and quiet them I will write you a detailed account of the whole of this sad affair. At a party which I attended uptown a law student by the name of Christian, having been introduced to Miss Anderson, engaged her company for church. Her cousin in the Corps, our classmate Blackburn, having heard of it and not liking the character of the gentleman told her to write and decline his invitation. This was some weeks ago. This fellow Christian who has the name of a numskull, wrote her a very amusing note having Latin, French \u0026 etc. quotations in it, only part of which was at all serious where he desired to know who was the calumniator. This was shown to Blackburn in fun, nothing being thought of it.","Our dear classmate who never knew fear went up and told him he was the man answerable for everything. C. told him that I have heard the expression that \"he acted nobly in seeing after his cousin.\" He was very much frightened and seemed glad to get out of the scrape. Everybody thought all parties were satisfied. This was Saturday. This was all of the difficulty previous to last night. A classmate and myself went up last night for Miss May Kerr and Miss Julia Lewis to go to church. Miss J was not there. He walked down with Miss M and I alongside of them. As we got opposite to the Doctor's door we saw a man run up and tell him there was something the matter at Mr. White's down the street. We thinking that a child or somebody was sick paid no attention to it. When we were opposite the church, seeing a light and some 1 or 3 of our fellows on the fence, I ran across to see what was the matter, Miss M telling me to immediately return and tell her. One of the cadets saw me and jumped down and told me B. was stabbed. I knowing of the difficulty between B \u0026 C and thinking the students \u0026 cadets were going to fight and not dreaming that B was anything more than scratched and was still fighting over the fence or in fact scarcely knowing what I thought, ran back and told Lightfoot that some of our boys were in difficulty \u0026 to carry Miss M in Church and hurry out, she begging us to keep cool and not fight. I immediately ran across and jumped up on the fence and Oh God, can never forget what a sight. There was a classmate whom but a few hours before I was laughing and joking with in his dying struggle. I was perfectly paralyzed. He was stabbed in three places on his head and once under his ear, the latter cutting his jugular vein and killing him almost instantly. What my first feelings were I can scarcely describe. I felt as if I could see the author of that deed burned to a crisp. As soon as he had breathed his last I jumped from the fence. There were but five of us there at the time. On first promptings we with one accord cried for vengeance and were about to collect our Corps who now came pouring up and take the author of this dreadful, dreadful deed from the jail where they had lodged him. But thank God better feelings soon came and we who were first so excited endeavored to calm those who now came up panting and crying death to the cowardly villain. By and by those cadets were quieted by the exertions of many of the citizens of the peace and professors and when his remains were carried down they were persuaded to follow him a mournful, mournful crowd. I know we were wrong dearest Father to entertain ideas of vengeance against a man who must have suffered unutterable torments the whole of last night, but think of seeing his cold a bloody form, his proud spirit send to its last accounts by one who was not worthy to enter his noble mind and then you can look upon us with leniency. At first I was the only 1st classman there and Christian's knife and stick were brought to me by a Cadet who found them behind the church where the fight took place. I could scarcely hold the knife in my hand. It was a long wooden handle butcher knife and clodded with his blood and flesh. I immediately looked out a magistrate and put them in his hand. There was great dread lest the law student should get them and hide them. The lower part of barracks is now crowded with citizens. The inquest is being held over the body. Our class sat up with it last night. Immediately after we came down Col. Smith made a very touching address recommending us in the strongest terms to pursue an orderly course and let the law have its way. There is no doubt that the murderer will be hanged. He carried B down from the church telling him that he wished to see him. This was the last that was seen of them until C had finished his blows and ran away. B was totally unarmed. He went to the church with Miss Julia Junkins. Poor Miss Anderson is dreadfully distressed, he was her cousin. She heard of it in church and came out when she heard he was really dead. It was awful to see her. I hope I may never see such excitement again. In a little while the street was blocked to you could hardly walk. We will bury poor Blackburn tomorrow. All feelings of revenge have died away in everybody's heart and there will be no disturbance.","When we returned to Barracks some of his room mates expressed a desire the bell should be tolled. Bruce a fellow classman and myself went up and tolled it for half an hour. It sounded very solemn on the still midnight air and as I thought that the young man whose spirit had just winged its flight to its creator and whose sad requiem we were then performing, but a few hours before was sitting next to me in church and afterwards was in our room talking and joking and the last words I think he uttered to me he was endeavoring to plague me because a young lady whom he said I was in love with up town had sent some message or something to him. I could but say to myself how true is the text \"in the midst of life we are in death.\" Poor fellow he was one of my best friends and our society has suffered a sad, sad loss. It was a sad warning to us all and one I hope that will have great effect. Nothing at all is known about the fight. Something more will be brought to light after awhile I expect. Excuse dearest father this doleful letter but it was a relief to tell you all about it. I commenced to writing to you on Friday but thought I would let the report get home first and give you the good news of my stand. Succeeded at last, first in all my studies. Tis true I had to study like five hundred and when we came out for the last time I could hardly talk, went to bed and slept and slept. Goodbye dearest father, love to dear ma and all sisters \u0026 brothers. Your own dear son.\nExcuse bad spelling writing in haste,\nYr Dick"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eRichard C. Taylor letter, 1854 January 15. MS 0159. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Richard C. Taylor letter, 1854 January 15. MS 0159. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"relatedmaterial_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe book titled \"Murder in Lexington: VMI, Honor and Justice in Antebellum Virginia\" (The History Press) by Daniel Morrow is an account of Thomas Blackburn's murder and subsequent events.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"relatedmaterial_heading_ssm":["Related Materials"],"relatedmaterial_tesim":["The book titled \"Murder in Lexington: VMI, Honor and Justice in Antebellum Virginia\" (The History Press) by Daniel Morrow is an account of Thomas Blackburn's murder and subsequent events."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (dated January 15, 1854) from Richard C. Taylor to his father, Walter H. Taylor. Taylor describes in detail the circumstances surrounding the murder of his classmate Cadet Thomas Blackburn by Charles B. 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Her cousin in the Corps, our classmate Blackburn, having heard of it and not liking the character of the gentleman told her to write and decline his invitation. This was some weeks ago. This fellow Christian who has the name of a numskull, wrote her a very amusing note having Latin, French \u0026amp; etc. quotations in it, only part of which was at all serious where he desired to know who was the calumniator. This was shown to Blackburn in fun, nothing being thought of it.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur dear classmate who never knew fear went up and told him he was the man answerable for everything. C. told him that I have heard the expression that \"he acted nobly in seeing after his cousin.\" He was very much frightened and seemed glad to get out of the scrape. Everybody thought all parties were satisfied. This was Saturday. This was all of the difficulty previous to last night. A classmate and myself went up last night for Miss May Kerr and Miss Julia Lewis to go to church. Miss J was not there. He walked down with Miss M and I alongside of them. As we got opposite to the Doctor's door we saw a man run up and tell him there was something the matter at Mr. White's down the street. We thinking that a child or somebody was sick paid no attention to it. When we were opposite the church, seeing a light and some 1 or 3 of our fellows on the fence, I ran across to see what was the matter, Miss M telling me to immediately return and tell her. One of the cadets saw me and jumped down and told me B. was stabbed. I knowing of the difficulty between B \u0026amp; C and thinking the students \u0026amp; cadets were going to fight and not dreaming that B was anything more than scratched and was still fighting over the fence or in fact scarcely knowing what I thought, ran back and told Lightfoot that some of our boys were in difficulty \u0026amp; to carry Miss M in Church and hurry out, she begging us to keep cool and not fight. I immediately ran across and jumped up on the fence and Oh God, can never forget what a sight. There was a classmate whom but a few hours before I was laughing and joking with in his dying struggle. I was perfectly paralyzed. He was stabbed in three places on his head and once under his ear, the latter cutting his jugular vein and killing him almost instantly. What my first feelings were I can scarcely describe. I felt as if I could see the author of that deed burned to a crisp. As soon as he had breathed his last I jumped from the fence. There were but five of us there at the time. On first promptings we with one accord cried for vengeance and were about to collect our Corps who now came pouring up and take the author of this dreadful, dreadful deed from the jail where they had lodged him. But thank God better feelings soon came and we who were first so excited endeavored to calm those who now came up panting and crying death to the cowardly villain. By and by those cadets were quieted by the exertions of many of the citizens of the peace and professors and when his remains were carried down they were persuaded to follow him a mournful, mournful crowd. I know we were wrong dearest Father to entertain ideas of vengeance against a man who must have suffered unutterable torments the whole of last night, but think of seeing his cold a bloody form, his proud spirit send to its last accounts by one who was not worthy to enter his noble mind and then you can look upon us with leniency. At first I was the only 1st classman there and Christian's knife and stick were brought to me by a Cadet who found them behind the church where the fight took place. I could scarcely hold the knife in my hand. It was a long wooden handle butcher knife and clodded with his blood and flesh. I immediately looked out a magistrate and put them in his hand. There was great dread lest the law student should get them and hide them. The lower part of barracks is now crowded with citizens. The inquest is being held over the body. Our class sat up with it last night. Immediately after we came down Col. Smith made a very touching address recommending us in the strongest terms to pursue an orderly course and let the law have its way. There is no doubt that the murderer will be hanged. He carried B down from the church telling him that he wished to see him. This was the last that was seen of them until C had finished his blows and ran away. B was totally unarmed. He went to the church with Miss Julia Junkins. Poor Miss Anderson is dreadfully distressed, he was her cousin. She heard of it in church and came out when she heard he was really dead. It was awful to see her. I hope I may never see such excitement again. In a little while the street was blocked to you could hardly walk. We will bury poor Blackburn tomorrow. All feelings of revenge have died away in everybody's heart and there will be no disturbance.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWhen we returned to Barracks some of his room mates expressed a desire the bell should be tolled. Bruce a fellow classman and myself went up and tolled it for half an hour. It sounded very solemn on the still midnight air and as I thought that the young man whose spirit had just winged its flight to its creator and whose sad requiem we were then performing, but a few hours before was sitting next to me in church and afterwards was in our room talking and joking and the last words I think he uttered to me he was endeavoring to plague me because a young lady whom he said I was in love with up town had sent some message or something to him. I could but say to myself how true is the text \"in the midst of life we are in death.\" Poor fellow he was one of my best friends and our society has suffered a sad, sad loss. It was a sad warning to us all and one I hope that will have great effect. Nothing at all is known about the fight. Something more will be brought to light after awhile I expect. Excuse dearest father this doleful letter but it was a relief to tell you all about it. I commenced to writing to you on Friday but thought I would let the report get home first and give you the good news of my stand. Succeeded at last, first in all my studies. Tis true I had to study like five hundred and when we came out for the last time I could hardly talk, went to bed and slept and slept. Goodbye dearest father, love to dear ma and all sisters \u0026amp; brothers. Your own dear son.\u003cbr\u003e\nExcuse bad spelling writing in haste,\u003cbr\u003e\nYr Dick\u003c/p\u003e"]}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_239"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_272","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"William S. 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