{"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Slavery\u0026f%5Brepository%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute+Archives","next":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Slavery\u0026f%5Brepository%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute+Archives\u0026page=2","last":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Slavery\u0026f%5Brepository%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute+Archives\u0026page=2"},"meta":{"pages":{"current_page":1,"next_page":2,"prev_page":null,"total_pages":2,"limit_value":10,"offset_value":0,"total_count":18,"first_page?":true,"last_page?":false}},"data":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_482","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"James M. 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Drake Civil War letter","United States. Army—Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment, 33rd (1862-1865)","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Alexandria (Va.)—History","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Slavery","Correspondence","There are no restrictions","Union soldier James M. Drake of Sharon, Massachusetts, served with the 33rd Massachusetts Infantry (Company M and later K). \nHe was a 1st Sergeant in his company and a lawyer in civilian life. He was killed on October 29, 1863 in Raccoon Ridge, Tennessee.","Alexandria Va., Aug. 26th 1862.","Dear Father- \nHaving a very few leisure moments I will now write to you once more – since I may not have an opportunity to do so again for some time to come.","Since I last wrote to you we have moved to this place – or rather we marched to this place last Sunday. We are now about 8 miles from Washington on the west bank of the beautiful Potomac and just on the boundary of the city of Alexandria.  You will remember that here Col. Ellsworth was killed.  I was in the \"Marshall House\" this morning and saw the very spot on which he was shot.  This is a rank Secession place and is only kept quiet by the presence of a large number of soldiers.","It is a very wealthy and beautiful city and in times of peace must be a very desirable place to live in, and I should like to live here provided I owned 50 or 100 good  \"n­_s\". Nothing like slavery for this climate, it relieves the white man and is all the black is good for and when you have seen as much of them as I, you will think so too.\nWe are under orders to leave this place tomorrow at sun rise to march 70 miles - what do you think of that with 35 or 40 pounds on your back and a gun.  The weather is very hot and the roads are very dry and dusty.  Gen. Pope's in great danger of being taken with all his army, and reinforcements are being sent as fast as possible.  Don't you believe all your Northern papers say, the fact is the army of the Union is in great danger of a complete defeat.","McLellan [ McClellan ] \u0026 Burnside have both gone to Pope's assistance and he still needs more.  McLellan's army passed through here yesterday.  He has now but 60,000 or 65,000 men.  Most of our officers have a great fear of Jackson.  That he is the most able General on this continent no one can disputes but when we get all our forces in the field we shall be more than a match for him.  We now expect soon to be in the field and I believe I soon shall have a chance to sight my rifle on an enemy of the Old Flag – and I believe I shall be sure of my mark [missing/tear in document] fall first.  When I may write again I can't say.  Sharon boys are all well.  We are to march to Culpeper Va where the battle was a few days since. Sharon boys are all well. Remember me to all the folks. Write soon. Direct to Washington D. C. Co. M. 33d Regt Mass. V. \nYours truly, J. M. Drake.","This collection consists of one letter (dated August 26, 1862) from James M. Drake to his father. Drake presents his views on slavery, discusses the beauty of the Alexandria, Virginia, mentions inaccuracy of northern Civil War news, and discusses Union officers' view of Stonewall Jackson.","Written from Alexandria, Virginia. Letter regards James M. Drake's views on slavery, discusses the beauty of the city, mentions inaccuracy of northern war news, and discusses Union officers' view of Stonewall Jackson.","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. 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This is a rank Secession place and is only kept quiet by the presence of a large number of soldiers.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt is a very wealthy and beautiful city and in times of peace must be a very desirable place to live in, and I should like to live here provided I owned 50 or 100 good  \"n­_s\". Nothing like slavery for this climate, it relieves the white man and is all the black is good for and when you have seen as much of them as I, you will think so too.\nWe are under orders to leave this place tomorrow at sun rise to march 70 miles - what do you think of that with 35 or 40 pounds on your back and a gun.  The weather is very hot and the roads are very dry and dusty.  Gen. Pope's in great danger of being taken with all his army, and reinforcements are being sent as fast as possible.  Don't you believe all your Northern papers say, the fact is the army of the Union is in great danger of a complete defeat.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMcLellan [ McClellan ] \u0026amp; Burnside have both gone to Pope's assistance and he still needs more.  McLellan's army passed through here yesterday.  He has now but 60,000 or 65,000 men.  Most of our officers have a great fear of Jackson.  That he is the most able General on this continent no one can disputes but when we get all our forces in the field we shall be more than a match for him.  We now expect soon to be in the field and I believe I soon shall have a chance to sight my rifle on an enemy of the Old Flag – and I believe I shall be sure of my mark [missing/tear in document] fall first.  When I may write again I can't say.  Sharon boys are all well.  We are to march to Culpeper Va where the battle was a few days since. Sharon boys are all well. Remember me to all the folks. Write soon. Direct to Washington D. C. Co. M. 33d Regt Mass. V.\u003cbr\u003e\nYours truly, J. M. Drake.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Alexandria Va., Aug. 26th 1862.","Dear Father- \nHaving a very few leisure moments I will now write to you once more – since I may not have an opportunity to do so again for some time to come.","Since I last wrote to you we have moved to this place – or rather we marched to this place last Sunday. We are now about 8 miles from Washington on the west bank of the beautiful Potomac and just on the boundary of the city of Alexandria.  You will remember that here Col. Ellsworth was killed.  I was in the \"Marshall House\" this morning and saw the very spot on which he was shot.  This is a rank Secession place and is only kept quiet by the presence of a large number of soldiers.","It is a very wealthy and beautiful city and in times of peace must be a very desirable place to live in, and I should like to live here provided I owned 50 or 100 good  \"n­_s\". Nothing like slavery for this climate, it relieves the white man and is all the black is good for and when you have seen as much of them as I, you will think so too.\nWe are under orders to leave this place tomorrow at sun rise to march 70 miles - what do you think of that with 35 or 40 pounds on your back and a gun.  The weather is very hot and the roads are very dry and dusty.  Gen. Pope's in great danger of being taken with all his army, and reinforcements are being sent as fast as possible.  Don't you believe all your Northern papers say, the fact is the army of the Union is in great danger of a complete defeat.","McLellan [ McClellan ] \u0026 Burnside have both gone to Pope's assistance and he still needs more.  McLellan's army passed through here yesterday.  He has now but 60,000 or 65,000 men.  Most of our officers have a great fear of Jackson.  That he is the most able General on this continent no one can disputes but when we get all our forces in the field we shall be more than a match for him.  We now expect soon to be in the field and I believe I soon shall have a chance to sight my rifle on an enemy of the Old Flag – and I believe I shall be sure of my mark [missing/tear in document] fall first.  When I may write again I can't say.  Sharon boys are all well.  We are to march to Culpeper Va where the battle was a few days since. Sharon boys are all well. Remember me to all the folks. Write soon. Direct to Washington D. C. Co. M. 33d Regt Mass. V. \nYours truly, J. M. Drake."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames M. Drake Civil War letter, 1862. MS 0402. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["James M. Drake Civil War letter, 1862. MS 0402. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (dated August 26, 1862) from James M. Drake to his father. Drake presents his views on slavery, discusses the beauty of the Alexandria, Virginia, mentions inaccuracy of northern Civil War news, and discusses Union officers' view of Stonewall Jackson.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Alexandria, Virginia. Letter regards James M. Drake's views on slavery, discusses the beauty of the city, mentions inaccuracy of northern war news, and discusses Union officers' view of Stonewall Jackson.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of one letter (dated August 26, 1862) from James M. Drake to his father. Drake presents his views on slavery, discusses the beauty of the Alexandria, Virginia, mentions inaccuracy of northern Civil War news, and discusses Union officers' view of Stonewall Jackson.","Written from Alexandria, Virginia. Letter regards James M. Drake's views on slavery, discusses the beauty of the city, mentions inaccuracy of northern war news, and discusses Union officers' view of Stonewall Jackson."],"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_7d9e7ac4d3dafc11377b3826c13b4100\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Drake, James M., ?-1863","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","McClellan, George B. 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Drake Civil War letter"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862 August 26"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1862 August 26"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0402","/repositories/3/resources/482"],"text":["MS.0402","/repositories/3/resources/482","James M. Drake Civil War letter","United States. Army—Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment, 33rd (1862-1865)","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Alexandria (Va.)—History","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Slavery","Correspondence","There are no restrictions","Union soldier James M. Drake of Sharon, Massachusetts, served with the 33rd Massachusetts Infantry (Company M and later K). \nHe was a 1st Sergeant in his company and a lawyer in civilian life. He was killed on October 29, 1863 in Raccoon Ridge, Tennessee.","Alexandria Va., Aug. 26th 1862.","Dear Father- \nHaving a very few leisure moments I will now write to you once more – since I may not have an opportunity to do so again for some time to come.","Since I last wrote to you we have moved to this place – or rather we marched to this place last Sunday. We are now about 8 miles from Washington on the west bank of the beautiful Potomac and just on the boundary of the city of Alexandria.  You will remember that here Col. Ellsworth was killed.  I was in the \"Marshall House\" this morning and saw the very spot on which he was shot.  This is a rank Secession place and is only kept quiet by the presence of a large number of soldiers.","It is a very wealthy and beautiful city and in times of peace must be a very desirable place to live in, and I should like to live here provided I owned 50 or 100 good  \"n­_s\". Nothing like slavery for this climate, it relieves the white man and is all the black is good for and when you have seen as much of them as I, you will think so too.\nWe are under orders to leave this place tomorrow at sun rise to march 70 miles - what do you think of that with 35 or 40 pounds on your back and a gun.  The weather is very hot and the roads are very dry and dusty.  Gen. Pope's in great danger of being taken with all his army, and reinforcements are being sent as fast as possible.  Don't you believe all your Northern papers say, the fact is the army of the Union is in great danger of a complete defeat.","McLellan [ McClellan ] \u0026 Burnside have both gone to Pope's assistance and he still needs more.  McLellan's army passed through here yesterday.  He has now but 60,000 or 65,000 men.  Most of our officers have a great fear of Jackson.  That he is the most able General on this continent no one can disputes but when we get all our forces in the field we shall be more than a match for him.  We now expect soon to be in the field and I believe I soon shall have a chance to sight my rifle on an enemy of the Old Flag – and I believe I shall be sure of my mark [missing/tear in document] fall first.  When I may write again I can't say.  Sharon boys are all well.  We are to march to Culpeper Va where the battle was a few days since. Sharon boys are all well. Remember me to all the folks. Write soon. Direct to Washington D. C. Co. M. 33d Regt Mass. V. \nYours truly, J. M. Drake.","This collection consists of one letter (dated August 26, 1862) from James M. Drake to his father. Drake presents his views on slavery, discusses the beauty of the Alexandria, Virginia, mentions inaccuracy of northern Civil War news, and discusses Union officers' view of Stonewall Jackson.","Written from Alexandria, Virginia. Letter regards James M. Drake's views on slavery, discusses the beauty of the city, mentions inaccuracy of northern war news, and discusses Union officers' view of Stonewall Jackson.","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","Drake, James M., ?-1863","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","McClellan, George B. (George Brinton), 1826-1885","English"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0402","/repositories/3/resources/482"],"normalized_title_ssm":["James M. Drake Civil War letter"],"collection_title_tesim":["James M. Drake Civil War letter"],"collection_ssim":["James M. 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Drake of Sharon, Massachusetts, served with the 33rd Massachusetts Infantry (Company M and later K). \nHe was a 1st Sergeant in his company and a lawyer in civilian life. He was killed on October 29, 1863 in Raccoon Ridge, Tennessee.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Union soldier James M. Drake of Sharon, Massachusetts, served with the 33rd Massachusetts Infantry (Company M and later K). \nHe was a 1st Sergeant in his company and a lawyer in civilian life. He was killed on October 29, 1863 in Raccoon Ridge, Tennessee."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eAlexandria Va., Aug. 26th 1862.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Father-\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving a very few leisure moments I will now write to you once more – since I may not have an opportunity to do so again for some time to come.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSince I last wrote to you we have moved to this place – or rather we marched to this place last Sunday. We are now about 8 miles from Washington on the west bank of the beautiful Potomac and just on the boundary of the city of Alexandria.  You will remember that here Col. Ellsworth was killed.  I was in the \"Marshall House\" this morning and saw the very spot on which he was shot.  This is a rank Secession place and is only kept quiet by the presence of a large number of soldiers.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt is a very wealthy and beautiful city and in times of peace must be a very desirable place to live in, and I should like to live here provided I owned 50 or 100 good  \"n­_s\". Nothing like slavery for this climate, it relieves the white man and is all the black is good for and when you have seen as much of them as I, you will think so too.\nWe are under orders to leave this place tomorrow at sun rise to march 70 miles - what do you think of that with 35 or 40 pounds on your back and a gun.  The weather is very hot and the roads are very dry and dusty.  Gen. Pope's in great danger of being taken with all his army, and reinforcements are being sent as fast as possible.  Don't you believe all your Northern papers say, the fact is the army of the Union is in great danger of a complete defeat.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMcLellan [ McClellan ] \u0026amp; Burnside have both gone to Pope's assistance and he still needs more.  McLellan's army passed through here yesterday.  He has now but 60,000 or 65,000 men.  Most of our officers have a great fear of Jackson.  That he is the most able General on this continent no one can disputes but when we get all our forces in the field we shall be more than a match for him.  We now expect soon to be in the field and I believe I soon shall have a chance to sight my rifle on an enemy of the Old Flag – and I believe I shall be sure of my mark [missing/tear in document] fall first.  When I may write again I can't say.  Sharon boys are all well.  We are to march to Culpeper Va where the battle was a few days since. Sharon boys are all well. Remember me to all the folks. Write soon. Direct to Washington D. C. Co. M. 33d Regt Mass. V.\u003cbr\u003e\nYours truly, J. M. Drake.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Alexandria Va., Aug. 26th 1862.","Dear Father- \nHaving a very few leisure moments I will now write to you once more – since I may not have an opportunity to do so again for some time to come.","Since I last wrote to you we have moved to this place – or rather we marched to this place last Sunday. We are now about 8 miles from Washington on the west bank of the beautiful Potomac and just on the boundary of the city of Alexandria.  You will remember that here Col. Ellsworth was killed.  I was in the \"Marshall House\" this morning and saw the very spot on which he was shot.  This is a rank Secession place and is only kept quiet by the presence of a large number of soldiers.","It is a very wealthy and beautiful city and in times of peace must be a very desirable place to live in, and I should like to live here provided I owned 50 or 100 good  \"n­_s\". Nothing like slavery for this climate, it relieves the white man and is all the black is good for and when you have seen as much of them as I, you will think so too.\nWe are under orders to leave this place tomorrow at sun rise to march 70 miles - what do you think of that with 35 or 40 pounds on your back and a gun.  The weather is very hot and the roads are very dry and dusty.  Gen. Pope's in great danger of being taken with all his army, and reinforcements are being sent as fast as possible.  Don't you believe all your Northern papers say, the fact is the army of the Union is in great danger of a complete defeat.","McLellan [ McClellan ] \u0026 Burnside have both gone to Pope's assistance and he still needs more.  McLellan's army passed through here yesterday.  He has now but 60,000 or 65,000 men.  Most of our officers have a great fear of Jackson.  That he is the most able General on this continent no one can disputes but when we get all our forces in the field we shall be more than a match for him.  We now expect soon to be in the field and I believe I soon shall have a chance to sight my rifle on an enemy of the Old Flag – and I believe I shall be sure of my mark [missing/tear in document] fall first.  When I may write again I can't say.  Sharon boys are all well.  We are to march to Culpeper Va where the battle was a few days since. Sharon boys are all well. Remember me to all the folks. Write soon. Direct to Washington D. C. Co. M. 33d Regt Mass. V. \nYours truly, J. M. Drake."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames M. Drake Civil War letter, 1862. MS 0402. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["James M. Drake Civil War letter, 1862. MS 0402. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (dated August 26, 1862) from James M. Drake to his father. Drake presents his views on slavery, discusses the beauty of the Alexandria, Virginia, mentions inaccuracy of northern Civil War news, and discusses Union officers' view of Stonewall Jackson.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Alexandria, Virginia. Letter regards James M. Drake's views on slavery, discusses the beauty of the city, mentions inaccuracy of northern war news, and discusses Union officers' view of Stonewall Jackson.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of one letter (dated August 26, 1862) from James M. Drake to his father. Drake presents his views on slavery, discusses the beauty of the Alexandria, Virginia, mentions inaccuracy of northern Civil War news, and discusses Union officers' view of Stonewall Jackson.","Written from Alexandria, Virginia. Letter regards James M. Drake's views on slavery, discusses the beauty of the city, mentions inaccuracy of northern war news, and discusses Union officers' view of Stonewall Jackson."],"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_7d9e7ac4d3dafc11377b3826c13b4100\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Drake, James M., ?-1863","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","McClellan, George B. (George Brinton), 1826-1885"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","McClellan, George B. (George Brinton), 1826-1885"],"persname_ssim":["Drake, James M., ?-1863","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","McClellan, George B. (George Brinton), 1826-1885"],"language_ssim":["English"],"total_component_count_is":1,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-11T07:08:22.870Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_482"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_156","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"John B. Snodgrass letters","creator":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_156#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_156#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of eight letters and one letter fragment from Cadet John B. Snodgrass to his sister Katherine (Kate) Snodgrass-Boyd. All letters are dated 1862 and written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. The primary topic is the Civil War and its effect on the Snodgrass family, with occasional references to VMI. Multiple letters (see April 19, May 1, May 18) mention that Corps of Cadets has been ordered to aid General Stonewall Jackson because he is \"anxious to get a shot at the enemy.\"\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_156#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_156","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_156","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_156","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_156","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_156.xml","title_ssm":["John B. Snodgrass letters"],"title_tesim":["John B. Snodgrass letters"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1862"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0072","/repositories/3/resources/156"],"text":["MS.0072","/repositories/3/resources/156","John B. Snodgrass letters","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Slavery","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Home life","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","John B. Snodgrass letters are avaliable  online .","John Breathed Snodgrass was born in 1843 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He is a non-graduate, VMI class of 1864. He later became a physician. Snodgrass died in 1908 in Martinsburg, West Virginia.","Virginia Military Inst \nFeb 22nd 1862","My Dear Sister, \nColonel Tate has decreed that I shan't go to Lexington, today, for tis raining hard, and I am forced to stay close to barracks.  My roommate and myself had intended to pay \"our respects\" to two young \"Misses\" but have thus been foiled.  Today above all others ought to have been bright and clear, as it tis the day on which our glorious President is to be inaugurated.  All honour to him; and to our glorious young Confederacy! Which he pledges his sacred honour to maintain.  Though this 22nd is dark and gloomy; may that 22nd yet dawn which shall behold our unsullied banner floating in triumph over our Southern homes faned by the gentle zephyrs of Heaven.  I am glad to hear you are in such a high class.  I am in the 3rd Class (alias) Sophmores.  I have just commenced studying French, also.  I don't think it tis at all hard, on the other hand it is very easy.  I would rather read some some good novel, than bother my head about \"Je poole\".  Since the great disaster to our arms at Roanoke Island, and Fort Donalson, the Cadets have all tendered the services to Gov. Letcher.  I don't suppose he will except us.  We have not heard from him yet.  I wish he would accept us.  I think every one ought to be in the field.  I had no idea your school is as large, as you say.  We have three hundred here.  Tell Miss Georgiana (is that her name?) that Mr. Selden is here and a very pleasant young man.  Give my best love to Miss Georgia, complement her highly on her beautiful hand writing.  My room mates all agreed with me that she wrote a beautiful hand - would that I could write one half as good.  Tell me her name in your next.  I am bound to come down to see her, and close her from all your blushing roses, as the sweetest, the loveliest, the best.  We are going to have a grand dinner today, seventy-five turkeys to celebrate the 22nd.  We would have fired thirteen cannons this morning - but it was to wet.  Dandridge is not here. All are well at home when I last heard, they write you oftener than they do me.  Bose wrote me he was not going to enlist again, for some time.  You asked me to come up and see you Easter I wish I could.  I will not see you for two years.  I will not be allowed to go home next summer at all, unless I withdraw altogether.  Were I to stay here it would take me to years to graduate, which is a long long time.  I never cantemplate any thing of the kind now.  Times are so very uncertain, we realize now more than ever the quotation \"No man can tell what a day may bring forth\".  Well Kate I must close, write me very soon.  Love to Nannie and Misses -  \nand believe me your aff brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Ma said you were very homesick.  You should get over that.  The time will soon pass away and you will be home again.  The boys are having a splendid time in Martinsburg.  Miss Lottie and Miss Pink Bolten are up.  Jack H. and Miss Lottie are engaged cousin Fannie says.  Tom Harrison is now at home he is a Lieutenant.  We had splendid fire works here the night of the 22nd.  I never saw such beautiful ones in my life.  I am certainly sorry to hear of my class - mates death.  I think it cannot be so.  His death was certainly tragical.  He was staying at a friends house, lying on a sofa, when the husband and wife came in, and the later remarked, \"Oh, is he not handsome and bent over and kissed him.  Her husband immediately shot him.  However this may be I intend to address a letter to him. 18th Miss. Regt. Co. K. Leesburg Va. Ma complains of me not writing long letters, the same she says of you.  So you better write long letters in future.  I nevefr can think of anthing to write.  I wish the Cadets could have gone to Richmond the 22nd.  I should have liked much to have been present at the inauguration of our first President. Well Kate I have no time to spare tonight - so goodbye-  Love to all - your aff. Brother - \n John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nMarch 8th 1862","My Dear Sister. \nI rec'd a long letter this morning from Ma. She said the Federals had been in Martinsburg. They were not there when she wrote, but were daily expected over.  We having  no troops in town. The mail does not go to Martinsburg from Winchester. I don't know whether she will get my letter or not – very probably she will not. She said you and myself must not give ourselves any uneasiness about them all, at home. Ma says – she will get Aunt Liz to stay with her – and try and take care of themselves. Every one confidently expects the Hessians over.  When they came before, it was in the night. The citizens had the Court house bell rang. George Murphy and Mr. Hopkins went in a hurry to Darksville. Mr. Young came out to Uncle Williams and stayed that night.  Ma seems to have given up all hope of hearing from us soon.  Since the mail does not go to Martinsburg. She told me to direct to Winchester to be forwarded to Martinsburg. So you better do the same. Ma says she has heard the scarlet fever is at the University. She is very uneasy about you. You must write to me if you are sick, as Ma told me to go down and see you if you were sick. So write me immediately if you should be sick, which I hope you will not, notwithstanding I want to see you very much and a certain Miss --  at the Institute. I suppose you have not heard of the death of Mr. Dabney Harrison, he was killed in the battle at Fort Donalson.  He has fallen in a glorious cause, his friends should not weep. When the Federals came to Martinsburg, Aunt Susan's Polly came over with them. Two men in town arrested her, and sent word to Mr. H. who went to town, and got her, and took her in a great hurry to Winchester, where she is now in prison. I hope her capture will deter ours from running off. No doubt it was an agreeable surprise to Aunt Susan. Mr. H expects to be used roughly by the Federals for taking her out of town. He wrote me if the Yankees used him badly, he would join the army and be revenged. Well Kate I must close.  Give my love to Nannie and all other friends. Write me very often, as I am always glad to hear from you.   \nGoodbye yours aff. \nBrother (signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Ins. \nMarch 29th 1862","My Dear Sister \nI rec'd letter from Bose this morning. He was not in the bloody engagement near Winchester. He was not well enough to return to his company, is going back next week. He wrote me that none of his company were killed but heard that Arch Oden and Jack Harrison were missing. I hope this may not be so. It was only rumored. He does not know whether it is so or not. Ma, I expect is distressed to death about Bose thinking he was in the engagement and knows not but what he may have been killed. If Arch and Jack have been taken prisoner she may perhaps here better - hope she may I have heard today that Genl. Jackson (Stonewall Jackson) has been largely reinforced. Hope it may be true, and that he will be able to drive off the Invaders from the soil of Virginia. If it is true that Genl. J (Stonewall Jackson) has been reinforced no doubt we will soon be able to hear from home,  Bose seems to enjoy himself very much in Staunton  he has become acquainted with several of the Cadets who have left the Institute and gone down to Staunton but who are now unable to get home. The Cadets are resigning very fast – but new ones come in today – every day – all think they ought to be in the army – any so do I think so – but we can't get off – if we should try. So we will have to remain – and as Genl J (Stonewall Jackson) much says – be soldiers in the next army – after the present one has been killed off. Have the students left the University? We have heard so. Well Kate I must close. Write me soon. I have no news to but you. Goodbye – love to Nannie \nYour affectionate brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nApril 6th 1862","My Dear Sister \nI rec'd your letter several days ago. I would have answered it sooner but I knew you had not received my letter when you wrote – I heard from Bose yesterday. He is well – going back or rather by this time has gone back to his company – he said that Arch and Jack had reported back to their company.  I was sorry to learn that Joe McMarran was taken prisoner. He has been sent to Baltimore. I hope he will be treated kindly – his mother and sisters will be much distressed about him. I know how all in Martinsburg and how Ma feels about the boys – hope they will hear in some way that they are safe – I would not be surprised if Grand Ma has gotten home. Communication is of course open between Maryland, and that part of the valley now subject to the Yankee despotism. [?] Delaplane has been over to see them at home I suppose - he would come, if none of Uncle Johns family did.  I am sorry to see you are dissatisfied and long to be home. It is of course natural that you should feel in that way since you are deprived of hearing from home - don't despair, it may be a long time, before you can see home again - and it may be a short time - none can tell but I hope when we do hear, all will be right. Bose told me in his letter,  that his time in the army would be up - the eighteenth of April. He is coming to see me - on his way down to Capt Pelhorns company - I wouldn't stop much to go down with him - I went yesterday with several boys to explore a cave about 2 miles from the Institute. We went several hundred feet under the ground past through some of the most perfect rooms I ever saw. I believe no one has ever gone to the bottom of it - several boys have gone over today to go farther down in it than we went yesterday - Will H among the number - Well Kate I must close - Goodbye  Love to Nannie - write soon \nYour aff. Brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nApril 29th 1862","Dear Sister \nI have just read your letter and now will answer it. Since I last wrote to you we have been constantly under a great state of excitement. Last Sunday the news came that the Yankees were about entering Staunton. Academic duties were suspended and our time was devoted to three drills a day – preparing ourselves to meet the invader, should he attempt to drive us away from the V.M.I. Genl Smith told us he intended to lead us out to meet them, if they came a thousand strong. He had provisions cooked for us as to take with us on our way to Lynchburg or Richmond if they came in too large a force for us to meet them. I assure you I was very sorry when I heard they were not coming to Staunton. Genl Smith wrote to Genl Jackson tendering him our services. Genl Jackson replied, that he would keep us as a reserve body.  That we could be of immense service to him and that he would call upon us when he wanted us – that we must keep ourselves constantly in readiness.  I do hope he will call upon us. It will be the proudest day of my life when we receive marching orders to defend our own homes against the invader.  I am not content to stay here, when the Old Dominion – The Mother of Statesmen and heroes is calling so loudly upon her sons to rally to her defense – when this bloody war is over. What a pleasure it will be to every son of Virginia to know that he was so manly and brave as to lay his life upon his countrys altar. Don't be surprised if you should see me in Charlottesville some of these pretty days. I am now waiting to hear from Bose, for permission to resign. Genl  S. will not accept my resignation without permission. Why are you so homesick – cheer up. It will not be long before you can get home.  If the great battle at Yorktown is fought – the Yankees will leave the valley quicker than they came into it!  Genl S told me yesterday they were falling back toward the Potomac – hope it is true. Genl Jackson (Stonewall Jackson) is not at Gordonsville he is in the neighbourhood of Harrisonburg – near the blue ridge. You are I suppose were very much excited when the cannon was sent back to Charlottesville. All were we could not study. Prof. told us they did not expect us to study. The young ladies at the Institute in Staunton came back to Lexington. Six stages loaded with passengers came from Staunton that Sunday evening. Should the Yankees get possession of Charlottesville, do what Miss L thinks best. As for myself I will go immediately to the army. When I wrote to you I could have gotten home by the counties I mentioned but I can't now. They are occupied by the Yankees .  Well Kate I must close   write to me often – I am always glad to hear from you. Love to Nannie. Goodbye \nYour affectionate brother \n(signed)  J. B. Snodgrass ","Va. Mil. Institute \nMay 1st 1862","Dear Kate \nThe Corps of Cadets leave the Institute this morning to go to Staunton t reinforce Genl. Jackson. All of us are in fine spirits – anxious to get a shot at the enemy. I will mail this letter in Staunton. Goodbye. Don't be uneasy about me. I hope you may soon hear the enemy are leaving the valley.\nGoodbye\nYour. Aff. Brother \nJohn B. Snodgrass C. S. A. \nCo. D. Corps Cadets","Virginia Military Institute \nMay 18th 1862","Dear Kate \nWe returned to the V.M.I. yesterday after one of the most toilsome marches of 10 days ever endured by an army. After we left Staunton our hardships began. We marched every day without even a days rest for ten or twelve days always averaging 18 miles and often 20 and 25. One day the day of the battle at McDowell we marched forty miles -  marching from early in the morning until 2 or 3 in the night. We drove the enemy before us all the time. Genl Jacksons men were in the rear of the army so we did not get in the fight - the battle was fought by Genl Johnsons Army. I saw Bose very often. He endured the march very well. The Corps of Cadets were nearly all broken down - all were lame with sore feet. I could scarcely walk at times my feet hurt me so much.  Numbers of us threw our shoes away and walked barefoot, over some of the loftiest mountains in western Virginia I ever saw. For days we saw nothing but mountains, and often it rained hard - some nights I would lie down and in the morning I would get p with my clothes very wet. The Volunteers all say that march through Western Virginia was the hardest they have endured since the war. After we returned to Staunton we were dismissed.  Genl Jackson has gone down the valley, hope he will drive the Yankees across the Potomac.  I am anxiously awaiting the result of the great battle near Richmond.   If we defeat the Yankees, those in the valley will leave quicker than they came over - if we are defeated, the Yankees will take possession of all this part of Virginia. Then if you remain at your school you can get home -  you will then be within the Yankee lines. I saw all the boys - when I was gone - Jack is now Lieutenant in Nadenboushes company. He and Dick [D] are the only ones out of their mess who enlisted again in the company. I would like very much to get down to see you - I wanted to come down whilst I was in Staunton but could not get off. I heard Bose had gone to see you. If he had not I would have come any way. Well Kate I must close. I am both tired and sleepy. Excuse hasty and I have a miserable old pen – Love to Nannie. Goodbye \nYour aff. Brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nJune 8th 1862","My dear sister \nI recd a letter yesterday from Bose. Whilst Genl. Jackson was in Winchester he succeeded in getting down home. He said all were well, and everything going on right. Grandma has gotten home. She looks remarkably well. Ma and Cousin Fannie have both been to Maryland. Our darkies behaved remarkably well. None of them left. The Yankees tried to persuade them to run away, they would not go. They told Bose he need not be uneasy, they did not intend to go. Ma has let Nancy live to herself, on account of her good conduct.  Mr. Thornburg has rented our farm. So you see Katy everything seems to be going on well – hope it will be so this time. I am sorry you and Nannie could not get home. You are both much better where you are. You won't catch me going home when the Yankees are about there. The New York Herald says Genl. Jackson has been reinforced by 2000 well drilled cadets. They are slightly mistaken in the number, we were not 200 strong.  They would arrest me if I were at home. I tried to get Genl. Smith to give me a furlough when the way home was open. He told me to wait until I got a letter. I have not recd any letter - think they might have written to us at any rate. Will got a very short letter from his Pa. Said the Yankees ran by our house like dogs in full run. You had better both stay at the Institute when the session is up. Do you graduate this year? Our school will close about the first of July. I don't know what I shall do yet! I will try and get down to see you when the session closes. Ma told Bose to tell me to stay at the V. M. I. said Uncle John had given her plenty of money. So you see you had better stay at your school when it closes. Bose says his regt. was the first to enter Winchester. He captured 2 new suits of clothes, and eat so many captured sweet meats that it made him sick. He [Jess] and Sam McM. have joined a new company. They are now in Staunton. George Murphy is also there.  I suppose Cousin Fannie and Ma were rejoiced when they saw the Yankees running so fast by the house. I should have been. Grandma is delighted I know to get home. I would like to see her. You must not be uneasy about home. All depends upon the fight at Richmond. If the Yankees are whipped there they must leave the Valley. Of course they will be. Give my love to Nannie. I will write to her soon. Write me by return mail. \nYour brother, John.","This collection consists of eight letters and one letter fragment from Cadet John B. Snodgrass to his sister Katherine (Kate) Snodgrass-Boyd. All letters are dated 1862 and written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. The primary topic is the Civil War and its effect on the Snodgrass family, with occasional references to VMI. Multiple letters (see April 19, May 1, May 18) mention that Corps of Cadets has been ordered to aid General Stonewall Jackson because he is \"anxious to get a shot at the enemy.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards poor weather, the inaguration of Confederate president Jefferson Davis, French studies, and family matters.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters, the death of a classmate, and the desire to have been at Jefferson Davis' inaguration.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters and news of the Federals being in Martinsburg, West Virginia.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the desire for the cadets to fight in the Civil War and family matters.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters and a trip with other cadets to explore a cave outside of Lexington.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet preparations for war after the news \"came that the Yankees were about entering Staunton\" (Virginia). The letter also mentions that General Stonewall Jackson is \"keeping us [VMI cadets] as a reserve body\" and that John B. Snodgrass is actively working to resign from VMI.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the Corps of Cadets leaving VMI to go to Staunton, Virginia to reinforce General Stonewall Jackson.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards war activities in Staunton, Virginia, the march back to VMI, and general news about the war.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general news about the war and family matters.","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","Snodgrass family","Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Davis, Jefferson, 1808-1889","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0072","/repositories/3/resources/156"],"normalized_title_ssm":["John B. Snodgrass letters"],"collection_title_tesim":["John B. Snodgrass letters"],"collection_ssim":["John B. Snodgrass letters"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908"],"creator_ssim":["Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908"],"creators_ssim":["Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908"],"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—Civil War, 1861-1865","Slavery","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Home life","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Slavery","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Home life","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["9 items"],"extent_tesim":["9 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn B. Snodgrass letters are avaliable \u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/1416\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["John B. Snodgrass letters are avaliable  online ."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn Breathed Snodgrass was born in 1843 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He is a non-graduate, VMI class of 1864. He later became a physician. Snodgrass died in 1908 in Martinsburg, West Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["John Breathed Snodgrass was born in 1843 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He is a non-graduate, VMI class of 1864. He later became a physician. Snodgrass died in 1908 in Martinsburg, West Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Inst\u003cbr\u003e\nFeb 22nd 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister,\u003cbr\u003e\nColonel Tate has decreed that I shan't go to Lexington, today, for tis raining hard, and I am forced to stay close to barracks.  My roommate and myself had intended to pay \"our respects\" to two young \"Misses\" but have thus been foiled.  Today above all others ought to have been bright and clear, as it tis the day on which our glorious President is to be inaugurated.  All honour to him; and to our glorious young Confederacy! Which he pledges his sacred honour to maintain.  Though this 22nd is dark and gloomy; may that 22nd yet dawn which shall behold our unsullied banner floating in triumph over our Southern homes faned by the gentle zephyrs of Heaven.  I am glad to hear you are in such a high class.  I am in the 3rd Class (alias) Sophmores.  I have just commenced studying French, also.  I don't think it tis at all hard, on the other hand it is very easy.  I would rather read some some good novel, than bother my head about \"Je poole\".  Since the great disaster to our arms at Roanoke Island, and Fort Donalson, the Cadets have all tendered the services to Gov. Letcher.  I don't suppose he will except us.  We have not heard from him yet.  I wish he would accept us.  I think every one ought to be in the field.  I had no idea your school is as large, as you say.  We have three hundred here.  Tell Miss Georgiana (is that her name?) that Mr. Selden is here and a very pleasant young man.  Give my best love to Miss Georgia, complement her highly on her beautiful hand writing.  My room mates all agreed with me that she wrote a beautiful hand - would that I could write one half as good.  Tell me her name in your next.  I am bound to come down to see her, and close her from all your blushing roses, as the sweetest, the loveliest, the best.  We are going to have a grand dinner today, seventy-five turkeys to celebrate the 22nd.  We would have fired thirteen cannons this morning - but it was to wet.  Dandridge is not here. All are well at home when I last heard, they write you oftener than they do me.  Bose wrote me he was not going to enlist again, for some time.  You asked me to come up and see you Easter I wish I could.  I will not see you for two years.  I will not be allowed to go home next summer at all, unless I withdraw altogether.  Were I to stay here it would take me to years to graduate, which is a long long time.  I never cantemplate any thing of the kind now.  Times are so very uncertain, we realize now more than ever the quotation \"No man can tell what a day may bring forth\".  Well Kate I must close, write me very soon.  Love to Nannie and Misses -\u003cbr\u003e \nand believe me your aff brother\u003cbr\u003e\n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMa said you were very homesick.  You should get over that.  The time will soon pass away and you will be home again.  The boys are having a splendid time in Martinsburg.  Miss Lottie and Miss Pink Bolten are up.  Jack H. and Miss Lottie are engaged cousin Fannie says.  Tom Harrison is now at home he is a Lieutenant.  We had splendid fire works here the night of the 22nd.  I never saw such beautiful ones in my life.  I am certainly sorry to hear of my class - mates death.  I think it cannot be so.  His death was certainly tragical.  He was staying at a friends house, lying on a sofa, when the husband and wife came in, and the later remarked, \"Oh, is he not handsome and bent over and kissed him.  Her husband immediately shot him.  However this may be I intend to address a letter to him. 18th Miss. Regt. Co. K. Leesburg Va. Ma complains of me not writing long letters, the same she says of you.  So you better write long letters in future.  I nevefr can think of anthing to write.  I wish the Cadets could have gone to Richmond the 22nd.  I should have liked much to have been present at the inauguration of our first President. Well Kate I have no time to spare tonight - so goodbye-\u003cbr\u003e Love to all - your aff. Brother -\u003cbr\u003e\n John B. Snodgrass\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 8th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister.\u003cbr\u003e\nI rec'd a long letter this morning from Ma. She said the Federals had been in Martinsburg. They were not there when she wrote, but were daily expected over.  We having  no troops in town. The mail does not go to Martinsburg from Winchester. I don't know whether she will get my letter or not – very probably she will not. She said you and myself must not give ourselves any uneasiness about them all, at home. Ma says – she will get Aunt Liz to stay with her – and try and take care of themselves. Every one confidently expects the Hessians over.  When they came before, it was in the night. The citizens had the Court house bell rang. George Murphy and Mr. Hopkins went in a hurry to Darksville. Mr. Young came out to Uncle Williams and stayed that night.  Ma seems to have given up all hope of hearing from us soon.  Since the mail does not go to Martinsburg. She told me to direct to Winchester to be forwarded to Martinsburg. So you better do the same. Ma says she has heard the scarlet fever is at the University. She is very uneasy about you. You must write to me if you are sick, as Ma told me to go down and see you if you were sick. So write me immediately if you should be sick, which I hope you will not, notwithstanding I want to see you very much and a certain Miss --  at the Institute. I suppose you have not heard of the death of Mr. Dabney Harrison, he was killed in the battle at Fort Donalson.  He has fallen in a glorious cause, his friends should not weep. When the Federals came to Martinsburg, Aunt Susan's Polly came over with them. Two men in town arrested her, and sent word to Mr. H. who went to town, and got her, and took her in a great hurry to Winchester, where she is now in prison. I hope her capture will deter ours from running off. No doubt it was an agreeable surprise to Aunt Susan. Mr. H expects to be used roughly by the Federals for taking her out of town. He wrote me if the Yankees used him badly, he would join the army and be revenged. Well Kate I must close.  Give my love to Nannie and all other friends. Write me very often, as I am always glad to hear from you.\u003cbr\u003e  \nGoodbye yours aff.\u003cbr\u003e\nBrother (signed)  John B. Snodgrass\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Ins.\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 29th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nI rec'd letter from Bose this morning. He was not in the bloody engagement near Winchester. He was not well enough to return to his company, is going back next week. He wrote me that none of his company were killed but heard that Arch Oden and Jack Harrison were missing. I hope this may not be so. It was only rumored. He does not know whether it is so or not. Ma, I expect is distressed to death about Bose thinking he was in the engagement and knows not but what he may have been killed. If Arch and Jack have been taken prisoner she may perhaps here better - hope she may I have heard today that Genl. Jackson (Stonewall Jackson) has been largely reinforced. Hope it may be true, and that he will be able to drive off the Invaders from the soil of Virginia. If it is true that Genl. J (Stonewall Jackson) has been reinforced no doubt we will soon be able to hear from home,  Bose seems to enjoy himself very much in Staunton  he has become acquainted with several of the Cadets who have left the Institute and gone down to Staunton but who are now unable to get home. The Cadets are resigning very fast – but new ones come in today – every day – all think they ought to be in the army – any so do I think so – but we can't get off – if we should try. So we will have to remain – and as Genl J (Stonewall Jackson) much says – be soldiers in the next army – after the present one has been killed off. Have the students left the University? We have heard so. Well Kate I must close. Write me soon. I have no news to but you. Goodbye – love to Nannie\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate brother\u003cbr\u003e\n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nApril 6th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nI rec'd your letter several days ago. I would have answered it sooner but I knew you had not received my letter when you wrote – I heard from Bose yesterday. He is well – going back or rather by this time has gone back to his company – he said that Arch and Jack had reported back to their company.  I was sorry to learn that Joe McMarran was taken prisoner. He has been sent to Baltimore. I hope he will be treated kindly – his mother and sisters will be much distressed about him. I know how all in Martinsburg and how Ma feels about the boys – hope they will hear in some way that they are safe – I would not be surprised if Grand Ma has gotten home. Communication is of course open between Maryland, and that part of the valley now subject to the Yankee despotism. [?] Delaplane has been over to see them at home I suppose - he would come, if none of Uncle Johns family did.  I am sorry to see you are dissatisfied and long to be home. It is of course natural that you should feel in that way since you are deprived of hearing from home - don't despair, it may be a long time, before you can see home again - and it may be a short time - none can tell but I hope when we do hear, all will be right. Bose told me in his letter,  that his time in the army would be up - the eighteenth of April. He is coming to see me - on his way down to Capt Pelhorns company - I wouldn't stop much to go down with him - I went yesterday with several boys to explore a cave about 2 miles from the Institute. We went several hundred feet under the ground past through some of the most perfect rooms I ever saw. I believe no one has ever gone to the bottom of it - several boys have gone over today to go farther down in it than we went yesterday - Will H among the number - Well Kate I must close - Goodbye  Love to Nannie - write soon\u003cbr\u003e\nYour aff. Brother\u003cbr\u003e\n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nApril 29th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nI have just read your letter and now will answer it. Since I last wrote to you we have been constantly under a great state of excitement. Last Sunday the news came that the Yankees were about entering Staunton. Academic duties were suspended and our time was devoted to three drills a day – preparing ourselves to meet the invader, should he attempt to drive us away from the V.M.I. Genl Smith told us he intended to lead us out to meet them, if they came a thousand strong. He had provisions cooked for us as to take with us on our way to Lynchburg or Richmond if they came in too large a force for us to meet them. I assure you I was very sorry when I heard they were not coming to Staunton. Genl Smith wrote to Genl Jackson tendering him our services. Genl Jackson replied, that he would keep us as a reserve body.  That we could be of immense service to him and that he would call upon us when he wanted us – that we must keep ourselves constantly in readiness.  I do hope he will call upon us. It will be the proudest day of my life when we receive marching orders to defend our own homes against the invader.  I am not content to stay here, when the Old Dominion – The Mother of Statesmen and heroes is calling so loudly upon her sons to rally to her defense – when this bloody war is over. What a pleasure it will be to every son of Virginia to know that he was so manly and brave as to lay his life upon his countrys altar. Don't be surprised if you should see me in Charlottesville some of these pretty days. I am now waiting to hear from Bose, for permission to resign. Genl  S. will not accept my resignation without permission. Why are you so homesick – cheer up. It will not be long before you can get home.  If the great battle at Yorktown is fought – the Yankees will leave the valley quicker than they came into it!  Genl S told me yesterday they were falling back toward the Potomac – hope it is true. Genl Jackson (Stonewall Jackson) is not at Gordonsville he is in the neighbourhood of Harrisonburg – near the blue ridge. You are I suppose were very much excited when the cannon was sent back to Charlottesville. All were we could not study. Prof. told us they did not expect us to study. The young ladies at the Institute in Staunton came back to Lexington. Six stages loaded with passengers came from Staunton that Sunday evening. Should the Yankees get possession of Charlottesville, do what Miss L thinks best. As for myself I will go immediately to the army. When I wrote to you I could have gotten home by the counties I mentioned but I can't now. They are occupied by the Yankees .  Well Kate I must close   write to me often – I am always glad to hear from you. Love to Nannie. Goodbye\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate brother\u003cbr\u003e\n(signed)  J. B. Snodgrass \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVa. Mil. Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 1st 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Kate\u003cbr\u003e\nThe Corps of Cadets leave the Institute this morning to go to Staunton t reinforce Genl. Jackson. All of us are in fine spirits – anxious to get a shot at the enemy. I will mail this letter in Staunton. Goodbye. Don't be uneasy about me. I hope you may soon hear the enemy are leaving the valley.\nGoodbye\nYour. Aff. Brother\u003cbr\u003e\nJohn B. Snodgrass C. S. A.\u003cbr\u003e\nCo. D. Corps Cadets\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 18th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Kate\u003cbr\u003e\nWe returned to the V.M.I. yesterday after one of the most toilsome marches of 10 days ever endured by an army. After we left Staunton our hardships began. We marched every day without even a days rest for ten or twelve days always averaging 18 miles and often 20 and 25. One day the day of the battle at McDowell we marched forty miles -  marching from early in the morning until 2 or 3 in the night. We drove the enemy before us all the time. Genl Jacksons men were in the rear of the army so we did not get in the fight - the battle was fought by Genl Johnsons Army. I saw Bose very often. He endured the march very well. The Corps of Cadets were nearly all broken down - all were lame with sore feet. I could scarcely walk at times my feet hurt me so much.  Numbers of us threw our shoes away and walked barefoot, over some of the loftiest mountains in western Virginia I ever saw. For days we saw nothing but mountains, and often it rained hard - some nights I would lie down and in the morning I would get p with my clothes very wet. The Volunteers all say that march through Western Virginia was the hardest they have endured since the war. After we returned to Staunton we were dismissed.  Genl Jackson has gone down the valley, hope he will drive the Yankees across the Potomac.  I am anxiously awaiting the result of the great battle near Richmond.   If we defeat the Yankees, those in the valley will leave quicker than they came over - if we are defeated, the Yankees will take possession of all this part of Virginia. Then if you remain at your school you can get home -  you will then be within the Yankee lines. I saw all the boys - when I was gone - Jack is now Lieutenant in Nadenboushes company. He and Dick [D] are the only ones out of their mess who enlisted again in the company. I would like very much to get down to see you - I wanted to come down whilst I was in Staunton but could not get off. I heard Bose had gone to see you. If he had not I would have come any way. Well Kate I must close. I am both tired and sleepy. Excuse hasty and I have a miserable old pen – Love to Nannie. Goodbye\u003cbr\u003e\nYour aff. Brother\u003cbr\u003e\n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nJune 8th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy dear sister\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd a letter yesterday from Bose. Whilst Genl. Jackson was in Winchester he succeeded in getting down home. He said all were well, and everything going on right. Grandma has gotten home. She looks remarkably well. Ma and Cousin Fannie have both been to Maryland. Our darkies behaved remarkably well. None of them left. The Yankees tried to persuade them to run away, they would not go. They told Bose he need not be uneasy, they did not intend to go. Ma has let Nancy live to herself, on account of her good conduct.  Mr. Thornburg has rented our farm. So you see Katy everything seems to be going on well – hope it will be so this time. I am sorry you and Nannie could not get home. You are both much better where you are. You won't catch me going home when the Yankees are about there. The New York Herald says Genl. Jackson has been reinforced by 2000 well drilled cadets. They are slightly mistaken in the number, we were not 200 strong.  They would arrest me if I were at home. I tried to get Genl. Smith to give me a furlough when the way home was open. He told me to wait until I got a letter. I have not recd any letter - think they might have written to us at any rate. Will got a very short letter from his Pa. Said the Yankees ran by our house like dogs in full run. You had better both stay at the Institute when the session is up. Do you graduate this year? Our school will close about the first of July. I don't know what I shall do yet! I will try and get down to see you when the session closes. Ma told Bose to tell me to stay at the V. M. I. said Uncle John had given her plenty of money. So you see you had better stay at your school when it closes. Bose says his regt. was the first to enter Winchester. He captured 2 new suits of clothes, and eat so many captured sweet meats that it made him sick. He [Jess] and Sam McM. have joined a new company. They are now in Staunton. George Murphy is also there.  I suppose Cousin Fannie and Ma were rejoiced when they saw the Yankees running so fast by the house. I should have been. Grandma is delighted I know to get home. I would like to see her. You must not be uneasy about home. All depends upon the fight at Richmond. If the Yankees are whipped there they must leave the Valley. Of course they will be. Give my love to Nannie. I will write to her soon. Write me by return mail.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour brother, John.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","General","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Virginia Military Inst \nFeb 22nd 1862","My Dear Sister, \nColonel Tate has decreed that I shan't go to Lexington, today, for tis raining hard, and I am forced to stay close to barracks.  My roommate and myself had intended to pay \"our respects\" to two young \"Misses\" but have thus been foiled.  Today above all others ought to have been bright and clear, as it tis the day on which our glorious President is to be inaugurated.  All honour to him; and to our glorious young Confederacy! Which he pledges his sacred honour to maintain.  Though this 22nd is dark and gloomy; may that 22nd yet dawn which shall behold our unsullied banner floating in triumph over our Southern homes faned by the gentle zephyrs of Heaven.  I am glad to hear you are in such a high class.  I am in the 3rd Class (alias) Sophmores.  I have just commenced studying French, also.  I don't think it tis at all hard, on the other hand it is very easy.  I would rather read some some good novel, than bother my head about \"Je poole\".  Since the great disaster to our arms at Roanoke Island, and Fort Donalson, the Cadets have all tendered the services to Gov. Letcher.  I don't suppose he will except us.  We have not heard from him yet.  I wish he would accept us.  I think every one ought to be in the field.  I had no idea your school is as large, as you say.  We have three hundred here.  Tell Miss Georgiana (is that her name?) that Mr. Selden is here and a very pleasant young man.  Give my best love to Miss Georgia, complement her highly on her beautiful hand writing.  My room mates all agreed with me that she wrote a beautiful hand - would that I could write one half as good.  Tell me her name in your next.  I am bound to come down to see her, and close her from all your blushing roses, as the sweetest, the loveliest, the best.  We are going to have a grand dinner today, seventy-five turkeys to celebrate the 22nd.  We would have fired thirteen cannons this morning - but it was to wet.  Dandridge is not here. All are well at home when I last heard, they write you oftener than they do me.  Bose wrote me he was not going to enlist again, for some time.  You asked me to come up and see you Easter I wish I could.  I will not see you for two years.  I will not be allowed to go home next summer at all, unless I withdraw altogether.  Were I to stay here it would take me to years to graduate, which is a long long time.  I never cantemplate any thing of the kind now.  Times are so very uncertain, we realize now more than ever the quotation \"No man can tell what a day may bring forth\".  Well Kate I must close, write me very soon.  Love to Nannie and Misses -  \nand believe me your aff brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Ma said you were very homesick.  You should get over that.  The time will soon pass away and you will be home again.  The boys are having a splendid time in Martinsburg.  Miss Lottie and Miss Pink Bolten are up.  Jack H. and Miss Lottie are engaged cousin Fannie says.  Tom Harrison is now at home he is a Lieutenant.  We had splendid fire works here the night of the 22nd.  I never saw such beautiful ones in my life.  I am certainly sorry to hear of my class - mates death.  I think it cannot be so.  His death was certainly tragical.  He was staying at a friends house, lying on a sofa, when the husband and wife came in, and the later remarked, \"Oh, is he not handsome and bent over and kissed him.  Her husband immediately shot him.  However this may be I intend to address a letter to him. 18th Miss. Regt. Co. K. Leesburg Va. Ma complains of me not writing long letters, the same she says of you.  So you better write long letters in future.  I nevefr can think of anthing to write.  I wish the Cadets could have gone to Richmond the 22nd.  I should have liked much to have been present at the inauguration of our first President. Well Kate I have no time to spare tonight - so goodbye-  Love to all - your aff. Brother - \n John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nMarch 8th 1862","My Dear Sister. \nI rec'd a long letter this morning from Ma. She said the Federals had been in Martinsburg. They were not there when she wrote, but were daily expected over.  We having  no troops in town. The mail does not go to Martinsburg from Winchester. I don't know whether she will get my letter or not – very probably she will not. She said you and myself must not give ourselves any uneasiness about them all, at home. Ma says – she will get Aunt Liz to stay with her – and try and take care of themselves. Every one confidently expects the Hessians over.  When they came before, it was in the night. The citizens had the Court house bell rang. George Murphy and Mr. Hopkins went in a hurry to Darksville. Mr. Young came out to Uncle Williams and stayed that night.  Ma seems to have given up all hope of hearing from us soon.  Since the mail does not go to Martinsburg. She told me to direct to Winchester to be forwarded to Martinsburg. So you better do the same. Ma says she has heard the scarlet fever is at the University. She is very uneasy about you. You must write to me if you are sick, as Ma told me to go down and see you if you were sick. So write me immediately if you should be sick, which I hope you will not, notwithstanding I want to see you very much and a certain Miss --  at the Institute. I suppose you have not heard of the death of Mr. Dabney Harrison, he was killed in the battle at Fort Donalson.  He has fallen in a glorious cause, his friends should not weep. When the Federals came to Martinsburg, Aunt Susan's Polly came over with them. Two men in town arrested her, and sent word to Mr. H. who went to town, and got her, and took her in a great hurry to Winchester, where she is now in prison. I hope her capture will deter ours from running off. No doubt it was an agreeable surprise to Aunt Susan. Mr. H expects to be used roughly by the Federals for taking her out of town. He wrote me if the Yankees used him badly, he would join the army and be revenged. Well Kate I must close.  Give my love to Nannie and all other friends. Write me very often, as I am always glad to hear from you.   \nGoodbye yours aff. \nBrother (signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Ins. \nMarch 29th 1862","My Dear Sister \nI rec'd letter from Bose this morning. He was not in the bloody engagement near Winchester. He was not well enough to return to his company, is going back next week. He wrote me that none of his company were killed but heard that Arch Oden and Jack Harrison were missing. I hope this may not be so. It was only rumored. He does not know whether it is so or not. Ma, I expect is distressed to death about Bose thinking he was in the engagement and knows not but what he may have been killed. If Arch and Jack have been taken prisoner she may perhaps here better - hope she may I have heard today that Genl. Jackson (Stonewall Jackson) has been largely reinforced. Hope it may be true, and that he will be able to drive off the Invaders from the soil of Virginia. If it is true that Genl. J (Stonewall Jackson) has been reinforced no doubt we will soon be able to hear from home,  Bose seems to enjoy himself very much in Staunton  he has become acquainted with several of the Cadets who have left the Institute and gone down to Staunton but who are now unable to get home. The Cadets are resigning very fast – but new ones come in today – every day – all think they ought to be in the army – any so do I think so – but we can't get off – if we should try. So we will have to remain – and as Genl J (Stonewall Jackson) much says – be soldiers in the next army – after the present one has been killed off. Have the students left the University? We have heard so. Well Kate I must close. Write me soon. I have no news to but you. Goodbye – love to Nannie \nYour affectionate brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nApril 6th 1862","My Dear Sister \nI rec'd your letter several days ago. I would have answered it sooner but I knew you had not received my letter when you wrote – I heard from Bose yesterday. He is well – going back or rather by this time has gone back to his company – he said that Arch and Jack had reported back to their company.  I was sorry to learn that Joe McMarran was taken prisoner. He has been sent to Baltimore. I hope he will be treated kindly – his mother and sisters will be much distressed about him. I know how all in Martinsburg and how Ma feels about the boys – hope they will hear in some way that they are safe – I would not be surprised if Grand Ma has gotten home. Communication is of course open between Maryland, and that part of the valley now subject to the Yankee despotism. [?] Delaplane has been over to see them at home I suppose - he would come, if none of Uncle Johns family did.  I am sorry to see you are dissatisfied and long to be home. It is of course natural that you should feel in that way since you are deprived of hearing from home - don't despair, it may be a long time, before you can see home again - and it may be a short time - none can tell but I hope when we do hear, all will be right. Bose told me in his letter,  that his time in the army would be up - the eighteenth of April. He is coming to see me - on his way down to Capt Pelhorns company - I wouldn't stop much to go down with him - I went yesterday with several boys to explore a cave about 2 miles from the Institute. We went several hundred feet under the ground past through some of the most perfect rooms I ever saw. I believe no one has ever gone to the bottom of it - several boys have gone over today to go farther down in it than we went yesterday - Will H among the number - Well Kate I must close - Goodbye  Love to Nannie - write soon \nYour aff. Brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nApril 29th 1862","Dear Sister \nI have just read your letter and now will answer it. Since I last wrote to you we have been constantly under a great state of excitement. Last Sunday the news came that the Yankees were about entering Staunton. Academic duties were suspended and our time was devoted to three drills a day – preparing ourselves to meet the invader, should he attempt to drive us away from the V.M.I. Genl Smith told us he intended to lead us out to meet them, if they came a thousand strong. He had provisions cooked for us as to take with us on our way to Lynchburg or Richmond if they came in too large a force for us to meet them. I assure you I was very sorry when I heard they were not coming to Staunton. Genl Smith wrote to Genl Jackson tendering him our services. Genl Jackson replied, that he would keep us as a reserve body.  That we could be of immense service to him and that he would call upon us when he wanted us – that we must keep ourselves constantly in readiness.  I do hope he will call upon us. It will be the proudest day of my life when we receive marching orders to defend our own homes against the invader.  I am not content to stay here, when the Old Dominion – The Mother of Statesmen and heroes is calling so loudly upon her sons to rally to her defense – when this bloody war is over. What a pleasure it will be to every son of Virginia to know that he was so manly and brave as to lay his life upon his countrys altar. Don't be surprised if you should see me in Charlottesville some of these pretty days. I am now waiting to hear from Bose, for permission to resign. Genl  S. will not accept my resignation without permission. Why are you so homesick – cheer up. It will not be long before you can get home.  If the great battle at Yorktown is fought – the Yankees will leave the valley quicker than they came into it!  Genl S told me yesterday they were falling back toward the Potomac – hope it is true. Genl Jackson (Stonewall Jackson) is not at Gordonsville he is in the neighbourhood of Harrisonburg – near the blue ridge. You are I suppose were very much excited when the cannon was sent back to Charlottesville. All were we could not study. Prof. told us they did not expect us to study. The young ladies at the Institute in Staunton came back to Lexington. Six stages loaded with passengers came from Staunton that Sunday evening. Should the Yankees get possession of Charlottesville, do what Miss L thinks best. As for myself I will go immediately to the army. When I wrote to you I could have gotten home by the counties I mentioned but I can't now. They are occupied by the Yankees .  Well Kate I must close   write to me often – I am always glad to hear from you. Love to Nannie. Goodbye \nYour affectionate brother \n(signed)  J. B. Snodgrass ","Va. Mil. Institute \nMay 1st 1862","Dear Kate \nThe Corps of Cadets leave the Institute this morning to go to Staunton t reinforce Genl. Jackson. All of us are in fine spirits – anxious to get a shot at the enemy. I will mail this letter in Staunton. Goodbye. Don't be uneasy about me. I hope you may soon hear the enemy are leaving the valley.\nGoodbye\nYour. Aff. Brother \nJohn B. Snodgrass C. S. A. \nCo. D. Corps Cadets","Virginia Military Institute \nMay 18th 1862","Dear Kate \nWe returned to the V.M.I. yesterday after one of the most toilsome marches of 10 days ever endured by an army. After we left Staunton our hardships began. We marched every day without even a days rest for ten or twelve days always averaging 18 miles and often 20 and 25. One day the day of the battle at McDowell we marched forty miles -  marching from early in the morning until 2 or 3 in the night. We drove the enemy before us all the time. Genl Jacksons men were in the rear of the army so we did not get in the fight - the battle was fought by Genl Johnsons Army. I saw Bose very often. He endured the march very well. The Corps of Cadets were nearly all broken down - all were lame with sore feet. I could scarcely walk at times my feet hurt me so much.  Numbers of us threw our shoes away and walked barefoot, over some of the loftiest mountains in western Virginia I ever saw. For days we saw nothing but mountains, and often it rained hard - some nights I would lie down and in the morning I would get p with my clothes very wet. The Volunteers all say that march through Western Virginia was the hardest they have endured since the war. After we returned to Staunton we were dismissed.  Genl Jackson has gone down the valley, hope he will drive the Yankees across the Potomac.  I am anxiously awaiting the result of the great battle near Richmond.   If we defeat the Yankees, those in the valley will leave quicker than they came over - if we are defeated, the Yankees will take possession of all this part of Virginia. Then if you remain at your school you can get home -  you will then be within the Yankee lines. I saw all the boys - when I was gone - Jack is now Lieutenant in Nadenboushes company. He and Dick [D] are the only ones out of their mess who enlisted again in the company. I would like very much to get down to see you - I wanted to come down whilst I was in Staunton but could not get off. I heard Bose had gone to see you. If he had not I would have come any way. Well Kate I must close. I am both tired and sleepy. Excuse hasty and I have a miserable old pen – Love to Nannie. Goodbye \nYour aff. Brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nJune 8th 1862","My dear sister \nI recd a letter yesterday from Bose. Whilst Genl. Jackson was in Winchester he succeeded in getting down home. He said all were well, and everything going on right. Grandma has gotten home. She looks remarkably well. Ma and Cousin Fannie have both been to Maryland. Our darkies behaved remarkably well. None of them left. The Yankees tried to persuade them to run away, they would not go. They told Bose he need not be uneasy, they did not intend to go. Ma has let Nancy live to herself, on account of her good conduct.  Mr. Thornburg has rented our farm. So you see Katy everything seems to be going on well – hope it will be so this time. I am sorry you and Nannie could not get home. You are both much better where you are. You won't catch me going home when the Yankees are about there. The New York Herald says Genl. Jackson has been reinforced by 2000 well drilled cadets. They are slightly mistaken in the number, we were not 200 strong.  They would arrest me if I were at home. I tried to get Genl. Smith to give me a furlough when the way home was open. He told me to wait until I got a letter. I have not recd any letter - think they might have written to us at any rate. Will got a very short letter from his Pa. Said the Yankees ran by our house like dogs in full run. You had better both stay at the Institute when the session is up. Do you graduate this year? Our school will close about the first of July. I don't know what I shall do yet! I will try and get down to see you when the session closes. Ma told Bose to tell me to stay at the V. M. I. said Uncle John had given her plenty of money. So you see you had better stay at your school when it closes. Bose says his regt. was the first to enter Winchester. He captured 2 new suits of clothes, and eat so many captured sweet meats that it made him sick. He [Jess] and Sam McM. have joined a new company. They are now in Staunton. George Murphy is also there.  I suppose Cousin Fannie and Ma were rejoiced when they saw the Yankees running so fast by the house. I should have been. Grandma is delighted I know to get home. I would like to see her. You must not be uneasy about home. All depends upon the fight at Richmond. If the Yankees are whipped there they must leave the Valley. Of course they will be. Give my love to Nannie. I will write to her soon. Write me by return mail. \nYour brother, John."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn B. Snodgrass letters, 1862. MS 0072. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["John B. Snodgrass letters, 1862. MS 0072. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of eight letters and one letter fragment from Cadet John B. Snodgrass to his sister Katherine (Kate) Snodgrass-Boyd. All letters are dated 1862 and written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. The primary topic is the Civil War and its effect on the Snodgrass family, with occasional references to VMI. Multiple letters (see April 19, May 1, May 18) mention that Corps of Cadets has been ordered to aid General Stonewall Jackson because he is \"anxious to get a shot at the enemy.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards poor weather, the inaguration of Confederate president Jefferson Davis, French studies, and family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters, the death of a classmate, and the desire to have been at Jefferson Davis' inaguration.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters and news of the Federals being in Martinsburg, West Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the desire for the cadets to fight in the Civil War and family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters and a trip with other cadets to explore a cave outside of Lexington.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet preparations for war after the news \"came that the Yankees were about entering Staunton\" (Virginia). The letter also mentions that General Stonewall Jackson is \"keeping us [VMI cadets] as a reserve body\" and that John B. Snodgrass is actively working to resign from VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the Corps of Cadets leaving VMI to go to Staunton, Virginia to reinforce General Stonewall Jackson.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards war activities in Staunton, Virginia, the march back to VMI, and general news about the war.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general news about the war and family matters.\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"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of eight letters and one letter fragment from Cadet John B. Snodgrass to his sister Katherine (Kate) Snodgrass-Boyd. All letters are dated 1862 and written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. The primary topic is the Civil War and its effect on the Snodgrass family, with occasional references to VMI. Multiple letters (see April 19, May 1, May 18) mention that Corps of Cadets has been ordered to aid General Stonewall Jackson because he is \"anxious to get a shot at the enemy.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards poor weather, the inaguration of Confederate president Jefferson Davis, French studies, and family matters.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters, the death of a classmate, and the desire to have been at Jefferson Davis' inaguration.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters and news of the Federals being in Martinsburg, West Virginia.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the desire for the cadets to fight in the Civil War and family matters.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters and a trip with other cadets to explore a cave outside of Lexington.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet preparations for war after the news \"came that the Yankees were about entering Staunton\" (Virginia). The letter also mentions that General Stonewall Jackson is \"keeping us [VMI cadets] as a reserve body\" and that John B. Snodgrass is actively working to resign from VMI.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the Corps of Cadets leaving VMI to go to Staunton, Virginia to reinforce General Stonewall Jackson.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards war activities in Staunton, Virginia, the march back to VMI, and general news about the war.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general news about the war and family matters."],"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_cdf6e8e8607cb3a6eb303bde6b4ed848\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Snodgrass family","Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Davis, Jefferson, 1808-1889","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Snodgrass family","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"famname_ssim":["Snodgrass family"],"persname_ssim":["Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Davis, Jefferson, 1808-1889","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":10,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:10:02.995Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_156","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_156","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_156","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_156","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_156.xml","title_ssm":["John B. Snodgrass letters"],"title_tesim":["John B. Snodgrass letters"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1862"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0072","/repositories/3/resources/156"],"text":["MS.0072","/repositories/3/resources/156","John B. Snodgrass letters","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Slavery","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Home life","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","John B. Snodgrass letters are avaliable  online .","John Breathed Snodgrass was born in 1843 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He is a non-graduate, VMI class of 1864. He later became a physician. Snodgrass died in 1908 in Martinsburg, West Virginia.","Virginia Military Inst \nFeb 22nd 1862","My Dear Sister, \nColonel Tate has decreed that I shan't go to Lexington, today, for tis raining hard, and I am forced to stay close to barracks.  My roommate and myself had intended to pay \"our respects\" to two young \"Misses\" but have thus been foiled.  Today above all others ought to have been bright and clear, as it tis the day on which our glorious President is to be inaugurated.  All honour to him; and to our glorious young Confederacy! Which he pledges his sacred honour to maintain.  Though this 22nd is dark and gloomy; may that 22nd yet dawn which shall behold our unsullied banner floating in triumph over our Southern homes faned by the gentle zephyrs of Heaven.  I am glad to hear you are in such a high class.  I am in the 3rd Class (alias) Sophmores.  I have just commenced studying French, also.  I don't think it tis at all hard, on the other hand it is very easy.  I would rather read some some good novel, than bother my head about \"Je poole\".  Since the great disaster to our arms at Roanoke Island, and Fort Donalson, the Cadets have all tendered the services to Gov. Letcher.  I don't suppose he will except us.  We have not heard from him yet.  I wish he would accept us.  I think every one ought to be in the field.  I had no idea your school is as large, as you say.  We have three hundred here.  Tell Miss Georgiana (is that her name?) that Mr. Selden is here and a very pleasant young man.  Give my best love to Miss Georgia, complement her highly on her beautiful hand writing.  My room mates all agreed with me that she wrote a beautiful hand - would that I could write one half as good.  Tell me her name in your next.  I am bound to come down to see her, and close her from all your blushing roses, as the sweetest, the loveliest, the best.  We are going to have a grand dinner today, seventy-five turkeys to celebrate the 22nd.  We would have fired thirteen cannons this morning - but it was to wet.  Dandridge is not here. All are well at home when I last heard, they write you oftener than they do me.  Bose wrote me he was not going to enlist again, for some time.  You asked me to come up and see you Easter I wish I could.  I will not see you for two years.  I will not be allowed to go home next summer at all, unless I withdraw altogether.  Were I to stay here it would take me to years to graduate, which is a long long time.  I never cantemplate any thing of the kind now.  Times are so very uncertain, we realize now more than ever the quotation \"No man can tell what a day may bring forth\".  Well Kate I must close, write me very soon.  Love to Nannie and Misses -  \nand believe me your aff brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Ma said you were very homesick.  You should get over that.  The time will soon pass away and you will be home again.  The boys are having a splendid time in Martinsburg.  Miss Lottie and Miss Pink Bolten are up.  Jack H. and Miss Lottie are engaged cousin Fannie says.  Tom Harrison is now at home he is a Lieutenant.  We had splendid fire works here the night of the 22nd.  I never saw such beautiful ones in my life.  I am certainly sorry to hear of my class - mates death.  I think it cannot be so.  His death was certainly tragical.  He was staying at a friends house, lying on a sofa, when the husband and wife came in, and the later remarked, \"Oh, is he not handsome and bent over and kissed him.  Her husband immediately shot him.  However this may be I intend to address a letter to him. 18th Miss. Regt. Co. K. Leesburg Va. Ma complains of me not writing long letters, the same she says of you.  So you better write long letters in future.  I nevefr can think of anthing to write.  I wish the Cadets could have gone to Richmond the 22nd.  I should have liked much to have been present at the inauguration of our first President. Well Kate I have no time to spare tonight - so goodbye-  Love to all - your aff. Brother - \n John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nMarch 8th 1862","My Dear Sister. \nI rec'd a long letter this morning from Ma. She said the Federals had been in Martinsburg. They were not there when she wrote, but were daily expected over.  We having  no troops in town. The mail does not go to Martinsburg from Winchester. I don't know whether she will get my letter or not – very probably she will not. She said you and myself must not give ourselves any uneasiness about them all, at home. Ma says – she will get Aunt Liz to stay with her – and try and take care of themselves. Every one confidently expects the Hessians over.  When they came before, it was in the night. The citizens had the Court house bell rang. George Murphy and Mr. Hopkins went in a hurry to Darksville. Mr. Young came out to Uncle Williams and stayed that night.  Ma seems to have given up all hope of hearing from us soon.  Since the mail does not go to Martinsburg. She told me to direct to Winchester to be forwarded to Martinsburg. So you better do the same. Ma says she has heard the scarlet fever is at the University. She is very uneasy about you. You must write to me if you are sick, as Ma told me to go down and see you if you were sick. So write me immediately if you should be sick, which I hope you will not, notwithstanding I want to see you very much and a certain Miss --  at the Institute. I suppose you have not heard of the death of Mr. Dabney Harrison, he was killed in the battle at Fort Donalson.  He has fallen in a glorious cause, his friends should not weep. When the Federals came to Martinsburg, Aunt Susan's Polly came over with them. Two men in town arrested her, and sent word to Mr. H. who went to town, and got her, and took her in a great hurry to Winchester, where she is now in prison. I hope her capture will deter ours from running off. No doubt it was an agreeable surprise to Aunt Susan. Mr. H expects to be used roughly by the Federals for taking her out of town. He wrote me if the Yankees used him badly, he would join the army and be revenged. Well Kate I must close.  Give my love to Nannie and all other friends. Write me very often, as I am always glad to hear from you.   \nGoodbye yours aff. \nBrother (signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Ins. \nMarch 29th 1862","My Dear Sister \nI rec'd letter from Bose this morning. He was not in the bloody engagement near Winchester. He was not well enough to return to his company, is going back next week. He wrote me that none of his company were killed but heard that Arch Oden and Jack Harrison were missing. I hope this may not be so. It was only rumored. He does not know whether it is so or not. Ma, I expect is distressed to death about Bose thinking he was in the engagement and knows not but what he may have been killed. If Arch and Jack have been taken prisoner she may perhaps here better - hope she may I have heard today that Genl. Jackson (Stonewall Jackson) has been largely reinforced. Hope it may be true, and that he will be able to drive off the Invaders from the soil of Virginia. If it is true that Genl. J (Stonewall Jackson) has been reinforced no doubt we will soon be able to hear from home,  Bose seems to enjoy himself very much in Staunton  he has become acquainted with several of the Cadets who have left the Institute and gone down to Staunton but who are now unable to get home. The Cadets are resigning very fast – but new ones come in today – every day – all think they ought to be in the army – any so do I think so – but we can't get off – if we should try. So we will have to remain – and as Genl J (Stonewall Jackson) much says – be soldiers in the next army – after the present one has been killed off. Have the students left the University? We have heard so. Well Kate I must close. Write me soon. I have no news to but you. Goodbye – love to Nannie \nYour affectionate brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nApril 6th 1862","My Dear Sister \nI rec'd your letter several days ago. I would have answered it sooner but I knew you had not received my letter when you wrote – I heard from Bose yesterday. He is well – going back or rather by this time has gone back to his company – he said that Arch and Jack had reported back to their company.  I was sorry to learn that Joe McMarran was taken prisoner. He has been sent to Baltimore. I hope he will be treated kindly – his mother and sisters will be much distressed about him. I know how all in Martinsburg and how Ma feels about the boys – hope they will hear in some way that they are safe – I would not be surprised if Grand Ma has gotten home. Communication is of course open between Maryland, and that part of the valley now subject to the Yankee despotism. [?] Delaplane has been over to see them at home I suppose - he would come, if none of Uncle Johns family did.  I am sorry to see you are dissatisfied and long to be home. It is of course natural that you should feel in that way since you are deprived of hearing from home - don't despair, it may be a long time, before you can see home again - and it may be a short time - none can tell but I hope when we do hear, all will be right. Bose told me in his letter,  that his time in the army would be up - the eighteenth of April. He is coming to see me - on his way down to Capt Pelhorns company - I wouldn't stop much to go down with him - I went yesterday with several boys to explore a cave about 2 miles from the Institute. We went several hundred feet under the ground past through some of the most perfect rooms I ever saw. I believe no one has ever gone to the bottom of it - several boys have gone over today to go farther down in it than we went yesterday - Will H among the number - Well Kate I must close - Goodbye  Love to Nannie - write soon \nYour aff. Brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nApril 29th 1862","Dear Sister \nI have just read your letter and now will answer it. Since I last wrote to you we have been constantly under a great state of excitement. Last Sunday the news came that the Yankees were about entering Staunton. Academic duties were suspended and our time was devoted to three drills a day – preparing ourselves to meet the invader, should he attempt to drive us away from the V.M.I. Genl Smith told us he intended to lead us out to meet them, if they came a thousand strong. He had provisions cooked for us as to take with us on our way to Lynchburg or Richmond if they came in too large a force for us to meet them. I assure you I was very sorry when I heard they were not coming to Staunton. Genl Smith wrote to Genl Jackson tendering him our services. Genl Jackson replied, that he would keep us as a reserve body.  That we could be of immense service to him and that he would call upon us when he wanted us – that we must keep ourselves constantly in readiness.  I do hope he will call upon us. It will be the proudest day of my life when we receive marching orders to defend our own homes against the invader.  I am not content to stay here, when the Old Dominion – The Mother of Statesmen and heroes is calling so loudly upon her sons to rally to her defense – when this bloody war is over. What a pleasure it will be to every son of Virginia to know that he was so manly and brave as to lay his life upon his countrys altar. Don't be surprised if you should see me in Charlottesville some of these pretty days. I am now waiting to hear from Bose, for permission to resign. Genl  S. will not accept my resignation without permission. Why are you so homesick – cheer up. It will not be long before you can get home.  If the great battle at Yorktown is fought – the Yankees will leave the valley quicker than they came into it!  Genl S told me yesterday they were falling back toward the Potomac – hope it is true. Genl Jackson (Stonewall Jackson) is not at Gordonsville he is in the neighbourhood of Harrisonburg – near the blue ridge. You are I suppose were very much excited when the cannon was sent back to Charlottesville. All were we could not study. Prof. told us they did not expect us to study. The young ladies at the Institute in Staunton came back to Lexington. Six stages loaded with passengers came from Staunton that Sunday evening. Should the Yankees get possession of Charlottesville, do what Miss L thinks best. As for myself I will go immediately to the army. When I wrote to you I could have gotten home by the counties I mentioned but I can't now. They are occupied by the Yankees .  Well Kate I must close   write to me often – I am always glad to hear from you. Love to Nannie. Goodbye \nYour affectionate brother \n(signed)  J. B. Snodgrass ","Va. Mil. Institute \nMay 1st 1862","Dear Kate \nThe Corps of Cadets leave the Institute this morning to go to Staunton t reinforce Genl. Jackson. All of us are in fine spirits – anxious to get a shot at the enemy. I will mail this letter in Staunton. Goodbye. Don't be uneasy about me. I hope you may soon hear the enemy are leaving the valley.\nGoodbye\nYour. Aff. Brother \nJohn B. Snodgrass C. S. A. \nCo. D. Corps Cadets","Virginia Military Institute \nMay 18th 1862","Dear Kate \nWe returned to the V.M.I. yesterday after one of the most toilsome marches of 10 days ever endured by an army. After we left Staunton our hardships began. We marched every day without even a days rest for ten or twelve days always averaging 18 miles and often 20 and 25. One day the day of the battle at McDowell we marched forty miles -  marching from early in the morning until 2 or 3 in the night. We drove the enemy before us all the time. Genl Jacksons men were in the rear of the army so we did not get in the fight - the battle was fought by Genl Johnsons Army. I saw Bose very often. He endured the march very well. The Corps of Cadets were nearly all broken down - all were lame with sore feet. I could scarcely walk at times my feet hurt me so much.  Numbers of us threw our shoes away and walked barefoot, over some of the loftiest mountains in western Virginia I ever saw. For days we saw nothing but mountains, and often it rained hard - some nights I would lie down and in the morning I would get p with my clothes very wet. The Volunteers all say that march through Western Virginia was the hardest they have endured since the war. After we returned to Staunton we were dismissed.  Genl Jackson has gone down the valley, hope he will drive the Yankees across the Potomac.  I am anxiously awaiting the result of the great battle near Richmond.   If we defeat the Yankees, those in the valley will leave quicker than they came over - if we are defeated, the Yankees will take possession of all this part of Virginia. Then if you remain at your school you can get home -  you will then be within the Yankee lines. I saw all the boys - when I was gone - Jack is now Lieutenant in Nadenboushes company. He and Dick [D] are the only ones out of their mess who enlisted again in the company. I would like very much to get down to see you - I wanted to come down whilst I was in Staunton but could not get off. I heard Bose had gone to see you. If he had not I would have come any way. Well Kate I must close. I am both tired and sleepy. Excuse hasty and I have a miserable old pen – Love to Nannie. Goodbye \nYour aff. Brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nJune 8th 1862","My dear sister \nI recd a letter yesterday from Bose. Whilst Genl. Jackson was in Winchester he succeeded in getting down home. He said all were well, and everything going on right. Grandma has gotten home. She looks remarkably well. Ma and Cousin Fannie have both been to Maryland. Our darkies behaved remarkably well. None of them left. The Yankees tried to persuade them to run away, they would not go. They told Bose he need not be uneasy, they did not intend to go. Ma has let Nancy live to herself, on account of her good conduct.  Mr. Thornburg has rented our farm. So you see Katy everything seems to be going on well – hope it will be so this time. I am sorry you and Nannie could not get home. You are both much better where you are. You won't catch me going home when the Yankees are about there. The New York Herald says Genl. Jackson has been reinforced by 2000 well drilled cadets. They are slightly mistaken in the number, we were not 200 strong.  They would arrest me if I were at home. I tried to get Genl. Smith to give me a furlough when the way home was open. He told me to wait until I got a letter. I have not recd any letter - think they might have written to us at any rate. Will got a very short letter from his Pa. Said the Yankees ran by our house like dogs in full run. You had better both stay at the Institute when the session is up. Do you graduate this year? Our school will close about the first of July. I don't know what I shall do yet! I will try and get down to see you when the session closes. Ma told Bose to tell me to stay at the V. M. I. said Uncle John had given her plenty of money. So you see you had better stay at your school when it closes. Bose says his regt. was the first to enter Winchester. He captured 2 new suits of clothes, and eat so many captured sweet meats that it made him sick. He [Jess] and Sam McM. have joined a new company. They are now in Staunton. George Murphy is also there.  I suppose Cousin Fannie and Ma were rejoiced when they saw the Yankees running so fast by the house. I should have been. Grandma is delighted I know to get home. I would like to see her. You must not be uneasy about home. All depends upon the fight at Richmond. If the Yankees are whipped there they must leave the Valley. Of course they will be. Give my love to Nannie. I will write to her soon. Write me by return mail. \nYour brother, John.","This collection consists of eight letters and one letter fragment from Cadet John B. Snodgrass to his sister Katherine (Kate) Snodgrass-Boyd. All letters are dated 1862 and written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. The primary topic is the Civil War and its effect on the Snodgrass family, with occasional references to VMI. Multiple letters (see April 19, May 1, May 18) mention that Corps of Cadets has been ordered to aid General Stonewall Jackson because he is \"anxious to get a shot at the enemy.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards poor weather, the inaguration of Confederate president Jefferson Davis, French studies, and family matters.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters, the death of a classmate, and the desire to have been at Jefferson Davis' inaguration.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters and news of the Federals being in Martinsburg, West Virginia.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the desire for the cadets to fight in the Civil War and family matters.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters and a trip with other cadets to explore a cave outside of Lexington.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet preparations for war after the news \"came that the Yankees were about entering Staunton\" (Virginia). The letter also mentions that General Stonewall Jackson is \"keeping us [VMI cadets] as a reserve body\" and that John B. Snodgrass is actively working to resign from VMI.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the Corps of Cadets leaving VMI to go to Staunton, Virginia to reinforce General Stonewall Jackson.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards war activities in Staunton, Virginia, the march back to VMI, and general news about the war.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general news about the war and family matters.","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","Snodgrass family","Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Davis, Jefferson, 1808-1889","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0072","/repositories/3/resources/156"],"normalized_title_ssm":["John B. Snodgrass letters"],"collection_title_tesim":["John B. Snodgrass letters"],"collection_ssim":["John B. Snodgrass letters"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908"],"creator_ssim":["Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908"],"creators_ssim":["Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908"],"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—Civil War, 1861-1865","Slavery","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Home life","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Slavery","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Home life","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["9 items"],"extent_tesim":["9 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn B. Snodgrass letters are avaliable \u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/1416\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["John B. Snodgrass letters are avaliable  online ."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn Breathed Snodgrass was born in 1843 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He is a non-graduate, VMI class of 1864. He later became a physician. Snodgrass died in 1908 in Martinsburg, West Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["John Breathed Snodgrass was born in 1843 in Berkeley County, West Virginia. He is a non-graduate, VMI class of 1864. He later became a physician. Snodgrass died in 1908 in Martinsburg, West Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Inst\u003cbr\u003e\nFeb 22nd 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister,\u003cbr\u003e\nColonel Tate has decreed that I shan't go to Lexington, today, for tis raining hard, and I am forced to stay close to barracks.  My roommate and myself had intended to pay \"our respects\" to two young \"Misses\" but have thus been foiled.  Today above all others ought to have been bright and clear, as it tis the day on which our glorious President is to be inaugurated.  All honour to him; and to our glorious young Confederacy! Which he pledges his sacred honour to maintain.  Though this 22nd is dark and gloomy; may that 22nd yet dawn which shall behold our unsullied banner floating in triumph over our Southern homes faned by the gentle zephyrs of Heaven.  I am glad to hear you are in such a high class.  I am in the 3rd Class (alias) Sophmores.  I have just commenced studying French, also.  I don't think it tis at all hard, on the other hand it is very easy.  I would rather read some some good novel, than bother my head about \"Je poole\".  Since the great disaster to our arms at Roanoke Island, and Fort Donalson, the Cadets have all tendered the services to Gov. Letcher.  I don't suppose he will except us.  We have not heard from him yet.  I wish he would accept us.  I think every one ought to be in the field.  I had no idea your school is as large, as you say.  We have three hundred here.  Tell Miss Georgiana (is that her name?) that Mr. Selden is here and a very pleasant young man.  Give my best love to Miss Georgia, complement her highly on her beautiful hand writing.  My room mates all agreed with me that she wrote a beautiful hand - would that I could write one half as good.  Tell me her name in your next.  I am bound to come down to see her, and close her from all your blushing roses, as the sweetest, the loveliest, the best.  We are going to have a grand dinner today, seventy-five turkeys to celebrate the 22nd.  We would have fired thirteen cannons this morning - but it was to wet.  Dandridge is not here. All are well at home when I last heard, they write you oftener than they do me.  Bose wrote me he was not going to enlist again, for some time.  You asked me to come up and see you Easter I wish I could.  I will not see you for two years.  I will not be allowed to go home next summer at all, unless I withdraw altogether.  Were I to stay here it would take me to years to graduate, which is a long long time.  I never cantemplate any thing of the kind now.  Times are so very uncertain, we realize now more than ever the quotation \"No man can tell what a day may bring forth\".  Well Kate I must close, write me very soon.  Love to Nannie and Misses -\u003cbr\u003e \nand believe me your aff brother\u003cbr\u003e\n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMa said you were very homesick.  You should get over that.  The time will soon pass away and you will be home again.  The boys are having a splendid time in Martinsburg.  Miss Lottie and Miss Pink Bolten are up.  Jack H. and Miss Lottie are engaged cousin Fannie says.  Tom Harrison is now at home he is a Lieutenant.  We had splendid fire works here the night of the 22nd.  I never saw such beautiful ones in my life.  I am certainly sorry to hear of my class - mates death.  I think it cannot be so.  His death was certainly tragical.  He was staying at a friends house, lying on a sofa, when the husband and wife came in, and the later remarked, \"Oh, is he not handsome and bent over and kissed him.  Her husband immediately shot him.  However this may be I intend to address a letter to him. 18th Miss. Regt. Co. K. Leesburg Va. Ma complains of me not writing long letters, the same she says of you.  So you better write long letters in future.  I nevefr can think of anthing to write.  I wish the Cadets could have gone to Richmond the 22nd.  I should have liked much to have been present at the inauguration of our first President. Well Kate I have no time to spare tonight - so goodbye-\u003cbr\u003e Love to all - your aff. Brother -\u003cbr\u003e\n John B. Snodgrass\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 8th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister.\u003cbr\u003e\nI rec'd a long letter this morning from Ma. She said the Federals had been in Martinsburg. They were not there when she wrote, but were daily expected over.  We having  no troops in town. The mail does not go to Martinsburg from Winchester. I don't know whether she will get my letter or not – very probably she will not. She said you and myself must not give ourselves any uneasiness about them all, at home. Ma says – she will get Aunt Liz to stay with her – and try and take care of themselves. Every one confidently expects the Hessians over.  When they came before, it was in the night. The citizens had the Court house bell rang. George Murphy and Mr. Hopkins went in a hurry to Darksville. Mr. Young came out to Uncle Williams and stayed that night.  Ma seems to have given up all hope of hearing from us soon.  Since the mail does not go to Martinsburg. She told me to direct to Winchester to be forwarded to Martinsburg. So you better do the same. Ma says she has heard the scarlet fever is at the University. She is very uneasy about you. You must write to me if you are sick, as Ma told me to go down and see you if you were sick. So write me immediately if you should be sick, which I hope you will not, notwithstanding I want to see you very much and a certain Miss --  at the Institute. I suppose you have not heard of the death of Mr. Dabney Harrison, he was killed in the battle at Fort Donalson.  He has fallen in a glorious cause, his friends should not weep. When the Federals came to Martinsburg, Aunt Susan's Polly came over with them. Two men in town arrested her, and sent word to Mr. H. who went to town, and got her, and took her in a great hurry to Winchester, where she is now in prison. I hope her capture will deter ours from running off. No doubt it was an agreeable surprise to Aunt Susan. Mr. H expects to be used roughly by the Federals for taking her out of town. He wrote me if the Yankees used him badly, he would join the army and be revenged. Well Kate I must close.  Give my love to Nannie and all other friends. Write me very often, as I am always glad to hear from you.\u003cbr\u003e  \nGoodbye yours aff.\u003cbr\u003e\nBrother (signed)  John B. Snodgrass\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Ins.\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 29th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nI rec'd letter from Bose this morning. He was not in the bloody engagement near Winchester. He was not well enough to return to his company, is going back next week. He wrote me that none of his company were killed but heard that Arch Oden and Jack Harrison were missing. I hope this may not be so. It was only rumored. He does not know whether it is so or not. Ma, I expect is distressed to death about Bose thinking he was in the engagement and knows not but what he may have been killed. If Arch and Jack have been taken prisoner she may perhaps here better - hope she may I have heard today that Genl. Jackson (Stonewall Jackson) has been largely reinforced. Hope it may be true, and that he will be able to drive off the Invaders from the soil of Virginia. If it is true that Genl. J (Stonewall Jackson) has been reinforced no doubt we will soon be able to hear from home,  Bose seems to enjoy himself very much in Staunton  he has become acquainted with several of the Cadets who have left the Institute and gone down to Staunton but who are now unable to get home. The Cadets are resigning very fast – but new ones come in today – every day – all think they ought to be in the army – any so do I think so – but we can't get off – if we should try. So we will have to remain – and as Genl J (Stonewall Jackson) much says – be soldiers in the next army – after the present one has been killed off. Have the students left the University? We have heard so. Well Kate I must close. Write me soon. I have no news to but you. Goodbye – love to Nannie\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate brother\u003cbr\u003e\n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nApril 6th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nI rec'd your letter several days ago. I would have answered it sooner but I knew you had not received my letter when you wrote – I heard from Bose yesterday. He is well – going back or rather by this time has gone back to his company – he said that Arch and Jack had reported back to their company.  I was sorry to learn that Joe McMarran was taken prisoner. He has been sent to Baltimore. I hope he will be treated kindly – his mother and sisters will be much distressed about him. I know how all in Martinsburg and how Ma feels about the boys – hope they will hear in some way that they are safe – I would not be surprised if Grand Ma has gotten home. Communication is of course open between Maryland, and that part of the valley now subject to the Yankee despotism. [?] Delaplane has been over to see them at home I suppose - he would come, if none of Uncle Johns family did.  I am sorry to see you are dissatisfied and long to be home. It is of course natural that you should feel in that way since you are deprived of hearing from home - don't despair, it may be a long time, before you can see home again - and it may be a short time - none can tell but I hope when we do hear, all will be right. Bose told me in his letter,  that his time in the army would be up - the eighteenth of April. He is coming to see me - on his way down to Capt Pelhorns company - I wouldn't stop much to go down with him - I went yesterday with several boys to explore a cave about 2 miles from the Institute. We went several hundred feet under the ground past through some of the most perfect rooms I ever saw. I believe no one has ever gone to the bottom of it - several boys have gone over today to go farther down in it than we went yesterday - Will H among the number - Well Kate I must close - Goodbye  Love to Nannie - write soon\u003cbr\u003e\nYour aff. Brother\u003cbr\u003e\n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nApril 29th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Sister\u003cbr\u003e\nI have just read your letter and now will answer it. Since I last wrote to you we have been constantly under a great state of excitement. Last Sunday the news came that the Yankees were about entering Staunton. Academic duties were suspended and our time was devoted to three drills a day – preparing ourselves to meet the invader, should he attempt to drive us away from the V.M.I. Genl Smith told us he intended to lead us out to meet them, if they came a thousand strong. He had provisions cooked for us as to take with us on our way to Lynchburg or Richmond if they came in too large a force for us to meet them. I assure you I was very sorry when I heard they were not coming to Staunton. Genl Smith wrote to Genl Jackson tendering him our services. Genl Jackson replied, that he would keep us as a reserve body.  That we could be of immense service to him and that he would call upon us when he wanted us – that we must keep ourselves constantly in readiness.  I do hope he will call upon us. It will be the proudest day of my life when we receive marching orders to defend our own homes against the invader.  I am not content to stay here, when the Old Dominion – The Mother of Statesmen and heroes is calling so loudly upon her sons to rally to her defense – when this bloody war is over. What a pleasure it will be to every son of Virginia to know that he was so manly and brave as to lay his life upon his countrys altar. Don't be surprised if you should see me in Charlottesville some of these pretty days. I am now waiting to hear from Bose, for permission to resign. Genl  S. will not accept my resignation without permission. Why are you so homesick – cheer up. It will not be long before you can get home.  If the great battle at Yorktown is fought – the Yankees will leave the valley quicker than they came into it!  Genl S told me yesterday they were falling back toward the Potomac – hope it is true. Genl Jackson (Stonewall Jackson) is not at Gordonsville he is in the neighbourhood of Harrisonburg – near the blue ridge. You are I suppose were very much excited when the cannon was sent back to Charlottesville. All were we could not study. Prof. told us they did not expect us to study. The young ladies at the Institute in Staunton came back to Lexington. Six stages loaded with passengers came from Staunton that Sunday evening. Should the Yankees get possession of Charlottesville, do what Miss L thinks best. As for myself I will go immediately to the army. When I wrote to you I could have gotten home by the counties I mentioned but I can't now. They are occupied by the Yankees .  Well Kate I must close   write to me often – I am always glad to hear from you. Love to Nannie. Goodbye\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate brother\u003cbr\u003e\n(signed)  J. B. Snodgrass \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVa. Mil. Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 1st 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Kate\u003cbr\u003e\nThe Corps of Cadets leave the Institute this morning to go to Staunton t reinforce Genl. Jackson. All of us are in fine spirits – anxious to get a shot at the enemy. I will mail this letter in Staunton. Goodbye. Don't be uneasy about me. I hope you may soon hear the enemy are leaving the valley.\nGoodbye\nYour. Aff. Brother\u003cbr\u003e\nJohn B. Snodgrass C. S. A.\u003cbr\u003e\nCo. D. Corps Cadets\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 18th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Kate\u003cbr\u003e\nWe returned to the V.M.I. yesterday after one of the most toilsome marches of 10 days ever endured by an army. After we left Staunton our hardships began. We marched every day without even a days rest for ten or twelve days always averaging 18 miles and often 20 and 25. One day the day of the battle at McDowell we marched forty miles -  marching from early in the morning until 2 or 3 in the night. We drove the enemy before us all the time. Genl Jacksons men were in the rear of the army so we did not get in the fight - the battle was fought by Genl Johnsons Army. I saw Bose very often. He endured the march very well. The Corps of Cadets were nearly all broken down - all were lame with sore feet. I could scarcely walk at times my feet hurt me so much.  Numbers of us threw our shoes away and walked barefoot, over some of the loftiest mountains in western Virginia I ever saw. For days we saw nothing but mountains, and often it rained hard - some nights I would lie down and in the morning I would get p with my clothes very wet. The Volunteers all say that march through Western Virginia was the hardest they have endured since the war. After we returned to Staunton we were dismissed.  Genl Jackson has gone down the valley, hope he will drive the Yankees across the Potomac.  I am anxiously awaiting the result of the great battle near Richmond.   If we defeat the Yankees, those in the valley will leave quicker than they came over - if we are defeated, the Yankees will take possession of all this part of Virginia. Then if you remain at your school you can get home -  you will then be within the Yankee lines. I saw all the boys - when I was gone - Jack is now Lieutenant in Nadenboushes company. He and Dick [D] are the only ones out of their mess who enlisted again in the company. I would like very much to get down to see you - I wanted to come down whilst I was in Staunton but could not get off. I heard Bose had gone to see you. If he had not I would have come any way. Well Kate I must close. I am both tired and sleepy. Excuse hasty and I have a miserable old pen – Love to Nannie. Goodbye\u003cbr\u003e\nYour aff. Brother\u003cbr\u003e\n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nJune 8th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy dear sister\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd a letter yesterday from Bose. Whilst Genl. Jackson was in Winchester he succeeded in getting down home. He said all were well, and everything going on right. Grandma has gotten home. She looks remarkably well. Ma and Cousin Fannie have both been to Maryland. Our darkies behaved remarkably well. None of them left. The Yankees tried to persuade them to run away, they would not go. They told Bose he need not be uneasy, they did not intend to go. Ma has let Nancy live to herself, on account of her good conduct.  Mr. Thornburg has rented our farm. So you see Katy everything seems to be going on well – hope it will be so this time. I am sorry you and Nannie could not get home. You are both much better where you are. You won't catch me going home when the Yankees are about there. The New York Herald says Genl. Jackson has been reinforced by 2000 well drilled cadets. They are slightly mistaken in the number, we were not 200 strong.  They would arrest me if I were at home. I tried to get Genl. Smith to give me a furlough when the way home was open. He told me to wait until I got a letter. I have not recd any letter - think they might have written to us at any rate. Will got a very short letter from his Pa. Said the Yankees ran by our house like dogs in full run. You had better both stay at the Institute when the session is up. Do you graduate this year? Our school will close about the first of July. I don't know what I shall do yet! I will try and get down to see you when the session closes. Ma told Bose to tell me to stay at the V. M. I. said Uncle John had given her plenty of money. So you see you had better stay at your school when it closes. Bose says his regt. was the first to enter Winchester. He captured 2 new suits of clothes, and eat so many captured sweet meats that it made him sick. He [Jess] and Sam McM. have joined a new company. They are now in Staunton. George Murphy is also there.  I suppose Cousin Fannie and Ma were rejoiced when they saw the Yankees running so fast by the house. I should have been. Grandma is delighted I know to get home. I would like to see her. You must not be uneasy about home. All depends upon the fight at Richmond. If the Yankees are whipped there they must leave the Valley. Of course they will be. Give my love to Nannie. I will write to her soon. Write me by return mail.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour brother, John.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","General","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Virginia Military Inst \nFeb 22nd 1862","My Dear Sister, \nColonel Tate has decreed that I shan't go to Lexington, today, for tis raining hard, and I am forced to stay close to barracks.  My roommate and myself had intended to pay \"our respects\" to two young \"Misses\" but have thus been foiled.  Today above all others ought to have been bright and clear, as it tis the day on which our glorious President is to be inaugurated.  All honour to him; and to our glorious young Confederacy! Which he pledges his sacred honour to maintain.  Though this 22nd is dark and gloomy; may that 22nd yet dawn which shall behold our unsullied banner floating in triumph over our Southern homes faned by the gentle zephyrs of Heaven.  I am glad to hear you are in such a high class.  I am in the 3rd Class (alias) Sophmores.  I have just commenced studying French, also.  I don't think it tis at all hard, on the other hand it is very easy.  I would rather read some some good novel, than bother my head about \"Je poole\".  Since the great disaster to our arms at Roanoke Island, and Fort Donalson, the Cadets have all tendered the services to Gov. Letcher.  I don't suppose he will except us.  We have not heard from him yet.  I wish he would accept us.  I think every one ought to be in the field.  I had no idea your school is as large, as you say.  We have three hundred here.  Tell Miss Georgiana (is that her name?) that Mr. Selden is here and a very pleasant young man.  Give my best love to Miss Georgia, complement her highly on her beautiful hand writing.  My room mates all agreed with me that she wrote a beautiful hand - would that I could write one half as good.  Tell me her name in your next.  I am bound to come down to see her, and close her from all your blushing roses, as the sweetest, the loveliest, the best.  We are going to have a grand dinner today, seventy-five turkeys to celebrate the 22nd.  We would have fired thirteen cannons this morning - but it was to wet.  Dandridge is not here. All are well at home when I last heard, they write you oftener than they do me.  Bose wrote me he was not going to enlist again, for some time.  You asked me to come up and see you Easter I wish I could.  I will not see you for two years.  I will not be allowed to go home next summer at all, unless I withdraw altogether.  Were I to stay here it would take me to years to graduate, which is a long long time.  I never cantemplate any thing of the kind now.  Times are so very uncertain, we realize now more than ever the quotation \"No man can tell what a day may bring forth\".  Well Kate I must close, write me very soon.  Love to Nannie and Misses -  \nand believe me your aff brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Ma said you were very homesick.  You should get over that.  The time will soon pass away and you will be home again.  The boys are having a splendid time in Martinsburg.  Miss Lottie and Miss Pink Bolten are up.  Jack H. and Miss Lottie are engaged cousin Fannie says.  Tom Harrison is now at home he is a Lieutenant.  We had splendid fire works here the night of the 22nd.  I never saw such beautiful ones in my life.  I am certainly sorry to hear of my class - mates death.  I think it cannot be so.  His death was certainly tragical.  He was staying at a friends house, lying on a sofa, when the husband and wife came in, and the later remarked, \"Oh, is he not handsome and bent over and kissed him.  Her husband immediately shot him.  However this may be I intend to address a letter to him. 18th Miss. Regt. Co. K. Leesburg Va. Ma complains of me not writing long letters, the same she says of you.  So you better write long letters in future.  I nevefr can think of anthing to write.  I wish the Cadets could have gone to Richmond the 22nd.  I should have liked much to have been present at the inauguration of our first President. Well Kate I have no time to spare tonight - so goodbye-  Love to all - your aff. Brother - \n John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nMarch 8th 1862","My Dear Sister. \nI rec'd a long letter this morning from Ma. She said the Federals had been in Martinsburg. They were not there when she wrote, but were daily expected over.  We having  no troops in town. The mail does not go to Martinsburg from Winchester. I don't know whether she will get my letter or not – very probably she will not. She said you and myself must not give ourselves any uneasiness about them all, at home. Ma says – she will get Aunt Liz to stay with her – and try and take care of themselves. Every one confidently expects the Hessians over.  When they came before, it was in the night. The citizens had the Court house bell rang. George Murphy and Mr. Hopkins went in a hurry to Darksville. Mr. Young came out to Uncle Williams and stayed that night.  Ma seems to have given up all hope of hearing from us soon.  Since the mail does not go to Martinsburg. She told me to direct to Winchester to be forwarded to Martinsburg. So you better do the same. Ma says she has heard the scarlet fever is at the University. She is very uneasy about you. You must write to me if you are sick, as Ma told me to go down and see you if you were sick. So write me immediately if you should be sick, which I hope you will not, notwithstanding I want to see you very much and a certain Miss --  at the Institute. I suppose you have not heard of the death of Mr. Dabney Harrison, he was killed in the battle at Fort Donalson.  He has fallen in a glorious cause, his friends should not weep. When the Federals came to Martinsburg, Aunt Susan's Polly came over with them. Two men in town arrested her, and sent word to Mr. H. who went to town, and got her, and took her in a great hurry to Winchester, where she is now in prison. I hope her capture will deter ours from running off. No doubt it was an agreeable surprise to Aunt Susan. Mr. H expects to be used roughly by the Federals for taking her out of town. He wrote me if the Yankees used him badly, he would join the army and be revenged. Well Kate I must close.  Give my love to Nannie and all other friends. Write me very often, as I am always glad to hear from you.   \nGoodbye yours aff. \nBrother (signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Ins. \nMarch 29th 1862","My Dear Sister \nI rec'd letter from Bose this morning. He was not in the bloody engagement near Winchester. He was not well enough to return to his company, is going back next week. He wrote me that none of his company were killed but heard that Arch Oden and Jack Harrison were missing. I hope this may not be so. It was only rumored. He does not know whether it is so or not. Ma, I expect is distressed to death about Bose thinking he was in the engagement and knows not but what he may have been killed. If Arch and Jack have been taken prisoner she may perhaps here better - hope she may I have heard today that Genl. Jackson (Stonewall Jackson) has been largely reinforced. Hope it may be true, and that he will be able to drive off the Invaders from the soil of Virginia. If it is true that Genl. J (Stonewall Jackson) has been reinforced no doubt we will soon be able to hear from home,  Bose seems to enjoy himself very much in Staunton  he has become acquainted with several of the Cadets who have left the Institute and gone down to Staunton but who are now unable to get home. The Cadets are resigning very fast – but new ones come in today – every day – all think they ought to be in the army – any so do I think so – but we can't get off – if we should try. So we will have to remain – and as Genl J (Stonewall Jackson) much says – be soldiers in the next army – after the present one has been killed off. Have the students left the University? We have heard so. Well Kate I must close. Write me soon. I have no news to but you. Goodbye – love to Nannie \nYour affectionate brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nApril 6th 1862","My Dear Sister \nI rec'd your letter several days ago. I would have answered it sooner but I knew you had not received my letter when you wrote – I heard from Bose yesterday. He is well – going back or rather by this time has gone back to his company – he said that Arch and Jack had reported back to their company.  I was sorry to learn that Joe McMarran was taken prisoner. He has been sent to Baltimore. I hope he will be treated kindly – his mother and sisters will be much distressed about him. I know how all in Martinsburg and how Ma feels about the boys – hope they will hear in some way that they are safe – I would not be surprised if Grand Ma has gotten home. Communication is of course open between Maryland, and that part of the valley now subject to the Yankee despotism. [?] Delaplane has been over to see them at home I suppose - he would come, if none of Uncle Johns family did.  I am sorry to see you are dissatisfied and long to be home. It is of course natural that you should feel in that way since you are deprived of hearing from home - don't despair, it may be a long time, before you can see home again - and it may be a short time - none can tell but I hope when we do hear, all will be right. Bose told me in his letter,  that his time in the army would be up - the eighteenth of April. He is coming to see me - on his way down to Capt Pelhorns company - I wouldn't stop much to go down with him - I went yesterday with several boys to explore a cave about 2 miles from the Institute. We went several hundred feet under the ground past through some of the most perfect rooms I ever saw. I believe no one has ever gone to the bottom of it - several boys have gone over today to go farther down in it than we went yesterday - Will H among the number - Well Kate I must close - Goodbye  Love to Nannie - write soon \nYour aff. Brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nApril 29th 1862","Dear Sister \nI have just read your letter and now will answer it. Since I last wrote to you we have been constantly under a great state of excitement. Last Sunday the news came that the Yankees were about entering Staunton. Academic duties were suspended and our time was devoted to three drills a day – preparing ourselves to meet the invader, should he attempt to drive us away from the V.M.I. Genl Smith told us he intended to lead us out to meet them, if they came a thousand strong. He had provisions cooked for us as to take with us on our way to Lynchburg or Richmond if they came in too large a force for us to meet them. I assure you I was very sorry when I heard they were not coming to Staunton. Genl Smith wrote to Genl Jackson tendering him our services. Genl Jackson replied, that he would keep us as a reserve body.  That we could be of immense service to him and that he would call upon us when he wanted us – that we must keep ourselves constantly in readiness.  I do hope he will call upon us. It will be the proudest day of my life when we receive marching orders to defend our own homes against the invader.  I am not content to stay here, when the Old Dominion – The Mother of Statesmen and heroes is calling so loudly upon her sons to rally to her defense – when this bloody war is over. What a pleasure it will be to every son of Virginia to know that he was so manly and brave as to lay his life upon his countrys altar. Don't be surprised if you should see me in Charlottesville some of these pretty days. I am now waiting to hear from Bose, for permission to resign. Genl  S. will not accept my resignation without permission. Why are you so homesick – cheer up. It will not be long before you can get home.  If the great battle at Yorktown is fought – the Yankees will leave the valley quicker than they came into it!  Genl S told me yesterday they were falling back toward the Potomac – hope it is true. Genl Jackson (Stonewall Jackson) is not at Gordonsville he is in the neighbourhood of Harrisonburg – near the blue ridge. You are I suppose were very much excited when the cannon was sent back to Charlottesville. All were we could not study. Prof. told us they did not expect us to study. The young ladies at the Institute in Staunton came back to Lexington. Six stages loaded with passengers came from Staunton that Sunday evening. Should the Yankees get possession of Charlottesville, do what Miss L thinks best. As for myself I will go immediately to the army. When I wrote to you I could have gotten home by the counties I mentioned but I can't now. They are occupied by the Yankees .  Well Kate I must close   write to me often – I am always glad to hear from you. Love to Nannie. Goodbye \nYour affectionate brother \n(signed)  J. B. Snodgrass ","Va. Mil. Institute \nMay 1st 1862","Dear Kate \nThe Corps of Cadets leave the Institute this morning to go to Staunton t reinforce Genl. Jackson. All of us are in fine spirits – anxious to get a shot at the enemy. I will mail this letter in Staunton. Goodbye. Don't be uneasy about me. I hope you may soon hear the enemy are leaving the valley.\nGoodbye\nYour. Aff. Brother \nJohn B. Snodgrass C. S. A. \nCo. D. Corps Cadets","Virginia Military Institute \nMay 18th 1862","Dear Kate \nWe returned to the V.M.I. yesterday after one of the most toilsome marches of 10 days ever endured by an army. After we left Staunton our hardships began. We marched every day without even a days rest for ten or twelve days always averaging 18 miles and often 20 and 25. One day the day of the battle at McDowell we marched forty miles -  marching from early in the morning until 2 or 3 in the night. We drove the enemy before us all the time. Genl Jacksons men were in the rear of the army so we did not get in the fight - the battle was fought by Genl Johnsons Army. I saw Bose very often. He endured the march very well. The Corps of Cadets were nearly all broken down - all were lame with sore feet. I could scarcely walk at times my feet hurt me so much.  Numbers of us threw our shoes away and walked barefoot, over some of the loftiest mountains in western Virginia I ever saw. For days we saw nothing but mountains, and often it rained hard - some nights I would lie down and in the morning I would get p with my clothes very wet. The Volunteers all say that march through Western Virginia was the hardest they have endured since the war. After we returned to Staunton we were dismissed.  Genl Jackson has gone down the valley, hope he will drive the Yankees across the Potomac.  I am anxiously awaiting the result of the great battle near Richmond.   If we defeat the Yankees, those in the valley will leave quicker than they came over - if we are defeated, the Yankees will take possession of all this part of Virginia. Then if you remain at your school you can get home -  you will then be within the Yankee lines. I saw all the boys - when I was gone - Jack is now Lieutenant in Nadenboushes company. He and Dick [D] are the only ones out of their mess who enlisted again in the company. I would like very much to get down to see you - I wanted to come down whilst I was in Staunton but could not get off. I heard Bose had gone to see you. If he had not I would have come any way. Well Kate I must close. I am both tired and sleepy. Excuse hasty and I have a miserable old pen – Love to Nannie. Goodbye \nYour aff. Brother \n(signed)  John B. Snodgrass","Virginia Military Institute \nJune 8th 1862","My dear sister \nI recd a letter yesterday from Bose. Whilst Genl. Jackson was in Winchester he succeeded in getting down home. He said all were well, and everything going on right. Grandma has gotten home. She looks remarkably well. Ma and Cousin Fannie have both been to Maryland. Our darkies behaved remarkably well. None of them left. The Yankees tried to persuade them to run away, they would not go. They told Bose he need not be uneasy, they did not intend to go. Ma has let Nancy live to herself, on account of her good conduct.  Mr. Thornburg has rented our farm. So you see Katy everything seems to be going on well – hope it will be so this time. I am sorry you and Nannie could not get home. You are both much better where you are. You won't catch me going home when the Yankees are about there. The New York Herald says Genl. Jackson has been reinforced by 2000 well drilled cadets. They are slightly mistaken in the number, we were not 200 strong.  They would arrest me if I were at home. I tried to get Genl. Smith to give me a furlough when the way home was open. He told me to wait until I got a letter. I have not recd any letter - think they might have written to us at any rate. Will got a very short letter from his Pa. Said the Yankees ran by our house like dogs in full run. You had better both stay at the Institute when the session is up. Do you graduate this year? Our school will close about the first of July. I don't know what I shall do yet! I will try and get down to see you when the session closes. Ma told Bose to tell me to stay at the V. M. I. said Uncle John had given her plenty of money. So you see you had better stay at your school when it closes. Bose says his regt. was the first to enter Winchester. He captured 2 new suits of clothes, and eat so many captured sweet meats that it made him sick. He [Jess] and Sam McM. have joined a new company. They are now in Staunton. George Murphy is also there.  I suppose Cousin Fannie and Ma were rejoiced when they saw the Yankees running so fast by the house. I should have been. Grandma is delighted I know to get home. I would like to see her. You must not be uneasy about home. All depends upon the fight at Richmond. If the Yankees are whipped there they must leave the Valley. Of course they will be. Give my love to Nannie. I will write to her soon. Write me by return mail. \nYour brother, John."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn B. Snodgrass letters, 1862. MS 0072. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["John B. Snodgrass letters, 1862. MS 0072. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of eight letters and one letter fragment from Cadet John B. Snodgrass to his sister Katherine (Kate) Snodgrass-Boyd. All letters are dated 1862 and written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. The primary topic is the Civil War and its effect on the Snodgrass family, with occasional references to VMI. Multiple letters (see April 19, May 1, May 18) mention that Corps of Cadets has been ordered to aid General Stonewall Jackson because he is \"anxious to get a shot at the enemy.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards poor weather, the inaguration of Confederate president Jefferson Davis, French studies, and family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters, the death of a classmate, and the desire to have been at Jefferson Davis' inaguration.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters and news of the Federals being in Martinsburg, West Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the desire for the cadets to fight in the Civil War and family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters and a trip with other cadets to explore a cave outside of Lexington.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet preparations for war after the news \"came that the Yankees were about entering Staunton\" (Virginia). The letter also mentions that General Stonewall Jackson is \"keeping us [VMI cadets] as a reserve body\" and that John B. Snodgrass is actively working to resign from VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the Corps of Cadets leaving VMI to go to Staunton, Virginia to reinforce General Stonewall Jackson.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards war activities in Staunton, Virginia, the march back to VMI, and general news about the war.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general news about the war and family matters.\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"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of eight letters and one letter fragment from Cadet John B. Snodgrass to his sister Katherine (Kate) Snodgrass-Boyd. All letters are dated 1862 and written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. The primary topic is the Civil War and its effect on the Snodgrass family, with occasional references to VMI. Multiple letters (see April 19, May 1, May 18) mention that Corps of Cadets has been ordered to aid General Stonewall Jackson because he is \"anxious to get a shot at the enemy.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards poor weather, the inaguration of Confederate president Jefferson Davis, French studies, and family matters.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters, the death of a classmate, and the desire to have been at Jefferson Davis' inaguration.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters and news of the Federals being in Martinsburg, West Virginia.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the desire for the cadets to fight in the Civil War and family matters.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family matters and a trip with other cadets to explore a cave outside of Lexington.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet preparations for war after the news \"came that the Yankees were about entering Staunton\" (Virginia). The letter also mentions that General Stonewall Jackson is \"keeping us [VMI cadets] as a reserve body\" and that John B. Snodgrass is actively working to resign from VMI.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the Corps of Cadets leaving VMI to go to Staunton, Virginia to reinforce General Stonewall Jackson.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards war activities in Staunton, Virginia, the march back to VMI, and general news about the war.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general news about the war and family matters."],"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_cdf6e8e8607cb3a6eb303bde6b4ed848\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Snodgrass family","Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Davis, Jefferson, 1808-1889","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Snodgrass family","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"famname_ssim":["Snodgrass family"],"persname_ssim":["Snodgrass, John B. (John Breathed), 1843-1908","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Davis, Jefferson, 1808-1889","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":10,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:10:02.995Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_156"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599_c01_c01_c02","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter from Peter S. Roller to John E. Roller","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599_c01_c01_c02#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from Staunton, Virginia. Letter regards Peter S. Roller's inability to supply General Francis H. Smith with hired or slave labor. Letter also includes a discussion of when John E. Roller should join the Army.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599_c01_c01_c02#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599_c01_c01_c02","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599_c01_c01_c02"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599_c01_c01_c02","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599_c01_c01","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599_c01_c01","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599_c01_c01"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599_c01_c01"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["John E. Roller papers","Correspondence","Correspondence, outgoing"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["John E. Roller papers","Correspondence","Correspondence, outgoing"],"text":["John E. Roller papers","Correspondence","Correspondence, outgoing","Letter from Peter S. Roller to John E. Roller","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Roller, John E. (John Edwin), 1844-1917","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Roller, John E. (John Edwin), 1844-1917","Slavery","Correspondence","English .","Staunton, Va. \nStaunton Aug. 25th 1862","My Dear Son \nYour letter to your ma was duly received. In reply to your inquiry about negroes for Genl. Smith, I know of none that can be hired or none that could be bought at this time. If I should hear of any I will write again. Had I known it a week earlier I think I could have gotten several men for him belonging to a party in Loudoun County.","I have not been to Harrisonburg since you wrote about the goods for Pantaloons, and as the season is so far advanced and as you have a prospect of getting other clothing for winter I have concluded not to buy it unless you think you shall need it.","The Mt. Crawford company has been exchanged and I understand that Mr. Blackford has succeeded in getting quite a number of them to join his company. If you have a desire to join his company as first Lieutenant perhaps it would be the best thing you could do. I think it will be best for you to consult Genl. Smith about it. He knows best what your chances would be for a situation after [you graduate]. If you have to enter the service [missing word] it would be better to go into it [now] and get hardened to the service before the cold weather sets in. However, if Genl. Smith thinks you had better stay until you graduate, I shall say to Mr. Blackford as soon as I see him, I will say to him if he will have you appointed that you shall have the privilege of accepting it. I will write again as soon as I see him and let you know what the prospects are of you getting an appointment. George Carpenter could not get out of the army he being a conscript and no provisions being made by Congress for young men wishing to go to the Military Institution. I am though with the Dam and have the Mill running again. \nYours in haste, P.S. Roller","Written from Staunton, Virginia. Letter regards Peter S. Roller's inability to supply General Francis H. Smith with hired or slave labor. Letter also includes a discussion of when John E. Roller should join the Army."],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter from Peter S. Roller to John E. Roller","title_ssm":["Letter from Peter S. Roller to John E. Roller"],"title_tesim":["Letter from Peter S. Roller to John E. Roller"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1862 August 25"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1862"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter from Peter S. Roller to John E. Roller"],"component_level_isim":[3],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["John E. Roller papers"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"sort_isi":4,"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."],"date_range_isim":[1862],"names_ssim":["Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Roller, John E. (John Edwin), 1844-1917","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Roller, John E. (John Edwin), 1844-1917"],"persname_ssim":["Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Roller, John E. (John Edwin), 1844-1917"],"access_subjects_ssim":["Slavery","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Slavery","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eStaunton, Va.\u003cbr/\u003e\nStaunton Aug. 25th 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Son\u003cbr/\u003e\nYour letter to your ma was duly received. In reply to your inquiry about negroes for Genl. Smith, I know of none that can be hired or none that could be bought at this time. If I should hear of any I will write again. Had I known it a week earlier I think I could have gotten several men for him belonging to a party in Loudoun County.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have not been to Harrisonburg since you wrote about the goods for Pantaloons, and as the season is so far advanced and as you have a prospect of getting other clothing for winter I have concluded not to buy it unless you think you shall need it.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe Mt. Crawford company has been exchanged and I understand that Mr. Blackford has succeeded in getting quite a number of them to join his company. If you have a desire to join his company as first Lieutenant perhaps it would be the best thing you could do. I think it will be best for you to consult Genl. Smith about it. He knows best what your chances would be for a situation after [you graduate]. If you have to enter the service [missing word] it would be better to go into it [now] and get hardened to the service before the cold weather sets in. However, if Genl. Smith thinks you had better stay until you graduate, I shall say to Mr. Blackford as soon as I see him, I will say to him if he will have you appointed that you shall have the privilege of accepting it. I will write again as soon as I see him and let you know what the prospects are of you getting an appointment. George Carpenter could not get out of the army he being a conscript and no provisions being made by Congress for young men wishing to go to the Military Institution. I am though with the Dam and have the Mill running again.\u003cbr/\u003e\nYours in haste, P.S. Roller\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Staunton, Va. \nStaunton Aug. 25th 1862","My Dear Son \nYour letter to your ma was duly received. In reply to your inquiry about negroes for Genl. Smith, I know of none that can be hired or none that could be bought at this time. If I should hear of any I will write again. Had I known it a week earlier I think I could have gotten several men for him belonging to a party in Loudoun County.","I have not been to Harrisonburg since you wrote about the goods for Pantaloons, and as the season is so far advanced and as you have a prospect of getting other clothing for winter I have concluded not to buy it unless you think you shall need it.","The Mt. Crawford company has been exchanged and I understand that Mr. Blackford has succeeded in getting quite a number of them to join his company. If you have a desire to join his company as first Lieutenant perhaps it would be the best thing you could do. I think it will be best for you to consult Genl. Smith about it. He knows best what your chances would be for a situation after [you graduate]. If you have to enter the service [missing word] it would be better to go into it [now] and get hardened to the service before the cold weather sets in. However, if Genl. Smith thinks you had better stay until you graduate, I shall say to Mr. Blackford as soon as I see him, I will say to him if he will have you appointed that you shall have the privilege of accepting it. I will write again as soon as I see him and let you know what the prospects are of you getting an appointment. George Carpenter could not get out of the army he being a conscript and no provisions being made by Congress for young men wishing to go to the Military Institution. I am though with the Dam and have the Mill running again. \nYours in haste, P.S. Roller"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from Staunton, Virginia. Letter regards Peter S. Roller's inability to supply General Francis H. Smith with hired or slave labor. Letter also includes a discussion of when John E. Roller should join the Army.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from Staunton, Virginia. Letter regards Peter S. Roller's inability to supply General Francis H. Smith with hired or slave labor. Letter also includes a discussion of when John E. Roller should join the Army."],"_nest_path_":"/components#0/components#0/components#1","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:10:56.008Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_599.xml","title_ssm":["John E. Roller papers"],"title_tesim":["John E. Roller papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862-1910"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1862-1910"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0171","/repositories/3/resources/599"],"text":["MS.0171","/repositories/3/resources/599","John E. Roller papers","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet debating societies","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1863","Confederate States of America. Army—Corps of Engineers","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","Dispatches","Scrapbooks","Telegrams","Speeches, Addresses, etc.","Photographs","There are no restrictions.","A portion of the John E. Roller personal papers are avaliable \n online .","Letter regards a meeting.","John Edwin Roller was born in Rockingham County, Virginia on October 5, 1844 to Peter Samuel Roller and Frances Allebach. In the summer of 1861, although underage for service, he briefly served with Company I of the First Virginia Cavalry, Confederate States of America. On December 31, 1861, Roller entered VMI as a second classman and graduated in July 1863. He subsequently taught mathematics at VMI for a few months, and then was appointed as a 2nd Lieutenant, Company G, 2nd Confederate States Engineers in October 1863. He served as an engineer officer in the Army of Northern Virginia until the end of the Civil War, and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","After the War, Roller he studied law at the University of Virginia and practiced law in Harrisonburg, Virginia. He also served in the Virginia State Legislature and was a Brigadier General in the state militia. Roller was widely known in the Harrisonburg community as \"General Roller.\" He died in Harrisonburg on August 10, 1918.","No. 28 V.M.I. Jan 24th 1862","Dear Parents, \nAs I could not finish on a half sheet I concluded I would commence on this as I had several things to write about yet. You enquired in your last about bedding. I have obtained a mattress and have plenty of cover. I put two of my blankets in my trunk in the arsenal because I did not need them. Only one trunk is allowed to a room and I had to send mine to the arsenal. I wish you had the big one at home, for I have not a thing in it. We are not allowed to go to town only on Saturday, when I will see about those slippers, though I think I can do without them very well. I wish I had kept a pair of citizens pants here as I could save my cadet pants very much by wearing them. But it is not worth while to try to send them to me now.","I will try and make out with what I have now. Tell John Carpenter I still think of his promise. I wonder if George would not like to come here, there are several fellows here from the 1st regiment, who got off to come here and if George will come, I will try and get him an appointment. I should like it very much to have him here with me.","You want to know what arrangements they have that cadets are not allowed to come home in two years, I will try and send you a catalogue, so that you may see how it is. I have to study very hard but I like the place better every day. I made a \"perfect\" today. Remember me to Cousin A.B. and all my friends. I hope he will succeed well with his school. R.A. Crawford says I must remember him to A.B. and ask him if he received his \"Phonography.\" I wish you'd send me the Register every week. I do not get to see a paper here hardly and the Register would seem so familiar to me. If you see something really good in the Dispatch, I wish you would send that sometimes too. I wish you would send some soap, whenever you send me that studying gown. A piece or two of that old \"homemade\" would save some little money for soap is high here. But I must close this letter, as the mail box will soon be shut. Excuse it if you please, for it is badly connected, but that could not be helped for I had to write it whenever I had the chance. Write soon to me and give me the news. Much love to all and a kiss for \"brother.\"","Your affectionate son, J.E. Roller","I can't think of any name for brother yet. Tell me in your next what you think of calling him. I [seem] to have forgotten to mention to you that that it is rumored that the Cadets will be invited to Richmond the 22nd of Feb. to see Jeff Davis inaugurated, but it is not generally believed. I wish they would for it will be a grand sight and a great honor to witness the inauguration of what will be one of the greatest powers in the world. \nJ.E.Roller","Staunton, Va. \nStaunton Aug. 25th 1862","My Dear Son \nYour letter to your ma was duly received. In reply to your inquiry about negroes for Genl. Smith, I know of none that can be hired or none that could be bought at this time. If I should hear of any I will write again. Had I known it a week earlier I think I could have gotten several men for him belonging to a party in Loudoun County.","I have not been to Harrisonburg since you wrote about the goods for Pantaloons, and as the season is so far advanced and as you have a prospect of getting other clothing for winter I have concluded not to buy it unless you think you shall need it.","The Mt. Crawford company has been exchanged and I understand that Mr. Blackford has succeeded in getting quite a number of them to join his company. If you have a desire to join his company as first Lieutenant perhaps it would be the best thing you could do. I think it will be best for you to consult Genl. Smith about it. He knows best what your chances would be for a situation after [you graduate]. If you have to enter the service [missing word] it would be better to go into it [now] and get hardened to the service before the cold weather sets in. However, if Genl. Smith thinks you had better stay until you graduate, I shall say to Mr. Blackford as soon as I see him, I will say to him if he will have you appointed that you shall have the privilege of accepting it. I will write again as soon as I see him and let you know what the prospects are of you getting an appointment. George Carpenter could not get out of the army he being a conscript and no provisions being made by Congress for young men wishing to go to the Military Institution. I am though with the Dam and have the Mill running again. \nYours in haste, P.S. Roller","V.M. Institute \nMarch 18th 1863","The following is a true statement of the facts with regard to my tour of O.D. on the 16th inst. and in connection with the removal of reports from the Commandant's office. I marched on O.D. at the usual time on Monday morning, and from that time until the recreation drum at 4 PM, I was either in Mr. Grigg's room, the Commandant's office, or in front of the Barracks (several hours spent either in section room, Mess Hall, or my own room), with the exceptions of the following times, viz.-- from 8-9 in Col. Williamson's section room, from 10-11 in Col. Preston's, from 12 to 1 in Col. Gilham's, and from 1-2 spent partly in Mess Hall and partly in room. I attended all C.P.s and looked up absentees and went in the Commandant's office frequently during the day","Sometime in the morning, I cannot state positively the precise time, though I think between 9 and 10 o'clock AM, upon entering the Commandant's office, I saw one of the fatigue sentinels standing at the desk, with a key in the keyhole. I did not see him have the desk open, nor did I see him have any reports. I remarked to him, \"What are you doing? Do you not know that you are responsible for those reports.\" He replied that he was not stealing reports, but that he just wanted to see if his key would fit the lock. I said nothing more, but turned around immediately and went out.","From 4 o'clock until E.P., I was in my room and went from there to Supper in the Mess Hall, after which I returned to my room (where I remained) until the Study Drum was beaten, when I went down to Mr. Grigg's room and remained there until 11 o'clock. And after spending 10 or 15 minutes in quieting noise, receiving reports of inspectors, seeing the sentinels challenge properly, I went to my room and retired for the night.","I arose about 5 minutes to 7 o' clock and left my room about 15 minutes after and proceeded to Mr. Beckham's room to see some Engineering plates which he had, and from there went to Mess Hall to breakfast, being just in time to meet the corps as it was leaving the Hall. After B. I marched of O.D. and on enquiring of Mr. Shaw for the Guard Book was told that Major Ship had it and also that the reports had been removed, which was the first intimation I had rec'd of the fact. I know not even the slightest circumstance upon which to ground even a suspicion, except the above circumstance, but in justice I feel bound to say, that I could not give any positive evidence that the desk had been opened by him or whether his key fit the lock, and can conscientiously express the belief that he was not the one who removed the reports after E.P., or before E.P. \u0026 [?]. Hoping the\nabove may [prove] \u0026.","J.E. Roller","I forgot to mention that about ten o'clock, seeing the Orderlies Delinquencies laying outside the desk, and knowing that I was responsible for them, I got Mr. Grigg's key and placed them in the desk. Mr. Shaw and two of sentinels were present at the time. I am unable to say how the books came there, and according to the best of my recollection. I saw them there after I saw Mr. Turner at the desk. I do not pretend to say that he placed them there, or that there were left there by the Com't. I merely make the statement and leave the inferences to be drawn.","Richmond, Va. \nNov. 8th/63","Dear Roller, \nAllow me to congratulate you upon your success in obtaining a commission. I want to follow your example. A commission is something I have been seeking, ever since we graduated, but all my efforts are unavailing. Will you inform me by what \"slight of hand\" you were so successful. Let me know all the minutiae, the letters you had \u0026 from whom \u0026 to whom they were addressed \u0026\nthe political or rather military friends you employed. Present my kindest regards to Prince, with many wishes for your success \u0026 the hope you may do honor to my class (which you can do)","I am Truly Yr. Friend \u0026 classmate \nW.W. Flannagan \nBox 610","\"V.M.I\" Jan. 6th '64","Dear Roller, \nYour letter was a pleasant surprise. I did not expect it for some time to come, it was received however too late for me to reply by Thursday's mail, the mail is now always a day too late.","Well sir, I enter upon the deep and stormy waters of the Rubicon on tomorrow. I have labored up to this time as diligently as I could, but I never was now fearful of shipwreck before. I leave the result to fate, wherever she casts my lot, I will have to remain satisfied. I will write you the result however immediately it is known, if I should be thrown I will see you a short time after.","Many thanks to you for your kind invitation to visit you as well as the ladies, it would afford me great pleasure, and if possible, I will accept it. Pizzini and myself are just enjoying the contents of two boxes, which \"that confounded packet\" has at last brought to hand, we wish so much that you were here to share it with us. Prince was out frolicking last night until 12 o'clock, so that I could not attend to your messages. This morning I gave him the letter and told him that I intended writing to you and would send any message he might desire, but he said nothing at all. I have delivered your message to Blum and Perkinson. Beckham left last Saturday for Staunton and carried your trunk with him as you directed, I suppose you have received it by this. Smith F. has not written the letter to his brother yet, as soon as he does, I will forward to you if he does not do so himself. I have heard nothing of Crawford since you left. Dick Chaffin was severely wounded in the recent fight near Covington, 'tis thought his leg will have to be amputated. I wish I could have received your letter in time to reply by Thursday's mail as I know you will expect an answer then. I have attended to your little affairs, no trouble I can assure you. If you have other business in this section, let me hear and I will also attend to that. Overton as well as all the occupants of No. 23 send their kindest regards. You will hear from me again by Monday or Tuesday next.","Your sincere friend \nLawrence Royster","V.M.I. Jan. 9th 1864","My dear Roller, \nThe Rubicon I think is crossed though I did not pass as good an examination as I desired, and have had the misfortune to be thrown in the third section, which is terrible, as you know that section is almost always deficient, though I am through yet I am disheartened at the idea of being that low. I stand only 37, which you know is very low, twenty-six were found deficient. I should like very much to join you and go to Charleston, but you know getting through is better than any thing else. If I should not stand a very good chance as June approaches, I shall resign and join you wherever you at all hazards. The idea of going into the last section has made me feel almost as badly as a deficiency, I can assure you. I hope that you will continue to write me after you leave for the army. I will take great pleasure in replying to you whenever it is in my power. I shall always be happy to hear from you. Sally Crawford has arrived. Pizzini passed a very good examination, made 3 on subject, was not questioned. The thought of being in that deficient section and thrown in June, takes away all the pleasure of getting through. I must close. Let me hear from you.","Your sincere friend \nLawrence Royster","V.M.Institute \nMonday Feb. 22nd 1864","My dear Roller, \nThis is the first holyday that has not found me on fatigue guard for some time past so I will take advantage of it by replying to your letter which was received on yesterday morning. The last account I had of you was that you were in Richmond, applying for an office in the Ordnance Department. I am glad to hear that you are busily engaged in your new department. Allow me to thank you most kindly for your wishes for my success here as well as the desire you expressed of having me with you in your new home. Your letter inspired me with an ardent desire to join you. Since you left I have been several times on the eve of resigning and going to Charleston. I was fortunate enough in January to pass an examination, while many others were thrown and had to resign or be sent home. But at the same time I was so unfortunate as to be thrown into the third section. Since then I have labored with unceasing fidelity, but it seems the harder I work, the worse marks I make. I thought Analytical Geometry was hard enough, but Description certainly surpasses it by far, on that subject I am totally in the dark. My low mark and imperfect recitation have discouraged me so much that I have lost all taste for study. I wrote home for advise on resigning, but they wrote back earnestly entreating me to remain until July. However I have no idea that I will take that advice, I may leave at any time. I may leave am\nexceedingly anxious to be with you, and I now promise, if I leave at any time, will join you. It is a struggle between life and death with me now, if I leave, I give up all hope of ever obtaining an education, and seeing you do so well, inspires me with new desire of finishing my education at the \"V.M.I.\" At the same time I am anxious to be with you. If I enter the service at all I shall not even think of applying for an office of any kind, I expect to be a private wherever I go. At the same time accept my most sincere thanks for your kindness in offering me the office of O.S. if you could get it and I would accept it. I would accept it with great pleasure. I\nsometimes give up all hope of passing, and then again think of remaining and taking my chances in June, so I do not know what to be at. I shall consult Spex in a day or two and will be guided very much by what he says; though very little confidence can be put in anything that he says on such a subject as that, I do not suppose he would tell me even what he thought, however I shall try him.","Prince left here about one month ago, I heard since then that he was a Sergeant in the Engineers Corps, you seem to be the only successful one in your class. Grigg I hear is walking around loose in Petersburg. I am sure no one at the \"V.M.I.\" was glad at your leaving, indeed I heard some express their regret at it. Your old room is vacant. Sally Crawford and Lieut. Steptoe (new Sub) occupy No. 20 together, the former remains very quiet, is swelling on his bars and escorting the ladies home from church, etc. I do not know his qualifications as professor. The occupants of 23 all send their kindest regards. Pat Shafer has just come from the Hospital where he had been confined for several weeks with a severe attack of pneumonia, we thought at one time that he intended leaving us. Blum has been reinstated, but Spex refused to let him go on with the 2nd Class, so he has resigned, he\nsays he will accept a Sergeancy if you will give it to him. Capt. Whitwell\nhas recently returned from furlough accompanied by his lady, they are boarding at the Lexington Hotel. Miss Logan and Mr. Davidson were recently married also, the former I expect you know, a refugee from Winchester. What do you think of the recent law of Congress in regard to the Currency, taxes, etc? I am extremely glad that it will reduce the price of goods. The Steamer which has been as long on the way from Europe has recently arrived, but was destroyed for the goods falling into yankee hands, there were on board all the goods which we needed, the finest english gray cloth, etc. but unfortunately all were lost so I have given up on the idea of wearing a fine suit again.","Spex is still shipping indiscriminately, sometimes twelve or fifteen daily, rats are also reporting in numbers.","Patsy says he will accept an Orderly Sergeant's place if you will give it him, but he adds \"if he can do no better.\" Ross desires his kindest regards to you. I must close, though it is the 22nd, my time is limited. If I do leave, which I confidently expect to do, will write you immediately. I am anxious to be with you. I hope you will write me as often as possible, your letters will always be agreeable.","I am, as ever, \nYour Sincere friend \nLawrence Royster","Va. Mil. Institute \nApril 10th 1864","Dear Roller, \nYour last letter was received several days since and wishing to keep up a more regular correspondence between us, I answer your letter at the first opportunity and hope you will not delay writing a reply to this as long as you did my previous one, although your excuse for doing so was a good as well as a sufficient one. No news worthy of notice has taken place since last writing to you, but the old V.M.I still keeps up her notoriety for rumors and there are a thousand and one afloat about going on marches etc., which I would not like to enumerate, and were I so disposed, I think time and paper would fail me before I accomplished that end. But there is one which if true will wreck all the hopes I have been sustaining for the last six months and before which the pleasure of a long vacation will go \"glimmering like all things that were\": it is that no furloughs will be granted this summer and that our usual vacation of two months will either be spent in Gen. Lee's or Gen. Imboden's camp. This rumor is said to have good foundation, for those who were most interested were watching her with an eagle's eye and after having poised herself above the V.M.I. for some time during which many feathers were plucked from her wing, she was seen to direct her course toward Col. Preston's where she rested from his labors. There was another last week that we were going on a march and this one came from the direction of Gen. Smith's and with such force against barracks that some of her feathers are still visible on the stoops. Numerous others are afloat but as I said before to enumerate them would take more time than I have at my disposal.","With regard to your inquiry about Prince, I have not heard from him since he left nor have I seen any one who has; but I reckon he is having a good time wherever he is as he always takes things easy. Crawford resigned a few weeks since and has again entered the army as a private; Col. John Ross has been appointed to fill his vacancy. Old Max studies as hard as ever and talks\nas much about being found [deficient], but I believe they would put him through even if he were deficient on account of his good conduct. He received a letter from you a few days since and says he will answer it soon. I am very glad you like my uncle as I expected you would. I think you estimate his services too highly when you say that he deserves more of the credit for the defense of Charleston tho' he has done a great deal towards it. I hardly ever hear from him except though you and therefore your letters\nare doubly acceptable. Give my best to him when you next see him. With best wishes for your future prosperity I remain,","Yours truly, A.W. Overton","\"V.M.I.\" April 21st 1864","My Dear Roller, \nYour kind and interesting letter should have had a more speedy reply, but as the examination approaches, I am more and more busy every day. The Class has lost a great deal of time and consequently will not have so much to review in. We are now in the field surveying, have not yet finished Shades and Shadows. The weather has been during the past month colder than I have felt\nfor eight years even in the depth of winter. The mountains in sight are still covered with snow, and today is the only mild and clear day that we have had for over one month, and notwithstanding this we have not had fire since Christmas, and during the deep snows we had suspension of all duties for several days at a time. The cold was so severe that it was impossible to study, a great many went to bed in order to keep warm. This together with Col. Massie's sickness has thrown the 3rd class back very much, so now the hard work comes.","Since you left quite a change has taken place in the Faculty. Lt. Col. Ross has been appointed assistant Prof. Math 4th Class in your place; Sal Crawford received a commission in his old regiment and resigned about a month ago. Dr. Ross is Asst. prof French as well as Asst. Surgeon.","Spex is still very fond of his \"reviews and parades.\" Not long since Gen. Rosser's Cavalry Brigade came through here and encamped about ten or twelve miles beyond Lexington, by Spex's invitation he reviewed the Corps and inspected the barracks. Several days afterwards, he presented the Corps with a flag captured in battle from 164th New York Regiment as a trophy; the\npresentation speech was very fine indeed, it took place under guard tree before a very large crowd. Scott Shipp received it and replied; his was also very good but he was very much excited though, however it was his first speech in public. After the ceremony was over the Cavalry made a charge in field in front of barracks to give us an idea of it. But the idea, Roller, of the Corps of Cadets receiving a trophy taken by our troops in the field from the yankees; it looked like saying, \"Well, you are too weak and afraid to do any thing of this yourselves, so we will make you a present of one,\" I feel that it is a disgrace to the Corps. The speaker alluded in such a touching manner to the precious blood which was spilt in taking it, and of the Col. falling in the charge. That night he invited the officers of the Institute and the 1st Class to attend a party at the house where he was staying, but as all could not attend, Spex allowed only the four Captains and Adjt. to go. Several days afterwards he invited Spex to review his\nbrigade, and the officers and 1st Class again to dine with him, which as many as could conveniently do so, very readily accepted of.","I should like very much to enjoy those nice vegetables and fish you were speaking of, it certainly would be a great treat, especially when everything is so high and scarce, we are nearer starving here than ever before, a piece of beef frequently comes on the table for nine men which candidly speaking I could easily cover with one hand. If the school cannot be maintained on a better scale, I think they had as well close it. It is rumored and I partly believe it that instead of giving the Corps furlough next summer,\nwe are to be sent in a body to Gen. Lee's army. We have not had a march since December last, which I think I gave you an account of. Err this reaches you I imagine you will have received some news from the two grand armies on the Potomac, we are of opinion that it will be the greatest of the war up to this time. May Heaven give us the victory! Many thanks to you for your kind offer, it will be very acceptable. I will inform you immediately of the result of the examination after I know my fate, should I be unsuccessful will go directly from here to Charleston, so in your next letter write me what to equip myself with before leaving and what articles I can procure in Charleston as I do not want to carry more than is necessary.","There are now about fifty odd in the third class and I do not think Massie will pass more than twenty. I know he intends making a most \"awful rake.\" I must not neglect to tell you of the marriage of Miss Sanders (I suppose you remember her) to Capt. Contri an Italian on Gen. Morgan's staff. They say he is a very accomplished and gallant man, fought fourteen pitched battles in Europe, was in Crimean war etc., that is all I know however. They were here today. The Commandant's Office is now a reception room for all visitors, they are not allowed to come into barracks during study hours under any pretence whatever.","How are you progressing with the ladies now or do you visit them at all? As for myself, I have long since abandoned all thoughts of them, scarcely even look at them, you know how fatal they are. I have many things to write, but it is almost 11 o'clock PM and this is the last chance I will have to write for sometime to come. Finished my day's survey in[--] rather earlier today or would not have had this [missing word]. Write me as often as you can.","Your sincere friend, \nLawrence Royster","Sam Hopkins who was here last year, after being confined in some Yankee prison for several months returned home and died two days after.","Camp Stevens- Richmond \nMay 3, 1864","Dear Roller, \nYour esteemed favor did not reach me as soon as it would, had I not been absent on duty when it reached Camp. I hope you will pardon the delay on that account.","I must confess, I have been sadly disappointed in my calculations. When I resigned at the Institute, I was confident of a position in the Engineers. Alas! For the uncertainty of human expectations! I had thought very seriously of joining the Infantry, as a private, \u0026 but for the remonstrances of my parents, think I would have. There is little, well, I see none, chance of promotion in this service unless specially favored, which I have no right to expect. But I am not murmuring. I will be contented, if I only get through this struggle safe. It would afford you little interest, \u0026 cause me more mortification, to detail to you the many ways in which I have been\ndeceived. If I could only forget the many apparently bright prospects which have been offered me, I should feel at least condoled, but memory still sings out \"he, who tries to better a good condition, often renders it worse.\"","Your very kind offers in my behalf, I can assure you, are highly appreciated, \u0026 nothing would give me more pleasure than to be with you, I hope it may be so.","We are anxiously awaiting the result of the impending issue in Northern Virginia. I may say, in truth, never was so much anxiety manifested in any one battle. That we shall be victorious is my confident belief. We had some little excitement in this immediate locality last week, occasioned by the appearance of the enemy in some force at our positions [?] on the Pamunky. It turned out, however, to be a slight demonstration. Nothing else of special interest. Beckham \u0026 Boyd send their regards. Crawford has left the\nInstitute, he failed to get a detail. Write soon \u0026 let me know all.","Your sincere friend, \nJ.B. Prince","Grassy Dale Va., May 17th 1864","My Dear Son, \nIt has now been two weeks since we heard from you, but we suppose you have written but owing to the Raiders destroying the Rail Roads around Richmond we have no mail communication with the South. Since I wrote to you from Charlottesville we have had an exciting time in the Valley. I heard at Charlottesville that the Yankee Genl. Sigel was advancing up the Valley. When I returned to Staunton I found Genl. John C. Breckinridge at that point with two Brigade of Infantry and 12 pieces of Artillery. They left Staunton on Friday last and encamped at Mt. Crawford that night and left early the next morning and encamped that night at Lacy Springs and commenced their march next (Sunday) morning at one o'clock and halted a little below Tenth Legion and remained in that position until Gen. Breckinridge had news from the front.","To get you to understand the situation of things I will go back several days and give you a History of Gen. Imboden's doings. Gen. Imboden found out that the yankees were advancing in three columns, one up the Page, one up the Hardy \u0026 Pendleton Valley, and the main force up our valley. Gen. Imboden by forced marches fell upon the column (all Cavalry) near Moorefield very\nunexpectedly, routed them completely, and pursued them within 6 or 7 miles of Romney, in this time capturing all their train which he had to destroy, having no horses to bring out the wagon.","He then returned to the Valley traveling day \u0026 night, and only stopping long enough to graze his horses, and returned to the Valley in time to attack the column coming up the Page valley. Before Sigel's forces got up to New Market he attacked the column and utterly routed it, scattering it in the mountains and captured on Friday about 100 of them with about 200 fine cavalry horses. He attacked them on Friday night and on Saturday picked up the prisoners and would have gotten more but Sigel advanced and our forces had to fall back on this side of New Market, our men making a very stubborn resistance but was forced to fall back about 8 o'clock on Saturday night to a point 3 miles this side [of] New Market, the yankees having possession of the town during the night. This now gives you to understand the position of things and I will now commence where I left off with Gen. Breckinridge's troops.","Gen. Breckinridge advanced with his troops a little after day light and not wishing to be tedious he maneuvered his forces from one point to another until about 12 O'clock, when he attacked the enemy with his artillery. Having gotten the [heights] back of the town and after an artillery duel of perhaps one hour, the Cadets from Lexington with the 62 Regiment (Col. Smith's Regiment) charged one of the yank's Batteries. They captured it, but lost heavily, the cadets lost 5 killed and 39 wounded, some of them seriously, your friend Cary Watson Adjutant of the Battalion with Col. Shipp leading the Charge, they both came out safe except Col. Shipp had a slight scratch; Royster also came out unhurt. I give you a list of the killed. Cabell, W.H. McDowell, Crockett, C., Stanard, Jones H. It is said that Col. Gilham and Capt. Sims [Semmes] stayed in the rear where there was no danger.","It was at this time that Gen. Breckinridge commenced pressing the enemy at every point and although they had two to our one we drove them from the field capturing five pieces of their Artillery, 111 prisoners and leaving nearly all of their killed and wounded upon the field and in order to make good their retreat burned the bridge over the river. An Officer reports to me today that Sigel is retreating to Winchester in great haste, reporting that we have 30,000 men while we had not more than 4,000 in the fight, our\nreserve having never been brought into action. Gen. Breckinridge's forces are [returning?] up the Valley, whether they go to reinforce Gen. Lee or go to some other point. I went down the Valley with General Breckinridge having gone down with him at his request and was with him most of the time during the fight. I came home last night having left New Market about 1 o'clock\nyesterday. We have had and will continue to have heavy fighting in Virginia, but of the final result no one doubts but we will be successful. We have driven them and at least [repulsed?] them at every point. We are all well. Write soon and often.","Your father","Josie sends her love, so do all the rest. I hope when I write again to be able to give you the glorious news that we have driven the yanks from Virginia soil.","Richmond July 28 1864","My Dear Roller, \nYour letter sent by Overton was duly received and contents noted. I have inquired of the Express Company in regard to your trunk, they tell me that it will be safe to send the blankets in it. In regard to your jacket and vest, you merely told me to order them without saying how I was to send them or whether I was to pay for them. I have seen Doherty in regard to them and he can make them out of excellent cloth for $250 so they will be ready in a few days. I will wait until I hear from you before I ship any of the things, if you say so I can put both blankets \u0026 clothes in the trunk, let me hear immediately and I will attend to all with great pleasure. I should like very much to go over to see you, but cannot possibly do so, though I do not intend to remain here idle longer than the first of August. I am ashamed of it, will return to Lexington and remain there in camp first.","I have not seen Overton since the school closed. About two dozen of the boys are staying here. Speaking of the appointments, a good many of them surprised me, though I am very well satisfied with what I got, I don't care much however, you know kissing goes by favor. There are eight privates now in the first class, but it is my private belief that the Institute will not be in operation again until the was is over, although they have made arrangements to carry it on, books cloth and provisions an all wanting.","I am glad your Father did not suffer by the yankees. Mother lost absolutely every thing she had, and is now a refugee here, sick too, they not only stole all provision, and stock she had, but went about the house breaking up what they could find and then had the assurance to ask my sister if she could not furnish them with a snack of ham. Roller, if I am ever spared to get into yankee land, I will respect nothing but a woman's person, I'll break, pillage and plunder. My Mother, from living in luxury at home, is now\nforced to the necessity of borrowing a wagon to get home in, and I don't know what she is going to live on after she gets there.","Speaking of old \"23,\" she did [ro__] this time, if the appointments are permanent (which I doubt) but I am afraid Pat will not stand first, I think Davis will get him. Pat has been thinking too much of Miss Mollie, she will ruin him I am afraid, or rather has done so. I will write you a letter in a few days.","Sincerely, Your friend \nLawrence Royster \nAddress \nCare, Purcell, Ladd \u0026 Co.","Corps Cadets Camp on Intermediate Line \nNear Richmond Dec. 7th 1864","My Dear Roller, \nI am really ashamed at the idea of neglecting your letter for so long a time, but out here even I scarcely have time to write a letter, so busily are we occupied drilling and having dress parades. Soon after you were at Camp Lee, we moved to this place and it seems impossible, although we have procured the Almshouse for us to get away, we are anxiously expecting a furlough of two weeks to prepare etc. When we will be relieved from duty here I cannot say, we are daily expecting a fight on this line, certainly\nbefore the end of this week. They are making such a stir about our getting the building that I do not expect we will be able to study in peace after we do get there. The provisions and \"we officers\" have all been moved down ready for work but the much persecuted Corps has not been released from the Confederate Authorities yet. Not long since a foreign battalion was raised under Col. Tucker to be stationed in Columbia \u0026 Aiken SC as a garrison. A good many of our boys have accepted positions as Captains and Lieutenants, among them, several of the old class, also Duncan, Brockenbrough, James F., Dinwiddie, Barton, Penn and Tunstall. I came near going myself but concluded not to do so, and now I congratulate myself upon not going. I believe we intend to occupy the Alms House until the spring and then move to Lexington again. I am sure I cannot study much in Richmond, and now I have my fears concerning Calculus etc. as it would be more disgraceful than ever should I fail in that, oh! I do want that diploma so much. I have studied hard for two long years and now do not want to fail. We are to room by company, consequently our old room will greatly, to the regret of all parties, be broken up, Pizzini, Davis and myself being in different companies. With that\nexception I have as pleasant a room as I could desire. Stuart, Echols, Etheredge, Royster, Ridley R., James J., Jarratt \u0026 Peirce, the officers and non-commissioned of \"B\" Co. The house is an elegant building, much more than old barracks. We will also have to study on Saturday which I do not like much. That fine breakfast on Saturday will be knocked in the head then.","Ross \u0026 Echols desire to be remembered to you.","The John E. Roller papers include:\n Civil War era letters from cadet friends concerning life at VMI Civil War dispatches and telegrams that date from Roller's service with the Confederate States of America engineers, including one document signed by General Robert E. Lee One scrapbook (circa 1910) that contains clippings about Civil War battles, veterans, unit reunions, monument dedications, and other related information Two photographs, one of Confederate soldier Lieutenant Colonel Samuel T. Walker (10th Virginia Infantry Regiment) and one of the Virginia Legislature Centennial Committee (1871) Holograph text of a cadet literary-debating society speech delivered by Cadet Norwood B. Randolph in 1870 Other items","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life and the upcoming inauguration of Jefferson Davis.","Written from Staunton, Virginia. Letter regards Peter S. Roller's inability to supply General Francis H. Smith with hired or slave labor. Letter also includes a discussion of when John E. Roller should join the Army.","Written from VMI, Lexington, VIrginia. In the letter, John E. Roller submits a report concerning the theft of Commandant records.","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter congratulates John E. Roller on his Army commission.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses examinations and mutual friends at VMI.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards results of examinations and that Lawrence Royster is considering leaving VMI.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards academic problems, uncertainty about staying at VMI, and mentions several recent graduates and cadets.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses rumors about deployment of cadets and cadets who have left VMI.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards academics, changes in faculty, and cadet life.","Written from Camp Stephens, Richmond, Virginia. Joseph B. Prince recently resigned from a teaching job at VMI to join the Army, but is disappointed in his Army position.","Written from Grassy Dale, Virginia. Letter reports news of fighting in the Shenandoah Valley between forces of General Breckinridge and General Sigel. The letter also mentions the Battle of New Market.","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter regards Hunter's Raid and family news.","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter regards travel to VMI's temporary headquarters at the Alms House in Richmond.","Correspondents include Richard L. Gray, Nannie Lewis, G. W. Berlin, and C. L. Hammond.","Includes dispatches, notes, and telegrams.","Letter regards receipt of recommendations.","Certifies Thomas Hubbard, born in Caswell County, North Carolina.","Dispatch reports on enemy strength.","Document requests for officer to be assigned at Weldon.","Written near Drewry's Bluff, Virginia. Regards enemy naval forces.","\"I have telegraphed Hampton to return to Richmond. Send for him. Young's brigade under Col. Wright cannot be far in advance of Richmond. Get your Cavalry together, aid it with the Infantry, and drive back enemy.\"","Scouting report.","Dispatch regards transportation for officer.","Dispatch regards a matter pending before the War Department.","Dispatch regards a personnel request.","Dispatch regards a request for ammunition.","Dispatch directs W. Brown to send forge to Dunlap's Crossing, Georgia.","Dispatch requests map of Dinwiddie, Virginia.","Dispatch requests \"all amputating sets on hand.\"","\"If you should receive an unintelligible signal dispatch from Gen. Beauregard tonight or in morning take no notice of it- it is sent for a purpose.\"","Dispatch explains that Mayo is too sick to attend court.","Dispatch conveys instructions and reprimand.","Dispatch regards troop movements.","Dispatch requests five dollar notes.","Scrapbook contains clippings about Civil War battles, veterans, unit reunions, monument dedications, and related information.","Samuel T. Walker (1830-1863) served with the 10th Virginia Infantry Regiment and was killed in action at the Battle of Chancellorsville, Virginia in May 1863.","Includes holograph text of a cadet literary-debating society speech delivered by Norwood B. Randolph in 1870, and other items.","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","Roller, John E. (John Edwin), 1844-1917","Royster, Lawrence, 1841-1914","Overton, Archibald W. (Archibald Waller), 1845-1920","Prince, Joseph B. (Joseph Brown), 1844-1903","Randolph, Norwood B. (Norwood Beverley), 1849-1874","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Flannagan, William W. (William Walker), 1843-1923","Walker, Samuel T., 1830-1863","Baldwin, Briscoe G. (Briscoe Gerard), 1828-1898","Davis, Jefferson, 1808-1889","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Pizzini, Andrew, Jr., 1846-1913","Chaffin, Richard B. (Richard Booker), 1844-1902","Grigg, Wesley P. (Wesley Peyton), 1846-1865","Steptoe, Charles Y. (Charles Yancey), 1838-1877","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Taylor, Walter H. (Walter Herron), 1838-1916","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0171","/repositories/3/resources/599"],"normalized_title_ssm":["John E. Roller papers"],"collection_title_tesim":["John E. Roller papers"],"collection_ssim":["John E. Roller papers"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Roller, John E. (John Edwin), 1844-1917","Royster, Lawrence, 1841-1914","Overton, Archibald W. (Archibald Waller), 1845-1920","Prince, Joseph B. (Joseph Brown), 1844-1903","Randolph, Norwood B. (Norwood Beverley), 1849-1874","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Flannagan, William W. (William Walker), 1843-1923","Walker, Samuel T., 1830-1863","Baldwin, Briscoe G. (Briscoe Gerard), 1828-1898"],"creator_ssim":["Roller, John E. (John Edwin), 1844-1917","Royster, Lawrence, 1841-1914","Overton, Archibald W. (Archibald Waller), 1845-1920","Prince, Joseph B. (Joseph Brown), 1844-1903","Randolph, Norwood B. (Norwood Beverley), 1849-1874","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Flannagan, William W. (William Walker), 1843-1923","Walker, Samuel T., 1830-1863","Baldwin, Briscoe G. (Briscoe Gerard), 1828-1898"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Roller, John E. (John Edwin), 1844-1917","Royster, Lawrence, 1841-1914","Overton, Archibald W. (Archibald Waller), 1845-1920","Prince, Joseph B. (Joseph Brown), 1844-1903","Randolph, Norwood B. (Norwood Beverley), 1849-1874","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Flannagan, William W. (William Walker), 1843-1923","Walker, Samuel T., 1830-1863","Baldwin, Briscoe G. (Briscoe Gerard), 1828-1898"],"creators_ssim":["Roller, John E. (John Edwin), 1844-1917","Royster, Lawrence, 1841-1914","Overton, Archibald W. (Archibald Waller), 1845-1920","Prince, Joseph B. (Joseph Brown), 1844-1903","Randolph, Norwood B. (Norwood Beverley), 1849-1874","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Flannagan, William W. (William Walker), 1843-1923","Walker, Samuel T., 1830-1863","Baldwin, Briscoe G. (Briscoe Gerard), 1828-1898"],"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":["New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet debating societies","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1863","Confederate States of America. Army—Corps of Engineers","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","Dispatches","Scrapbooks","Telegrams","Speeches, Addresses, etc.","Photographs"],"access_subjects_ssm":["New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet debating societies","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1863","Confederate States of America. Army—Corps of Engineers","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","Dispatches","Scrapbooks","Telegrams","Speeches, Addresses, etc.","Photographs"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["0.50 cubic feet approximately 40 items"],"extent_tesim":["0.50 cubic feet approximately 40 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence","Dispatches","Scrapbooks","Telegrams","Speeches, Addresses, etc.","Photographs"],"date_range_isim":[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],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eA portion of the John E. Roller personal papers are avaliable \n\u003ca href=\"https://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/digital/collection/p15821coll11/id/1924\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["A portion of the John E. Roller personal papers are avaliable \n online ."],"arrangement_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eLetter regards a meeting.\u003c/p\u003e"],"arrangement_heading_ssm":["Arrangement"],"arrangement_tesim":["Letter regards a meeting."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn Edwin Roller was born in Rockingham County, Virginia on October 5, 1844 to Peter Samuel Roller and Frances Allebach. In the summer of 1861, although underage for service, he briefly served with Company I of the First Virginia Cavalry, Confederate States of America. On December 31, 1861, Roller entered VMI as a second classman and graduated in July 1863. He subsequently taught mathematics at VMI for a few months, and then was appointed as a 2nd Lieutenant, Company G, 2nd Confederate States Engineers in October 1863. He served as an engineer officer in the Army of Northern Virginia until the end of the Civil War, and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAfter the War, Roller he studied law at the University of Virginia and practiced law in Harrisonburg, Virginia. He also served in the Virginia State Legislature and was a Brigadier General in the state militia. Roller was widely known in the Harrisonburg community as \"General Roller.\" He died in Harrisonburg on August 10, 1918.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["John Edwin Roller was born in Rockingham County, Virginia on October 5, 1844 to Peter Samuel Roller and Frances Allebach. In the summer of 1861, although underage for service, he briefly served with Company I of the First Virginia Cavalry, Confederate States of America. On December 31, 1861, Roller entered VMI as a second classman and graduated in July 1863. He subsequently taught mathematics at VMI for a few months, and then was appointed as a 2nd Lieutenant, Company G, 2nd Confederate States Engineers in October 1863. He served as an engineer officer in the Army of Northern Virginia until the end of the Civil War, and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","After the War, Roller he studied law at the University of Virginia and practiced law in Harrisonburg, Virginia. He also served in the Virginia State Legislature and was a Brigadier General in the state militia. Roller was widely known in the Harrisonburg community as \"General Roller.\" He died in Harrisonburg on August 10, 1918."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eNo. 28 V.M.I. Jan 24th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Parents,\u003cbr\u003e\nAs I could not finish on a half sheet I concluded I would commence on this as I had several things to write about yet. You enquired in your last about bedding. I have obtained a mattress and have plenty of cover. I put two of my blankets in my trunk in the arsenal because I did not need them. Only one trunk is allowed to a room and I had to send mine to the arsenal. I wish you had the big one at home, for I have not a thing in it. We are not allowed to go to town only on Saturday, when I will see about those slippers, though I think I can do without them very well. I wish I had kept a pair of citizens pants here as I could save my cadet pants very much by wearing them. But it is not worth while to try to send them to me now.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI will try and make out with what I have now. Tell John Carpenter I still think of his promise. I wonder if George would not like to come here, there are several fellows here from the 1st regiment, who got off to come here and if George will come, I will try and get him an appointment. I should like it very much to have him here with me.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYou want to know what arrangements they have that cadets are not allowed to come home in two years, I will try and send you a catalogue, so that you may see how it is. I have to study very hard but I like the place better every day. I made a \"perfect\" today. Remember me to Cousin A.B. and all my friends. I hope he will succeed well with his school. R.A. Crawford says I must remember him to A.B. and ask him if he received his \"Phonography.\" I wish you'd send me the Register every week. I do not get to see a paper here hardly and the Register would seem so familiar to me. If you see something really good in the Dispatch, I wish you would send that sometimes too. I wish you would send some soap, whenever you send me that studying gown. A piece or two of that old \"homemade\" would save some little money for soap is high here. But I must close this letter, as the mail box will soon be shut. Excuse it if you please, for it is badly connected, but that could not be helped for I had to write it whenever I had the chance. Write soon to me and give me the news. Much love to all and a kiss for \"brother.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYour affectionate son, J.E. Roller\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI can't think of any name for brother yet. Tell me in your next what you think of calling him. I [seem] to have forgotten to mention to you that that it is rumored that the Cadets will be invited to Richmond the 22nd of Feb. to see Jeff Davis inaugurated, but it is not generally believed. I wish they would for it will be a grand sight and a great honor to witness the inauguration of what will be one of the greatest powers in the world.\u003cbr\u003e\nJ.E.Roller\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eStaunton, Va.\u003cbr\u003e\nStaunton Aug. 25th 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Son\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter to your ma was duly received. In reply to your inquiry about negroes for Genl. Smith, I know of none that can be hired or none that could be bought at this time. If I should hear of any I will write again. Had I known it a week earlier I think I could have gotten several men for him belonging to a party in Loudoun County.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have not been to Harrisonburg since you wrote about the goods for Pantaloons, and as the season is so far advanced and as you have a prospect of getting other clothing for winter I have concluded not to buy it unless you think you shall need it.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe Mt. Crawford company has been exchanged and I understand that Mr. Blackford has succeeded in getting quite a number of them to join his company. If you have a desire to join his company as first Lieutenant perhaps it would be the best thing you could do. I think it will be best for you to consult Genl. Smith about it. He knows best what your chances would be for a situation after [you graduate]. If you have to enter the service [missing word] it would be better to go into it [now] and get hardened to the service before the cold weather sets in. However, if Genl. Smith thinks you had better stay until you graduate, I shall say to Mr. Blackford as soon as I see him, I will say to him if he will have you appointed that you shall have the privilege of accepting it. I will write again as soon as I see him and let you know what the prospects are of you getting an appointment. George Carpenter could not get out of the army he being a conscript and no provisions being made by Congress for young men wishing to go to the Military Institution. I am though with the Dam and have the Mill running again.\u003cbr\u003e\nYours in haste, P.S. Roller\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M. Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 18th 1863\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe following is a true statement of the facts with regard to my tour of O.D. on the 16th inst. and in connection with the removal of reports from the Commandant's office. I marched on O.D. at the usual time on Monday morning, and from that time until the recreation drum at 4 PM, I was either in Mr. Grigg's room, the Commandant's office, or in front of the Barracks (several hours spent either in section room, Mess Hall, or my own room), with the exceptions of the following times, viz.-- from 8-9 in Col. Williamson's section room, from 10-11 in Col. Preston's, from 12 to 1 in Col. Gilham's, and from 1-2 spent partly in Mess Hall and partly in room. I attended all C.P.s and looked up absentees and went in the Commandant's office frequently during the day\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSometime in the morning, I cannot state positively the precise time, though I think between 9 and 10 o'clock AM, upon entering the Commandant's office, I saw one of the fatigue sentinels standing at the desk, with a key in the keyhole. I did not see him have the desk open, nor did I see him have any reports. I remarked to him, \"What are you doing? Do you not know that you are responsible for those reports.\" He replied that he was not stealing reports, but that he just wanted to see if his key would fit the lock. I said nothing more, but turned around immediately and went out.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eFrom 4 o'clock until E.P., I was in my room and went from there to Supper in the Mess Hall, after which I returned to my room (where I remained) until the Study Drum was beaten, when I went down to Mr. Grigg's room and remained there until 11 o'clock. And after spending 10 or 15 minutes in quieting noise, receiving reports of inspectors, seeing the sentinels challenge properly, I went to my room and retired for the night.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI arose about 5 minutes to 7 o' clock and left my room about 15 minutes after and proceeded to Mr. Beckham's room to see some Engineering plates which he had, and from there went to Mess Hall to breakfast, being just in time to meet the corps as it was leaving the Hall. After B. I marched of O.D. and on enquiring of Mr. Shaw for the Guard Book was told that Major Ship had it and also that the reports had been removed, which was the first intimation I had rec'd of the fact. I know not even the slightest circumstance upon which to ground even a suspicion, except the above circumstance, but in justice I feel bound to say, that I could not give any positive evidence that the desk had been opened by him or whether his key fit the lock, and can conscientiously express the belief that he was not the one who removed the reports after E.P., or before E.P. \u0026amp; [?]. Hoping the\nabove may [prove] \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eJ.E. Roller\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI forgot to mention that about ten o'clock, seeing the Orderlies Delinquencies laying outside the desk, and knowing that I was responsible for them, I got Mr. Grigg's key and placed them in the desk. Mr. Shaw and two of sentinels were present at the time. I am unable to say how the books came there, and according to the best of my recollection. I saw them there after I saw Mr. Turner at the desk. I do not pretend to say that he placed them there, or that there were left there by the Com't. I merely make the statement and leave the inferences to be drawn.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eRichmond, Va.\u003cbr\u003e\nNov. 8th/63\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Roller,\u003cbr\u003e\nAllow me to congratulate you upon your success in obtaining a commission. I want to follow your example. A commission is something I have been seeking, ever since we graduated, but all my efforts are unavailing. Will you inform me by what \"slight of hand\" you were so successful. Let me know all the minutiae, the letters you had \u0026amp; from whom \u0026amp; to whom they were addressed \u0026amp;\nthe political or rather military friends you employed. Present my kindest regards to Prince, with many wishes for your success \u0026amp; the hope you may do honor to my class (which you can do)\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am Truly Yr. Friend \u0026amp; classmate\u003cbr\u003e\nW.W. Flannagan\u003cbr\u003e\nBox 610\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e\"V.M.I\" Jan. 6th '64\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Roller,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter was a pleasant surprise. I did not expect it for some time to come, it was received however too late for me to reply by Thursday's mail, the mail is now always a day too late.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWell sir, I enter upon the deep and stormy waters of the Rubicon on tomorrow. I have labored up to this time as diligently as I could, but I never was now fearful of shipwreck before. I leave the result to fate, wherever she casts my lot, I will have to remain satisfied. I will write you the result however immediately it is known, if I should be thrown I will see you a short time after.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMany thanks to you for your kind invitation to visit you as well as the ladies, it would afford me great pleasure, and if possible, I will accept it. Pizzini and myself are just enjoying the contents of two boxes, which \"that confounded packet\" has at last brought to hand, we wish so much that you were here to share it with us. Prince was out frolicking last night until 12 o'clock, so that I could not attend to your messages. This morning I gave him the letter and told him that I intended writing to you and would send any message he might desire, but he said nothing at all. I have delivered your message to Blum and Perkinson. Beckham left last Saturday for Staunton and carried your trunk with him as you directed, I suppose you have received it by this. Smith F. has not written the letter to his brother yet, as soon as he does, I will forward to you if he does not do so himself. I have heard nothing of Crawford since you left. Dick Chaffin was severely wounded in the recent fight near Covington, 'tis thought his leg will have to be amputated. I wish I could have received your letter in time to reply by Thursday's mail as I know you will expect an answer then. I have attended to your little affairs, no trouble I can assure you. If you have other business in this section, let me hear and I will also attend to that. Overton as well as all the occupants of No. 23 send their kindest regards. You will hear from me again by Monday or Tuesday next.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYour sincere friend\u003cbr\u003e\nLawrence Royster\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Jan. 9th 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy dear Roller,\u003cbr\u003e\nThe Rubicon I think is crossed though I did not pass as good an examination as I desired, and have had the misfortune to be thrown in the third section, which is terrible, as you know that section is almost always deficient, though I am through yet I am disheartened at the idea of being that low. I stand only 37, which you know is very low, twenty-six were found deficient. I should like very much to join you and go to Charleston, but you know getting through is better than any thing else. If I should not stand a very good chance as June approaches, I shall resign and join you wherever you at all hazards. The idea of going into the last section has made me feel almost as badly as a deficiency, I can assure you. I hope that you will continue to write me after you leave for the army. I will take great pleasure in replying to you whenever it is in my power. I shall always be happy to hear from you. Sally Crawford has arrived. Pizzini passed a very good examination, made 3 on subject, was not questioned. The thought of being in that deficient section and thrown in June, takes away all the pleasure of getting through. I must close. Let me hear from you.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYour sincere friend\u003cbr\u003e\nLawrence Royster\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nMonday Feb. 22nd 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy dear Roller,\u003cbr\u003e\nThis is the first holyday that has not found me on fatigue guard for some time past so I will take advantage of it by replying to your letter which was received on yesterday morning. The last account I had of you was that you were in Richmond, applying for an office in the Ordnance Department. I am glad to hear that you are busily engaged in your new department. Allow me to thank you most kindly for your wishes for my success here as well as the desire you expressed of having me with you in your new home. Your letter inspired me with an ardent desire to join you. Since you left I have been several times on the eve of resigning and going to Charleston. I was fortunate enough in January to pass an examination, while many others were thrown and had to resign or be sent home. But at the same time I was so unfortunate as to be thrown into the third section. Since then I have labored with unceasing fidelity, but it seems the harder I work, the worse marks I make. I thought Analytical Geometry was hard enough, but Description certainly surpasses it by far, on that subject I am totally in the dark. My low mark and imperfect recitation have discouraged me so much that I have lost all taste for study. I wrote home for advise on resigning, but they wrote back earnestly entreating me to remain until July. However I have no idea that I will take that advice, I may leave at any time. I may leave am\nexceedingly anxious to be with you, and I now promise, if I leave at any time, will join you. It is a struggle between life and death with me now, if I leave, I give up all hope of ever obtaining an education, and seeing you do so well, inspires me with new desire of finishing my education at the \"V.M.I.\" At the same time I am anxious to be with you. If I enter the service at all I shall not even think of applying for an office of any kind, I expect to be a private wherever I go. At the same time accept my most sincere thanks for your kindness in offering me the office of O.S. if you could get it and I would accept it. I would accept it with great pleasure. I\nsometimes give up all hope of passing, and then again think of remaining and taking my chances in June, so I do not know what to be at. I shall consult Spex in a day or two and will be guided very much by what he says; though very little confidence can be put in anything that he says on such a subject as that, I do not suppose he would tell me even what he thought, however I shall try him.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePrince left here about one month ago, I heard since then that he was a Sergeant in the Engineers Corps, you seem to be the only successful one in your class. Grigg I hear is walking around loose in Petersburg. I am sure no one at the \"V.M.I.\" was glad at your leaving, indeed I heard some express their regret at it. Your old room is vacant. Sally Crawford and Lieut. Steptoe (new Sub) occupy No. 20 together, the former remains very quiet, is swelling on his bars and escorting the ladies home from church, etc. I do not know his qualifications as professor. The occupants of 23 all send their kindest regards. Pat Shafer has just come from the Hospital where he had been confined for several weeks with a severe attack of pneumonia, we thought at one time that he intended leaving us. Blum has been reinstated, but Spex refused to let him go on with the 2nd Class, so he has resigned, he\nsays he will accept a Sergeancy if you will give it to him. Capt. Whitwell\nhas recently returned from furlough accompanied by his lady, they are boarding at the Lexington Hotel. Miss Logan and Mr. Davidson were recently married also, the former I expect you know, a refugee from Winchester. What do you think of the recent law of Congress in regard to the Currency, taxes, etc? I am extremely glad that it will reduce the price of goods. The Steamer which has been as long on the way from Europe has recently arrived, but was destroyed for the goods falling into yankee hands, there were on board all the goods which we needed, the finest english gray cloth, etc. but unfortunately all were lost so I have given up on the idea of wearing a fine suit again.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSpex is still shipping indiscriminately, sometimes twelve or fifteen daily, rats are also reporting in numbers.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePatsy says he will accept an Orderly Sergeant's place if you will give it him, but he adds \"if he can do no better.\" Ross desires his kindest regards to you. I must close, though it is the 22nd, my time is limited. If I do leave, which I confidently expect to do, will write you immediately. I am anxious to be with you. I hope you will write me as often as possible, your letters will always be agreeable.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am, as ever,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour Sincere friend\u003cbr\u003e\nLawrence Royster\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVa. Mil. Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nApril 10th 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Roller,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour last letter was received several days since and wishing to keep up a more regular correspondence between us, I answer your letter at the first opportunity and hope you will not delay writing a reply to this as long as you did my previous one, although your excuse for doing so was a good as well as a sufficient one. No news worthy of notice has taken place since last writing to you, but the old V.M.I still keeps up her notoriety for rumors and there are a thousand and one afloat about going on marches etc., which I would not like to enumerate, and were I so disposed, I think time and paper would fail me before I accomplished that end. But there is one which if true will wreck all the hopes I have been sustaining for the last six months and before which the pleasure of a long vacation will go \"glimmering like all things that were\": it is that no furloughs will be granted this summer and that our usual vacation of two months will either be spent in Gen. Lee's or Gen. Imboden's camp. This rumor is said to have good foundation, for those who were most interested were watching her with an eagle's eye and after having poised herself above the V.M.I. for some time during which many feathers were plucked from her wing, she was seen to direct her course toward Col. Preston's where she rested from his labors. There was another last week that we were going on a march and this one came from the direction of Gen. Smith's and with such force against barracks that some of her feathers are still visible on the stoops. Numerous others are afloat but as I said before to enumerate them would take more time than I have at my disposal.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWith regard to your inquiry about Prince, I have not heard from him since he left nor have I seen any one who has; but I reckon he is having a good time wherever he is as he always takes things easy. Crawford resigned a few weeks since and has again entered the army as a private; Col. John Ross has been appointed to fill his vacancy. Old Max studies as hard as ever and talks\nas much about being found [deficient], but I believe they would put him through even if he were deficient on account of his good conduct. He received a letter from you a few days since and says he will answer it soon. I am very glad you like my uncle as I expected you would. I think you estimate his services too highly when you say that he deserves more of the credit for the defense of Charleston tho' he has done a great deal towards it. I hardly ever hear from him except though you and therefore your letters\nare doubly acceptable. Give my best to him when you next see him. With best wishes for your future prosperity I remain,\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYours truly, A.W. Overton\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e\"V.M.I.\" April 21st 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Roller,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour kind and interesting letter should have had a more speedy reply, but as the examination approaches, I am more and more busy every day. The Class has lost a great deal of time and consequently will not have so much to review in. We are now in the field surveying, have not yet finished Shades and Shadows. The weather has been during the past month colder than I have felt\nfor eight years even in the depth of winter. The mountains in sight are still covered with snow, and today is the only mild and clear day that we have had for over one month, and notwithstanding this we have not had fire since Christmas, and during the deep snows we had suspension of all duties for several days at a time. The cold was so severe that it was impossible to study, a great many went to bed in order to keep warm. This together with Col. Massie's sickness has thrown the 3rd class back very much, so now the hard work comes.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSince you left quite a change has taken place in the Faculty. Lt. Col. Ross has been appointed assistant Prof. Math 4th Class in your place; Sal Crawford received a commission in his old regiment and resigned about a month ago. Dr. Ross is Asst. prof French as well as Asst. Surgeon.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSpex is still very fond of his \"reviews and parades.\" Not long since Gen. Rosser's Cavalry Brigade came through here and encamped about ten or twelve miles beyond Lexington, by Spex's invitation he reviewed the Corps and inspected the barracks. Several days afterwards, he presented the Corps with a flag captured in battle from 164th New York Regiment as a trophy; the\npresentation speech was very fine indeed, it took place under guard tree before a very large crowd. Scott Shipp received it and replied; his was also very good but he was very much excited though, however it was his first speech in public. After the ceremony was over the Cavalry made a charge in field in front of barracks to give us an idea of it. But the idea, Roller, of the Corps of Cadets receiving a trophy taken by our troops in the field from the yankees; it looked like saying, \"Well, you are too weak and afraid to do any thing of this yourselves, so we will make you a present of one,\" I feel that it is a disgrace to the Corps. The speaker alluded in such a touching manner to the precious blood which was spilt in taking it, and of the Col. falling in the charge. That night he invited the officers of the Institute and the 1st Class to attend a party at the house where he was staying, but as all could not attend, Spex allowed only the four Captains and Adjt. to go. Several days afterwards he invited Spex to review his\nbrigade, and the officers and 1st Class again to dine with him, which as many as could conveniently do so, very readily accepted of.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI should like very much to enjoy those nice vegetables and fish you were speaking of, it certainly would be a great treat, especially when everything is so high and scarce, we are nearer starving here than ever before, a piece of beef frequently comes on the table for nine men which candidly speaking I could easily cover with one hand. If the school cannot be maintained on a better scale, I think they had as well close it. It is rumored and I partly believe it that instead of giving the Corps furlough next summer,\nwe are to be sent in a body to Gen. Lee's army. We have not had a march since December last, which I think I gave you an account of. Err this reaches you I imagine you will have received some news from the two grand armies on the Potomac, we are of opinion that it will be the greatest of the war up to this time. May Heaven give us the victory! Many thanks to you for your kind offer, it will be very acceptable. I will inform you immediately of the result of the examination after I know my fate, should I be unsuccessful will go directly from here to Charleston, so in your next letter write me what to equip myself with before leaving and what articles I can procure in Charleston as I do not want to carry more than is necessary.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThere are now about fifty odd in the third class and I do not think Massie will pass more than twenty. I know he intends making a most \"awful rake.\" I must not neglect to tell you of the marriage of Miss Sanders (I suppose you remember her) to Capt. Contri an Italian on Gen. Morgan's staff. They say he is a very accomplished and gallant man, fought fourteen pitched battles in Europe, was in Crimean war etc., that is all I know however. They were here today. The Commandant's Office is now a reception room for all visitors, they are not allowed to come into barracks during study hours under any pretence whatever.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eHow are you progressing with the ladies now or do you visit them at all? As for myself, I have long since abandoned all thoughts of them, scarcely even look at them, you know how fatal they are. I have many things to write, but it is almost 11 o'clock PM and this is the last chance I will have to write for sometime to come. Finished my day's survey in[--] rather earlier today or would not have had this [missing word]. Write me as often as you can.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYour sincere friend,\u003cbr\u003e\nLawrence Royster\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSam Hopkins who was here last year, after being confined in some Yankee prison for several months returned home and died two days after.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Stevens- Richmond\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 3, 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Roller,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour esteemed favor did not reach me as soon as it would, had I not been absent on duty when it reached Camp. I hope you will pardon the delay on that account.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must confess, I have been sadly disappointed in my calculations. When I resigned at the Institute, I was confident of a position in the Engineers. Alas! For the uncertainty of human expectations! I had thought very seriously of joining the Infantry, as a private, \u0026amp; but for the remonstrances of my parents, think I would have. There is little, well, I see none, chance of promotion in this service unless specially favored, which I have no right to expect. But I am not murmuring. I will be contented, if I only get through this struggle safe. It would afford you little interest, \u0026amp; cause me more mortification, to detail to you the many ways in which I have been\ndeceived. If I could only forget the many apparently bright prospects which have been offered me, I should feel at least condoled, but memory still sings out \"he, who tries to better a good condition, often renders it worse.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYour very kind offers in my behalf, I can assure you, are highly appreciated, \u0026amp; nothing would give me more pleasure than to be with you, I hope it may be so.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe are anxiously awaiting the result of the impending issue in Northern Virginia. I may say, in truth, never was so much anxiety manifested in any one battle. That we shall be victorious is my confident belief. We had some little excitement in this immediate locality last week, occasioned by the appearance of the enemy in some force at our positions [?] on the Pamunky. It turned out, however, to be a slight demonstration. Nothing else of special interest. Beckham \u0026amp; Boyd send their regards. Crawford has left the\nInstitute, he failed to get a detail. Write soon \u0026amp; let me know all.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYour sincere friend,\u003cbr\u003e\nJ.B. Prince\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGrassy Dale Va., May 17th 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Son,\u003cbr\u003e\nIt has now been two weeks since we heard from you, but we suppose you have written but owing to the Raiders destroying the Rail Roads around Richmond we have no mail communication with the South. Since I wrote to you from Charlottesville we have had an exciting time in the Valley. I heard at Charlottesville that the Yankee Genl. Sigel was advancing up the Valley. When I returned to Staunton I found Genl. John C. Breckinridge at that point with two Brigade of Infantry and 12 pieces of Artillery. They left Staunton on Friday last and encamped at Mt. Crawford that night and left early the next morning and encamped that night at Lacy Springs and commenced their march next (Sunday) morning at one o'clock and halted a little below Tenth Legion and remained in that position until Gen. Breckinridge had news from the front.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eTo get you to understand the situation of things I will go back several days and give you a History of Gen. Imboden's doings. Gen. Imboden found out that the yankees were advancing in three columns, one up the Page, one up the Hardy \u0026amp; Pendleton Valley, and the main force up our valley. Gen. Imboden by forced marches fell upon the column (all Cavalry) near Moorefield very\nunexpectedly, routed them completely, and pursued them within 6 or 7 miles of Romney, in this time capturing all their train which he had to destroy, having no horses to bring out the wagon.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eHe then returned to the Valley traveling day \u0026amp; night, and only stopping long enough to graze his horses, and returned to the Valley in time to attack the column coming up the Page valley. Before Sigel's forces got up to New Market he attacked the column and utterly routed it, scattering it in the mountains and captured on Friday about 100 of them with about 200 fine cavalry horses. He attacked them on Friday night and on Saturday picked up the prisoners and would have gotten more but Sigel advanced and our forces had to fall back on this side of New Market, our men making a very stubborn resistance but was forced to fall back about 8 o'clock on Saturday night to a point 3 miles this side [of] New Market, the yankees having possession of the town during the night. This now gives you to understand the position of things and I will now commence where I left off with Gen. Breckinridge's troops.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Breckinridge advanced with his troops a little after day light and not wishing to be tedious he maneuvered his forces from one point to another until about 12 O'clock, when he attacked the enemy with his artillery. Having gotten the [heights] back of the town and after an artillery duel of perhaps one hour, the Cadets from Lexington with the 62 Regiment (Col. Smith's Regiment) charged one of the yank's Batteries. They captured it, but lost heavily, the cadets lost 5 killed and 39 wounded, some of them seriously, your friend Cary Watson Adjutant of the Battalion with Col. Shipp leading the Charge, they both came out safe except Col. Shipp had a slight scratch; Royster also came out unhurt. I give you a list of the killed. Cabell, W.H. McDowell, Crockett, C., Stanard, Jones H. It is said that Col. Gilham and Capt. Sims [Semmes] stayed in the rear where there was no danger.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt was at this time that Gen. Breckinridge commenced pressing the enemy at every point and although they had two to our one we drove them from the field capturing five pieces of their Artillery, 111 prisoners and leaving nearly all of their killed and wounded upon the field and in order to make good their retreat burned the bridge over the river. An Officer reports to me today that Sigel is retreating to Winchester in great haste, reporting that we have 30,000 men while we had not more than 4,000 in the fight, our\nreserve having never been brought into action. Gen. Breckinridge's forces are [returning?] up the Valley, whether they go to reinforce Gen. Lee or go to some other point. I went down the Valley with General Breckinridge having gone down with him at his request and was with him most of the time during the fight. I came home last night having left New Market about 1 o'clock\nyesterday. We have had and will continue to have heavy fighting in Virginia, but of the final result no one doubts but we will be successful. We have driven them and at least [repulsed?] them at every point. We are all well. Write soon and often.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYour father\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eJosie sends her love, so do all the rest. I hope when I write again to be able to give you the glorious news that we have driven the yanks from Virginia soil.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eRichmond July 28 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Roller,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter sent by Overton was duly received and contents noted. I have inquired of the Express Company in regard to your trunk, they tell me that it will be safe to send the blankets in it. In regard to your jacket and vest, you merely told me to order them without saying how I was to send them or whether I was to pay for them. I have seen Doherty in regard to them and he can make them out of excellent cloth for $250 so they will be ready in a few days. I will wait until I hear from you before I ship any of the things, if you say so I can put both blankets \u0026amp; clothes in the trunk, let me hear immediately and I will attend to all with great pleasure. I should like very much to go over to see you, but cannot possibly do so, though I do not intend to remain here idle longer than the first of August. I am ashamed of it, will return to Lexington and remain there in camp first.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have not seen Overton since the school closed. About two dozen of the boys are staying here. Speaking of the appointments, a good many of them surprised me, though I am very well satisfied with what I got, I don't care much however, you know kissing goes by favor. There are eight privates now in the first class, but it is my private belief that the Institute will not be in operation again until the was is over, although they have made arrangements to carry it on, books cloth and provisions an all wanting.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am glad your Father did not suffer by the yankees. Mother lost absolutely every thing she had, and is now a refugee here, sick too, they not only stole all provision, and stock she had, but went about the house breaking up what they could find and then had the assurance to ask my sister if she could not furnish them with a snack of ham. Roller, if I am ever spared to get into yankee land, I will respect nothing but a woman's person, I'll break, pillage and plunder. My Mother, from living in luxury at home, is now\nforced to the necessity of borrowing a wagon to get home in, and I don't know what she is going to live on after she gets there.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSpeaking of old \"23,\" she did [ro__] this time, if the appointments are permanent (which I doubt) but I am afraid Pat will not stand first, I think Davis will get him. Pat has been thinking too much of Miss Mollie, she will ruin him I am afraid, or rather has done so. I will write you a letter in a few days.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSincerely, Your friend\u003cbr\u003e\nLawrence Royster\u003cbr\u003e\nAddress\u003cbr\u003e\nCare, Purcell, Ladd \u0026amp; Co.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCorps Cadets Camp on Intermediate Line\u003cbr\u003e\nNear Richmond Dec. 7th 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy Dear Roller,\u003cbr\u003e\nI am really ashamed at the idea of neglecting your letter for so long a time, but out here even I scarcely have time to write a letter, so busily are we occupied drilling and having dress parades. Soon after you were at Camp Lee, we moved to this place and it seems impossible, although we have procured the Almshouse for us to get away, we are anxiously expecting a furlough of two weeks to prepare etc. When we will be relieved from duty here I cannot say, we are daily expecting a fight on this line, certainly\nbefore the end of this week. They are making such a stir about our getting the building that I do not expect we will be able to study in peace after we do get there. The provisions and \"we officers\" have all been moved down ready for work but the much persecuted Corps has not been released from the Confederate Authorities yet. Not long since a foreign battalion was raised under Col. Tucker to be stationed in Columbia \u0026amp; Aiken SC as a garrison. A good many of our boys have accepted positions as Captains and Lieutenants, among them, several of the old class, also Duncan, Brockenbrough, James F., Dinwiddie, Barton, Penn and Tunstall. I came near going myself but concluded not to do so, and now I congratulate myself upon not going. I believe we intend to occupy the Alms House until the spring and then move to Lexington again. I am sure I cannot study much in Richmond, and now I have my fears concerning Calculus etc. as it would be more disgraceful than ever should I fail in that, oh! I do want that diploma so much. I have studied hard for two long years and now do not want to fail. We are to room by company, consequently our old room will greatly, to the regret of all parties, be broken up, Pizzini, Davis and myself being in different companies. With that\nexception I have as pleasant a room as I could desire. Stuart, Echols, Etheredge, Royster, Ridley R., James J., Jarratt \u0026amp; Peirce, the officers and non-commissioned of \"B\" Co. The house is an elegant building, much more than old barracks. We will also have to study on Saturday which I do not like much. That fine breakfast on Saturday will be knocked in the head then.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eRoss \u0026amp; Echols desire to be remembered to you.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["No. 28 V.M.I. Jan 24th 1862","Dear Parents, \nAs I could not finish on a half sheet I concluded I would commence on this as I had several things to write about yet. You enquired in your last about bedding. I have obtained a mattress and have plenty of cover. I put two of my blankets in my trunk in the arsenal because I did not need them. Only one trunk is allowed to a room and I had to send mine to the arsenal. I wish you had the big one at home, for I have not a thing in it. We are not allowed to go to town only on Saturday, when I will see about those slippers, though I think I can do without them very well. I wish I had kept a pair of citizens pants here as I could save my cadet pants very much by wearing them. But it is not worth while to try to send them to me now.","I will try and make out with what I have now. Tell John Carpenter I still think of his promise. I wonder if George would not like to come here, there are several fellows here from the 1st regiment, who got off to come here and if George will come, I will try and get him an appointment. I should like it very much to have him here with me.","You want to know what arrangements they have that cadets are not allowed to come home in two years, I will try and send you a catalogue, so that you may see how it is. I have to study very hard but I like the place better every day. I made a \"perfect\" today. Remember me to Cousin A.B. and all my friends. I hope he will succeed well with his school. R.A. Crawford says I must remember him to A.B. and ask him if he received his \"Phonography.\" I wish you'd send me the Register every week. I do not get to see a paper here hardly and the Register would seem so familiar to me. If you see something really good in the Dispatch, I wish you would send that sometimes too. I wish you would send some soap, whenever you send me that studying gown. A piece or two of that old \"homemade\" would save some little money for soap is high here. But I must close this letter, as the mail box will soon be shut. Excuse it if you please, for it is badly connected, but that could not be helped for I had to write it whenever I had the chance. Write soon to me and give me the news. Much love to all and a kiss for \"brother.\"","Your affectionate son, J.E. Roller","I can't think of any name for brother yet. Tell me in your next what you think of calling him. I [seem] to have forgotten to mention to you that that it is rumored that the Cadets will be invited to Richmond the 22nd of Feb. to see Jeff Davis inaugurated, but it is not generally believed. I wish they would for it will be a grand sight and a great honor to witness the inauguration of what will be one of the greatest powers in the world. \nJ.E.Roller","Staunton, Va. \nStaunton Aug. 25th 1862","My Dear Son \nYour letter to your ma was duly received. In reply to your inquiry about negroes for Genl. Smith, I know of none that can be hired or none that could be bought at this time. If I should hear of any I will write again. Had I known it a week earlier I think I could have gotten several men for him belonging to a party in Loudoun County.","I have not been to Harrisonburg since you wrote about the goods for Pantaloons, and as the season is so far advanced and as you have a prospect of getting other clothing for winter I have concluded not to buy it unless you think you shall need it.","The Mt. Crawford company has been exchanged and I understand that Mr. Blackford has succeeded in getting quite a number of them to join his company. If you have a desire to join his company as first Lieutenant perhaps it would be the best thing you could do. I think it will be best for you to consult Genl. Smith about it. He knows best what your chances would be for a situation after [you graduate]. If you have to enter the service [missing word] it would be better to go into it [now] and get hardened to the service before the cold weather sets in. However, if Genl. Smith thinks you had better stay until you graduate, I shall say to Mr. Blackford as soon as I see him, I will say to him if he will have you appointed that you shall have the privilege of accepting it. I will write again as soon as I see him and let you know what the prospects are of you getting an appointment. George Carpenter could not get out of the army he being a conscript and no provisions being made by Congress for young men wishing to go to the Military Institution. I am though with the Dam and have the Mill running again. \nYours in haste, P.S. Roller","V.M. Institute \nMarch 18th 1863","The following is a true statement of the facts with regard to my tour of O.D. on the 16th inst. and in connection with the removal of reports from the Commandant's office. I marched on O.D. at the usual time on Monday morning, and from that time until the recreation drum at 4 PM, I was either in Mr. Grigg's room, the Commandant's office, or in front of the Barracks (several hours spent either in section room, Mess Hall, or my own room), with the exceptions of the following times, viz.-- from 8-9 in Col. Williamson's section room, from 10-11 in Col. Preston's, from 12 to 1 in Col. Gilham's, and from 1-2 spent partly in Mess Hall and partly in room. I attended all C.P.s and looked up absentees and went in the Commandant's office frequently during the day","Sometime in the morning, I cannot state positively the precise time, though I think between 9 and 10 o'clock AM, upon entering the Commandant's office, I saw one of the fatigue sentinels standing at the desk, with a key in the keyhole. I did not see him have the desk open, nor did I see him have any reports. I remarked to him, \"What are you doing? Do you not know that you are responsible for those reports.\" He replied that he was not stealing reports, but that he just wanted to see if his key would fit the lock. I said nothing more, but turned around immediately and went out.","From 4 o'clock until E.P., I was in my room and went from there to Supper in the Mess Hall, after which I returned to my room (where I remained) until the Study Drum was beaten, when I went down to Mr. Grigg's room and remained there until 11 o'clock. And after spending 10 or 15 minutes in quieting noise, receiving reports of inspectors, seeing the sentinels challenge properly, I went to my room and retired for the night.","I arose about 5 minutes to 7 o' clock and left my room about 15 minutes after and proceeded to Mr. Beckham's room to see some Engineering plates which he had, and from there went to Mess Hall to breakfast, being just in time to meet the corps as it was leaving the Hall. After B. I marched of O.D. and on enquiring of Mr. Shaw for the Guard Book was told that Major Ship had it and also that the reports had been removed, which was the first intimation I had rec'd of the fact. I know not even the slightest circumstance upon which to ground even a suspicion, except the above circumstance, but in justice I feel bound to say, that I could not give any positive evidence that the desk had been opened by him or whether his key fit the lock, and can conscientiously express the belief that he was not the one who removed the reports after E.P., or before E.P. \u0026 [?]. Hoping the\nabove may [prove] \u0026.","J.E. Roller","I forgot to mention that about ten o'clock, seeing the Orderlies Delinquencies laying outside the desk, and knowing that I was responsible for them, I got Mr. Grigg's key and placed them in the desk. Mr. Shaw and two of sentinels were present at the time. I am unable to say how the books came there, and according to the best of my recollection. I saw them there after I saw Mr. Turner at the desk. I do not pretend to say that he placed them there, or that there were left there by the Com't. I merely make the statement and leave the inferences to be drawn.","Richmond, Va. \nNov. 8th/63","Dear Roller, \nAllow me to congratulate you upon your success in obtaining a commission. I want to follow your example. A commission is something I have been seeking, ever since we graduated, but all my efforts are unavailing. Will you inform me by what \"slight of hand\" you were so successful. Let me know all the minutiae, the letters you had \u0026 from whom \u0026 to whom they were addressed \u0026\nthe political or rather military friends you employed. Present my kindest regards to Prince, with many wishes for your success \u0026 the hope you may do honor to my class (which you can do)","I am Truly Yr. Friend \u0026 classmate \nW.W. Flannagan \nBox 610","\"V.M.I\" Jan. 6th '64","Dear Roller, \nYour letter was a pleasant surprise. I did not expect it for some time to come, it was received however too late for me to reply by Thursday's mail, the mail is now always a day too late.","Well sir, I enter upon the deep and stormy waters of the Rubicon on tomorrow. I have labored up to this time as diligently as I could, but I never was now fearful of shipwreck before. I leave the result to fate, wherever she casts my lot, I will have to remain satisfied. I will write you the result however immediately it is known, if I should be thrown I will see you a short time after.","Many thanks to you for your kind invitation to visit you as well as the ladies, it would afford me great pleasure, and if possible, I will accept it. Pizzini and myself are just enjoying the contents of two boxes, which \"that confounded packet\" has at last brought to hand, we wish so much that you were here to share it with us. Prince was out frolicking last night until 12 o'clock, so that I could not attend to your messages. This morning I gave him the letter and told him that I intended writing to you and would send any message he might desire, but he said nothing at all. I have delivered your message to Blum and Perkinson. Beckham left last Saturday for Staunton and carried your trunk with him as you directed, I suppose you have received it by this. Smith F. has not written the letter to his brother yet, as soon as he does, I will forward to you if he does not do so himself. I have heard nothing of Crawford since you left. Dick Chaffin was severely wounded in the recent fight near Covington, 'tis thought his leg will have to be amputated. I wish I could have received your letter in time to reply by Thursday's mail as I know you will expect an answer then. I have attended to your little affairs, no trouble I can assure you. If you have other business in this section, let me hear and I will also attend to that. Overton as well as all the occupants of No. 23 send their kindest regards. You will hear from me again by Monday or Tuesday next.","Your sincere friend \nLawrence Royster","V.M.I. Jan. 9th 1864","My dear Roller, \nThe Rubicon I think is crossed though I did not pass as good an examination as I desired, and have had the misfortune to be thrown in the third section, which is terrible, as you know that section is almost always deficient, though I am through yet I am disheartened at the idea of being that low. I stand only 37, which you know is very low, twenty-six were found deficient. I should like very much to join you and go to Charleston, but you know getting through is better than any thing else. If I should not stand a very good chance as June approaches, I shall resign and join you wherever you at all hazards. The idea of going into the last section has made me feel almost as badly as a deficiency, I can assure you. I hope that you will continue to write me after you leave for the army. I will take great pleasure in replying to you whenever it is in my power. I shall always be happy to hear from you. Sally Crawford has arrived. Pizzini passed a very good examination, made 3 on subject, was not questioned. The thought of being in that deficient section and thrown in June, takes away all the pleasure of getting through. I must close. Let me hear from you.","Your sincere friend \nLawrence Royster","V.M.Institute \nMonday Feb. 22nd 1864","My dear Roller, \nThis is the first holyday that has not found me on fatigue guard for some time past so I will take advantage of it by replying to your letter which was received on yesterday morning. The last account I had of you was that you were in Richmond, applying for an office in the Ordnance Department. I am glad to hear that you are busily engaged in your new department. Allow me to thank you most kindly for your wishes for my success here as well as the desire you expressed of having me with you in your new home. Your letter inspired me with an ardent desire to join you. Since you left I have been several times on the eve of resigning and going to Charleston. I was fortunate enough in January to pass an examination, while many others were thrown and had to resign or be sent home. But at the same time I was so unfortunate as to be thrown into the third section. Since then I have labored with unceasing fidelity, but it seems the harder I work, the worse marks I make. I thought Analytical Geometry was hard enough, but Description certainly surpasses it by far, on that subject I am totally in the dark. My low mark and imperfect recitation have discouraged me so much that I have lost all taste for study. I wrote home for advise on resigning, but they wrote back earnestly entreating me to remain until July. However I have no idea that I will take that advice, I may leave at any time. I may leave am\nexceedingly anxious to be with you, and I now promise, if I leave at any time, will join you. It is a struggle between life and death with me now, if I leave, I give up all hope of ever obtaining an education, and seeing you do so well, inspires me with new desire of finishing my education at the \"V.M.I.\" At the same time I am anxious to be with you. If I enter the service at all I shall not even think of applying for an office of any kind, I expect to be a private wherever I go. At the same time accept my most sincere thanks for your kindness in offering me the office of O.S. if you could get it and I would accept it. I would accept it with great pleasure. I\nsometimes give up all hope of passing, and then again think of remaining and taking my chances in June, so I do not know what to be at. I shall consult Spex in a day or two and will be guided very much by what he says; though very little confidence can be put in anything that he says on such a subject as that, I do not suppose he would tell me even what he thought, however I shall try him.","Prince left here about one month ago, I heard since then that he was a Sergeant in the Engineers Corps, you seem to be the only successful one in your class. Grigg I hear is walking around loose in Petersburg. I am sure no one at the \"V.M.I.\" was glad at your leaving, indeed I heard some express their regret at it. Your old room is vacant. Sally Crawford and Lieut. Steptoe (new Sub) occupy No. 20 together, the former remains very quiet, is swelling on his bars and escorting the ladies home from church, etc. I do not know his qualifications as professor. The occupants of 23 all send their kindest regards. Pat Shafer has just come from the Hospital where he had been confined for several weeks with a severe attack of pneumonia, we thought at one time that he intended leaving us. Blum has been reinstated, but Spex refused to let him go on with the 2nd Class, so he has resigned, he\nsays he will accept a Sergeancy if you will give it to him. Capt. Whitwell\nhas recently returned from furlough accompanied by his lady, they are boarding at the Lexington Hotel. Miss Logan and Mr. Davidson were recently married also, the former I expect you know, a refugee from Winchester. What do you think of the recent law of Congress in regard to the Currency, taxes, etc? I am extremely glad that it will reduce the price of goods. The Steamer which has been as long on the way from Europe has recently arrived, but was destroyed for the goods falling into yankee hands, there were on board all the goods which we needed, the finest english gray cloth, etc. but unfortunately all were lost so I have given up on the idea of wearing a fine suit again.","Spex is still shipping indiscriminately, sometimes twelve or fifteen daily, rats are also reporting in numbers.","Patsy says he will accept an Orderly Sergeant's place if you will give it him, but he adds \"if he can do no better.\" Ross desires his kindest regards to you. I must close, though it is the 22nd, my time is limited. If I do leave, which I confidently expect to do, will write you immediately. I am anxious to be with you. I hope you will write me as often as possible, your letters will always be agreeable.","I am, as ever, \nYour Sincere friend \nLawrence Royster","Va. Mil. Institute \nApril 10th 1864","Dear Roller, \nYour last letter was received several days since and wishing to keep up a more regular correspondence between us, I answer your letter at the first opportunity and hope you will not delay writing a reply to this as long as you did my previous one, although your excuse for doing so was a good as well as a sufficient one. No news worthy of notice has taken place since last writing to you, but the old V.M.I still keeps up her notoriety for rumors and there are a thousand and one afloat about going on marches etc., which I would not like to enumerate, and were I so disposed, I think time and paper would fail me before I accomplished that end. But there is one which if true will wreck all the hopes I have been sustaining for the last six months and before which the pleasure of a long vacation will go \"glimmering like all things that were\": it is that no furloughs will be granted this summer and that our usual vacation of two months will either be spent in Gen. Lee's or Gen. Imboden's camp. This rumor is said to have good foundation, for those who were most interested were watching her with an eagle's eye and after having poised herself above the V.M.I. for some time during which many feathers were plucked from her wing, she was seen to direct her course toward Col. Preston's where she rested from his labors. There was another last week that we were going on a march and this one came from the direction of Gen. Smith's and with such force against barracks that some of her feathers are still visible on the stoops. Numerous others are afloat but as I said before to enumerate them would take more time than I have at my disposal.","With regard to your inquiry about Prince, I have not heard from him since he left nor have I seen any one who has; but I reckon he is having a good time wherever he is as he always takes things easy. Crawford resigned a few weeks since and has again entered the army as a private; Col. John Ross has been appointed to fill his vacancy. Old Max studies as hard as ever and talks\nas much about being found [deficient], but I believe they would put him through even if he were deficient on account of his good conduct. He received a letter from you a few days since and says he will answer it soon. I am very glad you like my uncle as I expected you would. I think you estimate his services too highly when you say that he deserves more of the credit for the defense of Charleston tho' he has done a great deal towards it. I hardly ever hear from him except though you and therefore your letters\nare doubly acceptable. Give my best to him when you next see him. With best wishes for your future prosperity I remain,","Yours truly, A.W. Overton","\"V.M.I.\" April 21st 1864","My Dear Roller, \nYour kind and interesting letter should have had a more speedy reply, but as the examination approaches, I am more and more busy every day. The Class has lost a great deal of time and consequently will not have so much to review in. We are now in the field surveying, have not yet finished Shades and Shadows. The weather has been during the past month colder than I have felt\nfor eight years even in the depth of winter. The mountains in sight are still covered with snow, and today is the only mild and clear day that we have had for over one month, and notwithstanding this we have not had fire since Christmas, and during the deep snows we had suspension of all duties for several days at a time. The cold was so severe that it was impossible to study, a great many went to bed in order to keep warm. This together with Col. Massie's sickness has thrown the 3rd class back very much, so now the hard work comes.","Since you left quite a change has taken place in the Faculty. Lt. Col. Ross has been appointed assistant Prof. Math 4th Class in your place; Sal Crawford received a commission in his old regiment and resigned about a month ago. Dr. Ross is Asst. prof French as well as Asst. Surgeon.","Spex is still very fond of his \"reviews and parades.\" Not long since Gen. Rosser's Cavalry Brigade came through here and encamped about ten or twelve miles beyond Lexington, by Spex's invitation he reviewed the Corps and inspected the barracks. Several days afterwards, he presented the Corps with a flag captured in battle from 164th New York Regiment as a trophy; the\npresentation speech was very fine indeed, it took place under guard tree before a very large crowd. Scott Shipp received it and replied; his was also very good but he was very much excited though, however it was his first speech in public. After the ceremony was over the Cavalry made a charge in field in front of barracks to give us an idea of it. But the idea, Roller, of the Corps of Cadets receiving a trophy taken by our troops in the field from the yankees; it looked like saying, \"Well, you are too weak and afraid to do any thing of this yourselves, so we will make you a present of one,\" I feel that it is a disgrace to the Corps. The speaker alluded in such a touching manner to the precious blood which was spilt in taking it, and of the Col. falling in the charge. That night he invited the officers of the Institute and the 1st Class to attend a party at the house where he was staying, but as all could not attend, Spex allowed only the four Captains and Adjt. to go. Several days afterwards he invited Spex to review his\nbrigade, and the officers and 1st Class again to dine with him, which as many as could conveniently do so, very readily accepted of.","I should like very much to enjoy those nice vegetables and fish you were speaking of, it certainly would be a great treat, especially when everything is so high and scarce, we are nearer starving here than ever before, a piece of beef frequently comes on the table for nine men which candidly speaking I could easily cover with one hand. If the school cannot be maintained on a better scale, I think they had as well close it. It is rumored and I partly believe it that instead of giving the Corps furlough next summer,\nwe are to be sent in a body to Gen. Lee's army. We have not had a march since December last, which I think I gave you an account of. Err this reaches you I imagine you will have received some news from the two grand armies on the Potomac, we are of opinion that it will be the greatest of the war up to this time. May Heaven give us the victory! Many thanks to you for your kind offer, it will be very acceptable. I will inform you immediately of the result of the examination after I know my fate, should I be unsuccessful will go directly from here to Charleston, so in your next letter write me what to equip myself with before leaving and what articles I can procure in Charleston as I do not want to carry more than is necessary.","There are now about fifty odd in the third class and I do not think Massie will pass more than twenty. I know he intends making a most \"awful rake.\" I must not neglect to tell you of the marriage of Miss Sanders (I suppose you remember her) to Capt. Contri an Italian on Gen. Morgan's staff. They say he is a very accomplished and gallant man, fought fourteen pitched battles in Europe, was in Crimean war etc., that is all I know however. They were here today. The Commandant's Office is now a reception room for all visitors, they are not allowed to come into barracks during study hours under any pretence whatever.","How are you progressing with the ladies now or do you visit them at all? As for myself, I have long since abandoned all thoughts of them, scarcely even look at them, you know how fatal they are. I have many things to write, but it is almost 11 o'clock PM and this is the last chance I will have to write for sometime to come. Finished my day's survey in[--] rather earlier today or would not have had this [missing word]. Write me as often as you can.","Your sincere friend, \nLawrence Royster","Sam Hopkins who was here last year, after being confined in some Yankee prison for several months returned home and died two days after.","Camp Stevens- Richmond \nMay 3, 1864","Dear Roller, \nYour esteemed favor did not reach me as soon as it would, had I not been absent on duty when it reached Camp. I hope you will pardon the delay on that account.","I must confess, I have been sadly disappointed in my calculations. When I resigned at the Institute, I was confident of a position in the Engineers. Alas! For the uncertainty of human expectations! I had thought very seriously of joining the Infantry, as a private, \u0026 but for the remonstrances of my parents, think I would have. There is little, well, I see none, chance of promotion in this service unless specially favored, which I have no right to expect. But I am not murmuring. I will be contented, if I only get through this struggle safe. It would afford you little interest, \u0026 cause me more mortification, to detail to you the many ways in which I have been\ndeceived. If I could only forget the many apparently bright prospects which have been offered me, I should feel at least condoled, but memory still sings out \"he, who tries to better a good condition, often renders it worse.\"","Your very kind offers in my behalf, I can assure you, are highly appreciated, \u0026 nothing would give me more pleasure than to be with you, I hope it may be so.","We are anxiously awaiting the result of the impending issue in Northern Virginia. I may say, in truth, never was so much anxiety manifested in any one battle. That we shall be victorious is my confident belief. We had some little excitement in this immediate locality last week, occasioned by the appearance of the enemy in some force at our positions [?] on the Pamunky. It turned out, however, to be a slight demonstration. Nothing else of special interest. Beckham \u0026 Boyd send their regards. Crawford has left the\nInstitute, he failed to get a detail. Write soon \u0026 let me know all.","Your sincere friend, \nJ.B. Prince","Grassy Dale Va., May 17th 1864","My Dear Son, \nIt has now been two weeks since we heard from you, but we suppose you have written but owing to the Raiders destroying the Rail Roads around Richmond we have no mail communication with the South. Since I wrote to you from Charlottesville we have had an exciting time in the Valley. I heard at Charlottesville that the Yankee Genl. Sigel was advancing up the Valley. When I returned to Staunton I found Genl. John C. Breckinridge at that point with two Brigade of Infantry and 12 pieces of Artillery. They left Staunton on Friday last and encamped at Mt. Crawford that night and left early the next morning and encamped that night at Lacy Springs and commenced their march next (Sunday) morning at one o'clock and halted a little below Tenth Legion and remained in that position until Gen. Breckinridge had news from the front.","To get you to understand the situation of things I will go back several days and give you a History of Gen. Imboden's doings. Gen. Imboden found out that the yankees were advancing in three columns, one up the Page, one up the Hardy \u0026 Pendleton Valley, and the main force up our valley. Gen. Imboden by forced marches fell upon the column (all Cavalry) near Moorefield very\nunexpectedly, routed them completely, and pursued them within 6 or 7 miles of Romney, in this time capturing all their train which he had to destroy, having no horses to bring out the wagon.","He then returned to the Valley traveling day \u0026 night, and only stopping long enough to graze his horses, and returned to the Valley in time to attack the column coming up the Page valley. Before Sigel's forces got up to New Market he attacked the column and utterly routed it, scattering it in the mountains and captured on Friday about 100 of them with about 200 fine cavalry horses. He attacked them on Friday night and on Saturday picked up the prisoners and would have gotten more but Sigel advanced and our forces had to fall back on this side of New Market, our men making a very stubborn resistance but was forced to fall back about 8 o'clock on Saturday night to a point 3 miles this side [of] New Market, the yankees having possession of the town during the night. This now gives you to understand the position of things and I will now commence where I left off with Gen. Breckinridge's troops.","Gen. Breckinridge advanced with his troops a little after day light and not wishing to be tedious he maneuvered his forces from one point to another until about 12 O'clock, when he attacked the enemy with his artillery. Having gotten the [heights] back of the town and after an artillery duel of perhaps one hour, the Cadets from Lexington with the 62 Regiment (Col. Smith's Regiment) charged one of the yank's Batteries. They captured it, but lost heavily, the cadets lost 5 killed and 39 wounded, some of them seriously, your friend Cary Watson Adjutant of the Battalion with Col. Shipp leading the Charge, they both came out safe except Col. Shipp had a slight scratch; Royster also came out unhurt. I give you a list of the killed. Cabell, W.H. McDowell, Crockett, C., Stanard, Jones H. It is said that Col. Gilham and Capt. Sims [Semmes] stayed in the rear where there was no danger.","It was at this time that Gen. Breckinridge commenced pressing the enemy at every point and although they had two to our one we drove them from the field capturing five pieces of their Artillery, 111 prisoners and leaving nearly all of their killed and wounded upon the field and in order to make good their retreat burned the bridge over the river. An Officer reports to me today that Sigel is retreating to Winchester in great haste, reporting that we have 30,000 men while we had not more than 4,000 in the fight, our\nreserve having never been brought into action. Gen. Breckinridge's forces are [returning?] up the Valley, whether they go to reinforce Gen. Lee or go to some other point. I went down the Valley with General Breckinridge having gone down with him at his request and was with him most of the time during the fight. I came home last night having left New Market about 1 o'clock\nyesterday. We have had and will continue to have heavy fighting in Virginia, but of the final result no one doubts but we will be successful. We have driven them and at least [repulsed?] them at every point. We are all well. Write soon and often.","Your father","Josie sends her love, so do all the rest. I hope when I write again to be able to give you the glorious news that we have driven the yanks from Virginia soil.","Richmond July 28 1864","My Dear Roller, \nYour letter sent by Overton was duly received and contents noted. I have inquired of the Express Company in regard to your trunk, they tell me that it will be safe to send the blankets in it. In regard to your jacket and vest, you merely told me to order them without saying how I was to send them or whether I was to pay for them. I have seen Doherty in regard to them and he can make them out of excellent cloth for $250 so they will be ready in a few days. I will wait until I hear from you before I ship any of the things, if you say so I can put both blankets \u0026 clothes in the trunk, let me hear immediately and I will attend to all with great pleasure. I should like very much to go over to see you, but cannot possibly do so, though I do not intend to remain here idle longer than the first of August. I am ashamed of it, will return to Lexington and remain there in camp first.","I have not seen Overton since the school closed. About two dozen of the boys are staying here. Speaking of the appointments, a good many of them surprised me, though I am very well satisfied with what I got, I don't care much however, you know kissing goes by favor. There are eight privates now in the first class, but it is my private belief that the Institute will not be in operation again until the was is over, although they have made arrangements to carry it on, books cloth and provisions an all wanting.","I am glad your Father did not suffer by the yankees. Mother lost absolutely every thing she had, and is now a refugee here, sick too, they not only stole all provision, and stock she had, but went about the house breaking up what they could find and then had the assurance to ask my sister if she could not furnish them with a snack of ham. Roller, if I am ever spared to get into yankee land, I will respect nothing but a woman's person, I'll break, pillage and plunder. My Mother, from living in luxury at home, is now\nforced to the necessity of borrowing a wagon to get home in, and I don't know what she is going to live on after she gets there.","Speaking of old \"23,\" she did [ro__] this time, if the appointments are permanent (which I doubt) but I am afraid Pat will not stand first, I think Davis will get him. Pat has been thinking too much of Miss Mollie, she will ruin him I am afraid, or rather has done so. I will write you a letter in a few days.","Sincerely, Your friend \nLawrence Royster \nAddress \nCare, Purcell, Ladd \u0026 Co.","Corps Cadets Camp on Intermediate Line \nNear Richmond Dec. 7th 1864","My Dear Roller, \nI am really ashamed at the idea of neglecting your letter for so long a time, but out here even I scarcely have time to write a letter, so busily are we occupied drilling and having dress parades. Soon after you were at Camp Lee, we moved to this place and it seems impossible, although we have procured the Almshouse for us to get away, we are anxiously expecting a furlough of two weeks to prepare etc. When we will be relieved from duty here I cannot say, we are daily expecting a fight on this line, certainly\nbefore the end of this week. They are making such a stir about our getting the building that I do not expect we will be able to study in peace after we do get there. The provisions and \"we officers\" have all been moved down ready for work but the much persecuted Corps has not been released from the Confederate Authorities yet. Not long since a foreign battalion was raised under Col. Tucker to be stationed in Columbia \u0026 Aiken SC as a garrison. A good many of our boys have accepted positions as Captains and Lieutenants, among them, several of the old class, also Duncan, Brockenbrough, James F., Dinwiddie, Barton, Penn and Tunstall. I came near going myself but concluded not to do so, and now I congratulate myself upon not going. I believe we intend to occupy the Alms House until the spring and then move to Lexington again. I am sure I cannot study much in Richmond, and now I have my fears concerning Calculus etc. as it would be more disgraceful than ever should I fail in that, oh! I do want that diploma so much. I have studied hard for two long years and now do not want to fail. We are to room by company, consequently our old room will greatly, to the regret of all parties, be broken up, Pizzini, Davis and myself being in different companies. With that\nexception I have as pleasant a room as I could desire. Stuart, Echols, Etheredge, Royster, Ridley R., James J., Jarratt \u0026 Peirce, the officers and non-commissioned of \"B\" Co. The house is an elegant building, much more than old barracks. We will also have to study on Saturday which I do not like much. That fine breakfast on Saturday will be knocked in the head then.","Ross \u0026 Echols desire to be remembered to you."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn E. Roller personal papers, 1862-1910. MS 0171. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["John E. Roller personal papers, 1862-1910. MS 0171. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe John E. Roller papers include:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCivil War era letters from cadet friends concerning life at VMI\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCivil War dispatches and telegrams that date from Roller's service with the Confederate States of America engineers, including one document signed by General Robert E. Lee\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne scrapbook (circa 1910) that contains clippings about Civil War battles, veterans, unit reunions, monument dedications, and other related information\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo photographs, one of Confederate soldier Lieutenant Colonel Samuel T. Walker (10th Virginia Infantry Regiment) and one of the Virginia Legislature Centennial Committee (1871)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHolograph text of a cadet literary-debating society speech delivered by Cadet Norwood B. Randolph in 1870\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOther items\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life and the upcoming inauguration of Jefferson Davis.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Staunton, Virginia. Letter regards Peter S. Roller's inability to supply General Francis H. Smith with hired or slave labor. Letter also includes a discussion of when John E. Roller should join the Army.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, VIrginia. In the letter, John E. Roller submits a report concerning the theft of Commandant records.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Richmond, Virginia. Letter congratulates John E. Roller on his Army commission.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses examinations and mutual friends at VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards results of examinations and that Lawrence Royster is considering leaving VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards academic problems, uncertainty about staying at VMI, and mentions several recent graduates and cadets.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses rumors about deployment of cadets and cadets who have left VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards academics, changes in faculty, and cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camp Stephens, Richmond, Virginia. Joseph B. Prince recently resigned from a teaching job at VMI to join the Army, but is disappointed in his Army position.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Grassy Dale, Virginia. Letter reports news of fighting in the Shenandoah Valley between forces of General Breckinridge and General Sigel. The letter also mentions the Battle of New Market.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Richmond, Virginia. Letter regards Hunter's Raid and family news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Richmond, Virginia. Letter regards travel to VMI's temporary headquarters at the Alms House in Richmond.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCorrespondents include Richard L. Gray, Nannie Lewis, G. W. Berlin, and C. L. Hammond.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIncludes dispatches, notes, and telegrams.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards receipt of recommendations.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCertifies Thomas Hubbard, born in Caswell County, North Carolina.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDispatch reports on enemy strength.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDocument requests for officer to be assigned at Weldon.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten near Drewry's Bluff, Virginia. Regards enemy naval forces.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e\"I have telegraphed Hampton to return to Richmond. Send for him. Young's brigade under Col. Wright cannot be far in advance of Richmond. Get your Cavalry together, aid it with the Infantry, and drive back enemy.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eScouting report.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDispatch regards transportation for officer.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDispatch regards a matter pending before the War Department.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDispatch regards a personnel request.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDispatch regards a request for ammunition.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDispatch directs W. Brown to send forge to Dunlap's Crossing, Georgia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDispatch requests map of Dinwiddie, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDispatch requests \"all amputating sets on hand.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e\"If you should receive an unintelligible signal dispatch from Gen. Beauregard tonight or in morning take no notice of it- it is sent for a purpose.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDispatch explains that Mayo is too sick to attend court.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDispatch conveys instructions and reprimand.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDispatch regards troop movements.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDispatch requests five dollar notes.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eScrapbook contains clippings about Civil War battles, veterans, unit reunions, monument dedications, and related information.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSamuel T. Walker (1830-1863) served with the 10th Virginia Infantry Regiment and was killed in action at the Battle of Chancellorsville, Virginia in May 1863.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIncludes holograph text of a cadet literary-debating society speech delivered by Norwood B. Randolph in 1870, and other items.\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","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":["The John E. Roller papers include:\n Civil War era letters from cadet friends concerning life at VMI Civil War dispatches and telegrams that date from Roller's service with the Confederate States of America engineers, including one document signed by General Robert E. Lee One scrapbook (circa 1910) that contains clippings about Civil War battles, veterans, unit reunions, monument dedications, and other related information Two photographs, one of Confederate soldier Lieutenant Colonel Samuel T. Walker (10th Virginia Infantry Regiment) and one of the Virginia Legislature Centennial Committee (1871) Holograph text of a cadet literary-debating society speech delivered by Cadet Norwood B. Randolph in 1870 Other items","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life and the upcoming inauguration of Jefferson Davis.","Written from Staunton, Virginia. Letter regards Peter S. Roller's inability to supply General Francis H. Smith with hired or slave labor. Letter also includes a discussion of when John E. Roller should join the Army.","Written from VMI, Lexington, VIrginia. In the letter, John E. Roller submits a report concerning the theft of Commandant records.","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter congratulates John E. Roller on his Army commission.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses examinations and mutual friends at VMI.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards results of examinations and that Lawrence Royster is considering leaving VMI.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards academic problems, uncertainty about staying at VMI, and mentions several recent graduates and cadets.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses rumors about deployment of cadets and cadets who have left VMI.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards academics, changes in faculty, and cadet life.","Written from Camp Stephens, Richmond, Virginia. Joseph B. Prince recently resigned from a teaching job at VMI to join the Army, but is disappointed in his Army position.","Written from Grassy Dale, Virginia. Letter reports news of fighting in the Shenandoah Valley between forces of General Breckinridge and General Sigel. The letter also mentions the Battle of New Market.","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter regards Hunter's Raid and family news.","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter regards travel to VMI's temporary headquarters at the Alms House in Richmond.","Correspondents include Richard L. Gray, Nannie Lewis, G. W. Berlin, and C. L. Hammond.","Includes dispatches, notes, and telegrams.","Letter regards receipt of recommendations.","Certifies Thomas Hubbard, born in Caswell County, North Carolina.","Dispatch reports on enemy strength.","Document requests for officer to be assigned at Weldon.","Written near Drewry's Bluff, Virginia. Regards enemy naval forces.","\"I have telegraphed Hampton to return to Richmond. Send for him. Young's brigade under Col. Wright cannot be far in advance of Richmond. Get your Cavalry together, aid it with the Infantry, and drive back enemy.\"","Scouting report.","Dispatch regards transportation for officer.","Dispatch regards a matter pending before the War Department.","Dispatch regards a personnel request.","Dispatch regards a request for ammunition.","Dispatch directs W. Brown to send forge to Dunlap's Crossing, Georgia.","Dispatch requests map of Dinwiddie, Virginia.","Dispatch requests \"all amputating sets on hand.\"","\"If you should receive an unintelligible signal dispatch from Gen. Beauregard tonight or in morning take no notice of it- it is sent for a purpose.\"","Dispatch explains that Mayo is too sick to attend court.","Dispatch conveys instructions and reprimand.","Dispatch regards troop movements.","Dispatch requests five dollar notes.","Scrapbook contains clippings about Civil War battles, veterans, unit reunions, monument dedications, and related information.","Samuel T. Walker (1830-1863) served with the 10th Virginia Infantry Regiment and was killed in action at the Battle of Chancellorsville, Virginia in May 1863.","Includes holograph text of a cadet literary-debating society speech delivered by Norwood B. Randolph in 1870, and other items."],"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_f2f300e6a65eb15ef679809bd4051c3f\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Roller, John E. (John Edwin), 1844-1917","Royster, Lawrence, 1841-1914","Overton, Archibald W. (Archibald Waller), 1845-1920","Prince, Joseph B. (Joseph Brown), 1844-1903","Randolph, Norwood B. (Norwood Beverley), 1849-1874","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Flannagan, William W. (William Walker), 1843-1923","Walker, Samuel T., 1830-1863","Baldwin, Briscoe G. (Briscoe Gerard), 1828-1898","Davis, Jefferson, 1808-1889","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Pizzini, Andrew, Jr., 1846-1913","Chaffin, Richard B. (Richard Booker), 1844-1902","Grigg, Wesley P. (Wesley Peyton), 1846-1865","Steptoe, Charles Y. (Charles Yancey), 1838-1877","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Taylor, Walter H. (Walter Herron), 1838-1916"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Roller, John E. (John Edwin), 1844-1917","Royster, Lawrence, 1841-1914","Overton, Archibald W. (Archibald Waller), 1845-1920","Prince, Joseph B. (Joseph Brown), 1844-1903","Randolph, Norwood B. (Norwood Beverley), 1849-1874","Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870","Flannagan, William W. (William Walker), 1843-1923","Walker, Samuel T., 1830-1863","Baldwin, Briscoe G. (Briscoe Gerard), 1828-1898","Davis, Jefferson, 1808-1889","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Pizzini, Andrew, Jr., 1846-1913","Chaffin, Richard B. (Richard Booker), 1844-1902","Grigg, Wesley P. (Wesley Peyton), 1846-1865","Steptoe, Charles Y. (Charles Yancey), 1838-1877","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Taylor, Walter H. (Walter Herron), 1838-1916"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":44,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:10:56.008Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_599_c01_c01_c02"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c02_c01_c02","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter from Samuel Stancell to Mary Stancell (Derby)","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c02_c01_c02#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from Northampton County, North Carolina. Letter regards problems on his [family's?] plantation, illness among slaves, contract for railroad sills (Raleigh and Gaston Railroad), and family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c02_c01_c02#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c02_c01_c02","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c02_c01_c02"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c02_c01_c02","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c02_c01","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c02_c01","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c02","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c02_c01"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c02","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c02_c01"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["Charles A. Derby papers","Derby family papers","Correspondence"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Charles A. Derby papers","Derby family papers","Correspondence"],"text":["Charles A. Derby papers","Derby family papers","Correspondence","Letter from Samuel Stancell to Mary Stancell (Derby)","Slavery","Correspondence","English","Written from Northampton County, North Carolina. Letter regards problems on his [family's?] plantation, illness among slaves, contract for railroad sills (Raleigh and Gaston Railroad), and family matters."],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter from Samuel Stancell to Mary Stancell (Derby)","title_ssm":["Letter from Samuel Stancell to Mary Stancell (Derby)"],"title_tesim":["Letter from Samuel Stancell to Mary Stancell (Derby)"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1852 January 9"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1852"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter from Samuel Stancell to Mary Stancell (Derby)"],"component_level_isim":[3],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["Charles A. Derby papers"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"sort_isi":41,"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."],"date_range_isim":[1852],"access_subjects_ssim":["Slavery","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Slavery","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from Northampton County, North Carolina. Letter regards problems on his [family's?] plantation, illness among slaves, contract for railroad sills (Raleigh and Gaston Railroad), and family matters.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from Northampton County, North Carolina. Letter regards problems on his [family's?] plantation, illness among slaves, contract for railroad sills (Raleigh and Gaston Railroad), and family matters."],"_nest_path_":"/components#1/components#0/components#1","timestamp":"2026-06-15T17:46:20.311Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_600.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00015.xml","title_ssm":["Charles A. Derby papers"],"title_tesim":["Charles A. Derby papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1839-1891"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1839-1891"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0030","/repositories/3/resources/600"],"text":["MS.0030","/repositories/3/resources/600","Charles A. Derby papers","Confederate States of America. Army—Alabama Infantry Regiment, 44th","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Military education—Georgia—History","Education—Georgia—History","Military education—Alabama—History","Education—Alabama—History","Presbyterian Church in the U.S.—Presbytery of Lexington","Episcopal Church—Alabama—History","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1848","Correspondence","There are no restrictions","Charles A. Derby was born in Dinwiddie County, Virginia on September 12, 1828 to Perry L. Derby and Martha Jones. His early years were spent on his father's plantation and as a student at Winfield Academy in Dinwiddie County. He entered VMI on August 8, 1845 and graduated on July 4, 1848, standing 5th in a class of 24.","Following his graduation from VMI, Derby began a teaching career that continued through the late 1850s. His various positions included:\n Private tutor for a family in Northumberland County, Virginia Head of the Fairfax (Virginia) Academy Head of an academy in Sumterville, Alabama Professor of mathematics at military schools in Kentucky and Georgia Principal of a private academy in Eutaw, Alabama \nIn 1856-1857, Derby began the study of theology and was ordained in the Episcopal ministry. He was named deacon at St. Stephens's Church in Eutaw, while also continuing his private school there. He subsequently gave up teaching as his primary interest and served at a church in Camden, Alabama, and then at St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama.","Derby married twice during the 1850s. His first wife, Clara J. Hunt of Marietta, Georgia, died within a year of their marriage. On December 28, 1859, he married Charlotte Basset of Cahaba, Alabama and the couple had two daughters, Martha (October 1860-?) and Harriet (April 1862-February 1927).","A year after the outbreak of the Civil War, Derby joined the Confederate Army. He was elected Lieutenant Colonel of the 44th Alabama Infantry Regiment on May 16, 1862 and entered service at Selma, Alabama circa June 5, 1862. He was killed in action at the Battle of Antietam (Maryland) on September 17, 1862 and his body was not recovered.","William F. Perry was the commander of Charles A. Derby's regiment.","Published by the American Tract Society, New York.","Published by the American Tract Society, New York.","VM Institute \nApril 4th 1846","Dear Father, \nYours of the 15th ult. was duly received. The fifteen dollars which were enclosed I handed to Col Smith as you desired. This will certainly be sufficient to cover all my expenses between now and July. In regard to my health, I think you need not be at all uneasy for it never was better than it has been since I have been here. At this time I know of no case of sickness in Lexington. For the last three weeks, the weather has been very pleasant and if it continues to be so, the corps will in a few days put on white pantaloons. Enclosed you will find a list of the standing of the third class at our January examination. I copied it from a semi-annual report. I did intend to send you a report; but there are I believe only two at the Institute. Col. Smith had this year, only a few published for the legislature. You may perhaps obtain one from Dr. Thompson. I am getting on remarkably well with all my studies except Drawing and this I must confess. I think will prevent me from retaining my present standing. When I first commenced it I had but little talent for it, and thought I have made a considerable improvement in it. My marks have hitherto been so low, that I fear I will not be able to make up for them. I shall endeavor to do my best at it. In French and Mathematics I still stand among the first. You have perhaps, before this received a circular from Col. Smith. I have I believe one demerit, but if I get no more than five between now and July, they will all be taken off. You will recollect that I had a few previous to our examination, but as they did not exceed five, they were taken off. I see in The Petersburg Republican that Dr. Thompson and Capt Sydnor are the candidates for the Legislature in Dinwiddie. I would be glad if you would inform me whether there is any chance for a Whig to be elected and also whether Mr. Lyme has any opposition. I do not believe that the candidates in Rockbridge have been nominated, but she will certainly elect two Whigs. Gov. McDorrel's influence is not so great as to prevent her from doing this although he was almost unanimously elected to Congress a short time since. I received a letter from cousin Robt last week in which he stated that his family were all well. He says that he expects after this year to teach school as there is not much to be made by shoemaking in Marysville. He thinks he can get at least thirty scholars. \nGive my love to mother etc. \nIn haste your devoted son \n[signed]Chas. A. Derby","VM Institute \nMay 9th 1846","Dear Father \nYours of the 26th ult was duly received. Your advice in regard to perseverance I shall follow as well as I can, though, I think it will be of little avail to me, since I have to contend with many who had taken lessons in drawing before they entered the Institute. I went this morning to the surgeon's office, for the purpose of having one of my teeth extracted. Dr. Estill pulled six times as it and succeeded in getting it all out except a part of the root.  He immediately sent for a dentist who pulled at it twice, but could not get it out. He advised me to wait about a fortnight, in which time he thought the room would rise above the gum, and enable him to get a hold on it. It was I believe the largest tooth in my head. You will recollect that you wished me to have it extracted when Mr. Murrill was at your house about four years ago. It did not ache, but I knew that it was an injury to my other teeth. Last night a little disturbance was caused by some of the Cadets. About eleven o'clock they commenced throwing missiles in barracks, when the Officer of the Day came to our room, and told one of my roommates, who was Corporal of the Guard at the time, to post the first relief, if the noise did not cease; but it was quelled in a short time. I would write more but I feel so badly, that I must postpone it until some other time. In haste your affectionate son,  \n[signed] Chas. A. Derby","Dear Father \nYour letter of the 15th inst was duly received. In compliance with your request I asked Jackson if he paid extra carriage for the box of books which he brought me. He said that it was so small no pay was required of him. Listed Mary wrote me word a short time since that six pairs of socks were sent to me. I received only five pairs. These as well as my shoes and collars fit very well. Several members of the Board held a meeting in the Capitol in Richmond some time during the last week at which time they considered the application of Jackson and decided that he should not be again admitted into the Institute. I think that as others whose conduct was much worse than his, have since the Institute has been in operation, been admitted after being dismissed it would have been but justice if they had extended to him the same kindness. Major Gilham has arrived at the Institute and has entered upon the discharge of his duties. My health is at this time unusually good. Excuse me for my short letter. I am now more busily engaged than I ever was. \nMy love to all. \nYour affectionate son, \n[signed] Chas A Derby","Va Military Institute \nJany 19th 1847","Dear Father, \nAs you are perhaps anxious to learn the result of our last examination I take the present opportunity to write to you. The examination commenced on Monday the 4th last and continued until Saturday evening. I still stand second in my class and am also as I expect you have before this seen in my circular a file higher in mathematics, than I was at the examination in July. I will also state that the maximum in Mathematics in the second class is 300 from which you will perceive that considerably more importance is attached to that part of the mathematical course which is studied by the second class than to that which is studied by the third class. I could have easily stood higher in Latin than I did by studying it as much as some members of my class did, but I preferred devoting my time mostly to the principal study. In fact I believe it better to have a tolerable standing in each department, than to stand very high in some, and very low in others; and it is upon this principle that I have acted ever since I have been at this place. The young man who stands first in Latin, having already a good knowledge of Mathematics devoted most of his time to that study with which he was least acquainted; on the other hand I depended upon the little knowledge of Latin which I had already acquired and studied Mathematics. I saw in some of the papers last week, that Mr. Bryan was first Lieutenant of the second company, which had been raised in Petersburg. Please inform me in your next, whether there were any Other members of that company with whom you were acquainted.  You perhaps wish to know what kind of a Christmas we had.  At the Institute Christmas is kept only one day, and that day is never forgotten inasmuch as it is the only one on which we are blessed with turkeys and minced pies. With the exception of the eatings my enjoyments were no greater than usual. Since I wrote to you last, there has been another severe snowstorm in Rockbridge. The weather last week was extremely cold, but it has moderated considerably. Write me word whether you have hired any servants and if you have who they are. Also whether my sisters have made much progress in the study of music. I would indeed be very much pleased to learn that they have.  Give my love to them and to mother. I remain as ever - your devoted son, \n[signed] Chas A. Derby","P.S. My old school mate Samuel Garland stands second in the third class.  Please inform me whether Samuel Hardy succeeded in obtaining the situation at Winfield Academy.  We were not examined in French and consequently no standing was determined upon it. [signed] CAD","Virginia Military Institute \nFeb 26th 1847","Dear Father, \nI received in due time your of the Inst in which was enclosed the half of a twenty dollar note. Of course all your advice I believe to be salutary. The most of it I have endeavored to follow from my infancy. Whatever may have been my misfortunes, I profess to be old enough to be able to preserve a moderate share of spirits. I have endeavored to banish all childish folly. For the present I will forebear writing in that metaphysical strain which has characterized the letters which I have written for the last three months. Please tell sister Mary that I received her letter; also tell sister Martha Ann that I received hers and that I inadvertently omitted to mention it in my last letter. Col. Smith has placed my name on the list of applicants as teachers. It is probably that ??????? Mr. Pendleton or myself will obtain a situation in Charles City County near the residence of Mr. Hill Carter. The salary which is offered is five hundred dollars. This it is true is a small salary; but it is much better than six hundred dollars in a town. However it is possible that I may have a chance of getting a situation better than this.  Col. Smith did not mention anything in regard to the gentleman in Charles City who wishes to obtain a teacher nor do I even know as yet, his name. I shall endeavor to gather as much information on this point as possible. One serious objection which i have to living in that country is that it thought by some to be rent-wealthy. Considerable excitement has been produced in Lexington for the last month by the Skinner case of which you have probably heard. Dr. Skinner the recent pastor of the Presbyterian Church at this place, is now undergoing a trial before the Lexington Presbytery. Of all the ingenious men I ever saw I think that he is the most ingenious. It is said that he was expelled from Scotland on account of some disturbance in the church which he raised in that country.  But for the disturbance which has occurred here he would in all probability been the next president of Washington College, as Dr. Ruffner will resign in the course of a few months. It is certainly astonishing to hear the debates which occur in the Presbytery. In that religious body there is sometimes created almost as much confusion as there is usually created by those sinners in Congress.  This affair has several times called off Maj. Preston from his collegiate duties. I have been teaching Latin in the Institute for the last three or four weeks. The first class have elected the Speakers who are to represent them at the time of graduation as well as a speaker to represent them upon the reception of their diplomas from The Society of Cadets.  Mr. B. G. Baldwin will deliver the Salutatory addresses.  Messrs J. B. Jones, and Finney, orations,  Mr. Councill, the Valedictory addresses and the address to the Society will be delivered by myself. The Day of the Twenty Second was exceedingly inclement and on that account but for persons attended the addresses which were delivered in behalf of the Three Societies. The Washington Society was represented by Mr. Barton, the Graham Society by Mr. Crockett, and the Society of Cadets by Mr. Finney. \nGive my love to all. \nYour affectionate son, [signed] Chas A. Derby","Virginia Military Institute \nDec 27th 1847","Dear Father \nI received yesterday morning the letter in which you had enclosed the other half of the twenty dollar note which I am to place in the hands of the treasurer. I was considerably surprised on learning the circumstances which attended the death of Capt Ferguson. Your advice in regard to perseverance I have all along endeavored to follow.  If I fail at the next examination it will not be my fault but the fault of nature. One cannot expect to have a talent for every department. One cannot be responsible for the deficiencies of nature; yet it is his duty to improve that with which the Lord has blessed him, however little it  may be. It is an admitted fact that application can never create a talent; yet it cannot be denied that by application talents are directed into their proper channels. It is for this reason that a person should while young ascertain that for which he is best fitted in order that he may not in after life be trifling with that for which he has no turn. There are many in my class who are smarter than myself; yet by application I have succeeded in accomplishing more than they have. Indolence is often an attendant of talents; for gifted men frequently trust too much to their talents. It is not always the most talented men who are first at the Bar; it is not always the most talented who have the greatest political fame; it is not always the most talented who are first in the scientific world. The greatest men of whom the world has every boasted have generally been those who with moderate abilities, by their industry made up for their deficiencies, and won the confidence and esteem of all.  The lawyer who has the greatest natural ability will if he is careless get but little practice. He may be able to deliver a startling speech; he may be the originator of striking ideas; yet none can place their confidence in him. It is on this account that I never despair. Whenever I do not succeed, I try again. It seems to me that h this year I am peculiarly unfortunate. Of Chemistry I do not profess to know much; yet I do not believe that in this department I have received justice. The opinion which you hand me express in regard to our professor of Natural Sciences has undergone but little change. I have not done well, comparatively speaking in Engineering; yet I by no means find fault with our professor in that department. I believe him to be a perfect gentlemen. The principle reason why I have not done well on these two studies is that a knowledge of them depends upon the memory; and you yourself know that my memory is very poor. Those studies which depend exclusively upon the reasoning faculties I find but little difficulty in mastering. Since I wrote to you last there has been another snow storm in this county.  During this Christmas there have been several private entertainments given by Cadets who have lately received boxes of eatables from their homes. This evening I have been enjoying a fine supper of oysters which are the first that I have eaten for more than two years. \nI continue to enjoy my usual share of health. Give my love to all. \nYour son as ever. \n[signed] Chas A Derby","St. Peter's Ch. Lowndes, Ala. \nApril 15th, 1862","Dear Sister: \nI have but little news worth communicating, such is the monotony and want of variety in our region. We are all well except my wife, who has been complaining for some time. Our congregations are very small of course, as all congregations in the Confederacy are compared with what they were before the war. We have had a great quantity of rain this Spring. The washing, driving rains of March beat down the earth so hard that many of my neighbors ploughed up their corn and planted a grain. Our planters are not turning their attention this year to cotton, which is cultivated in little patches only for family use. Our neighbors are very kind to us, and I am pleased with them more and more. A call was recently made upon Lowndes composed of two regiments, for 250 men to serve 90 days.  One regiment had furnished 135 men, and the other was about to furnish the remaining 115 when the Governor countermanded the call. In four hours I would have been Captain of a company ready to set out for Mobile. I had made all my arrangements to go, when the countermand was received. I hope that Captain Stancell has recovered before this and returned to his post. Henry must have been near the scene of naval conflict in the James. He must have heard the guns, if he did not witness the engagement. I am going on with my little school of three boys, teaching whenever it suits my convenience to teach. But few Confederate soldiers are left in Ala to protect her.  She is consequently dependent upon her militia for her defence. Contrary to my expectation and very much to my surprise, I was recently elected \"Captain of the Militia of Benton Beat.\" Although the militia was not to my taste, yet I did not feel at liberty to decline the office which I was so pressingly urged to accept. Accordingly I am regularly engaged with drilling my men. In these troublous time, we must labor in even uninviting fields for the public good. For a whole year or more I have been trying to learn where  Mr. King is, but nobody writes me a word about him. Please give me the desired information in your next. \nMy best regards to Capt. Stancell. \nYours Affectionately, \nChas. A. Derby","Mrs. Mary E. Stancell \nMargarettsville, N.C.","Benton, Ala. May 27th, 1862","Dear Sister: \nI find myself very busy preparing for the war and have but two days to make the preparation. On the 16th inst. I was elected Lieut. Colonel of Kent's Regiment. I was on duty las week. I expected to be a home at least a week, but learn that we are ordered to Corinth immediately.  Our regiment is at Selma. We have another daughter. She was born on the 26th ult. and is a very fine looking child. I have hardly a moment to write more. Be so kind as to give the above information to the rest of the family. I must today make some provision for my family. I will write more when disengaged. I hear that Capt. Stancell is wounded. How is he? Write me soon. My love to all. \nYours affectionately, \nChas. A. Derby","Mrs. Mary E. Stancell \nMargarettesville, N. C.","Camp near Falling Creek, Chesterfield. \nJuly 15th, 1862","Dear Sister: \nWe are now about seven miles from Richmond on the turnpike leading from that place to Petersburg. I preceded the Col. By nearly two weeks. He is now with me and relieves me of a heavy responsibility. We reached Richmond at the very commencement of the series of battles. We then drew our arms.  We have been in no engagement. We are gradually becoming well drilled. I have seen Mr. Graves twice since my arrival. More than a week ago I met him accidentally.  Yesterday I sought him and found him. His camp is about three hundred yards from ours. Until last week my health had been excellent. I became slightly indisposed. On recovering fromt this indisposition I had a rising on my thumb; and now I have a dreadful cold. I met Pa and Henry in Richmond nearly two weeks ago. Henry had a furlough and was on his way home. The war seems to be dormant precisely at this time. How long it will be before it rouses from its lethargy I have no idea. My intimate friends and neighbors have suffered dreadfully. Many of them have been killed and many are dangerously wounded. It makes my heart sick to think of it. I am glad that Capt. Stancell is nearly well. The poor fellow's face must have been horribly mutila-[mutilated]\n[based on end of sentence above, a page appears to be missing]\nOur Regiment have now a little breathing time. I have been thinking much of my poor wife and children. I have not heard from them since I left them. It is probable that we will remain here for some time. We now have our tents and this itself is an indication of permanency. In Richmond I met two of the immortal Pierces, who were particularly obsequious and polite. I cared nothing for their sycophancy. If I could hear from my family, I would be satisfied. My love to your family. With my afflicted hand and other ailments I find it difficult to write. \nAddress \nLieut. Col. Chas. A. Derby \n44th Reg. Ala. 3d Brigade \nHuger's Division \nRichmond, VA","The bulk of the Charles A. Derby papers consists of Derby family correspondence. Approximately twenty-eight letters were written by Charles A. Derby (dated 1844-1862) and cover the period from late boyhood up to his death in battle in 1862. Included are letters (dated 1846-1847) written while he was a cadet at VMI, as well as correspondence dating from his careers as a teacher and Episcopal clergyman. Two items were written during his brief service in the Confederate Army.","The papers also include fourteen letters written by other members of the Derby family, primarily Mary Derby Stancell (\"Mollie\") and her husband, Samuel. Other items in the papers are clippings, wedding announcements, poetry, and other family documents.","Written from Petersburg, Virginia. Letter discusses Charles A. Derby's health, finances, and family matters.","Written by Charles A. Derby's teacher to his father. Letter regards Derby's chances for an appointment at VMI and obtaining letters of recommendation.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses good health, academics, and candidates for Virginia legislature.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the difficult extraction of a tooth and a disturbance in VMI barracks in which cadets threw \"missiles.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the arrival of new faculty member William Gilham, disciplinary action against cadets, and health.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards results of mid-year examinations, a cadet Christmas celebration, and a severe snowstorm.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards future teaching positions and graduation class speakers. Letter also discusses a controversy in the Lexington Presbyterian Church as the pastor, Dr. Skinner, is \"on trial\" before the presbytery.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses perseverance and value of hard work, problems with chemistry and sciences, and cadet Christmas celebrations.","Written from Northumberland County, Virginia. Charles A. Derby is a private instructor in the home of Mr. Harding, a wealthy landowner. The letter regards a family Christmas celebration, the contrast between the people of Dinwiddie and Northumberland, and personal matters.","Written from Sumterville, Alabama. Letter regards new boarding accommodations, a trip to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, finances, becoming a Mason, and Cyrus Harding's appointment at VMI.","Written from Georgia Military Institute, Georgia. Regards acceptance of Charles A. Derby's resignation.","Certified extracts from correspondence between Charles A. Derby and Willis Crenshaw regarding business arrangements for the Eutaw Academy, Alabama.","An announcement for the opening of the Eutaw Institute, Alabama.","Written from Eutaw, Alabama. Letter regards the death of his wife, Clara J. Hunt (\"Jeanie\"). Letter also describes a betrayal by Board of Trustees of Eutaw Institute and how Charles A. Derby had to open a private school on his own.","Written from Eutaw, Alabama. Letter discusses the success of Charles A. Derby's new school, life in Eutaw, and finances.","Written from Eutaw, Alabama. Letter regards ordainment in the Protestant Episcopal Church, responsibility of St. Stephen's Church in Eutaw, deaconship, and the busy school year.","Written from Dinwiddie, Virginia. Letter regards travel to Philadelphia and Boston, preaching at Christ Church in Norfolk, and family news.","Written from Eutaw, Alabama. Letter regards growth of St. Stephen's congregation, life in Eutaw, and Charles A. Derby's school.","Written from Camden, Alabama. Letter regards marriage to Charlotte Basset and general news.","Written from Camden, Alabama. Letter regards marriage to Charlotte Basset of Cahaba, Alabama.","Written from Camden, Alabama. Letter regards the success of Charles A. Derby's new church, his teaching career, and family matters.","Written from Camden, Alabama. Letter regards a recent visit to Cahaba, Alabama.","Written from St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama. Letter regards family matters, including housekeeping and Charles A. Derby's eight-week old child.","Written from St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama. Letter regards the murder of their cousin Edward Cousins.","Written from St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama. Letter regards Derby family members joining the Confederate Army and Charles A. Derby's frustrations about not being able to join.","Written from St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama. Letter regards Charles A. Derby's election as Captain of the Militia of Benton.","Written from Benton, Alabama. Letter regards Charles A. Derby's election as Lieutenant Colonel of the 44th Alabama Infantry.","Written from \"camp near Falling Creek, Chesterfield,\" Virginia. Letter regards family matters and a discussion of wartime devastation.","A translation by Charles A. Derby of Aeneid, Book 1 by Virgil.","An acrostic poem written by Charles A. Derby titled \"A Humble Acrostic.\"","Twelve pages of geometry exercise drawings for Francis H. Smith's course.","One page of cadet uniform drawings.","Written from Randolph-Macon College, Virginia. Letter is written on an invitation to a commencement party.","Written from Northampton County, North Carolina. Letter regards problems on his [family's?] plantation, illness among slaves, contract for railroad sills (Raleigh and Gaston Railroad), and family matters.","Written from Northampton County, North Carolina. Letter regards family news and their marriage date.","Written from Northampton County, North Carolina. Letter regards Mary Stancell's (Derby) health and plans for their March 31st wedding.","Written from Lawrenceville, Arkansas. Letter regards Samuel Stancell's business trip.","Written from Marlbrook, Hemstead County, Arkansas. Letter regards general news about Samuel Stancell's business trip.","Written from Margarettsville, North Carolina. In the letter, Samuel Stancell asks his wife Mary \"Mollie\" Derby to come home soon from her visit with her family.","Written from Jackson, North Carolina. Letter regards business and Mary Stancell's (Derby) health.","Written from Darvills (Dinwiddie County), Virginia. Letter regards family news.","Written from Marietta, Georgia. Letter regards general news about life in Marietta.","Included is the original letter, a contemporary copy, and a transcription. Written from \"camp near Fredericksburg,\" Virginia. The letter offers condolences for Charles A. Derby's death.","Francis H. Smith was Superintendent of VMI from 1839-1889.  This letter is in reply to Perry L. Derby's notification that Charles A. Derby has died in battle.","Written from Cahaba, Alabama. Letter regards general news and family news.","Written from Southampton County, Virginia. Letter regards Anna's [surname unknown] personal news.","Blank envelope includes one note dated April 13, 1889 from Marianna Ewell, three newspaper clippings regarding family deaths, and \"A Child's Faith\" poem booklet.","An unsigned letter that describes the concept of chivalry.","Devotional poem written to \"my mother.\"","Two place cards. One card is for Miss Willie J. Mitchell and the other card is for Mr. and Mrs. Henry N. Harrison.","Written from Berkley, Virginia. Letter regards family and personal matters.","Poem titled \"Shall we meet again, Mary?.\"","Wedding invitation for Marion Macintosh and the Right Reverend G. W. Peterkin.","Wedding invitation for Nannie L. Whitehurst and Samuel E. Long.","Wedding invitation for May Hundley and Louis Bowly.","Wedding invitation for Kate Gordon and Reverend J. E. Poindexter.","Invitation for an event at the home of V. A. Thornton and name card for Willetta F. Thornton.","Wedding invitation for Fannie Towles and Daniel M. Harman.","Wedding invitation for Dr. J. E. Brown and Marion A. Sullivan.","Composition titled \"The Powers of Custom.\"","Pressed flower and plant album featuring the English and Latin names of each specimen.","Henry L. Derby's notebook he kept while at the Theological Seminary in Fairfax County, Virginia. The notebook contains course lists and schedules, finances, and other writings. A loose piece of sheet music for \"Prince of Peace\" and a map of \"Paul's Third Journey\" are tucked into the back of the notebook.","Eight newspaper clippings. Four clippings are related to Charles A. Derby's career at Western Military Institute, Kentucky. One clipping is related to Derby's career at Eutaw Male Academy, Alabama. Two clippings are related to the death of his wife Clara J. Derby (Hunt). One clipping is Derby's obituary.","Book chiefly written by Jane Taylor (1783-1824) and Ann Taylor (1782-1866). Signature of Charlotte Derby (Bassett) written in pencil on the inside front cover.","Fragment (up to page 53) of the \"French \u0026 Son's Handbook and Directory for Worthing.\"","Funeral address and obituary notices for Nichoas Hamner Cobbs, D. D., who was the first bishop of the Protestant Episcopal church in the diocese of Alabama.","Place card with the name Wm. Hughlett.","A transcription of the poem \"Nearer Home.\" The transcriber is unknown.","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 and Oversized Case 1","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Derby Family","Stancell Family","Derby, Charles A., 1828-1862","Gilham, William, 1818-1872","Collier, Henry W., Governor, 1801-1855","Scott, Winfield, 1786-1866","Harding, Cyrus, 1834-1893","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","English"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0030","/repositories/3/resources/600"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Charles A. Derby papers"],"collection_title_tesim":["Charles A. Derby papers"],"collection_ssim":["Charles A. Derby papers"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Derby, Charles A., 1828-1862"],"creator_ssim":["Derby, Charles A., 1828-1862"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Derby, Charles A., 1828-1862"],"creators_ssim":["Derby, Charles A., 1828-1862"],"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."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Confederate States of America. Army—Alabama Infantry Regiment, 44th","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Military education—Georgia—History","Education—Georgia—History","Military education—Alabama—History","Education—Alabama—History","Presbyterian Church in the U.S.—Presbytery of Lexington","Episcopal Church—Alabama—History","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1848","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Confederate States of America. Army—Alabama Infantry Regiment, 44th","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Military education—Georgia—History","Education—Georgia—History","Military education—Alabama—History","Education—Alabama—History","Presbyterian Church in the U.S.—Presbytery of Lexington","Episcopal Church—Alabama—History","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1848","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["0.25 cubic feet Approximately 80 items in 1 box"],"extent_tesim":["0.25 cubic feet Approximately 80 items in 1 box"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[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],"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 A. Derby was born in Dinwiddie County, Virginia on September 12, 1828 to Perry L. Derby and Martha Jones. His early years were spent on his father's plantation and as a student at Winfield Academy in Dinwiddie County. He entered VMI on August 8, 1845 and graduated on July 4, 1848, standing 5th in a class of 24.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eFollowing his graduation from VMI, Derby began a teaching career that continued through the late 1850s. His various positions included:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrivate tutor for a family in Northumberland County, Virginia\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHead of the Fairfax (Virginia) Academy\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHead of an academy in Sumterville, Alabama\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProfessor of mathematics at military schools in Kentucky and Georgia\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrincipal of a private academy in Eutaw, Alabama\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\nIn 1856-1857, Derby began the study of theology and was ordained in the Episcopal ministry. He was named deacon at St. Stephens's Church in Eutaw, while also continuing his private school there. He subsequently gave up teaching as his primary interest and served at a church in Camden, Alabama, and then at St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDerby married twice during the 1850s. His first wife, Clara J. Hunt of Marietta, Georgia, died within a year of their marriage. On December 28, 1859, he married Charlotte Basset of Cahaba, Alabama and the couple had two daughters, Martha (October 1860-?) and Harriet (April 1862-February 1927).\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eA year after the outbreak of the Civil War, Derby joined the Confederate Army. He was elected Lieutenant Colonel of the 44th Alabama Infantry Regiment on May 16, 1862 and entered service at Selma, Alabama circa June 5, 1862. He was killed in action at the Battle of Antietam (Maryland) on September 17, 1862 and his body was not recovered.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWilliam F. Perry was the commander of Charles A. Derby's regiment.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePublished by the American Tract Society, New York.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePublished by the American Tract Society, New York.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical","Biographical / Historical","Biographical / Historical","Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Charles A. Derby was born in Dinwiddie County, Virginia on September 12, 1828 to Perry L. Derby and Martha Jones. His early years were spent on his father's plantation and as a student at Winfield Academy in Dinwiddie County. He entered VMI on August 8, 1845 and graduated on July 4, 1848, standing 5th in a class of 24.","Following his graduation from VMI, Derby began a teaching career that continued through the late 1850s. His various positions included:\n Private tutor for a family in Northumberland County, Virginia Head of the Fairfax (Virginia) Academy Head of an academy in Sumterville, Alabama Professor of mathematics at military schools in Kentucky and Georgia Principal of a private academy in Eutaw, Alabama \nIn 1856-1857, Derby began the study of theology and was ordained in the Episcopal ministry. He was named deacon at St. Stephens's Church in Eutaw, while also continuing his private school there. He subsequently gave up teaching as his primary interest and served at a church in Camden, Alabama, and then at St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama.","Derby married twice during the 1850s. His first wife, Clara J. Hunt of Marietta, Georgia, died within a year of their marriage. On December 28, 1859, he married Charlotte Basset of Cahaba, Alabama and the couple had two daughters, Martha (October 1860-?) and Harriet (April 1862-February 1927).","A year after the outbreak of the Civil War, Derby joined the Confederate Army. He was elected Lieutenant Colonel of the 44th Alabama Infantry Regiment on May 16, 1862 and entered service at Selma, Alabama circa June 5, 1862. He was killed in action at the Battle of Antietam (Maryland) on September 17, 1862 and his body was not recovered.","William F. Perry was the commander of Charles A. Derby's regiment.","Published by the American Tract Society, New York.","Published by the American Tract Society, New York."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVM Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nApril 4th 1846\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Father,\u003cbr\u003e\nYours of the 15th ult. was duly received. The fifteen dollars which were enclosed I handed to Col Smith as you desired. This will certainly be sufficient to cover all my expenses between now and July. In regard to my health, I think you need not be at all uneasy for it never was better than it has been since I have been here. At this time I know of no case of sickness in Lexington. For the last three weeks, the weather has been very pleasant and if it continues to be so, the corps will in a few days put on white pantaloons. Enclosed you will find a list of the standing of the third class at our January examination. I copied it from a semi-annual report. I did intend to send you a report; but there are I believe only two at the Institute. Col. Smith had this year, only a few published for the legislature. You may perhaps obtain one from Dr. Thompson. I am getting on remarkably well with all my studies except Drawing and this I must confess. I think will prevent me from retaining my present standing. When I first commenced it I had but little talent for it, and thought I have made a considerable improvement in it. My marks have hitherto been so low, that I fear I will not be able to make up for them. I shall endeavor to do my best at it. In French and Mathematics I still stand among the first. You have perhaps, before this received a circular from Col. Smith. I have I believe one demerit, but if I get no more than five between now and July, they will all be taken off. You will recollect that I had a few previous to our examination, but as they did not exceed five, they were taken off. I see in The Petersburg Republican that Dr. Thompson and Capt Sydnor are the candidates for the Legislature in Dinwiddie. I would be glad if you would inform me whether there is any chance for a Whig to be elected and also whether Mr. Lyme has any opposition. I do not believe that the candidates in Rockbridge have been nominated, but she will certainly elect two Whigs. Gov. McDorrel's influence is not so great as to prevent her from doing this although he was almost unanimously elected to Congress a short time since. I received a letter from cousin Robt last week in which he stated that his family were all well. He says that he expects after this year to teach school as there is not much to be made by shoemaking in Marysville. He thinks he can get at least thirty scholars.\u003cbr\u003e\nGive my love to mother etc.\u003cbr\u003e\nIn haste your devoted son\u003cbr\u003e\n[signed]Chas. A. Derby\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVM Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nMay 9th 1846\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Father\u003cbr\u003e\nYours of the 26th ult was duly received. Your advice in regard to perseverance I shall follow as well as I can, though, I think it will be of little avail to me, since I have to contend with many who had taken lessons in drawing before they entered the Institute. I went this morning to the surgeon's office, for the purpose of having one of my teeth extracted. Dr. Estill pulled six times as it and succeeded in getting it all out except a part of the root.  He immediately sent for a dentist who pulled at it twice, but could not get it out. He advised me to wait about a fortnight, in which time he thought the room would rise above the gum, and enable him to get a hold on it. It was I believe the largest tooth in my head. You will recollect that you wished me to have it extracted when Mr. Murrill was at your house about four years ago. It did not ache, but I knew that it was an injury to my other teeth. Last night a little disturbance was caused by some of the Cadets. About eleven o'clock they commenced throwing missiles in barracks, when the Officer of the Day came to our room, and told one of my roommates, who was Corporal of the Guard at the time, to post the first relief, if the noise did not cease; but it was quelled in a short time. I would write more but I feel so badly, that I must postpone it until some other time. In haste your affectionate son,\u003cbr\u003e \n[signed] Chas. A. Derby\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Father\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter of the 15th inst was duly received. In compliance with your request I asked Jackson if he paid extra carriage for the box of books which he brought me. He said that it was so small no pay was required of him. Listed Mary wrote me word a short time since that six pairs of socks were sent to me. I received only five pairs. These as well as my shoes and collars fit very well. Several members of the Board held a meeting in the Capitol in Richmond some time during the last week at which time they considered the application of Jackson and decided that he should not be again admitted into the Institute. I think that as others whose conduct was much worse than his, have since the Institute has been in operation, been admitted after being dismissed it would have been but justice if they had extended to him the same kindness. Major Gilham has arrived at the Institute and has entered upon the discharge of his duties. My health is at this time unusually good. Excuse me for my short letter. I am now more busily engaged than I ever was.\u003cbr\u003e\nMy love to all.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son,\u003cbr\u003e\n[signed] Chas A Derby\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVa Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nJany 19th 1847\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Father,\u003cbr\u003e\nAs you are perhaps anxious to learn the result of our last examination I take the present opportunity to write to you. The examination commenced on Monday the 4th last and continued until Saturday evening. I still stand second in my class and am also as I expect you have before this seen in my circular a file higher in mathematics, than I was at the examination in July. I will also state that the maximum in Mathematics in the second class is 300 from which you will perceive that considerably more importance is attached to that part of the mathematical course which is studied by the second class than to that which is studied by the third class. I could have easily stood higher in Latin than I did by studying it as much as some members of my class did, but I preferred devoting my time mostly to the principal study. In fact I believe it better to have a tolerable standing in each department, than to stand very high in some, and very low in others; and it is upon this principle that I have acted ever since I have been at this place. The young man who stands first in Latin, having already a good knowledge of Mathematics devoted most of his time to that study with which he was least acquainted; on the other hand I depended upon the little knowledge of Latin which I had already acquired and studied Mathematics. I saw in some of the papers last week, that Mr. Bryan was first Lieutenant of the second company, which had been raised in Petersburg. Please inform me in your next, whether there were any Other members of that company with whom you were acquainted.  You perhaps wish to know what kind of a Christmas we had.  At the Institute Christmas is kept only one day, and that day is never forgotten inasmuch as it is the only one on which we are blessed with turkeys and minced pies. With the exception of the eatings my enjoyments were no greater than usual. Since I wrote to you last, there has been another severe snowstorm in Rockbridge. The weather last week was extremely cold, but it has moderated considerably. Write me word whether you have hired any servants and if you have who they are. Also whether my sisters have made much progress in the study of music. I would indeed be very much pleased to learn that they have.  Give my love to them and to mother. I remain as ever - your devoted son,\u003cbr\u003e\n[signed] Chas A. Derby\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. My old school mate Samuel Garland stands second in the third class.  Please inform me whether Samuel Hardy succeeded in obtaining the situation at Winfield Academy.  We were not examined in French and consequently no standing was determined upon it. [signed] CAD\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nFeb 26th 1847\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Father,\u003cbr\u003e\nI received in due time your of the Inst in which was enclosed the half of a twenty dollar note. Of course all your advice I believe to be salutary. The most of it I have endeavored to follow from my infancy. Whatever may have been my misfortunes, I profess to be old enough to be able to preserve a moderate share of spirits. I have endeavored to banish all childish folly. For the present I will forebear writing in that metaphysical strain which has characterized the letters which I have written for the last three months. Please tell sister Mary that I received her letter; also tell sister Martha Ann that I received hers and that I inadvertently omitted to mention it in my last letter. Col. Smith has placed my name on the list of applicants as teachers. It is probably that ??????? Mr. Pendleton or myself will obtain a situation in Charles City County near the residence of Mr. Hill Carter. The salary which is offered is five hundred dollars. This it is true is a small salary; but it is much better than six hundred dollars in a town. However it is possible that I may have a chance of getting a situation better than this.  Col. Smith did not mention anything in regard to the gentleman in Charles City who wishes to obtain a teacher nor do I even know as yet, his name. I shall endeavor to gather as much information on this point as possible. One serious objection which i have to living in that country is that it thought by some to be rent-wealthy. Considerable excitement has been produced in Lexington for the last month by the Skinner case of which you have probably heard. Dr. Skinner the recent pastor of the Presbyterian Church at this place, is now undergoing a trial before the Lexington Presbytery. Of all the ingenious men I ever saw I think that he is the most ingenious. It is said that he was expelled from Scotland on account of some disturbance in the church which he raised in that country.  But for the disturbance which has occurred here he would in all probability been the next president of Washington College, as Dr. Ruffner will resign in the course of a few months. It is certainly astonishing to hear the debates which occur in the Presbytery. In that religious body there is sometimes created almost as much confusion as there is usually created by those sinners in Congress.  This affair has several times called off Maj. Preston from his collegiate duties. I have been teaching Latin in the Institute for the last three or four weeks. The first class have elected the Speakers who are to represent them at the time of graduation as well as a speaker to represent them upon the reception of their diplomas from The Society of Cadets.  Mr. B. G. Baldwin will deliver the Salutatory addresses.  Messrs J. B. Jones, and Finney, orations,  Mr. Councill, the Valedictory addresses and the address to the Society will be delivered by myself. The Day of the Twenty Second was exceedingly inclement and on that account but for persons attended the addresses which were delivered in behalf of the Three Societies. The Washington Society was represented by Mr. Barton, the Graham Society by Mr. Crockett, and the Society of Cadets by Mr. Finney.\u003cbr\u003e\nGive my love to all.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son, [signed] Chas A. Derby\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nDec 27th 1847\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Father\u003cbr\u003e\nI received yesterday morning the letter in which you had enclosed the other half of the twenty dollar note which I am to place in the hands of the treasurer. I was considerably surprised on learning the circumstances which attended the death of Capt Ferguson. Your advice in regard to perseverance I have all along endeavored to follow.  If I fail at the next examination it will not be my fault but the fault of nature. One cannot expect to have a talent for every department. One cannot be responsible for the deficiencies of nature; yet it is his duty to improve that with which the Lord has blessed him, however little it  may be. It is an admitted fact that application can never create a talent; yet it cannot be denied that by application talents are directed into their proper channels. It is for this reason that a person should while young ascertain that for which he is best fitted in order that he may not in after life be trifling with that for which he has no turn. There are many in my class who are smarter than myself; yet by application I have succeeded in accomplishing more than they have. Indolence is often an attendant of talents; for gifted men frequently trust too much to their talents. It is not always the most talented men who are first at the Bar; it is not always the most talented who have the greatest political fame; it is not always the most talented who are first in the scientific world. The greatest men of whom the world has every boasted have generally been those who with moderate abilities, by their industry made up for their deficiencies, and won the confidence and esteem of all.  The lawyer who has the greatest natural ability will if he is careless get but little practice. He may be able to deliver a startling speech; he may be the originator of striking ideas; yet none can place their confidence in him. It is on this account that I never despair. Whenever I do not succeed, I try again. It seems to me that h this year I am peculiarly unfortunate. Of Chemistry I do not profess to know much; yet I do not believe that in this department I have received justice. The opinion which you hand me express in regard to our professor of Natural Sciences has undergone but little change. I have not done well, comparatively speaking in Engineering; yet I by no means find fault with our professor in that department. I believe him to be a perfect gentlemen. The principle reason why I have not done well on these two studies is that a knowledge of them depends upon the memory; and you yourself know that my memory is very poor. Those studies which depend exclusively upon the reasoning faculties I find but little difficulty in mastering. Since I wrote to you last there has been another snow storm in this county.  During this Christmas there have been several private entertainments given by Cadets who have lately received boxes of eatables from their homes. This evening I have been enjoying a fine supper of oysters which are the first that I have eaten for more than two years.\u003cbr\u003e\nI continue to enjoy my usual share of health. Give my love to all.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour son as ever.\u003cbr\u003e\n[signed] Chas A Derby\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSt. Peter's Ch. Lowndes, Ala.\u003cbr\u003e\nApril 15th, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nI have but little news worth communicating, such is the monotony and want of variety in our region. We are all well except my wife, who has been complaining for some time. Our congregations are very small of course, as all congregations in the Confederacy are compared with what they were before the war. We have had a great quantity of rain this Spring. The washing, driving rains of March beat down the earth so hard that many of my neighbors ploughed up their corn and planted a grain. Our planters are not turning their attention this year to cotton, which is cultivated in little patches only for family use. Our neighbors are very kind to us, and I am pleased with them more and more. A call was recently made upon Lowndes composed of two regiments, for 250 men to serve 90 days.  One regiment had furnished 135 men, and the other was about to furnish the remaining 115 when the Governor countermanded the call. In four hours I would have been Captain of a company ready to set out for Mobile. I had made all my arrangements to go, when the countermand was received. I hope that Captain Stancell has recovered before this and returned to his post. Henry must have been near the scene of naval conflict in the James. He must have heard the guns, if he did not witness the engagement. I am going on with my little school of three boys, teaching whenever it suits my convenience to teach. But few Confederate soldiers are left in Ala to protect her.  She is consequently dependent upon her militia for her defence. Contrary to my expectation and very much to my surprise, I was recently elected \"Captain of the Militia of Benton Beat.\" Although the militia was not to my taste, yet I did not feel at liberty to decline the office which I was so pressingly urged to accept. Accordingly I am regularly engaged with drilling my men. In these troublous time, we must labor in even uninviting fields for the public good. For a whole year or more I have been trying to learn where  Mr. King is, but nobody writes me a word about him. Please give me the desired information in your next.\u003cbr\u003e\nMy best regards to Capt. Stancell.\u003cbr\u003e\nYours Affectionately,\u003cbr\u003e\nChas. A. Derby\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMrs. Mary E. Stancell\u003cbr\u003e\nMargarettsville, N.C.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBenton, Ala. May 27th, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nI find myself very busy preparing for the war and have but two days to make the preparation. On the 16th inst. I was elected Lieut. Colonel of Kent's Regiment. I was on duty las week. I expected to be a home at least a week, but learn that we are ordered to Corinth immediately.  Our regiment is at Selma. We have another daughter. She was born on the 26th ult. and is a very fine looking child. I have hardly a moment to write more. Be so kind as to give the above information to the rest of the family. I must today make some provision for my family. I will write more when disengaged. I hear that Capt. Stancell is wounded. How is he? Write me soon. My love to all.\u003cbr\u003e\nYours affectionately,\u003cbr\u003e\nChas. A. Derby\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMrs. Mary E. Stancell\u003cbr\u003e\nMargarettesville, N. C.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp near Falling Creek, Chesterfield.\u003cbr\u003e\nJuly 15th, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Sister:\u003cbr\u003e\nWe are now about seven miles from Richmond on the turnpike leading from that place to Petersburg. I preceded the Col. By nearly two weeks. He is now with me and relieves me of a heavy responsibility. We reached Richmond at the very commencement of the series of battles. We then drew our arms.  We have been in no engagement. We are gradually becoming well drilled. I have seen Mr. Graves twice since my arrival. More than a week ago I met him accidentally.  Yesterday I sought him and found him. His camp is about three hundred yards from ours. Until last week my health had been excellent. I became slightly indisposed. On recovering fromt this indisposition I had a rising on my thumb; and now I have a dreadful cold. I met Pa and Henry in Richmond nearly two weeks ago. Henry had a furlough and was on his way home. The war seems to be dormant precisely at this time. How long it will be before it rouses from its lethargy I have no idea. My intimate friends and neighbors have suffered dreadfully. Many of them have been killed and many are dangerously wounded. It makes my heart sick to think of it. I am glad that Capt. Stancell is nearly well. The poor fellow's face must have been horribly mutila-[mutilated]\n[based on end of sentence above, a page appears to be missing]\nOur Regiment have now a little breathing time. I have been thinking much of my poor wife and children. I have not heard from them since I left them. It is probable that we will remain here for some time. We now have our tents and this itself is an indication of permanency. In Richmond I met two of the immortal Pierces, who were particularly obsequious and polite. I cared nothing for their sycophancy. If I could hear from my family, I would be satisfied. My love to your family. With my afflicted hand and other ailments I find it difficult to write.\u003cbr\u003e\nAddress\u003cbr\u003e\nLieut. Col. Chas. A. Derby\u003cbr\u003e\n44th Reg. Ala. 3d Brigade\u003cbr\u003e\nHuger's Division\u003cbr\u003e\nRichmond, VA\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["VM Institute \nApril 4th 1846","Dear Father, \nYours of the 15th ult. was duly received. The fifteen dollars which were enclosed I handed to Col Smith as you desired. This will certainly be sufficient to cover all my expenses between now and July. In regard to my health, I think you need not be at all uneasy for it never was better than it has been since I have been here. At this time I know of no case of sickness in Lexington. For the last three weeks, the weather has been very pleasant and if it continues to be so, the corps will in a few days put on white pantaloons. Enclosed you will find a list of the standing of the third class at our January examination. I copied it from a semi-annual report. I did intend to send you a report; but there are I believe only two at the Institute. Col. Smith had this year, only a few published for the legislature. You may perhaps obtain one from Dr. Thompson. I am getting on remarkably well with all my studies except Drawing and this I must confess. I think will prevent me from retaining my present standing. When I first commenced it I had but little talent for it, and thought I have made a considerable improvement in it. My marks have hitherto been so low, that I fear I will not be able to make up for them. I shall endeavor to do my best at it. In French and Mathematics I still stand among the first. You have perhaps, before this received a circular from Col. Smith. I have I believe one demerit, but if I get no more than five between now and July, they will all be taken off. You will recollect that I had a few previous to our examination, but as they did not exceed five, they were taken off. I see in The Petersburg Republican that Dr. Thompson and Capt Sydnor are the candidates for the Legislature in Dinwiddie. I would be glad if you would inform me whether there is any chance for a Whig to be elected and also whether Mr. Lyme has any opposition. I do not believe that the candidates in Rockbridge have been nominated, but she will certainly elect two Whigs. Gov. McDorrel's influence is not so great as to prevent her from doing this although he was almost unanimously elected to Congress a short time since. I received a letter from cousin Robt last week in which he stated that his family were all well. He says that he expects after this year to teach school as there is not much to be made by shoemaking in Marysville. He thinks he can get at least thirty scholars. \nGive my love to mother etc. \nIn haste your devoted son \n[signed]Chas. A. Derby","VM Institute \nMay 9th 1846","Dear Father \nYours of the 26th ult was duly received. Your advice in regard to perseverance I shall follow as well as I can, though, I think it will be of little avail to me, since I have to contend with many who had taken lessons in drawing before they entered the Institute. I went this morning to the surgeon's office, for the purpose of having one of my teeth extracted. Dr. Estill pulled six times as it and succeeded in getting it all out except a part of the root.  He immediately sent for a dentist who pulled at it twice, but could not get it out. He advised me to wait about a fortnight, in which time he thought the room would rise above the gum, and enable him to get a hold on it. It was I believe the largest tooth in my head. You will recollect that you wished me to have it extracted when Mr. Murrill was at your house about four years ago. It did not ache, but I knew that it was an injury to my other teeth. Last night a little disturbance was caused by some of the Cadets. About eleven o'clock they commenced throwing missiles in barracks, when the Officer of the Day came to our room, and told one of my roommates, who was Corporal of the Guard at the time, to post the first relief, if the noise did not cease; but it was quelled in a short time. I would write more but I feel so badly, that I must postpone it until some other time. In haste your affectionate son,  \n[signed] Chas. A. Derby","Dear Father \nYour letter of the 15th inst was duly received. In compliance with your request I asked Jackson if he paid extra carriage for the box of books which he brought me. He said that it was so small no pay was required of him. Listed Mary wrote me word a short time since that six pairs of socks were sent to me. I received only five pairs. These as well as my shoes and collars fit very well. Several members of the Board held a meeting in the Capitol in Richmond some time during the last week at which time they considered the application of Jackson and decided that he should not be again admitted into the Institute. I think that as others whose conduct was much worse than his, have since the Institute has been in operation, been admitted after being dismissed it would have been but justice if they had extended to him the same kindness. Major Gilham has arrived at the Institute and has entered upon the discharge of his duties. My health is at this time unusually good. Excuse me for my short letter. I am now more busily engaged than I ever was. \nMy love to all. \nYour affectionate son, \n[signed] Chas A Derby","Va Military Institute \nJany 19th 1847","Dear Father, \nAs you are perhaps anxious to learn the result of our last examination I take the present opportunity to write to you. The examination commenced on Monday the 4th last and continued until Saturday evening. I still stand second in my class and am also as I expect you have before this seen in my circular a file higher in mathematics, than I was at the examination in July. I will also state that the maximum in Mathematics in the second class is 300 from which you will perceive that considerably more importance is attached to that part of the mathematical course which is studied by the second class than to that which is studied by the third class. I could have easily stood higher in Latin than I did by studying it as much as some members of my class did, but I preferred devoting my time mostly to the principal study. In fact I believe it better to have a tolerable standing in each department, than to stand very high in some, and very low in others; and it is upon this principle that I have acted ever since I have been at this place. The young man who stands first in Latin, having already a good knowledge of Mathematics devoted most of his time to that study with which he was least acquainted; on the other hand I depended upon the little knowledge of Latin which I had already acquired and studied Mathematics. I saw in some of the papers last week, that Mr. Bryan was first Lieutenant of the second company, which had been raised in Petersburg. Please inform me in your next, whether there were any Other members of that company with whom you were acquainted.  You perhaps wish to know what kind of a Christmas we had.  At the Institute Christmas is kept only one day, and that day is never forgotten inasmuch as it is the only one on which we are blessed with turkeys and minced pies. With the exception of the eatings my enjoyments were no greater than usual. Since I wrote to you last, there has been another severe snowstorm in Rockbridge. The weather last week was extremely cold, but it has moderated considerably. Write me word whether you have hired any servants and if you have who they are. Also whether my sisters have made much progress in the study of music. I would indeed be very much pleased to learn that they have.  Give my love to them and to mother. I remain as ever - your devoted son, \n[signed] Chas A. Derby","P.S. My old school mate Samuel Garland stands second in the third class.  Please inform me whether Samuel Hardy succeeded in obtaining the situation at Winfield Academy.  We were not examined in French and consequently no standing was determined upon it. [signed] CAD","Virginia Military Institute \nFeb 26th 1847","Dear Father, \nI received in due time your of the Inst in which was enclosed the half of a twenty dollar note. Of course all your advice I believe to be salutary. The most of it I have endeavored to follow from my infancy. Whatever may have been my misfortunes, I profess to be old enough to be able to preserve a moderate share of spirits. I have endeavored to banish all childish folly. For the present I will forebear writing in that metaphysical strain which has characterized the letters which I have written for the last three months. Please tell sister Mary that I received her letter; also tell sister Martha Ann that I received hers and that I inadvertently omitted to mention it in my last letter. Col. Smith has placed my name on the list of applicants as teachers. It is probably that ??????? Mr. Pendleton or myself will obtain a situation in Charles City County near the residence of Mr. Hill Carter. The salary which is offered is five hundred dollars. This it is true is a small salary; but it is much better than six hundred dollars in a town. However it is possible that I may have a chance of getting a situation better than this.  Col. Smith did not mention anything in regard to the gentleman in Charles City who wishes to obtain a teacher nor do I even know as yet, his name. I shall endeavor to gather as much information on this point as possible. One serious objection which i have to living in that country is that it thought by some to be rent-wealthy. Considerable excitement has been produced in Lexington for the last month by the Skinner case of which you have probably heard. Dr. Skinner the recent pastor of the Presbyterian Church at this place, is now undergoing a trial before the Lexington Presbytery. Of all the ingenious men I ever saw I think that he is the most ingenious. It is said that he was expelled from Scotland on account of some disturbance in the church which he raised in that country.  But for the disturbance which has occurred here he would in all probability been the next president of Washington College, as Dr. Ruffner will resign in the course of a few months. It is certainly astonishing to hear the debates which occur in the Presbytery. In that religious body there is sometimes created almost as much confusion as there is usually created by those sinners in Congress.  This affair has several times called off Maj. Preston from his collegiate duties. I have been teaching Latin in the Institute for the last three or four weeks. The first class have elected the Speakers who are to represent them at the time of graduation as well as a speaker to represent them upon the reception of their diplomas from The Society of Cadets.  Mr. B. G. Baldwin will deliver the Salutatory addresses.  Messrs J. B. Jones, and Finney, orations,  Mr. Councill, the Valedictory addresses and the address to the Society will be delivered by myself. The Day of the Twenty Second was exceedingly inclement and on that account but for persons attended the addresses which were delivered in behalf of the Three Societies. The Washington Society was represented by Mr. Barton, the Graham Society by Mr. Crockett, and the Society of Cadets by Mr. Finney. \nGive my love to all. \nYour affectionate son, [signed] Chas A. Derby","Virginia Military Institute \nDec 27th 1847","Dear Father \nI received yesterday morning the letter in which you had enclosed the other half of the twenty dollar note which I am to place in the hands of the treasurer. I was considerably surprised on learning the circumstances which attended the death of Capt Ferguson. Your advice in regard to perseverance I have all along endeavored to follow.  If I fail at the next examination it will not be my fault but the fault of nature. One cannot expect to have a talent for every department. One cannot be responsible for the deficiencies of nature; yet it is his duty to improve that with which the Lord has blessed him, however little it  may be. It is an admitted fact that application can never create a talent; yet it cannot be denied that by application talents are directed into their proper channels. It is for this reason that a person should while young ascertain that for which he is best fitted in order that he may not in after life be trifling with that for which he has no turn. There are many in my class who are smarter than myself; yet by application I have succeeded in accomplishing more than they have. Indolence is often an attendant of talents; for gifted men frequently trust too much to their talents. It is not always the most talented men who are first at the Bar; it is not always the most talented who have the greatest political fame; it is not always the most talented who are first in the scientific world. The greatest men of whom the world has every boasted have generally been those who with moderate abilities, by their industry made up for their deficiencies, and won the confidence and esteem of all.  The lawyer who has the greatest natural ability will if he is careless get but little practice. He may be able to deliver a startling speech; he may be the originator of striking ideas; yet none can place their confidence in him. It is on this account that I never despair. Whenever I do not succeed, I try again. It seems to me that h this year I am peculiarly unfortunate. Of Chemistry I do not profess to know much; yet I do not believe that in this department I have received justice. The opinion which you hand me express in regard to our professor of Natural Sciences has undergone but little change. I have not done well, comparatively speaking in Engineering; yet I by no means find fault with our professor in that department. I believe him to be a perfect gentlemen. The principle reason why I have not done well on these two studies is that a knowledge of them depends upon the memory; and you yourself know that my memory is very poor. Those studies which depend exclusively upon the reasoning faculties I find but little difficulty in mastering. Since I wrote to you last there has been another snow storm in this county.  During this Christmas there have been several private entertainments given by Cadets who have lately received boxes of eatables from their homes. This evening I have been enjoying a fine supper of oysters which are the first that I have eaten for more than two years. \nI continue to enjoy my usual share of health. Give my love to all. \nYour son as ever. \n[signed] Chas A Derby","St. Peter's Ch. Lowndes, Ala. \nApril 15th, 1862","Dear Sister: \nI have but little news worth communicating, such is the monotony and want of variety in our region. We are all well except my wife, who has been complaining for some time. Our congregations are very small of course, as all congregations in the Confederacy are compared with what they were before the war. We have had a great quantity of rain this Spring. The washing, driving rains of March beat down the earth so hard that many of my neighbors ploughed up their corn and planted a grain. Our planters are not turning their attention this year to cotton, which is cultivated in little patches only for family use. Our neighbors are very kind to us, and I am pleased with them more and more. A call was recently made upon Lowndes composed of two regiments, for 250 men to serve 90 days.  One regiment had furnished 135 men, and the other was about to furnish the remaining 115 when the Governor countermanded the call. In four hours I would have been Captain of a company ready to set out for Mobile. I had made all my arrangements to go, when the countermand was received. I hope that Captain Stancell has recovered before this and returned to his post. Henry must have been near the scene of naval conflict in the James. He must have heard the guns, if he did not witness the engagement. I am going on with my little school of three boys, teaching whenever it suits my convenience to teach. But few Confederate soldiers are left in Ala to protect her.  She is consequently dependent upon her militia for her defence. Contrary to my expectation and very much to my surprise, I was recently elected \"Captain of the Militia of Benton Beat.\" Although the militia was not to my taste, yet I did not feel at liberty to decline the office which I was so pressingly urged to accept. Accordingly I am regularly engaged with drilling my men. In these troublous time, we must labor in even uninviting fields for the public good. For a whole year or more I have been trying to learn where  Mr. King is, but nobody writes me a word about him. Please give me the desired information in your next. \nMy best regards to Capt. Stancell. \nYours Affectionately, \nChas. A. Derby","Mrs. Mary E. Stancell \nMargarettsville, N.C.","Benton, Ala. May 27th, 1862","Dear Sister: \nI find myself very busy preparing for the war and have but two days to make the preparation. On the 16th inst. I was elected Lieut. Colonel of Kent's Regiment. I was on duty las week. I expected to be a home at least a week, but learn that we are ordered to Corinth immediately.  Our regiment is at Selma. We have another daughter. She was born on the 26th ult. and is a very fine looking child. I have hardly a moment to write more. Be so kind as to give the above information to the rest of the family. I must today make some provision for my family. I will write more when disengaged. I hear that Capt. Stancell is wounded. How is he? Write me soon. My love to all. \nYours affectionately, \nChas. A. Derby","Mrs. Mary E. Stancell \nMargarettesville, N. C.","Camp near Falling Creek, Chesterfield. \nJuly 15th, 1862","Dear Sister: \nWe are now about seven miles from Richmond on the turnpike leading from that place to Petersburg. I preceded the Col. By nearly two weeks. He is now with me and relieves me of a heavy responsibility. We reached Richmond at the very commencement of the series of battles. We then drew our arms.  We have been in no engagement. We are gradually becoming well drilled. I have seen Mr. Graves twice since my arrival. More than a week ago I met him accidentally.  Yesterday I sought him and found him. His camp is about three hundred yards from ours. Until last week my health had been excellent. I became slightly indisposed. On recovering fromt this indisposition I had a rising on my thumb; and now I have a dreadful cold. I met Pa and Henry in Richmond nearly two weeks ago. Henry had a furlough and was on his way home. The war seems to be dormant precisely at this time. How long it will be before it rouses from its lethargy I have no idea. My intimate friends and neighbors have suffered dreadfully. Many of them have been killed and many are dangerously wounded. It makes my heart sick to think of it. I am glad that Capt. Stancell is nearly well. The poor fellow's face must have been horribly mutila-[mutilated]\n[based on end of sentence above, a page appears to be missing]\nOur Regiment have now a little breathing time. I have been thinking much of my poor wife and children. I have not heard from them since I left them. It is probable that we will remain here for some time. We now have our tents and this itself is an indication of permanency. In Richmond I met two of the immortal Pierces, who were particularly obsequious and polite. I cared nothing for their sycophancy. If I could hear from my family, I would be satisfied. My love to your family. With my afflicted hand and other ailments I find it difficult to write. \nAddress \nLieut. Col. Chas. A. Derby \n44th Reg. Ala. 3d Brigade \nHuger's Division \nRichmond, VA"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eCharles A. Derby papers, 1839-1891. MS 0030. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["Charles A. Derby papers, 1839-1891. MS 0030. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe bulk of the Charles A. Derby papers consists of Derby family correspondence. Approximately twenty-eight letters were written by Charles A. Derby (dated 1844-1862) and cover the period from late boyhood up to his death in battle in 1862. Included are letters (dated 1846-1847) written while he was a cadet at VMI, as well as correspondence dating from his careers as a teacher and Episcopal clergyman. Two items were written during his brief service in the Confederate Army.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe papers also include fourteen letters written by other members of the Derby family, primarily Mary Derby Stancell (\"Mollie\") and her husband, Samuel. Other items in the papers are clippings, wedding announcements, poetry, and other family documents.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Petersburg, Virginia. Letter discusses Charles A. Derby's health, finances, and family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten by Charles A. Derby's teacher to his father. Letter regards Derby's chances for an appointment at VMI and obtaining letters of recommendation.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses good health, academics, and candidates for Virginia legislature.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the difficult extraction of a tooth and a disturbance in VMI barracks in which cadets threw \"missiles.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the arrival of new faculty member William Gilham, disciplinary action against cadets, and health.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards results of mid-year examinations, a cadet Christmas celebration, and a severe snowstorm.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards future teaching positions and graduation class speakers. Letter also discusses a controversy in the Lexington Presbyterian Church as the pastor, Dr. Skinner, is \"on trial\" before the presbytery.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses perseverance and value of hard work, problems with chemistry and sciences, and cadet Christmas celebrations.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Northumberland County, Virginia. Charles A. Derby is a private instructor in the home of Mr. Harding, a wealthy landowner. The letter regards a family Christmas celebration, the contrast between the people of Dinwiddie and Northumberland, and personal matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Sumterville, Alabama. Letter regards new boarding accommodations, a trip to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, finances, becoming a Mason, and Cyrus Harding's appointment at VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Georgia Military Institute, Georgia. Regards acceptance of Charles A. Derby's resignation.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCertified extracts from correspondence between Charles A. Derby and Willis Crenshaw regarding business arrangements for the Eutaw Academy, Alabama.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAn announcement for the opening of the Eutaw Institute, Alabama.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Eutaw, Alabama. Letter regards the death of his wife, Clara J. Hunt (\"Jeanie\"). Letter also describes a betrayal by Board of Trustees of Eutaw Institute and how Charles A. Derby had to open a private school on his own.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Eutaw, Alabama. Letter discusses the success of Charles A. Derby's new school, life in Eutaw, and finances.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Eutaw, Alabama. Letter regards ordainment in the Protestant Episcopal Church, responsibility of St. Stephen's Church in Eutaw, deaconship, and the busy school year.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Dinwiddie, Virginia. Letter regards travel to Philadelphia and Boston, preaching at Christ Church in Norfolk, and family news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Eutaw, Alabama. Letter regards growth of St. Stephen's congregation, life in Eutaw, and Charles A. Derby's school.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camden, Alabama. Letter regards marriage to Charlotte Basset and general news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camden, Alabama. Letter regards marriage to Charlotte Basset of Cahaba, Alabama.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camden, Alabama. Letter regards the success of Charles A. Derby's new church, his teaching career, and family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camden, Alabama. Letter regards a recent visit to Cahaba, Alabama.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama. Letter regards family matters, including housekeeping and Charles A. Derby's eight-week old child.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama. Letter regards the murder of their cousin Edward Cousins.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama. Letter regards Derby family members joining the Confederate Army and Charles A. Derby's frustrations about not being able to join.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama. Letter regards Charles A. Derby's election as Captain of the Militia of Benton.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Benton, Alabama. Letter regards Charles A. Derby's election as Lieutenant Colonel of the 44th Alabama Infantry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from \"camp near Falling Creek, Chesterfield,\" Virginia. Letter regards family matters and a discussion of wartime devastation.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eA translation by Charles A. Derby of Aeneid, Book 1 by Virgil.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAn acrostic poem written by Charles A. Derby titled \"A Humble Acrostic.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTwelve pages of geometry exercise drawings for Francis H. Smith's course.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOne page of cadet uniform drawings.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Randolph-Macon College, Virginia. Letter is written on an invitation to a commencement party.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Northampton County, North Carolina. Letter regards problems on his [family's?] plantation, illness among slaves, contract for railroad sills (Raleigh and Gaston Railroad), and family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Northampton County, North Carolina. Letter regards family news and their marriage date.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Northampton County, North Carolina. Letter regards Mary Stancell's (Derby) health and plans for their March 31st wedding.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Lawrenceville, Arkansas. Letter regards Samuel Stancell's business trip.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Marlbrook, Hemstead County, Arkansas. Letter regards general news about Samuel Stancell's business trip.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Margarettsville, North Carolina. In the letter, Samuel Stancell asks his wife Mary \"Mollie\" Derby to come home soon from her visit with her family.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Jackson, North Carolina. Letter regards business and Mary Stancell's (Derby) health.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Darvills (Dinwiddie County), Virginia. Letter regards family news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Marietta, Georgia. Letter regards general news about life in Marietta.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIncluded is the original letter, a contemporary copy, and a transcription. Written from \"camp near Fredericksburg,\" Virginia. The letter offers condolences for Charles A. Derby's death.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eFrancis H. Smith was Superintendent of VMI from 1839-1889.  This letter is in reply to Perry L. Derby's notification that Charles A. Derby has died in battle.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Cahaba, Alabama. Letter regards general news and family news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Southampton County, Virginia. Letter regards Anna's [surname unknown] personal news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBlank envelope includes one note dated April 13, 1889 from Marianna Ewell, three newspaper clippings regarding family deaths, and \"A Child's Faith\" poem booklet.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAn unsigned letter that describes the concept of chivalry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDevotional poem written to \"my mother.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTwo place cards. One card is for Miss Willie J. Mitchell and the other card is for Mr. and Mrs. Henry N. Harrison.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Berkley, Virginia. Letter regards family and personal matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePoem titled \"Shall we meet again, Mary?.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWedding invitation for Marion Macintosh and the Right Reverend G. W. Peterkin.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWedding invitation for Nannie L. Whitehurst and Samuel E. Long.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWedding invitation for May Hundley and Louis Bowly.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWedding invitation for Kate Gordon and Reverend J. E. Poindexter.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eInvitation for an event at the home of V. A. Thornton and name card for Willetta F. Thornton.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWedding invitation for Fannie Towles and Daniel M. Harman.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWedding invitation for Dr. J. E. Brown and Marion A. Sullivan.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eComposition titled \"The Powers of Custom.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePressed flower and plant album featuring the English and Latin names of each specimen.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eHenry L. Derby's notebook he kept while at the Theological Seminary in Fairfax County, Virginia. The notebook contains course lists and schedules, finances, and other writings. A loose piece of sheet music for \"Prince of Peace\" and a map of \"Paul's Third Journey\" are tucked into the back of the notebook.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eEight newspaper clippings. Four clippings are related to Charles A. Derby's career at Western Military Institute, Kentucky. One clipping is related to Derby's career at Eutaw Male Academy, Alabama. Two clippings are related to the death of his wife Clara J. Derby (Hunt). One clipping is Derby's obituary.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBook chiefly written by Jane Taylor (1783-1824) and Ann Taylor (1782-1866). Signature of Charlotte Derby (Bassett) written in pencil on the inside front cover.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eFragment (up to page 53) of the \"French \u0026amp; Son's Handbook and Directory for Worthing.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eFuneral address and obituary notices for Nichoas Hamner Cobbs, D. D., who was the first bishop of the Protestant Episcopal church in the diocese of Alabama.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePlace card with the name Wm. Hughlett.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eA transcription of the poem \"Nearer Home.\" The transcriber is unknown.\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","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","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","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The bulk of the Charles A. Derby papers consists of Derby family correspondence. Approximately twenty-eight letters were written by Charles A. Derby (dated 1844-1862) and cover the period from late boyhood up to his death in battle in 1862. Included are letters (dated 1846-1847) written while he was a cadet at VMI, as well as correspondence dating from his careers as a teacher and Episcopal clergyman. Two items were written during his brief service in the Confederate Army.","The papers also include fourteen letters written by other members of the Derby family, primarily Mary Derby Stancell (\"Mollie\") and her husband, Samuel. Other items in the papers are clippings, wedding announcements, poetry, and other family documents.","Written from Petersburg, Virginia. Letter discusses Charles A. Derby's health, finances, and family matters.","Written by Charles A. Derby's teacher to his father. Letter regards Derby's chances for an appointment at VMI and obtaining letters of recommendation.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses good health, academics, and candidates for Virginia legislature.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the difficult extraction of a tooth and a disturbance in VMI barracks in which cadets threw \"missiles.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the arrival of new faculty member William Gilham, disciplinary action against cadets, and health.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards results of mid-year examinations, a cadet Christmas celebration, and a severe snowstorm.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards future teaching positions and graduation class speakers. Letter also discusses a controversy in the Lexington Presbyterian Church as the pastor, Dr. Skinner, is \"on trial\" before the presbytery.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses perseverance and value of hard work, problems with chemistry and sciences, and cadet Christmas celebrations.","Written from Northumberland County, Virginia. Charles A. Derby is a private instructor in the home of Mr. Harding, a wealthy landowner. The letter regards a family Christmas celebration, the contrast between the people of Dinwiddie and Northumberland, and personal matters.","Written from Sumterville, Alabama. Letter regards new boarding accommodations, a trip to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, finances, becoming a Mason, and Cyrus Harding's appointment at VMI.","Written from Georgia Military Institute, Georgia. Regards acceptance of Charles A. Derby's resignation.","Certified extracts from correspondence between Charles A. Derby and Willis Crenshaw regarding business arrangements for the Eutaw Academy, Alabama.","An announcement for the opening of the Eutaw Institute, Alabama.","Written from Eutaw, Alabama. Letter regards the death of his wife, Clara J. Hunt (\"Jeanie\"). Letter also describes a betrayal by Board of Trustees of Eutaw Institute and how Charles A. Derby had to open a private school on his own.","Written from Eutaw, Alabama. Letter discusses the success of Charles A. Derby's new school, life in Eutaw, and finances.","Written from Eutaw, Alabama. Letter regards ordainment in the Protestant Episcopal Church, responsibility of St. Stephen's Church in Eutaw, deaconship, and the busy school year.","Written from Dinwiddie, Virginia. Letter regards travel to Philadelphia and Boston, preaching at Christ Church in Norfolk, and family news.","Written from Eutaw, Alabama. Letter regards growth of St. Stephen's congregation, life in Eutaw, and Charles A. Derby's school.","Written from Camden, Alabama. Letter regards marriage to Charlotte Basset and general news.","Written from Camden, Alabama. Letter regards marriage to Charlotte Basset of Cahaba, Alabama.","Written from Camden, Alabama. Letter regards the success of Charles A. Derby's new church, his teaching career, and family matters.","Written from Camden, Alabama. Letter regards a recent visit to Cahaba, Alabama.","Written from St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama. Letter regards family matters, including housekeeping and Charles A. Derby's eight-week old child.","Written from St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama. Letter regards the murder of their cousin Edward Cousins.","Written from St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama. Letter regards Derby family members joining the Confederate Army and Charles A. Derby's frustrations about not being able to join.","Written from St. Peter's Church, Lowndes County, Alabama. Letter regards Charles A. Derby's election as Captain of the Militia of Benton.","Written from Benton, Alabama. Letter regards Charles A. Derby's election as Lieutenant Colonel of the 44th Alabama Infantry.","Written from \"camp near Falling Creek, Chesterfield,\" Virginia. Letter regards family matters and a discussion of wartime devastation.","A translation by Charles A. Derby of Aeneid, Book 1 by Virgil.","An acrostic poem written by Charles A. Derby titled \"A Humble Acrostic.\"","Twelve pages of geometry exercise drawings for Francis H. Smith's course.","One page of cadet uniform drawings.","Written from Randolph-Macon College, Virginia. Letter is written on an invitation to a commencement party.","Written from Northampton County, North Carolina. Letter regards problems on his [family's?] plantation, illness among slaves, contract for railroad sills (Raleigh and Gaston Railroad), and family matters.","Written from Northampton County, North Carolina. Letter regards family news and their marriage date.","Written from Northampton County, North Carolina. Letter regards Mary Stancell's (Derby) health and plans for their March 31st wedding.","Written from Lawrenceville, Arkansas. Letter regards Samuel Stancell's business trip.","Written from Marlbrook, Hemstead County, Arkansas. Letter regards general news about Samuel Stancell's business trip.","Written from Margarettsville, North Carolina. In the letter, Samuel Stancell asks his wife Mary \"Mollie\" Derby to come home soon from her visit with her family.","Written from Jackson, North Carolina. Letter regards business and Mary Stancell's (Derby) health.","Written from Darvills (Dinwiddie County), Virginia. Letter regards family news.","Written from Marietta, Georgia. Letter regards general news about life in Marietta.","Included is the original letter, a contemporary copy, and a transcription. Written from \"camp near Fredericksburg,\" Virginia. The letter offers condolences for Charles A. Derby's death.","Francis H. Smith was Superintendent of VMI from 1839-1889.  This letter is in reply to Perry L. Derby's notification that Charles A. Derby has died in battle.","Written from Cahaba, Alabama. Letter regards general news and family news.","Written from Southampton County, Virginia. Letter regards Anna's [surname unknown] personal news.","Blank envelope includes one note dated April 13, 1889 from Marianna Ewell, three newspaper clippings regarding family deaths, and \"A Child's Faith\" poem booklet.","An unsigned letter that describes the concept of chivalry.","Devotional poem written to \"my mother.\"","Two place cards. One card is for Miss Willie J. Mitchell and the other card is for Mr. and Mrs. Henry N. Harrison.","Written from Berkley, Virginia. Letter regards family and personal matters.","Poem titled \"Shall we meet again, Mary?.\"","Wedding invitation for Marion Macintosh and the Right Reverend G. W. Peterkin.","Wedding invitation for Nannie L. Whitehurst and Samuel E. Long.","Wedding invitation for May Hundley and Louis Bowly.","Wedding invitation for Kate Gordon and Reverend J. E. Poindexter.","Invitation for an event at the home of V. A. Thornton and name card for Willetta F. Thornton.","Wedding invitation for Fannie Towles and Daniel M. Harman.","Wedding invitation for Dr. J. E. Brown and Marion A. Sullivan.","Composition titled \"The Powers of Custom.\"","Pressed flower and plant album featuring the English and Latin names of each specimen.","Henry L. Derby's notebook he kept while at the Theological Seminary in Fairfax County, Virginia. The notebook contains course lists and schedules, finances, and other writings. A loose piece of sheet music for \"Prince of Peace\" and a map of \"Paul's Third Journey\" are tucked into the back of the notebook.","Eight newspaper clippings. Four clippings are related to Charles A. Derby's career at Western Military Institute, Kentucky. One clipping is related to Derby's career at Eutaw Male Academy, Alabama. Two clippings are related to the death of his wife Clara J. Derby (Hunt). One clipping is Derby's obituary.","Book chiefly written by Jane Taylor (1783-1824) and Ann Taylor (1782-1866). Signature of Charlotte Derby (Bassett) written in pencil on the inside front cover.","Fragment (up to page 53) of the \"French \u0026 Son's Handbook and Directory for Worthing.\"","Funeral address and obituary notices for Nichoas Hamner Cobbs, D. D., who was the first bishop of the Protestant Episcopal church in the diocese of Alabama.","Place card with the name Wm. Hughlett.","A transcription of the poem \"Nearer Home.\" The transcriber is unknown."],"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. 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VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["Waller Family papers, 1821-1849. MS 0484. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection contains correspondence (1821-1849) to and from various members of the William M. Waller family of Amherst County, Virginia. The 1820s letters are largely from William M. Waller, Jr. to his wife, Sarah A. Waller (Garland). They were the parents of Cadet William M. Waller III, VMI Class of 1852. Later correspondence includes letters to Cadet Waller at VMI. The bulk of the correspondence pertains to family and business matters. This collection also includes Cadet Waller's appointment to VMI (1848).\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards family matters and a friend's wedding.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter mentions the recent birth of William M. Waller, III.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards family matters and a legislative business in Richmond, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards family matters and a legislative business in Richmond, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards family matters and a legislative business in Richmond, Virginia. The letter also mentions the Adams Convention in Richmond.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards family matters and a legislative business in Richmond, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards problems with servants at home and a legislative business in Richmond, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards a legislative business in Richmond, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter mentions that William M. Waller, Jr. has not heard from his wife as expected.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards real estate issues, Cherry Hill tract, and errors in calculating acreage.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards a planned visit.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards William M. Waller III's employment with a Mr. Armsted.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards William M. Waller III's employment.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards William M. Waller III's employment.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards William M. Waller III's health and personal matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards a legislative business in Bedford, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eA sales receipt for flour.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards family matters and mentions trying to sell slaves.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards selling slaves.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter encourages William M. Waller III to attend school.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter mentions Major Taliaferro and Bishop Otey.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards selling a slave to a Peyton Johnson in Richmond, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eA sales receipt for flour.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards selling the rest of William M. Waller, Jr.'s slaves.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eA sales receipt for flour.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards elling slaves.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards William M. Waller III's appointment to VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards family matters.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter mentions that William M. Waller, Jr. will contact Francis H. Smith to ask for a summer furlough for William M. Waller III.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter lectures William M. Waller III on procrastination and sticking to his duties.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter regards family matters. Thomas M. Waller was at the University of Virginia when this letter was written.\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","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 contains correspondence (1821-1849) to and from various members of the William M. Waller family of Amherst County, Virginia. The 1820s letters are largely from William M. Waller, Jr. to his wife, Sarah A. Waller (Garland). They were the parents of Cadet William M. Waller III, VMI Class of 1852. Later correspondence includes letters to Cadet Waller at VMI. The bulk of the correspondence pertains to family and business matters. This collection also includes Cadet Waller's appointment to VMI (1848).","Letter regards family matters and a friend's wedding.","Letter mentions the recent birth of William M. Waller, III.","Letter regards family matters and a legislative business in Richmond, Virginia.","Letter regards family matters and a legislative business in Richmond, Virginia.","Letter regards family matters and a legislative business in Richmond, Virginia. The letter also mentions the Adams Convention in Richmond.","Letter regards family matters and a legislative business in Richmond, Virginia.","Letter regards problems with servants at home and a legislative business in Richmond, Virginia.","Letter regards a legislative business in Richmond, Virginia.","Letter mentions that William M. Waller, Jr. has not heard from his wife as expected.","Letter regards family matters.","Letter regards real estate issues, Cherry Hill tract, and errors in calculating acreage.","Letter regards a planned visit.","Letter regards William M. Waller III's employment with a Mr. Armsted.","Letter regards family matters.","Letter regards William M. Waller III's employment.","Letter regards William M. Waller III's employment.","Letter regards William M. Waller III's health and personal matters.","Letter regards a legislative business in Bedford, Virginia.","A sales receipt for flour.","Letter regards family matters and mentions trying to sell slaves.","Letter regards selling slaves.","Letter encourages William M. Waller III to attend school.","Letter mentions Major Taliaferro and Bishop Otey.","Letter regards selling a slave to a Peyton Johnson in Richmond, Virginia.","A sales receipt for flour.","Letter regards selling the rest of William M. Waller, Jr.'s slaves.","A sales receipt for flour.","Letter regards elling slaves.","Letter regards William M. Waller III's appointment to VMI.","Letter regards family matters.","Letter mentions that William M. Waller, Jr. will contact Francis H. Smith to ask for a summer furlough for William M. Waller III.","Letter lectures William M. Waller III on procrastination and sticking to his duties.","Letter regards family matters. Thomas M. Waller was at the University of Virginia when this letter was written."],"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_65f9cb477100c6ebcea4aafbd7136226\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Waller family","Waller, William M., Jr. (William Macon), 1789-1849","Waller, William M., III (William Macon), 1827-1909","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"famname_ssim":["Waller family"],"names_coll_ssim":["Waller, William M., Jr. (William Macon), 1789-1849","Waller, William M., III (William Macon), 1827-1909"],"persname_ssim":["Waller, William M., Jr. (William Macon), 1789-1849","Waller, William M., III (William Macon), 1827-1909","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":33,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:10:42.873Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_564_c26"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c02_c02","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to Eugenia S. Gatewood (Massie) and Samuel V. Gatewood","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c02_c02#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses the family's runaway slave, Jesse, and mentions willingness of cadets to fight to \"save Virginia.\"\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c02_c02#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c02_c02","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c02_c02"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c02_c02","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c02","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c02","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c02"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c02"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers","Correspondence","Correspondence"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers","Correspondence","Correspondence"],"text":["Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers","Correspondence","Correspondence","Letter to Eugenia S. Gatewood (Massie) and Samuel V. Gatewood","Slavery","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Correspondence","English","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses the family's runaway slave, Jesse, and mentions willingness of cadets to fight to \"save Virginia.\""],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to Eugenia S. Gatewood (Massie) and Samuel V. Gatewood","title_ssm":["Letter to Eugenia S. Gatewood (Massie) and Samuel V. Gatewood"],"title_tesim":["Letter to Eugenia S. Gatewood (Massie) and Samuel V. Gatewood"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1861 February 1"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1861"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to Eugenia S. Gatewood (Massie) and Samuel V. Gatewood"],"component_level_isim":[3],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"sort_isi":11,"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."],"date_range_isim":[1861],"access_subjects_ssim":["Slavery","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Slavery","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses the family's runaway slave, Jesse, and mentions willingness of cadets to fight to \"save Virginia.\"\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses the family's runaway slave, Jesse, and mentions willingness of cadets to fight to \"save Virginia.\""],"_nest_path_":"/components#0/components#1/components#1","timestamp":"2026-05-24T23:27:41.895Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_582.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00001.xml","title_ssm":["Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers"],"title_tesim":["Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1860-1993"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1860-1993"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0068","/repositories/3/resources/582"],"text":["MS.0068","/repositories/3/resources/582","Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Cavalry Regiment, 11th","Bull Run, 2nd Battle of, Va., 1862","Soldiers—Virginia—Correspondence","Lexington (Va.)—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","Account Books","Manuscripts","Clippings","There are no restrictions.","A bulk of the Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers are avaliable \n online .","A photograph of Gatewood is also avaliable  online .","Andrew Cameron Lewis Gatewood was born at Mountain Grove, Bath County, Virginia, on June 30, 1843 to Samuel Vance Gatewood (1810-1861) and Eugenia Sophia Massie (1819-1884). He entered the VMI in July 1860, where he served as a cadet until the outbreak of the Civil War in April 1861. On April 16, 1861, he accompanied the Corps of Cadets to Richmond, Virginia where he served as a drillmaster to new\nConfederate recruits. Gatewood subsequently served in the same capacity under General Robert S. Garnett at Laurel Hill, Barbour County, West Virginia. He joined the 11th Virginia Cavalry Regiment in March 1862 and was elected 2nd Lieutenant,\n\"F\" Company (Bath Squadron). He served in this unit until the end of the War.","At the close of the Civil War, Gatewood returned to Bath County. His father had died suddenly in 1861 without leaving a will, and as the oldest son, he took on responsibility for his family's affairs. He married his childhood sweetheart, Mary Skillern Warwick (1845-1922) in 1869 and the couple had seven children: William Beale, Eugene Samuel, Massie Cameron, Andrew Warwick, Mary Preston, Eliza Pleasants, and one child who died in infancy. The couple moved to Big Spring, Pocahontas County, West Virginia in 1877 where Gatewood spent the remainder of his life working as a farmer and stock raiser. He died on July 31, 1919.","The bulk of the Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers consist of 28 letters (dated 1860-1864) written by Gatewood to his parents and other family members. Early letters describe life at VMI and in Lexington, Virginia, just prior to and during early months of the Civil War. Subsequent letters date from Gatewood's service with the 11th Virginia Cavalry Regiment, Company F (Bath Squadron), including a letter (dated September 1862) written after the Second Battle of Manassas (2nd Bull Run). ","The papers also include a \"History of the Bath Squadron,\" consisting of a manuscript fragment, copies of a series of published newspaper articles concerning the unit, and an edited transcription, publications concerning Confederate veteran reunions, and Gatewood's VMI cadet account book.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards initiation of new cadets, early reference to term \"rat\" as a name for a new cadet, complaints of homesickness, and comments on living in camp.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes daily routine of cadets, life in camp, and difficulty of studies.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes dismantling summer camp and moving into barracks.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses family matters, including court summons.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses examinations, Christmas at VMI, and the secession of South Carolina.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter mentions examinations and the secession of South Carolina.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter informs his parents that he did well on his examinations and gives his class standing. The letter also mentions the secession of Florida and other states.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses the family's runaway slave, Jesse, and mentions willingness of cadets to fight to \"save Virginia.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses general news, including an invitation to a party, his studies, and a request for money.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses squad drill, general news, and speculates about Virginia secession and the War.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses the need for new summer pants and the high price of cloth.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses general news, living in barracks, and anxiety about the return to summer camp in July.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes the \"flag raising incident,\" a confrontation between Lexington secessionists (including cadets), and pro-Union citizens.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes excitement among VMI cadets as Virginia decides to secede, suspension of academic duty, and cadet preparation for war.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter informs his parents that the Corps of Cadets will be ordered to Richmond, Virginia probably to drill recruits.","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter describes the cadets' journey from Lexington, Virginia to Richmond and more news of drilling new recruits.","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter informs his parents that he is drilling a company of new recruits and hopes for a commission.","Written from Ashland, Virginia. Letter discusses a transfer to the Ashland Camp of Instruction to drill army recruits.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Andrew C. L. Gatewood has returned to VMI to drill new cadets and University of Virginia students who are at VMI to receive training. Letter includes a complaint that he is not paid for his services and is still expected to pay room and board and the hopes to get a furlough.","Written from Mountain Grove, Virginia. Letter discusses preparations to serve as drillmaster with the 81st regiment.","Written from Manassas, Virginia. Letter describes the Second Battle of Manassas.","Written from Edinburg, Virginia. Letter discusses potential to be sent to Harrisonburg, Virginia and mentions victory at Vicksburg, Virginia.","Written from the 11th Regiment camp. Letter regards general news.","Written from Falling Springs Church, Rockbridge County, Virginia. Letter regards regiment encampment.","Letter written from the 11th Regiment camp. Letter regards the regiment's presention of the VMI Corps of Cadets with a captured flag and a review of troops by General Smith.","Written from Waynesboro, Virginia. Letter regards camp at Waynesboro and expected orders to march and battle.","Written from Waynesboro, Virginia. Letter regards that the brigade is ordered to eastern Virginia.","Written from the 11th Regiment camp. Letter regards general news from camp.","Account book contains entries for cadet expenses from July 31, 1860 to May 22, 1861.","Partial \"History of the Bath Squadron or Recollections of Thirty Years Ago\" manuscript in Andrew C. L. Gatewood's hand.","\"History of the Bath Squadron\" typescript with annotations by C.L. Gatewood's grandson, John M. Dunlap, Jr. Included is a 5.25 inch floppy disk that contains a digital version of the typescript.","Written by Dr. Hunter McGuire, Chairman. Report read by the committee chairman in Richmond, Virginia on June 5, 1899.","Written by J. Coleman Alderson. Pamphlet contains \"speeches, engravings of the speakers, and General Officers of this Division, with other prominent West Virginia Confederates.\"","Document was printed for the \"27th Reunion...United Confederate Veterans 22nd Annual Reunion...Sons of Veterans\" held in Washington, D.C. from June 4 to 8, 1917.","Proceedings of the 27th Annual Reunion of the Confederate Veterans, the 18th Annual Convention of the Confederated Southern Memorial Association, and the 22nd Annual Reunion of the Sons of Confederate Veterans held in Washington D.C. from June 4 to 7, 1917.","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","United Confederate Veterans","Gatewood, Andrew C. L. (Andrew Cameron Lewis), 1843-1919","Dunlap, John M., Jr. (John McKee), 1917-?","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","English"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0068","/repositories/3/resources/582"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers"],"collection_title_tesim":["Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers"],"collection_ssim":["Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Gatewood, Andrew C. L. (Andrew Cameron Lewis), 1843-1919","Dunlap, John M., Jr. (John McKee), 1917-?"],"creator_ssim":["Gatewood, Andrew C. L. (Andrew Cameron Lewis), 1843-1919","Dunlap, John M., Jr. (John McKee), 1917-?"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Gatewood, Andrew C. L. (Andrew Cameron Lewis), 1843-1919","Dunlap, John M., Jr. (John McKee), 1917-?"],"creators_ssim":["Gatewood, Andrew C. L. (Andrew Cameron Lewis), 1843-1919","Dunlap, John M., Jr. (John McKee), 1917-?"],"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—1860-1869","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Cavalry Regiment, 11th","Bull Run, 2nd Battle of, Va., 1862","Soldiers—Virginia—Correspondence","Lexington (Va.)—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","Account Books","Manuscripts","Clippings"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Cavalry Regiment, 11th","Bull Run, 2nd Battle of, Va., 1862","Soldiers—Virginia—Correspondence","Lexington (Va.)—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Civil War, 1861-1865","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","Account Books","Manuscripts","Clippings"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["35 items"],"extent_tesim":["35 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence","Account Books","Manuscripts","Clippings"],"date_range_isim":[1860,1861,1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867,1868,1869,1870,1871,1872,1873,1874,1875,1876,1877,1878,1879,1880,1881,1882,1883,1884,1885,1886,1887,1888,1889,1890,1891,1892,1893,1894,1895,1896,1897,1898,1899,1900,1901,1902,1903,1904,1905,1906,1907,1908,1909,1910,1911,1912,1913,1914,1915,1916,1917,1918,1919,1920,1921,1922,1923,1924,1925,1926,1927,1928,1929,1930,1931,1932,1933,1934,1935,1936,1937,1938,1939,1940,1941,1942,1943,1944,1945,1946,1947,1948,1949,1950,1951,1952,1953,1954,1955,1956,1957,1958,1959,1960,1961,1962,1963,1964,1965,1966,1967,1968,1969,1970,1971,1972,1973,1974,1975,1976,1977,1978,1979,1980,1981,1982,1983,1984,1985,1986,1987,1988,1989,1990,1991,1992,1993],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eA bulk of the Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers are avaliable \n\u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/1918\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eA photograph of Gatewood is also avaliable \u003ca href=\"http://cdm15821.contentdm.oclc.org/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll7/id/3240\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["A bulk of the Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers are avaliable \n online .","A photograph of Gatewood is also avaliable  online ."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eAndrew Cameron Lewis Gatewood was born at Mountain Grove, Bath County, Virginia, on June 30, 1843 to Samuel Vance Gatewood (1810-1861) and Eugenia Sophia Massie (1819-1884). He entered the VMI in July 1860, where he served as a cadet until the outbreak of the Civil War in April 1861. On April 16, 1861, he accompanied the Corps of Cadets to Richmond, Virginia where he served as a drillmaster to new\nConfederate recruits. Gatewood subsequently served in the same capacity under General Robert S. Garnett at Laurel Hill, Barbour County, West Virginia. He joined the 11th Virginia Cavalry Regiment in March 1862 and was elected 2nd Lieutenant,\n\"F\" Company (Bath Squadron). He served in this unit until the end of the War.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAt the close of the Civil War, Gatewood returned to Bath County. His father had died suddenly in 1861 without leaving a will, and as the oldest son, he took on responsibility for his family's affairs. He married his childhood sweetheart, Mary Skillern Warwick (1845-1922) in 1869 and the couple had seven children: William Beale, Eugene Samuel, Massie Cameron, Andrew Warwick, Mary Preston, Eliza Pleasants, and one child who died in infancy. The couple moved to Big Spring, Pocahontas County, West Virginia in 1877 where Gatewood spent the remainder of his life working as a farmer and stock raiser. He died on July 31, 1919.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Andrew Cameron Lewis Gatewood was born at Mountain Grove, Bath County, Virginia, on June 30, 1843 to Samuel Vance Gatewood (1810-1861) and Eugenia Sophia Massie (1819-1884). He entered the VMI in July 1860, where he served as a cadet until the outbreak of the Civil War in April 1861. On April 16, 1861, he accompanied the Corps of Cadets to Richmond, Virginia where he served as a drillmaster to new\nConfederate recruits. Gatewood subsequently served in the same capacity under General Robert S. Garnett at Laurel Hill, Barbour County, West Virginia. He joined the 11th Virginia Cavalry Regiment in March 1862 and was elected 2nd Lieutenant,\n\"F\" Company (Bath Squadron). He served in this unit until the end of the War.","At the close of the Civil War, Gatewood returned to Bath County. His father had died suddenly in 1861 without leaving a will, and as the oldest son, he took on responsibility for his family's affairs. He married his childhood sweetheart, Mary Skillern Warwick (1845-1922) in 1869 and the couple had seven children: William Beale, Eugene Samuel, Massie Cameron, Andrew Warwick, Mary Preston, Eliza Pleasants, and one child who died in infancy. The couple moved to Big Spring, Pocahontas County, West Virginia in 1877 where Gatewood spent the remainder of his life working as a farmer and stock raiser. He died on July 31, 1919."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eAndrew C. L. Gatewood papers, 1860-1993. MS 0068. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers, 1860-1993. MS 0068. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe bulk of the Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers consist of 28 letters (dated 1860-1864) written by Gatewood to his parents and other family members. Early letters describe life at VMI and in Lexington, Virginia, just prior to and during early months of the Civil War. Subsequent letters date from Gatewood's service with the 11th Virginia Cavalry Regiment, Company F (Bath Squadron), including a letter (dated September 1862) written after the Second Battle of Manassas (2nd Bull Run). \u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe papers also include a \"History of the Bath Squadron,\" consisting of a manuscript fragment, copies of a series of published newspaper articles concerning the unit, and an edited transcription, publications concerning Confederate veteran reunions, and Gatewood's VMI cadet account book.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards initiation of new cadets, early reference to term \"rat\" as a name for a new cadet, complaints of homesickness, and comments on living in camp.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes daily routine of cadets, life in camp, and difficulty of studies.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes dismantling summer camp and moving into barracks.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses family matters, including court summons.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses examinations, Christmas at VMI, and the secession of South Carolina.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter mentions examinations and the secession of South Carolina.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter informs his parents that he did well on his examinations and gives his class standing. The letter also mentions the secession of Florida and other states.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses the family's runaway slave, Jesse, and mentions willingness of cadets to fight to \"save Virginia.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses general news, including an invitation to a party, his studies, and a request for money.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses squad drill, general news, and speculates about Virginia secession and the War.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses the need for new summer pants and the high price of cloth.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses general news, living in barracks, and anxiety about the return to summer camp in July.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes the \"flag raising incident,\" a confrontation between Lexington secessionists (including cadets), and pro-Union citizens.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes excitement among VMI cadets as Virginia decides to secede, suspension of academic duty, and cadet preparation for war.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter informs his parents that the Corps of Cadets will be ordered to Richmond, Virginia probably to drill recruits.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Richmond, Virginia. Letter describes the cadets' journey from Lexington, Virginia to Richmond and more news of drilling new recruits.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Richmond, Virginia. Letter informs his parents that he is drilling a company of new recruits and hopes for a commission.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Ashland, Virginia. Letter discusses a transfer to the Ashland Camp of Instruction to drill army recruits.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Andrew C. L. Gatewood has returned to VMI to drill new cadets and University of Virginia students who are at VMI to receive training. Letter includes a complaint that he is not paid for his services and is still expected to pay room and board and the hopes to get a furlough.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Mountain Grove, Virginia. Letter discusses preparations to serve as drillmaster with the 81st regiment.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Manassas, Virginia. Letter describes the Second Battle of Manassas.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Edinburg, Virginia. Letter discusses potential to be sent to Harrisonburg, Virginia and mentions victory at Vicksburg, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from the 11th Regiment camp. Letter regards general news.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Falling Springs Church, Rockbridge County, Virginia. Letter regards regiment encampment.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eLetter written from the 11th Regiment camp. Letter regards the regiment's presention of the VMI Corps of Cadets with a captured flag and a review of troops by General Smith.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Waynesboro, Virginia. Letter regards camp at Waynesboro and expected orders to march and battle.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Waynesboro, Virginia. Letter regards that the brigade is ordered to eastern Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from the 11th Regiment camp. Letter regards general news from camp.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAccount book contains entries for cadet expenses from July 31, 1860 to May 22, 1861.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003ePartial \"History of the Bath Squadron or Recollections of Thirty Years Ago\" manuscript in Andrew C. L. Gatewood's hand.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e\"History of the Bath Squadron\" typescript with annotations by C.L. Gatewood's grandson, John M. Dunlap, Jr. Included is a 5.25 inch floppy disk that contains a digital version of the typescript.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten by Dr. Hunter McGuire, Chairman. Report read by the committee chairman in Richmond, Virginia on June 5, 1899.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten by J. Coleman Alderson. Pamphlet contains \"speeches, engravings of the speakers, and General Officers of this Division, with other prominent West Virginia Confederates.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDocument was printed for the \"27th Reunion...United Confederate Veterans 22nd Annual Reunion...Sons of Veterans\" held in Washington, D.C. from June 4 to 8, 1917.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eProceedings of the 27th Annual Reunion of the Confederate Veterans, the 18th Annual Convention of the Confederated Southern Memorial Association, and the 22nd Annual Reunion of the Sons of Confederate Veterans held in Washington D.C. from June 4 to 7, 1917.\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","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":["The bulk of the Andrew C. L. Gatewood papers consist of 28 letters (dated 1860-1864) written by Gatewood to his parents and other family members. Early letters describe life at VMI and in Lexington, Virginia, just prior to and during early months of the Civil War. Subsequent letters date from Gatewood's service with the 11th Virginia Cavalry Regiment, Company F (Bath Squadron), including a letter (dated September 1862) written after the Second Battle of Manassas (2nd Bull Run). ","The papers also include a \"History of the Bath Squadron,\" consisting of a manuscript fragment, copies of a series of published newspaper articles concerning the unit, and an edited transcription, publications concerning Confederate veteran reunions, and Gatewood's VMI cadet account book.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards initiation of new cadets, early reference to term \"rat\" as a name for a new cadet, complaints of homesickness, and comments on living in camp.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes daily routine of cadets, life in camp, and difficulty of studies.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes dismantling summer camp and moving into barracks.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses family matters, including court summons.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses examinations, Christmas at VMI, and the secession of South Carolina.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter mentions examinations and the secession of South Carolina.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter informs his parents that he did well on his examinations and gives his class standing. The letter also mentions the secession of Florida and other states.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses the family's runaway slave, Jesse, and mentions willingness of cadets to fight to \"save Virginia.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses general news, including an invitation to a party, his studies, and a request for money.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses squad drill, general news, and speculates about Virginia secession and the War.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses the need for new summer pants and the high price of cloth.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses general news, living in barracks, and anxiety about the return to summer camp in July.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes the \"flag raising incident,\" a confrontation between Lexington secessionists (including cadets), and pro-Union citizens.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter describes excitement among VMI cadets as Virginia decides to secede, suspension of academic duty, and cadet preparation for war.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter informs his parents that the Corps of Cadets will be ordered to Richmond, Virginia probably to drill recruits.","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter describes the cadets' journey from Lexington, Virginia to Richmond and more news of drilling new recruits.","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter informs his parents that he is drilling a company of new recruits and hopes for a commission.","Written from Ashland, Virginia. Letter discusses a transfer to the Ashland Camp of Instruction to drill army recruits.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Andrew C. L. Gatewood has returned to VMI to drill new cadets and University of Virginia students who are at VMI to receive training. Letter includes a complaint that he is not paid for his services and is still expected to pay room and board and the hopes to get a furlough.","Written from Mountain Grove, Virginia. Letter discusses preparations to serve as drillmaster with the 81st regiment.","Written from Manassas, Virginia. Letter describes the Second Battle of Manassas.","Written from Edinburg, Virginia. Letter discusses potential to be sent to Harrisonburg, Virginia and mentions victory at Vicksburg, Virginia.","Written from the 11th Regiment camp. Letter regards general news.","Written from Falling Springs Church, Rockbridge County, Virginia. Letter regards regiment encampment.","Letter written from the 11th Regiment camp. Letter regards the regiment's presention of the VMI Corps of Cadets with a captured flag and a review of troops by General Smith.","Written from Waynesboro, Virginia. Letter regards camp at Waynesboro and expected orders to march and battle.","Written from Waynesboro, Virginia. Letter regards that the brigade is ordered to eastern Virginia.","Written from the 11th Regiment camp. Letter regards general news from camp.","Account book contains entries for cadet expenses from July 31, 1860 to May 22, 1861.","Partial \"History of the Bath Squadron or Recollections of Thirty Years Ago\" manuscript in Andrew C. L. Gatewood's hand.","\"History of the Bath Squadron\" typescript with annotations by C.L. Gatewood's grandson, John M. Dunlap, Jr. Included is a 5.25 inch floppy disk that contains a digital version of the typescript.","Written by Dr. Hunter McGuire, Chairman. Report read by the committee chairman in Richmond, Virginia on June 5, 1899.","Written by J. Coleman Alderson. Pamphlet contains \"speeches, engravings of the speakers, and General Officers of this Division, with other prominent West Virginia Confederates.\"","Document was printed for the \"27th Reunion...United Confederate Veterans 22nd Annual Reunion...Sons of Veterans\" held in Washington, D.C. from June 4 to 8, 1917.","Proceedings of the 27th Annual Reunion of the Confederate Veterans, the 18th Annual Convention of the Confederated Southern Memorial Association, and the 22nd Annual Reunion of the Sons of Confederate Veterans held in Washington D.C. from June 4 to 7, 1917."],"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_f3d0ffdf4864efbcf325abc5200c0bf2\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","United Confederate Veterans","Gatewood, Andrew C. L. (Andrew Cameron Lewis), 1843-1919","Dunlap, John M., Jr. (John McKee), 1917-?","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","United Confederate Veterans"],"persname_ssim":["Gatewood, Andrew C. L. (Andrew Cameron Lewis), 1843-1919","Dunlap, John M., Jr. (John McKee), 1917-?","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"language_ssim":["English"],"descrules_ssm":["Describing Archives: A Content Standard"],"total_component_count_is":46,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-24T23:27:41.895Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c02_c02"}}],"included":[{"type":"facet","id":"repository_ssim","attributes":{"label":"Repository","items":[{"attributes":{"label":"Virginia Military Institute Archives","value":"Virginia Military Institute Archives","hits":18},"links":{"remove":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Slavery\u0026f%5Brepository%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute+Archives"}}]},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/facet/repository_ssim.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Slavery\u0026f%5Brepository%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute+Archives"}},{"type":"facet","id":"collection_ssim","attributes":{"label":"Collection","items":[{"attributes":{"label":"Andrew C. 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