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Barton papers","Class exercises"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Barton family papers","Bolling W. Barton papers","Class exercises"],"text":["Barton family papers","Bolling W. Barton papers","Class exercises","Latin exercise","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","English ."],"title_filing_ssi":"Latin exercise","title_ssm":["Latin exercise"],"title_tesim":["Latin exercise"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Latin exercise"],"component_level_isim":[3],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["Barton family papers"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"sort_isi":9,"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."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"_nest_path_":"/components#1/components#0/components#1","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:12:13.177Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_104.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00049.xml","title_ssm":["Barton family papers"],"title_tesim":["Barton family papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1855-1869"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1855-1869"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0020","/repositories/3/resources/104"],"text":["MS.0020","/repositories/3/resources/104","Barton family papers","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1856","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Notebooks","Poetry","There are no restrictions","Charles Marshall Barton, the eldest son of David W. Barton and and Frances (Fanny) Jones Barton, was born in Winchester, Virginia on November 30, 1836. His preparatory education was received at Winchester Academy and at Episcopal High School (Alexandria, Virginia). He entered VMI in 1852 and graduated in 1856. He subsequently returned to the Winchester area where he was a farmer. Charles married Ellen Harvie Marshall of Fauquier County in 1859. During the Civil War, he served with Cutshaw's Artillery Battery and was mortally wounded in action near Winchester on May 25, 1862.","Randolph J. Barton, Charles's younger brother, was born in Winchester on April 24, 1844. He attended the VMI for one year (1860-1861), and joined the 33rd Virginia Infantry Regiment at the beginning of the Civil War. He subsequently served in the 2nd Virginia Infantry and as a Staff Officer for Generals Elisha F. Paxton, James A. Walker, and William R. Terry. Following the War, Randolph practiced law in Baltimore, Maryland. He married Agnes P. Kirkland of Baltimore on December 29, 1869 and the couple had nine children. He died on March 15, 1921.","Bolling W. Barton, a younger brother of Charles and Randolph, was born in Winchester on November 24, 1846. He entered VMI on September 25, 1862, and while at the Institute, took part in the Battle of New Market (Virginia) on May 15, 1864. In November 1864 he joined the 1st Foreign Battalion. After the Civil War, Bolling studied and practiced medicine, and also taught botany at Johns Hopkins University. He married Ella Jane Gibson in 1872 and the couple had no children. He died in Loudoun County, Virginia on February 18, 1924.","V.M.I. Sept. 28th 55. \nDear Joe","In the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026 go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026 the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026 generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026 the other grand rascals.","I can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026 everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026 I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.","I have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026 the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.","I find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026 I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.","The study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026 taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,","The V.M.I. O What a spot \nIn winter cold, in summer hot \nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder \nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026 Thunder","I am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026 ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026 even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026 have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy. ","[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin \nC.M. Barton","A larger collection of Barton family papers is located at the Handley Library in Winchester, Virginia.","The Barton family papers consist of the papers of three members of the Barton family who attended VMI during the mid-19th century. Papers related to Charles M. Barton (VMI Class of 1856) include a letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles to his cousin Joseph M. Barton in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). Other Charles Barton material is found in a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook described above, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph Barton (VMI Class of 1864), an attorney.","Material related to Bolling W. Barton (VMI Class of 1866) includes one letter (dated January 18, 1864) from Frank (last name unknown, but a VMI alumnus), and six documents, primarily French language exercises.","Material related to Randolph J. Barton includes a typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph to the VMI Class of 1912.","Includes one letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles M. Barton to his cousin Joseph M. Barton, in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). ","Also included is a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"","The notebook (approximately 250 pages) contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Includes four class exercises and one note indicating math and French marks. Also includes two items of correspondence.","Geometry class exercise submitted to Lieutenant T. B. Robinson.","French exercise submitted to Lieutenant Miller.","One paper that details math and French marks. Additionally, the paper contains an address for Robert T. Barton.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Note requests that cadet Crawford be granted a leave of absence to \"attend to very important business.\"","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter requests that Bolling W. Barton look after \"Mr. Rutherford,\" a cadet soon to be entering VMI.","Includes one typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912.","Typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912. Originial typescript is housed at the Handley Library Archives in Winchester, Virginia.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Barton family","Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0020","/repositories/3/resources/104"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Barton family papers"],"collection_title_tesim":["Barton family papers"],"collection_ssim":["Barton family papers"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"creator_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"creators_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1856","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Notebooks","Poetry"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1856","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Notebooks","Poetry"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["10 items"],"extent_tesim":["10 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Notebooks","Poetry"],"date_range_isim":[1855,1856,1857,1858,1859,1860,1861,1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867,1868,1869],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions"],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eCharles Marshall Barton, the eldest son of David W. Barton and and Frances (Fanny) Jones Barton, was born in Winchester, Virginia on November 30, 1836. His preparatory education was received at Winchester Academy and at Episcopal High School (Alexandria, Virginia). He entered VMI in 1852 and graduated in 1856. He subsequently returned to the Winchester area where he was a farmer. Charles married Ellen Harvie Marshall of Fauquier County in 1859. During the Civil War, he served with Cutshaw's Artillery Battery and was mortally wounded in action near Winchester on May 25, 1862.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eRandolph J. Barton, Charles's younger brother, was born in Winchester on April 24, 1844. He attended the VMI for one year (1860-1861), and joined the 33rd Virginia Infantry Regiment at the beginning of the Civil War. He subsequently served in the 2nd Virginia Infantry and as a Staff Officer for Generals Elisha F. Paxton, James A. Walker, and William R. Terry. Following the War, Randolph practiced law in Baltimore, Maryland. He married Agnes P. Kirkland of Baltimore on December 29, 1869 and the couple had nine children. He died on March 15, 1921.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eBolling W. Barton, a younger brother of Charles and Randolph, was born in Winchester on November 24, 1846. He entered VMI on September 25, 1862, and while at the Institute, took part in the Battle of New Market (Virginia) on May 15, 1864. In November 1864 he joined the 1st Foreign Battalion. After the Civil War, Bolling studied and practiced medicine, and also taught botany at Johns Hopkins University. He married Ella Jane Gibson in 1872 and the couple had no children. He died in Loudoun County, Virginia on February 18, 1924.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Charles Marshall Barton, the eldest son of David W. Barton and and Frances (Fanny) Jones Barton, was born in Winchester, Virginia on November 30, 1836. His preparatory education was received at Winchester Academy and at Episcopal High School (Alexandria, Virginia). He entered VMI in 1852 and graduated in 1856. He subsequently returned to the Winchester area where he was a farmer. Charles married Ellen Harvie Marshall of Fauquier County in 1859. During the Civil War, he served with Cutshaw's Artillery Battery and was mortally wounded in action near Winchester on May 25, 1862.","Randolph J. Barton, Charles's younger brother, was born in Winchester on April 24, 1844. He attended the VMI for one year (1860-1861), and joined the 33rd Virginia Infantry Regiment at the beginning of the Civil War. He subsequently served in the 2nd Virginia Infantry and as a Staff Officer for Generals Elisha F. Paxton, James A. Walker, and William R. Terry. Following the War, Randolph practiced law in Baltimore, Maryland. He married Agnes P. Kirkland of Baltimore on December 29, 1869 and the couple had nine children. He died on March 15, 1921.","Bolling W. Barton, a younger brother of Charles and Randolph, was born in Winchester on November 24, 1846. He entered VMI on September 25, 1862, and while at the Institute, took part in the Battle of New Market (Virginia) on May 15, 1864. In November 1864 he joined the 1st Foreign Battalion. After the Civil War, Bolling studied and practiced medicine, and also taught botany at Johns Hopkins University. He married Ella Jane Gibson in 1872 and the couple had no children. He died in Loudoun County, Virginia on February 18, 1924."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sept. 28th 55.\u003cbr\u003e\nDear Joe\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026amp; go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026amp; the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026amp; generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026amp; the other grand rascals.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026amp; everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026amp; I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026amp; the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026amp; I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026amp; taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe V.M.I. O What a spot\u003cbr\u003e\nIn winter cold, in summer hot\u003cbr\u003e\nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder\u003cbr\u003e\nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026amp; Thunder\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026amp;, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026amp; ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026amp; even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026amp; have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy. \u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003e[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin\u003cbr\u003e\nC.M. Barton\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I. Sept. 28th 55. \nDear Joe","In the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026 go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026 the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026 generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026 the other grand rascals.","I can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026 everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026 I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.","I have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026 the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.","I find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026 I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.","The study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026 taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,","The V.M.I. O What a spot \nIn winter cold, in summer hot \nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder \nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026 Thunder","I am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026 ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026 even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026 have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy. ","[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin \nC.M. Barton"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eBarton family papers, 1855-1869. MS 0020. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["Barton family papers, 1855-1869. MS 0020. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"relatedmaterial_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eA larger collection of Barton family papers is located at the Handley Library in Winchester, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"relatedmaterial_heading_ssm":["Related Materials"],"relatedmaterial_tesim":["A larger collection of Barton family papers is located at the Handley Library in Winchester, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe Barton family papers consist of the papers of three members of the Barton family who attended VMI during the mid-19th century. Papers related to Charles M. Barton (VMI Class of 1856) include a letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles to his cousin Joseph M. Barton in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). Other Charles Barton material is found in a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook described above, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph Barton (VMI Class of 1864), an attorney.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMaterial related to Bolling W. Barton (VMI Class of 1866) includes one letter (dated January 18, 1864) from Frank (last name unknown, but a VMI alumnus), and six documents, primarily French language exercises.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMaterial related to Randolph J. Barton includes a typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph to the VMI Class of 1912.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIncludes one letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles M. Barton to his cousin Joseph M. Barton, in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). \u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAlso included is a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook (approximately 250 pages) contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIncludes four class exercises and one note indicating math and French marks. Also includes two items of correspondence.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGeometry class exercise submitted to Lieutenant T. B. Robinson.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eFrench exercise submitted to Lieutenant Miller.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOne paper that details math and French marks. Additionally, the paper contains an address for Robert T. Barton.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Note requests that cadet Crawford be granted a leave of absence to \"attend to very important business.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Richmond, Virginia. Letter requests that Bolling W. Barton look after \"Mr. Rutherford,\" a cadet soon to be entering VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIncludes one typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTypescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912. Originial typescript is housed at the Handley Library Archives in Winchester, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The Barton family papers consist of the papers of three members of the Barton family who attended VMI during the mid-19th century. Papers related to Charles M. Barton (VMI Class of 1856) include a letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles to his cousin Joseph M. Barton in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). Other Charles Barton material is found in a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook described above, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph Barton (VMI Class of 1864), an attorney.","Material related to Bolling W. Barton (VMI Class of 1866) includes one letter (dated January 18, 1864) from Frank (last name unknown, but a VMI alumnus), and six documents, primarily French language exercises.","Material related to Randolph J. Barton includes a typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph to the VMI Class of 1912.","Includes one letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles M. Barton to his cousin Joseph M. Barton, in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). ","Also included is a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"","The notebook (approximately 250 pages) contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Includes four class exercises and one note indicating math and French marks. Also includes two items of correspondence.","Geometry class exercise submitted to Lieutenant T. B. Robinson.","French exercise submitted to Lieutenant Miller.","One paper that details math and French marks. Additionally, the paper contains an address for Robert T. Barton.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Note requests that cadet Crawford be granted a leave of absence to \"attend to very important business.\"","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter requests that Bolling W. Barton look after \"Mr. Rutherford,\" a cadet soon to be entering VMI.","Includes one typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912.","Typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912. Originial typescript is housed at the Handley Library Archives in Winchester, Virginia."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_42cb3f2e301940272676fb2f5080e20a\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Barton family","Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Barton family","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854"],"famname_ssim":["Barton family"],"persname_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":17,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:12:13.177Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c02_c01_c02"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233_c01","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to Anne M. Strange","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233_c01#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233_c01#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233_c01","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233_c01"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233_c01","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["John B. Strange letter"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["John B. Strange letter"],"text":["John B. Strange letter","Letter to Anne M. Strange","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Virginia Military Institute—Buildings, structures, etc.","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1842","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Correspondence","English .","Virginia Military Institute \nJune 26, 1840","Well Sister Anne I have passed my examination and as you all are anxious to hear the result of the same, I have concluded to write to you. I received your letter the other day, but as you predicted I had not time to answer it before my examination which ended on Saturday last. There were a great many people at the examination, as a public invitation was given through the papers which I have not doubt you saw, but notwithstanding we nearly all passed. Two were sent off, the names of whom I think it best not to mention. Six were turned back to go over the same course next year, as for me I passed fifth, i.e. my general standing including Mathematics, French and conduct. I expected to pass higher, but at the examination I got a very hard principle to demonstrate and for that cause I suppose the others got the start of me: but if I can always pass as well, I need not grumble.","The Board of Visitors have selected the other cadets. I believe they are required to repair here by the twentieth of next month, as we expect the camps about that time, and if we are disappointed in getting them, I know not where they will take up their lodgings as there is not room for them here, but there will be by next September as they are building a house across from the Institute for the Steward, who now occupies four rooms. The Institute is improving rapidly. The Principal Professor has his house adjoining it [words missing].","Adjutant intends having his put up on the [words missing] to the Principal's this summer and then the old [word missing] will make quite a display.","About half of the Cadets are going home this summer I believe, and stay until the fifteenth of July, then I believe the remaining half have the same privilege, that is when they return. Two of my roommates, Messrs. Winn \u0026 Pendleton, intend leaving on Friday next if they can get off, they have both obtained permission.","Anne permit me to ask you to make me those drawers, socks \u0026 c. which I wrote to you about at least a month since. I was astonished Sister Anne that you did not attend to my letter. I thought that you knew that I have no opportunity of having them made here, so I will be glad if you will make me four pr. of drawers, about half doz. pr. of cotton socks, and also some sewing appurtenances as this is the only opportunity I expect you will have before next summer. You can get Brother to fix them up in a small bundle and send it to Capt. Winn's by one of the little boys. I have no doubt but that you are very busy making the Negroes summer clothes but if you do not send me the things I request, you will disappoint me very much. I am afraid you pay too much attention to your numerous beaux to think of much else, but I dare say it is a good plan after all, if you can succeed. And as for Hatty, I suppose she has become quite the Bell, if she visits much, which I suppose [she does] every chance she can get. I am not astonished [missing] Brother not going with you all to Miss [missing] wedding, that he might not like to [illegible] in such circumstances. I judge that he had rather more important business to attend to at the house, as this is a very busy season of the year with farmers, and the latter may be the only reason for his not going.","I have not received a letter from Sister lately. I am sorry to hear that she is disappointed in making you all a visit this summer. I reckon she would like very much to see O. Hill once and a while. Have you heard from Uncle Billy lately? I would be glad to hear from him and his family, whether he intends taking up his abode in Missouri or not.","I suppose the Dr. is still living with you all. You did not mention him in your letter. I wonder he did not go with you all to the [B____] but I reckon he was most too lazy.","I have concluded not to come home until next summer, as I do not expect I could get off now if I wished, as the Guard duty would be too hard on the Corporals. I shall have to go on Guard every third night after Messr. Winn \u0026 Pendleton leave and if I were to leave the remaining two would have to go on every other night, which would be very hard to sit up half the night so often these short nights. I send with this letter a copy of the Regulations as it is your request. I wish you had sent me a copy of my circular as I asked you. I hope however [you will send] a copy of it yet. I have never heard from [missing] them yet. I have gotten only one letter from Uncle since I have been here. I wonder he does not [write] to me oftener.","I believe that I have written all that I can think of at present, and perhaps more than will be interesting; therefore I must conclude. Give my [best] love to all and believe me your affectionate Brother, J. B. Strange.","P. S. I wish you not to mention to any one that any have been sent off or turned back. Our debating society is improving very fast, and our Library is increasing very fast. The Board of Visitors made us a present of five dollars each for the purpose of buying books. I'll be glad if your make my drawers rather tighter than [are now], or fix them in such a manner that I can tighten them for we have to wear our pants very tight and if the drawers are not as likewise I can't get the pants on.","N. B. Tell Brother I think it would be best if [missing] send me two or three pr of shoes if can [missing] good ones from Palmyra, for this is [missing] the dearest place I ever saw [missing] have to pay [missing] dollars for very common shoes. No. 6 fits me. J. B. S. You may think that we are required to wear shoes of a peculiar kind, but if they are tolerable high quartered that is all that is necessary.","Note below the address: This letter was misplaced and consequently it has never been sent to the person to whom it was directed.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life."],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to Anne M. Strange","title_ssm":["Letter to Anne M. Strange"],"title_tesim":["Letter to Anne M. Strange"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1840 June 23"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1840"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to Anne M. Strange"],"component_level_isim":[1],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["John B. Strange letter"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"sort_isi":1,"parent_access_restrict_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."],"parent_access_terms_tesm":["There are no restrictions."],"date_range_isim":[1840],"names_ssim":["Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"persname_ssim":["Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Buildings, structures, etc.","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1842","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Buildings, structures, etc.","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1842","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr/\u003e\nJune 26, 1840\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWell Sister Anne I have passed my examination and as you all are anxious to hear the result of the same, I have concluded to write to you. I received your letter the other day, but as you predicted I had not time to answer it before my examination which ended on Saturday last. There were a great many people at the examination, as a public invitation was given through the papers which I have not doubt you saw, but notwithstanding we nearly all passed. Two were sent off, the names of whom I think it best not to mention. Six were turned back to go over the same course next year, as for me I passed fifth, i.e. my general standing including Mathematics, French and conduct. I expected to pass higher, but at the examination I got a very hard principle to demonstrate and for that cause I suppose the others got the start of me: but if I can always pass as well, I need not grumble.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe Board of Visitors have selected the other cadets. I believe they are required to repair here by the twentieth of next month, as we expect the camps about that time, and if we are disappointed in getting them, I know not where they will take up their lodgings as there is not room for them here, but there will be by next September as they are building a house across from the Institute for the Steward, who now occupies four rooms. The Institute is improving rapidly. The Principal Professor has his house adjoining it [words missing].\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAdjutant intends having his put up on the [words missing] to the Principal's this summer and then the old [word missing] will make quite a display.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAbout half of the Cadets are going home this summer I believe, and stay until the fifteenth of July, then I believe the remaining half have the same privilege, that is when they return. Two of my roommates, Messrs. Winn \u0026amp; Pendleton, intend leaving on Friday next if they can get off, they have both obtained permission.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAnne permit me to ask you to make me those drawers, socks \u0026amp; c. which I wrote to you about at least a month since. I was astonished Sister Anne that you did not attend to my letter. I thought that you knew that I have no opportunity of having them made here, so I will be glad if you will make me four pr. of drawers, about half doz. pr. of cotton socks, and also some sewing appurtenances as this is the only opportunity I expect you will have before next summer. You can get Brother to fix them up in a small bundle and send it to Capt. Winn's by one of the little boys. I have no doubt but that you are very busy making the Negroes summer clothes but if you do not send me the things I request, you will disappoint me very much. I am afraid you pay too much attention to your numerous beaux to think of much else, but I dare say it is a good plan after all, if you can succeed. And as for Hatty, I suppose she has become quite the Bell, if she visits much, which I suppose [she does] every chance she can get. I am not astonished [missing] Brother not going with you all to Miss [missing] wedding, that he might not like to [illegible] in such circumstances. I judge that he had rather more important business to attend to at the house, as this is a very busy season of the year with farmers, and the latter may be the only reason for his not going.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have not received a letter from Sister lately. I am sorry to hear that she is disappointed in making you all a visit this summer. I reckon she would like very much to see O. Hill once and a while. Have you heard from Uncle Billy lately? I would be glad to hear from him and his family, whether he intends taking up his abode in Missouri or not.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI suppose the Dr. is still living with you all. You did not mention him in your letter. I wonder he did not go with you all to the [B____] but I reckon he was most too lazy.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have concluded not to come home until next summer, as I do not expect I could get off now if I wished, as the Guard duty would be too hard on the Corporals. I shall have to go on Guard every third night after Messr. Winn \u0026amp; Pendleton leave and if I were to leave the remaining two would have to go on every other night, which would be very hard to sit up half the night so often these short nights. I send with this letter a copy of the Regulations as it is your request. I wish you had sent me a copy of my circular as I asked you. I hope however [you will send] a copy of it yet. I have never heard from [missing] them yet. I have gotten only one letter from Uncle since I have been here. I wonder he does not [write] to me oftener.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI believe that I have written all that I can think of at present, and perhaps more than will be interesting; therefore I must conclude. Give my [best] love to all and believe me your affectionate Brother, J. B. Strange.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP. S. I wish you not to mention to any one that any have been sent off or turned back. Our debating society is improving very fast, and our Library is increasing very fast. The Board of Visitors made us a present of five dollars each for the purpose of buying books. I'll be glad if your make my drawers rather tighter than [are now], or fix them in such a manner that I can tighten them for we have to wear our pants very tight and if the drawers are not as likewise I can't get the pants on.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eN. B. Tell Brother I think it would be best if [missing] send me two or three pr of shoes if can [missing] good ones from Palmyra, for this is [missing] the dearest place I ever saw [missing] have to pay [missing] dollars for very common shoes. No. 6 fits me. J. B. S. You may think that we are required to wear shoes of a peculiar kind, but if they are tolerable high quartered that is all that is necessary.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eNote below the address: This letter was misplaced and consequently it has never been sent to the person to whom it was directed.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Virginia Military Institute \nJune 26, 1840","Well Sister Anne I have passed my examination and as you all are anxious to hear the result of the same, I have concluded to write to you. I received your letter the other day, but as you predicted I had not time to answer it before my examination which ended on Saturday last. There were a great many people at the examination, as a public invitation was given through the papers which I have not doubt you saw, but notwithstanding we nearly all passed. Two were sent off, the names of whom I think it best not to mention. Six were turned back to go over the same course next year, as for me I passed fifth, i.e. my general standing including Mathematics, French and conduct. I expected to pass higher, but at the examination I got a very hard principle to demonstrate and for that cause I suppose the others got the start of me: but if I can always pass as well, I need not grumble.","The Board of Visitors have selected the other cadets. I believe they are required to repair here by the twentieth of next month, as we expect the camps about that time, and if we are disappointed in getting them, I know not where they will take up their lodgings as there is not room for them here, but there will be by next September as they are building a house across from the Institute for the Steward, who now occupies four rooms. The Institute is improving rapidly. The Principal Professor has his house adjoining it [words missing].","Adjutant intends having his put up on the [words missing] to the Principal's this summer and then the old [word missing] will make quite a display.","About half of the Cadets are going home this summer I believe, and stay until the fifteenth of July, then I believe the remaining half have the same privilege, that is when they return. Two of my roommates, Messrs. Winn \u0026 Pendleton, intend leaving on Friday next if they can get off, they have both obtained permission.","Anne permit me to ask you to make me those drawers, socks \u0026 c. which I wrote to you about at least a month since. I was astonished Sister Anne that you did not attend to my letter. I thought that you knew that I have no opportunity of having them made here, so I will be glad if you will make me four pr. of drawers, about half doz. pr. of cotton socks, and also some sewing appurtenances as this is the only opportunity I expect you will have before next summer. You can get Brother to fix them up in a small bundle and send it to Capt. Winn's by one of the little boys. I have no doubt but that you are very busy making the Negroes summer clothes but if you do not send me the things I request, you will disappoint me very much. I am afraid you pay too much attention to your numerous beaux to think of much else, but I dare say it is a good plan after all, if you can succeed. And as for Hatty, I suppose she has become quite the Bell, if she visits much, which I suppose [she does] every chance she can get. I am not astonished [missing] Brother not going with you all to Miss [missing] wedding, that he might not like to [illegible] in such circumstances. I judge that he had rather more important business to attend to at the house, as this is a very busy season of the year with farmers, and the latter may be the only reason for his not going.","I have not received a letter from Sister lately. I am sorry to hear that she is disappointed in making you all a visit this summer. I reckon she would like very much to see O. Hill once and a while. Have you heard from Uncle Billy lately? I would be glad to hear from him and his family, whether he intends taking up his abode in Missouri or not.","I suppose the Dr. is still living with you all. You did not mention him in your letter. I wonder he did not go with you all to the [B____] but I reckon he was most too lazy.","I have concluded not to come home until next summer, as I do not expect I could get off now if I wished, as the Guard duty would be too hard on the Corporals. I shall have to go on Guard every third night after Messr. Winn \u0026 Pendleton leave and if I were to leave the remaining two would have to go on every other night, which would be very hard to sit up half the night so often these short nights. I send with this letter a copy of the Regulations as it is your request. I wish you had sent me a copy of my circular as I asked you. I hope however [you will send] a copy of it yet. I have never heard from [missing] them yet. I have gotten only one letter from Uncle since I have been here. I wonder he does not [write] to me oftener.","I believe that I have written all that I can think of at present, and perhaps more than will be interesting; therefore I must conclude. Give my [best] love to all and believe me your affectionate Brother, J. B. Strange.","P. S. I wish you not to mention to any one that any have been sent off or turned back. Our debating society is improving very fast, and our Library is increasing very fast. The Board of Visitors made us a present of five dollars each for the purpose of buying books. I'll be glad if your make my drawers rather tighter than [are now], or fix them in such a manner that I can tighten them for we have to wear our pants very tight and if the drawers are not as likewise I can't get the pants on.","N. B. Tell Brother I think it would be best if [missing] send me two or three pr of shoes if can [missing] good ones from Palmyra, for this is [missing] the dearest place I ever saw [missing] have to pay [missing] dollars for very common shoes. No. 6 fits me. J. B. S. You may think that we are required to wear shoes of a peculiar kind, but if they are tolerable high quartered that is all that is necessary.","Note below the address: This letter was misplaced and consequently it has never been sent to the person to whom it was directed."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life."],"_nest_path_":"/components#0","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:50.532Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_233.xml","title_ssm":["John B. Strange letter"],"title_tesim":["John B. Strange letter"],"unitdate_ssm":["1840 June 23"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1840 June 23"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0153","/repositories/3/resources/233"],"text":["MS.0153","/repositories/3/resources/233","John B. Strange letter","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1842","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Buildings, structures, etc.","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Correspondence","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.","John Bowie Strange was born in 1823 in Fluvanna County, Virginia to Gideon Alloway Strange and Harriet J. Magruder. When VMI opened its doors to cadets on November 11, 1839, Strange was one of the small group who enrolled that first day. He had the additional distinction of serving as the first cadet sentinel assigned to guard duty, replacing the militia guard that had previously been charged with guarding the stores held in the Lexington Arsenal.","Following his graduation on July 4, 1842, Strange pursued a career in education, serving as a teacher, as Principal of Norfolk (Virginia) Academy, and as Superintendent of the Albemarle (Virginia) Military Academy. Strange married Agnes Gaines in the early 1850s and the couple had four children: Agnes, Henry (VMI Class of 1873), Willoughby, and James (died in infancy).","During the Civil War, Strange served as Colonel of the 19th Virginia Infantry Regiment. He was killed at the Battle of South Mountain (Maryland) on September 14, 1862 and is buried at Maplewood Cemetery in Charlottesville, Virginia.","Virginia Military Institute \nJune 26, 1840","Well Sister Anne I have passed my examination and as you all are anxious to hear the result of the same, I have concluded to write to you. I received your letter the other day, but as you predicted I had not time to answer it before my examination which ended on Saturday last. There were a great many people at the examination, as a public invitation was given through the papers which I have not doubt you saw, but notwithstanding we nearly all passed. Two were sent off, the names of whom I think it best not to mention. Six were turned back to go over the same course next year, as for me I passed fifth, i.e. my general standing including Mathematics, French and conduct. I expected to pass higher, but at the examination I got a very hard principle to demonstrate and for that cause I suppose the others got the start of me: but if I can always pass as well, I need not grumble.","The Board of Visitors have selected the other cadets. I believe they are required to repair here by the twentieth of next month, as we expect the camps about that time, and if we are disappointed in getting them, I know not where they will take up their lodgings as there is not room for them here, but there will be by next September as they are building a house across from the Institute for the Steward, who now occupies four rooms. The Institute is improving rapidly. The Principal Professor has his house adjoining it [words missing].","Adjutant intends having his put up on the [words missing] to the Principal's this summer and then the old [word missing] will make quite a display.","About half of the Cadets are going home this summer I believe, and stay until the fifteenth of July, then I believe the remaining half have the same privilege, that is when they return. Two of my roommates, Messrs. Winn \u0026 Pendleton, intend leaving on Friday next if they can get off, they have both obtained permission.","Anne permit me to ask you to make me those drawers, socks \u0026 c. which I wrote to you about at least a month since. I was astonished Sister Anne that you did not attend to my letter. I thought that you knew that I have no opportunity of having them made here, so I will be glad if you will make me four pr. of drawers, about half doz. pr. of cotton socks, and also some sewing appurtenances as this is the only opportunity I expect you will have before next summer. You can get Brother to fix them up in a small bundle and send it to Capt. Winn's by one of the little boys. I have no doubt but that you are very busy making the Negroes summer clothes but if you do not send me the things I request, you will disappoint me very much. I am afraid you pay too much attention to your numerous beaux to think of much else, but I dare say it is a good plan after all, if you can succeed. And as for Hatty, I suppose she has become quite the Bell, if she visits much, which I suppose [she does] every chance she can get. I am not astonished [missing] Brother not going with you all to Miss [missing] wedding, that he might not like to [illegible] in such circumstances. I judge that he had rather more important business to attend to at the house, as this is a very busy season of the year with farmers, and the latter may be the only reason for his not going.","I have not received a letter from Sister lately. I am sorry to hear that she is disappointed in making you all a visit this summer. I reckon she would like very much to see O. Hill once and a while. Have you heard from Uncle Billy lately? I would be glad to hear from him and his family, whether he intends taking up his abode in Missouri or not.","I suppose the Dr. is still living with you all. You did not mention him in your letter. I wonder he did not go with you all to the [B____] but I reckon he was most too lazy.","I have concluded not to come home until next summer, as I do not expect I could get off now if I wished, as the Guard duty would be too hard on the Corporals. I shall have to go on Guard every third night after Messr. Winn \u0026 Pendleton leave and if I were to leave the remaining two would have to go on every other night, which would be very hard to sit up half the night so often these short nights. I send with this letter a copy of the Regulations as it is your request. I wish you had sent me a copy of my circular as I asked you. I hope however [you will send] a copy of it yet. I have never heard from [missing] them yet. I have gotten only one letter from Uncle since I have been here. I wonder he does not [write] to me oftener.","I believe that I have written all that I can think of at present, and perhaps more than will be interesting; therefore I must conclude. Give my [best] love to all and believe me your affectionate Brother, J. B. Strange.","P. S. I wish you not to mention to any one that any have been sent off or turned back. Our debating society is improving very fast, and our Library is increasing very fast. The Board of Visitors made us a present of five dollars each for the purpose of buying books. I'll be glad if your make my drawers rather tighter than [are now], or fix them in such a manner that I can tighten them for we have to wear our pants very tight and if the drawers are not as likewise I can't get the pants on.","N. B. Tell Brother I think it would be best if [missing] send me two or three pr of shoes if can [missing] good ones from Palmyra, for this is [missing] the dearest place I ever saw [missing] have to pay [missing] dollars for very common shoes. No. 6 fits me. J. B. S. You may think that we are required to wear shoes of a peculiar kind, but if they are tolerable high quartered that is all that is necessary.","Note below the address: This letter was misplaced and consequently it has never been sent to the person to whom it was directed.","Strange's letter to his sister Anne M. Strange was written just a few months after the Institute's opening day, and is one of the oldest personal cadet letters still in existence. Strange mentions several aspects of cadet life that were common during the pre-Civil War era, including that:\n Final examinations were given orally rather than as written tests, presided over by faculty and the VMI Board of Visitors, and open to the public Summer furlough was not automatic, and many cadets stayed at the Institute throughout the year, going into a summer encampment on the Parade Ground from late June until the beginning of the next academic session Obtaining extra clothing and other goods from home was a serious matter to most cadets","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","There are no restrictions.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Strange, John B. (John Bowie), 1823-1862","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","English \n.    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(John Bowie), 1823-1862"],"access_terms_ssm":["There are no restrictions."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1842","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Buildings, structures, etc.","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1842","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Buildings, structures, etc.","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["1 items"],"extent_tesim":["1 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1840],"accessrestrict_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"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":[" Restrictions on Access"],"accessrestrict_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."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn Bowie Strange was born in 1823 in Fluvanna County, Virginia to Gideon Alloway Strange and Harriet J. Magruder. When VMI opened its doors to cadets on November 11, 1839, Strange was one of the small group who enrolled that first day. He had the additional distinction of serving as the first cadet sentinel assigned to guard duty, replacing the militia guard that had previously been charged with guarding the stores held in the Lexington Arsenal.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eFollowing his graduation on July 4, 1842, Strange pursued a career in education, serving as a teacher, as Principal of Norfolk (Virginia) Academy, and as Superintendent of the Albemarle (Virginia) Military Academy. Strange married Agnes Gaines in the early 1850s and the couple had four children: Agnes, Henry (VMI Class of 1873), Willoughby, and James (died in infancy).\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDuring the Civil War, Strange served as Colonel of the 19th Virginia Infantry Regiment. He was killed at the Battle of South Mountain (Maryland) on September 14, 1862 and is buried at Maplewood Cemetery in Charlottesville, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["John Bowie Strange was born in 1823 in Fluvanna County, Virginia to Gideon Alloway Strange and Harriet J. Magruder. When VMI opened its doors to cadets on November 11, 1839, Strange was one of the small group who enrolled that first day. He had the additional distinction of serving as the first cadet sentinel assigned to guard duty, replacing the militia guard that had previously been charged with guarding the stores held in the Lexington Arsenal.","Following his graduation on July 4, 1842, Strange pursued a career in education, serving as a teacher, as Principal of Norfolk (Virginia) Academy, and as Superintendent of the Albemarle (Virginia) Military Academy. Strange married Agnes Gaines in the early 1850s and the couple had four children: Agnes, Henry (VMI Class of 1873), Willoughby, and James (died in infancy).","During the Civil War, Strange served as Colonel of the 19th Virginia Infantry Regiment. He was killed at the Battle of South Mountain (Maryland) on September 14, 1862 and is buried at Maplewood Cemetery in Charlottesville, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nJune 26, 1840\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWell Sister Anne I have passed my examination and as you all are anxious to hear the result of the same, I have concluded to write to you. I received your letter the other day, but as you predicted I had not time to answer it before my examination which ended on Saturday last. There were a great many people at the examination, as a public invitation was given through the papers which I have not doubt you saw, but notwithstanding we nearly all passed. Two were sent off, the names of whom I think it best not to mention. Six were turned back to go over the same course next year, as for me I passed fifth, i.e. my general standing including Mathematics, French and conduct. I expected to pass higher, but at the examination I got a very hard principle to demonstrate and for that cause I suppose the others got the start of me: but if I can always pass as well, I need not grumble.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe Board of Visitors have selected the other cadets. I believe they are required to repair here by the twentieth of next month, as we expect the camps about that time, and if we are disappointed in getting them, I know not where they will take up their lodgings as there is not room for them here, but there will be by next September as they are building a house across from the Institute for the Steward, who now occupies four rooms. The Institute is improving rapidly. The Principal Professor has his house adjoining it [words missing].\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAdjutant intends having his put up on the [words missing] to the Principal's this summer and then the old [word missing] will make quite a display.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAbout half of the Cadets are going home this summer I believe, and stay until the fifteenth of July, then I believe the remaining half have the same privilege, that is when they return. Two of my roommates, Messrs. Winn \u0026amp; Pendleton, intend leaving on Friday next if they can get off, they have both obtained permission.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAnne permit me to ask you to make me those drawers, socks \u0026amp; c. which I wrote to you about at least a month since. I was astonished Sister Anne that you did not attend to my letter. I thought that you knew that I have no opportunity of having them made here, so I will be glad if you will make me four pr. of drawers, about half doz. pr. of cotton socks, and also some sewing appurtenances as this is the only opportunity I expect you will have before next summer. You can get Brother to fix them up in a small bundle and send it to Capt. Winn's by one of the little boys. I have no doubt but that you are very busy making the Negroes summer clothes but if you do not send me the things I request, you will disappoint me very much. I am afraid you pay too much attention to your numerous beaux to think of much else, but I dare say it is a good plan after all, if you can succeed. And as for Hatty, I suppose she has become quite the Bell, if she visits much, which I suppose [she does] every chance she can get. I am not astonished [missing] Brother not going with you all to Miss [missing] wedding, that he might not like to [illegible] in such circumstances. I judge that he had rather more important business to attend to at the house, as this is a very busy season of the year with farmers, and the latter may be the only reason for his not going.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have not received a letter from Sister lately. I am sorry to hear that she is disappointed in making you all a visit this summer. I reckon she would like very much to see O. Hill once and a while. Have you heard from Uncle Billy lately? I would be glad to hear from him and his family, whether he intends taking up his abode in Missouri or not.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI suppose the Dr. is still living with you all. You did not mention him in your letter. I wonder he did not go with you all to the [B____] but I reckon he was most too lazy.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have concluded not to come home until next summer, as I do not expect I could get off now if I wished, as the Guard duty would be too hard on the Corporals. I shall have to go on Guard every third night after Messr. Winn \u0026amp; Pendleton leave and if I were to leave the remaining two would have to go on every other night, which would be very hard to sit up half the night so often these short nights. I send with this letter a copy of the Regulations as it is your request. I wish you had sent me a copy of my circular as I asked you. I hope however [you will send] a copy of it yet. I have never heard from [missing] them yet. I have gotten only one letter from Uncle since I have been here. I wonder he does not [write] to me oftener.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI believe that I have written all that I can think of at present, and perhaps more than will be interesting; therefore I must conclude. Give my [best] love to all and believe me your affectionate Brother, J. B. Strange.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP. S. I wish you not to mention to any one that any have been sent off or turned back. Our debating society is improving very fast, and our Library is increasing very fast. The Board of Visitors made us a present of five dollars each for the purpose of buying books. I'll be glad if your make my drawers rather tighter than [are now], or fix them in such a manner that I can tighten them for we have to wear our pants very tight and if the drawers are not as likewise I can't get the pants on.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eN. B. Tell Brother I think it would be best if [missing] send me two or three pr of shoes if can [missing] good ones from Palmyra, for this is [missing] the dearest place I ever saw [missing] have to pay [missing] dollars for very common shoes. No. 6 fits me. J. B. S. You may think that we are required to wear shoes of a peculiar kind, but if they are tolerable high quartered that is all that is necessary.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eNote below the address: This letter was misplaced and consequently it has never been sent to the person to whom it was directed.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Virginia Military Institute \nJune 26, 1840","Well Sister Anne I have passed my examination and as you all are anxious to hear the result of the same, I have concluded to write to you. I received your letter the other day, but as you predicted I had not time to answer it before my examination which ended on Saturday last. There were a great many people at the examination, as a public invitation was given through the papers which I have not doubt you saw, but notwithstanding we nearly all passed. Two were sent off, the names of whom I think it best not to mention. Six were turned back to go over the same course next year, as for me I passed fifth, i.e. my general standing including Mathematics, French and conduct. I expected to pass higher, but at the examination I got a very hard principle to demonstrate and for that cause I suppose the others got the start of me: but if I can always pass as well, I need not grumble.","The Board of Visitors have selected the other cadets. I believe they are required to repair here by the twentieth of next month, as we expect the camps about that time, and if we are disappointed in getting them, I know not where they will take up their lodgings as there is not room for them here, but there will be by next September as they are building a house across from the Institute for the Steward, who now occupies four rooms. The Institute is improving rapidly. The Principal Professor has his house adjoining it [words missing].","Adjutant intends having his put up on the [words missing] to the Principal's this summer and then the old [word missing] will make quite a display.","About half of the Cadets are going home this summer I believe, and stay until the fifteenth of July, then I believe the remaining half have the same privilege, that is when they return. Two of my roommates, Messrs. Winn \u0026 Pendleton, intend leaving on Friday next if they can get off, they have both obtained permission.","Anne permit me to ask you to make me those drawers, socks \u0026 c. which I wrote to you about at least a month since. I was astonished Sister Anne that you did not attend to my letter. I thought that you knew that I have no opportunity of having them made here, so I will be glad if you will make me four pr. of drawers, about half doz. pr. of cotton socks, and also some sewing appurtenances as this is the only opportunity I expect you will have before next summer. You can get Brother to fix them up in a small bundle and send it to Capt. Winn's by one of the little boys. I have no doubt but that you are very busy making the Negroes summer clothes but if you do not send me the things I request, you will disappoint me very much. I am afraid you pay too much attention to your numerous beaux to think of much else, but I dare say it is a good plan after all, if you can succeed. And as for Hatty, I suppose she has become quite the Bell, if she visits much, which I suppose [she does] every chance she can get. I am not astonished [missing] Brother not going with you all to Miss [missing] wedding, that he might not like to [illegible] in such circumstances. I judge that he had rather more important business to attend to at the house, as this is a very busy season of the year with farmers, and the latter may be the only reason for his not going.","I have not received a letter from Sister lately. I am sorry to hear that she is disappointed in making you all a visit this summer. I reckon she would like very much to see O. Hill once and a while. Have you heard from Uncle Billy lately? I would be glad to hear from him and his family, whether he intends taking up his abode in Missouri or not.","I suppose the Dr. is still living with you all. You did not mention him in your letter. I wonder he did not go with you all to the [B____] but I reckon he was most too lazy.","I have concluded not to come home until next summer, as I do not expect I could get off now if I wished, as the Guard duty would be too hard on the Corporals. I shall have to go on Guard every third night after Messr. Winn \u0026 Pendleton leave and if I were to leave the remaining two would have to go on every other night, which would be very hard to sit up half the night so often these short nights. I send with this letter a copy of the Regulations as it is your request. I wish you had sent me a copy of my circular as I asked you. I hope however [you will send] a copy of it yet. I have never heard from [missing] them yet. I have gotten only one letter from Uncle since I have been here. I wonder he does not [write] to me oftener.","I believe that I have written all that I can think of at present, and perhaps more than will be interesting; therefore I must conclude. Give my [best] love to all and believe me your affectionate Brother, J. B. Strange.","P. S. I wish you not to mention to any one that any have been sent off or turned back. Our debating society is improving very fast, and our Library is increasing very fast. The Board of Visitors made us a present of five dollars each for the purpose of buying books. I'll be glad if your make my drawers rather tighter than [are now], or fix them in such a manner that I can tighten them for we have to wear our pants very tight and if the drawers are not as likewise I can't get the pants on.","N. B. Tell Brother I think it would be best if [missing] send me two or three pr of shoes if can [missing] good ones from Palmyra, for this is [missing] the dearest place I ever saw [missing] have to pay [missing] dollars for very common shoes. No. 6 fits me. J. B. S. You may think that we are required to wear shoes of a peculiar kind, but if they are tolerable high quartered that is all that is necessary.","Note below the address: This letter was misplaced and consequently it has never been sent to the person to whom it was directed."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn B. Strange letter, 1840 June 23. MS 0153. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["John B. Strange letter, 1840 June 23. MS 0153. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eStrange's letter to his sister Anne M. Strange was written just a few months after the Institute's opening day, and is one of the oldest personal cadet letters still in existence. Strange mentions several aspects of cadet life that were common during the pre-Civil War era, including that:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFinal examinations were given orally rather than as written tests, presided over by faculty and the VMI Board of Visitors, and open to the public\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSummer furlough was not automatic, and many cadets stayed at the Institute throughout the year, going into a summer encampment on the Parade Ground from late June until the beginning of the next academic session\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eObtaining extra clothing and other goods from home was a serious matter to most cadets\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Strange's letter to his sister Anne M. Strange was written just a few months after the Institute's opening day, and is one of the oldest personal cadet letters still in existence. Strange mentions several aspects of cadet life that were common during the pre-Civil War era, including that:\n Final examinations were given orally rather than as written tests, presided over by faculty and the VMI Board of Visitors, and open to the public Summer furlough was not automatic, and many cadets stayed at the Institute throughout the year, going into a summer encampment on the Parade Ground from late June until the beginning of the next academic session Obtaining extra clothing and other goods from home was a serious matter to most cadets","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_462bfcc8efe8bc8cf9cb39071d01bd21\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Strange, John B. (John Bowie), 1823-1862","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"persname_ssim":["Strange, John B. (John Bowie), 1823-1862","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":1,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:50.532Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_233_c01"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr.","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["James H. Reid papers","Correspondence","Written from VMI"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["James H. Reid papers","Correspondence","Written from VMI"],"text":["James H. Reid papers","Correspondence","Written from VMI","Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr.","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence","English .","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\""],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr.","title_ssm":["Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr."],"title_tesim":["Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr."],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1862 August 14"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1862"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to James Henry Reid, Sr."],"component_level_isim":[3],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["James H. Reid 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","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917"],"persname_ssim":["Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917"],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVMI Aug 14, 1862\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr/\u003e\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026amp; was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026amp;, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026amp; I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur studies are math \u0026amp; French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026amp; some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026amp; 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026amp; none have made 15 since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026amp; none since. I got off from all of them \u0026amp; all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026amp; supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026amp; taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI like the V.M.I very much \u0026amp; do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026amp; I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026amp; T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026amp; accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026amp; Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026amp; an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026amp; caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026amp; hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026amp; they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026amp;c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026amp; long.\u003cbr/\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr/\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026amp; Mrs. Brown \u0026amp; every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026amp; sends his love. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\""],"_nest_path_":"/components#0/components#0/components#1","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:24.880Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_613.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00028.xml","title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1862-1867"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1862-1867"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"text":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613","James H. Reid papers","Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n online .","James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.","V.M.I. \nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write. \nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain, \nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa \nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard? \nHenry","Camp Carter's Station \nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa \nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.","The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.","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","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0222","/repositories/3/resources/613"],"normalized_title_ssm":["James H. Reid papers"],"collection_title_tesim":["James H. Reid papers"],"collection_ssim":["James H. Reid papers"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"creators_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Confederate States of America. Army—Virginia Light Artillery Battalion, 13th","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["18 items"],"extent_tesim":["18 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867],"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 James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n\u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/2010\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["A portion of the James H. Reid papers are avaliable \n online ."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDuring the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["James Henry Reid was born in 1845 in Brentsville, Prince William County, Virginia to James Henry Reid, Sr. and Amy Ann Tolson. Reid entered VMI in 1862 and resigned in January 1864 to join the Confederate Army. He served from 1864 to 1865 as a Private in Company A, 13th Battalion, Virginia Light Artillery (Otey's Battery) and was paroled at Appomattox, Virginia.","During the post-War years, Reid engaged in many professions, including that of teacher, justice of the peace, notary public, bookkeeper, banker, and farmer. He married Beulah Reese on December 10, 1868, at Christ Church, Alexandria, Virginia. They had several children. Much of Reid's life was spent in Prince William County, Virginia, where he died in 1921. He is buried in Manassas, Virginia."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I.\u003cbr\u003e\nAug 10, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026amp; staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026amp; went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026amp; Read went to town.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAfter supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026amp; was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026amp; wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026amp; drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026amp; got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026amp; made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026amp; sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026amp; Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026amp; saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026amp; am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026amp; I can hardly write.\u003cbr\u003e\nWith love to all I remain.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026amp; and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026amp; every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eVMI Aug 14, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026amp; was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026amp;, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026amp; I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOur studies are math \u0026amp; French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026amp; some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026amp; 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026amp; none have made 15 since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026amp; none since. I got off from all of them \u0026amp; all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026amp; supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026amp; taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI like the V.M.I very much \u0026amp; do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026amp; I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026amp; T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026amp; accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOur clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026amp; Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026amp; an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026amp; caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026amp; hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026amp; they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026amp;c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026amp; long.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026amp; Mrs. Brown \u0026amp; every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026amp; sends his love. Henry.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 18 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nThe desk \u0026amp; was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026amp; got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026amp; Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026amp;. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026amp; sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026amp; sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOne of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026amp; had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026amp; arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026amp; stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026amp; overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026amp; Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDon't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026amp;. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026amp; returned are very hard on Rats \u0026amp; I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eRemember me to all my friends \u0026amp; write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026amp;. My pillow is a great deal of use.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026amp; finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026amp; all of them have gone home some days ago.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026amp; Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026amp; 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026amp; drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026amp; tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026amp; keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026amp; if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026amp; I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026amp; Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026amp; 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Aug 28 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026amp; did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026amp; apples all recd safe \u0026amp; sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026amp;\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026amp; 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026amp; 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026amp; small Va staff buttons.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 14 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026amp; write you immediately.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSince the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026amp; Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026amp; Tattoo at 9½.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026amp; 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026amp; I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eOver 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026amp; of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026amp; did not even run for the 3rd class.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026amp; is responsible for noises \u0026amp;). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026amp; I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026amp; would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIf our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026amp; let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eTen cadets deserted the other day \u0026amp; 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026amp; all my friends.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sep 20, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWhen I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026amp; by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026amp; a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026amp; fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026amp; my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026amp; 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026amp; the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026amp; double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026amp; came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026amp; he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026amp; overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026amp; the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026amp;.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sept 27 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIt seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026amp; buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026amp; get it on Saturday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026amp; got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026amp;. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026amp; I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026amp; expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV .M.I. Sept 30 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSpeaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026amp; have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026amp; is responsible for all trifling \u0026amp; talking in ranks \u0026amp;c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWhat is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026amp; returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026amp; all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePlease don't forget the cap cover \u0026amp; skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026amp; was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026amp; myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026amp;c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026amp; you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 5 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026amp; apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026amp; pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026amp; if he gives me jacket \u0026amp; pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026amp; I can easily sell it.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003ePa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026amp; that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026amp; there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026amp; got some boys to help me \u0026amp; got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMaj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026amp; 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026amp; Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026amp; somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026amp; if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa \u0026amp; Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026amp; letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026amp; I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026amp; jelly \u0026amp;. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026amp; keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026amp; have very good eating.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIf I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026amp; will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYou need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026amp; before I could get to my room \u0026amp; get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026amp; 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026amp; I don't think I will get any more demerit.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAs well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026amp; Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026amp; were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026amp; dates.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMy ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026amp; stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI went up town to day \u0026amp; had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026amp; will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Oct 26 1862\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Ma\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026amp; I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eYou may sell my Jacket \u0026amp; Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026amp; pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026amp; keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026amp; 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026amp; reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026amp; I am sure I will need them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThey have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026amp; if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026amp; going out \u0026amp; drilling an hour.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eHow do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026amp; tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026amp; thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026amp; Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026amp; I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026amp;. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026amp; skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026amp; at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026amp; ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026amp; milk all the winter.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026amp; drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003e(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026amp; will have a treat in reading them.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026amp; sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026amp; will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eGen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026amp; no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026amp; so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026amp; wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThere is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026amp; resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026amp; am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026amp; what he is doing. With love to all I remain.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026amp; see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard?\u003cbr\u003e\nHenry\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCamp Carter's Station\u003cbr\u003e\nMarch 7th 1864\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa\u003cbr\u003e\nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eWe have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eBesides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026amp;. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain,\u003cbr\u003e\nYour affectionate son\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. Henry Reid.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eP.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026amp; send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDirect Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I. \nAug 10, 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving nothing else to do this evening I thought I would write to you although I had just seen you yesterday morning. After I left you I went up to Barracks \u0026 staid in my room all the morning. After dinner I had a very bad headache so I laid down \u0026 went to sleep whilst Henderson, Lee \u0026 Read went to town.","After supper the Corporal of the Guard came for me to go on guard at an outer post \u0026 was very particular in telling me to let no one pass without the countersign, but he would give me no load to put in my gun. After he left about 25 cadets came down \u0026 wanted to take my gun but I stuck one of them with my bayonet not very hard (for I knew it was all a trick to frighten me) \u0026 drove them off but they came back with guns \u0026 got my gun away. The Corporal came \u0026 made a big fuss saying he would have to be responsible for my neglect of duty, but I told him how 25 with guns could easily take one man but he said I must be court martialed \u0026 sent me to\nthe guard house but in fact Sub Profs. Wise \u0026 Semmes room, kept me in there some time \u0026 saw I was not to be fooled so let me go. That ended yesterday.","I went up town to the Church, I don't know what kind of church but think it was Presbyterian. Came back went to dinner \u0026 am now in my room No.76. Tell Ma to send my box about a foot or less any size about six inches high, I think she has one with my 2 shirts with the 2 collars, as soon as possible if she don't I will have watch money or nothing in a few days. I must close.\nPlease excuse writing as my fingers have all been put out of joint today \u0026 I can hardly write. \nWith love to all I remain.","Your affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is getting on very well, is very studious \u0026 and fat as a pig. Remember me to Mrs. Brown, Mr. Brown, \u0026 every body who think enough of me to inquire after me. Tell Mac he ought to be here the bucking would not hurt him. Please send me some stamps. Henry.","VMI Aug 14, 1862","Dear Pa \nI received your letter about two hours ago just after dinner \u0026 was very glad to hear from you. I hope you have got me a box large enough to hold my collars hank \u0026, not a writing desk it is rather too small but perhaps I can make it do. The Staff Va buttons I would rather have than the V.M.I. Please send me a dozen.","I have bought a mattress for $7 whereas I would have to pay the quartermaster $14, but it should come out of the money which Gen. Smith holds \u0026 I consider I have saved $7. I borrowed it from Thomas Henderson because I did not want to use my small notes. I paid also 75 cts for a chair. Please send me $10. I may want to buy some thing else. I have spent 25 cts since I have been here.","Our studies are math \u0026 French. I am in the 8th section, 4th class math; 4th section, 4th class French. We will have more studies after the first of September. Geo., composition \u0026 some one or two other things. I will make 13 in French this week \u0026 14 in math. 15 is the highest \u0026 none have made 15 since I have been here.","I got 11 demerits the first day, 7 the second, 5 the third, 3 the fourth, 1 the fifth, \u0026 none since. I got off from all of them \u0026 all say I have got less demerits than any Rat that has come here this year. We get up at 5 to Rev, eat at 7 also at 1, squad drill at 5, dress parade at 6 \u0026 supper at\n7, Tattoo at 9½, \u0026 taps at 10. I have been on guard twice since I have been here.","I like the V.M.I very much \u0026 do not dislike the fare. Have fattened about 10 lbs. I have my white uniform \u0026 I think it improves me very much. All I want are the buttons. I don't understand you about the vest. I don't want one it will be no use. How do you do in the office with Mr. Jamieson. Please write me. Tell Mac McLean I am going to write to him as soon as I get things\nstraightened up.","I have three very nice room mates. F. Lee, S. Read \u0026 T. Henderson, all from Lynchburg, very kind \u0026 accomodating fellows. I have heard no news for I don't know how long, not since you left. Don't know where Jackson, Pope or any of our armies are. Please send me a paper with a great deal of news in it, for I want to hear something about military affairs.","Our clothes come in every Wednesday \u0026 Saturday evening. Last Wednesday evening they all came in \u0026 an old cadet by the name of Exall ordered me to carry his box of clothes up. It was more than I could stand so I pitched in I thrashed him pretty badly. The other cadets did not blame me but he collected some of his friends of the same feather \u0026 caught me, at least\njumped upon me suddenly Monday night as I was coming off guard with my gun lying carelessly across my shoulder, tied me \u0026 hung me over the door until I had no life in me \u0026 they had to throw water in my face, bathe my head \u0026c to bring me to. Yesterday I met two of them, the old cadets said they would see fair play so I beat one at a time all to pieces, knocked one's teeth down his throat, at least 2 of them in which I got one eye pretty black. Since then an order has been read out dismissing them for impudence to Major Shipp. None of the Subs found out about the fight though they saw there had been a fight some where. Please write often \u0026 long. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Remember me to Mr. \u0026 Mrs. Brown \u0026 every body else. Tell Mrs. Holcombe Tommy is well \u0026 sends his love. Henry.","V.M.I. Aug 18 1862","Dear Pa \nThe desk \u0026 was recd safely Saturday morning. I walked down to the landing \u0026 got it myself, had to pay 50cts on it. All the things were in good order. Your letter \u0026 Ma's were safely recd., stamps, $2, buttons, shirts \u0026. Very much obliged for the apples \u0026 sugar, do not know what to do with the sugar unless I eat it so, No I will not do that, I will take it down to Mess Hall tonight \u0026 sweeten my milk with it and have a sort of Ice Cream.","One of my roommates Read S has gone to Lynchburg (you have probably seen him before this) on furlough. Please send by him some undershirts for it is very cold up here. I was on guard about 2'oclock last night \u0026 had nothing but my white clothes on, I very near froze. I would write for my thick winter coat but Gen. Smith recd a letter yesterday from Charleston saying the cloth had run the blockade \u0026 arrived safely. It will be here in a few days, so I will try \u0026 stand it as my order for Jacket, pants \u0026 overcoat is 3rd in the list \u0026 Mr. Vanderslice will soon make it. Gen. Smith says he has $30,000 worth of cloth about 15,000 yards or more because it did not cost $2 per yard in Europe.","Don't forget my buttons, send them by Read. Also $10 for mattress, chair \u0026. Send my other blanket as soon as you can, but do not pay a big price for me. I would rather wait a while.","My left little finger has been broke, but I am in hopes it will soon be well. My eye is well but some of the old cadets who have been on furlough \u0026 returned are very hard on Rats \u0026 I heard a cadet say this morning \"I pity the Rats now.\"","I will answer Ma's letter before long. I have now written four letters in a week so you must make them last for sometime. Write often, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Remember me to all my friends \u0026 write me about Mr. Brown's boarders \u0026. My pillow is a great deal of use.","V.M.I. Aug 26 1862","Dear Pa \nHaving just recd your letter of the 21st I proceed to answer it at once.","In regard to my maltreatment I went next morning at sick roll call to see Dr. Madison who examined my neck \u0026 finger. He said my finger was right badly hurt and bound it up with two little boards, but my neck was not injured. My finger is nearly well but still swollen. If I had known in Lynchburg how I was to be treated I never would have consented to come, but since I have passed through it I don't think I will be molested any more, especially as Gen. Smith allowed the same fellows that maltreated me to resign for nearly killing a rat named Cocke, a son of Philip St. George Cocke, \u0026 all of them have gone home some days ago.","I have been right sick for several days. Had a chill Saturday \u0026 Sunday but went to the Dr. yesterday morning who gave me some white stuff something like chalk, which entirely relieved me except that it gave me a severe head ache.","We Rats have not any studying to do this week because of the examination which is progressing. The 1, 2, 3, 4, \u0026 5 sections, 4th Class expect to enter the 3rd Class, so then I will be in the 3 section, 4th Class whereas I am now in the 8th. Perhaps I may go in the 2nd or 1st. I made 15, the highest mark to be made, on Math last week \u0026 14 6/10 on French, which is also a very high mark as none in the class made higher.","In place of studying this week they try to drill us to death. We get up to Rev at 5, go to squad drill at 5½, \u0026 drill till 6½, go to breakfast parade at 7, go on guard mounting at 8, squad drill from 11 to 12, Dinner parade at 1, squad drill again at 5 to 6, dress parade from 6¼ to ¼7, evening parade at 7, \u0026 tattoo at 9½. Besides we are on guard twice in every week, stand one\nhour in the night each time.","I have no demerits so fair, will try \u0026 keep from getting them. I was very much surprised to see in an old Lynchburg paper the notice of Clem's departure. Write me about it \u0026 if he carried off any thing belonging to the Co. or your key, for you always gave it to him at night \u0026 I suppose he left in the night. I must close as it is very near 5 clk. Tell Ma to write to me with love to all, \nYour affectionate son\nJ. Henry Reid","It takes 6 years single width of cloth to make me a uniform. Please send also 4 yards double width of Flannagan cloth to make me an overcoat. I want Browns cloth for my uniform \u0026 Flannagans for my overcoat. 6 yards single \u0026 4 yards double width. Be sure to put it up so it will not look like cloth, as any thing of that kind is stolen directly.","V.M.I. Aug 28 1862","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd my box safely this morning and enjoyed the contents very much, but was disappointed at not finding the small Va. buttons as I had plenty of large V.M.I. buttons \u0026 did not want any large Va. The shirts, collars, cakes \u0026 apples all recd safe \u0026 sound. You need not have troubled yourselves about the apples as we get the best even nicer than you sent for 5 cts per doz \u0026\nsometimes cheaper. Peaches are considered high at 10 \u0026 15 cts, plenty of pears, plums \u0026.","I have not heard from Bro yet, expect a letter today. Write me about Clem's departure. I think Mr. Jamieson treated you very badly after he had accepted the place. You ought to get some body to take the place as you cannot do every thing.","My finger is a great deal better tho still swollen and a little crooked. It will get straight in the course of time. I have not been maltreated much lately. I must close with love to all, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send my cloth as soon as possible, 6½ yards of Brown's \u0026 4 yards of Flannagan's as I wrote you in my last for my uniform \u0026 overcoat. 6½ single width for uniform, 4 double width overcoat \u0026 small Va staff buttons.","V.M.I. Sep 14 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter was recd several days ago for which I am very much obliged as it has relieved me of a great deal of twisting \u0026.","Gen. Smith has gone to Gen. Jackson's army with his son (who you saw, he was adjutant of the V.M.I.) who has the position of first Lieutenant in the C.S.A. (Artillery). He will return in a few days, when he does I will ask him about the cloth \u0026 write you immediately.","Since the first of Sept I have been getting up at 5 oclk to Rev., squad drill from 5½ to 6½, breakfast at 7, go in to recite math at 8, Geography at 11, drawing, composition and French till 4, squad drill at 5, \u0026 Dress Parade at 6, supper at 7, \u0026 Tattoo at 9½.","The last week I made 15 on French (max 15) \u0026 14 6/10 on Math. They did not mark us on the other studies as we have just commenced. The reason I make such good marks in Math is because we are in the first part of Algebra \u0026 I have been over it before. If I could make 13 every week on math I would stand near the top of my class, but when we get over in the middle of the book I don't expect to average 11. Very few will make more. I am i the 7th section in alphabetical order. In French I will stand about 7 in the class.","Over 100 cadets were found deficient at the last examination \u0026 of course a great many of them will stand above me on Math. Frank Smith was so sure of being found deficient that he went home on furlough \u0026 did not even run for the 3rd class.","I have 5 demerits. It happened in this way. I was orderly of the room (an orderly is a cadet who is detailed every Sunday morning. He sweeps out the room, brings water \u0026 is responsible for noises \u0026). Some of the boys made a noise. I as orderly was reported for \"noise after Taps\" (after Taps is after the lights have been put out). All of them denied making any noise \u0026 I\nas orderly had to take the report. I don't think I will get any more for some time.","I am getting very tired of the V.M.I. \u0026 would a great deal rather be with you in the office than here, especially as you have no one to assist you. I know you have a great deal to do.","If our army goes into Alexandria I would like very much to go also. Write \u0026 let me know because if the army goes in it will not stay any length of time.","Ten cadets deserted the other day \u0026 10 or 12 more are making preparations to leave also. There is a rumor that all cadets over 18 will be taken as conscripts. I don't know how true it is, if so the Institute will be broken up unless they are exempted by Congress. I think by studying Gilham a little I might get an office in the army for I have learned a great deal about it. With love to Ma \u0026 all my friends.","I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Sep 20, 1862","Dear Pa \nYour letter written from Richmond was recd several days ago, and your letter of the 18th recd today.","When I first entered the Institute I liked it very well, but in the last two or three weeks I have become very much dissatisfied. Amongst other things I do not get enough to eat. My seat is in the middle of a long table. At breakfast a pitcher of milk is put at both ends \u0026 by the time it passes down to me there is no milk left so I have to eat dry bread, same at supper. Today at dinner I was so hungry that I ate a piece of rotten beef although it smelled very badly, \u0026 a small piece of bread. Since then I have thrown up several times and still feel very badly in my stomach. My only resource is to buy some apples \u0026 fill up with them. (Capt. Whitwell the Commissary says the fare will be better in a week or so). I felt so badly last Thursday night that I could not prepare any lessons and made zero which reduced my mark a great deal for the week. I am also inclined to some kind of disease in my stomach, my food constantly coming up in my mouth \u0026 my throat hurting me but perhaps that may wear off. I had a cold sweat last night which I don't like very much. I intend going to morrow to see Dr. Madison about it.","I have 13 demerits, 5 for noise after taps, 3 for no regulations in room (I did not know that we were obliged to have them in our room) \u0026 5 for falling out of ranks at drill. The way I came to fall out was thus. For the last two or three weeks we have been double‐quicked nearly to death \u0026 the evening on which I fell out I was very unwell \u0026 double‐quicked until I could go no further. So I fell out \u0026 came to my room. I told Maj. Shipp how it was but he refused to take it off. I don't think I will get any more for some time. There are very few who have as few demerits as me. Thomas Henderson had 40 3 weeks ago. I don't know how many he has now about 60 I suppose \u0026 he has only been here 10 days longer than me. He will be dismissed for neglect of studies unless he alters a great deal. He is the most good‐for‐nothing fellow I ever came across. Has not as much sense as his sister Julia.","I have learned so rapidly lately that they have put me in Company drill, which I am very glad of for it is nothing like as hard as Squad drill.","I asked Gen. Smith this morning about the cloth. He said he did not know when he would get cloth so you had better send mine up. He has given some boys furloughs to go home to provide their winter clothing. He says if I get the gray like you have his will be something like it and I will not want another uniform. Please send it on a Friday so that I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday. You know how much to send for uniform \u0026 overcoat. The uniform of Brown's \u0026 the overcoat of Flannagan's I wrote you some time ago how much it took to make them. I reckon you had better wait till Ma comes back before you send it but be sure to send it on a Friday. Bundle it up good and write me when you sent it so I will know when to look out for it. I must close with love to all,","I remain, \nYour affectionate son, J. Henry Reid.","P.S. We have not begun to drill Artillery yet, perhaps not at all. Please write me what Bro is doing, what his position, \u0026.","V.M.I. Sept 27 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, but did not know what to make of its contents. It ran thus, \"I do not think Henry has yet acknowledged the receipt of a package sent him about two weeks ago in the care of a Cadet going to the V.M.I. Capt. Wilkinson was off the line and at the moment of starting the Capt. of the boat was so occupied and I so hurried in getting ashore that I left the package with the Cadet and handed him 25 to pay freight on it. It contained 2 blankets and something else perhaps buttons.\"","It seems the letter is not addressed to me but to somebody else. I recd the package safely, blankets \u0026 buttons and thought I had written you so. I am very much obliged to you for the blankets are a great deal of use these cold nights, for we nearly freeze.","I can either get $4 for my buttons or get 3 doz cadets buttons for them. Please when you send my cloth send my cap cover. It belonged to the cap I sold Boyd Smith. Ma knows where it is she put it away, also my skates, they are in the barrel. Let me know when you send the cloth. Please send it on a Friday so I can go down \u0026 get it on Saturday.","I have been very sick in the last week and got the report \"not studious\" which Dr. Madison will excuse me from. I made very poor marks \u0026 got some 10 or 12 demerits for absent from roll call \u0026. Maj. Shipp assures me Dr. Madison will excuse me from all my demerits so I will be free once more from demerit. I have 20 so far but will write my excuses Monday and send them in\nto Gen Smith's office. In intend to try next week to make up in my studies also. The eating does not improve \u0026 I am nearly starved. Much as I can do to keep up. I nearly froze on guard last night \u0026 expect to freeze tonight. I think when I get off from my demerit I can easily keep from them.","I must close. Write me the news about Bro with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V .M.I. Sept 30 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter yesterday morning after I had written you in answer to a letter recd several days ago. I am very glad to hear that the cloth will be here so soon, as it is very cold late at night and early in the morning with my white uniform, and besides I nearly freeze when I go on guard at night (every 4th night). Since I recd the blankets I have been very comfortable at\nnight.","Speaking of the fare I could not get milk or bread, the only thing you can buy up here is apples, and you have to live on them. At breakfast this morning I took a small piece of bread for my dinner (I did not intend to go to dinner), and was reported for \"carrying provisions from Hall.\" Don't you think that is hard.","I have been sick now for nearly two weeks \u0026 have fallen off about 25 pounds. Dr. Madison has been giving me quinine and some kind of acid, which does me a little good but about 4 oclock every evening I have a very high fever which lasts till after bed time. I have had it regularly every evening for two weeks. I understand Dr. Madison said this morning that the fare here\nwas calculated to give any body the Typhoid fever. I hope they will change it, for the milk affects me just as it does you. I don't know what you call the disease but think it is the \"dyspepsia\". I have attended to nearly all my duty since I have been sick, but I will go into the Hospital if it continues much longer.","I have gotten off from all my demerits except \"noise after taps,\" 5 demerits which I think when Maj. Shipp returns I will get off from. I got a report yesterday for grabbing provisions which I intend to deny for I can prove by 3 or 4 that I did not do it. The Sergeant who reported me says himself he may have been mistaken in the person. I cannot get off until Maj. Shipp returns (report says he has gone off to be married.) I have another report for \"allowing visiting whilst on Post on 25th\". I was not on post on that day, but a rat by the name of Reed T. from Winchester was. I will refer that to him, also a report loitering on post. I think I can get off from all but the 5 for \"noise after Taps.\"","I have been made Section marcher to the 8th section, 4th class math (the duty of a Section Marcher is to call the roll of his section every time it goes into recite, also to march the section in, report all absentees \u0026 is responsible for all trifling \u0026 talking in ranks \u0026c. Frank Smith is in my section, he is on furlough at present.","What is the news? Our army had gone into Maryland \u0026 returned before I knew they were really in Maryland. Have you heard from Charlottesville lately? How is Miss McPherson \u0026 all our friends. I must close. With love to all, I remain \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","Please don't forget the cap cover \u0026 skates. A young fellow by the name of Waller came here from Lynchburg \u0026 was shipped in 5 days. Mrs. Brown knows him very well. I have moved over on the side of barracks towards Gen. Smith's, No. 75 with Henderson, Wright from N.C., White from this place, Griffin from Roanoke \u0026 myself. Very pleasant roommates so far except Henderson, but we keep him under. Tell Ma to write me all the news of her trip \u0026c. Every boy in barracks has remarked how poor I am \u0026 you know how poor I was when I left Lynchburg.","V.M.I. Oct 5 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letter yesterday morning and would have answered it yesterday (Saturday) but I had a great deal to do before going on Battalion Inspection (the first time I have been on). I recd the cloth safely, also skates, cap cover \u0026 apples for which I am very much obliged. Gen. Smith told me yesterday morning that he thought he could get cloth in 2 or 3 weeks, but he\nwould not have enough to give the cadets overcoats, only jackets \u0026 pants. If so I will keep the fine and only use the coarse for an overcoat \u0026 if he gives me jacket \u0026 pants I will send the other back. You say in your letter you send both cap covers. I recd only one. Please send the other for this one does not suit the cap \u0026 I can easily sell it.","Pa says in his letter \"as to your freezing on post at night, it seems to me the woollen clothes you carried ought to protect you.\" I never brought any woollen clothes with me. The only woollen thing I brought was my cloth coat \u0026 that I put in the arsenal soon after I came here \u0026 there were about 75 trunks on top of mine but I went in yesterday \u0026 got some boys to help me \u0026 got my coat out. White, one of my roommates, has bought a very good overcoat which I can wear at night. It keeps me quite comfortable. I think I can get along as far as clothes are concerned. You need not trouble yourself about sending me anything to eat as probably in a box of cakes I would get 2 or 3 to eat (you need not send my file). I will see a servt. about getting me some thing to eat or apply to change my seat which I think I can easily do.","Maj. Shipp has not returned yet, when he does I will see about my demerits. About 30 cadets are going to be shipped for having over 100 demerits in six months, 5 were sent off yesterday. Adie from Leesburg, Helm from Warrn., Grant \u0026 2 Williams from Richmond. Patton nephew of Geo. A Smith \u0026 Gilham son of Col. Gilham are amongst the number. Old cadets say they are more stringent now than they have ever been before. As soon as a cadet gets 100 he is sent home \u0026 somebody else comes in to fill his place. There is not one in the Institute who has not over 25. Tom Henderson has about 60 \u0026 if he don't get off from some he will be shipped.","I must close as I have to go to Bible class, which recites in a few moments. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct 12 1862. Sunday.","Dear Pa \u0026 Ma \nI recd your letter day before yesterday, also the box \u0026 letter yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I was very hungry when the box came \u0026 I certainly enjoyed the sweet potatoes, bread \u0026 jelly \u0026. But I am afraid I cannot eat any more because I have a rising in my ear which Dr. Madison cut yesterday. It is swollen up so much this evening that I can hardly open my\nmouth much less eat. I intend to try \u0026 keep my things until it gets so I can eat. The bread is the best thing as I can buy some butter \u0026 have very good eating.","If I had recd your letter about a week ago when I was sick I should certainly have applied for a furlough, but I have so far recovered that I think I can get along here, especially as it takes all the studying I can do to keep up with my class. If I go home I will be thrown back \u0026 will probably never catch up again. I would like very much to go but would rather wait till Christmas when we have 2 weeks vacation.","You need not be afraid of my being shipped for demerits as I have only 10. 5 for noise after taps, 3 for being late at Dress Parade (I had to go to the Surgeon's Office and as I came back stopped at the Tailor shop to be measured, the drum beat \u0026 before I could get to my room \u0026 get my gun my company had fallen in), \u0026 2 for throwing water on stoop. One of my roommates\nthrew the water on but denied it. I, as orderly, had to take the report. It has been some time since I got a report \u0026 I don't think I will get any more demerit.","Wm Gordon's son arrived yesterday. He is the greenest rat I ever saw--has no sense at all. I must close with love to all. I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","V.M.I. Oct. 18, 1862","Dear Pa \nI recd your letter this evening and according to your request I answer immediately.","As well as I remember the report for Oct \u0026 Nov 1861 were put up in envelopes in bundles \u0026 were in the little box on the right hand side of the closet as you go in. They were mixed up with other months I think, but I am not sure. I know how troublesome it will be to find them. Undo the bundles and you will see marked on the backs of the envelopes the month \u0026 dates.","My ear has nearly gotton well but it pained me a great deal. The rising went up into my head \u0026 stopped up the opening so that Dr. Madison had to cut through the lower part, which gave me a great deal of pain. It is however now nearly well.","I have had my uniform made which makes me feel quite comfortable. Gen. Smith expected to get some cloth from near Winchester, but Gen. Lee pressed it for his army and Gen. Smith will have to do without it. I don't know what the Rats will do.","I went up town to day \u0026 had the pleasure of seeing Miss Cassy Reeder from Waynesboro. She says all were well when she left. I have gotten off from all my demerits \u0026 will try not to get any more. I must close. With love to all I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. Please send me my old cadet pants, old gray ones, some Friday. Ma knows which ones.","V.M.I. Oct 26 1862","Dear Ma \nI recd your letters and also the box day before yesterday, for which I am very much obliged. I enjoyed the bread very much and will have the potatoes cooked today. I enjoyed the bread very much. It rained very hard \u0026 I did not go to dinner so I came up to my room and eat nearly all of my rolls. I intend to get to the Old Judge (an old negro man who cooks all our Beef) to cook them this evening.","You may sell my Jacket \u0026 Overcoat if you want to, but don't you think my overcoat will make me a good coat or vest when cloth gets scarce, but you can dojust as you please. It is in the largest box at the office with my gun. My winter coat vest \u0026 pants will fit me a year, hence do not sell them. I have gotten entirely well and have to study hard to catch up \u0026 keep up with my section. I have had another rising in my ear but hope it will soon be well.","I have gotton off from all my demerits but 8, 5 for allowing visiting \u0026 3 for loitering on post. The way I got the first was in this way. I was on Post no3 when the Inspector visited. I made all the rooms on my post report just before the Inspector visited. They all reported \"all right\" but the Inspector caught someone visiting \u0026 reported me as sentinel for allowing visiting. I told Capt. Semmes (who was acting commandant in Maj. Ship's absence) how it was but he would not let me off. Maj. Ship would have taken it off I am sure about loitering on post. I know nothing about it and will get off I think.","I have an opportunity of buying a first rate pair of high top shoes made something like the gaiters Pa got in Washington (which were the best shoes I ever had) for $15. Mr. White the father of one of my roommates who has a store up town had them before the war and offers them to me as a special favor (they do not fit his son). They are the finest calf-skin double soles worth $25 or $30 in Richmond or Lynchburg. I will need them this winter as my English shoes have proved a failure and have worn out already. If Pa thinks I had better take them he can send me a check or if he thinks not I will not get them. It is certainly a bargain \u0026 I am sure I will need them.","They have not commenced to heat up barracks yet. Some say they will not commence till Christmas. Gen. Smith has succeeded in getting cloth so I will have 2 uniforms. I have done without an overcoat \u0026 if I get a cadet overcoat I will send my cloth back home. It is very cold getting up at 5 oclk without any fire \u0026 going out \u0026 drilling an hour.","How do you get along with your envelopes. Write \u0026 tell me. I must close. Please excuse this hastily written eltter as I am writing in a cold room without any fire. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid","P.S. I wish you could take a trip over here but it will cost a great deal I suppose and would hardly be worth while if I go home Christmas.","V.M.I. Saturday 9 o'Clock a.m.","Dear Pa \nI recd your very kind letter on Monday evening and would have answered it before, but that I wanted to write you a long letter \u0026 thought I would wait till today (Saturday) because I had not time to write you but a very short one in a week day especially when we have so much to do.","Gen. Smith seems determined to pick math into our heads. He gives some 20 or 30 pages of Algebra every day and you may know how much I have studied when I tell you, that all the time I went to Mr. Kirk's, Mr. Smith's \u0026 Mr. Scott's, I only went through my Arithmetic and very little Algebra, whereas I have been here only three months and have gone through my Algebra and will go into Geometry in a few weeks or perhaps sooner.","I had worked my way up to the 2nd section math, but when I was sick I fell so far back that I could not keep up with it, and I was transfered to the 8th section. I make only tolerably good marks because whilst I was sick the class went over a great deal that I did not understand \u0026 I have to study hard to understand it. I however make good marks in French and make the max\nin Geography nearly every week. The way Geo. is taught is a very good one. When we go into the Section room, Colonel Williamson sends one of us to the Blackboard and tells us to draw the map of such a country or state with all of its rivers towns \u0026. It was very hard to me at first but I can draw a pretty good map now. In French I have gone through the Grammars and will\nbegin to read Gil Blas on Monday. I make the max or within a few tenths of it every week (you may not understand me when I say tenths. The way they mark us is this, if you make a perfect recitation they mark you thirty tenths or three whole ones \u0026 skin you by tenths according as you recite. On compostion they have not commenced to mark us.","I know the fare we get is not sufficient for this season. I have therefore made an arrangement with a servant to supply me with some chicken some butter and some good bread every five days in a week at $1.25. I intend to try and get him down to $1. If he furnishes it to me in Mess Hall they will report me for private dish. I therefore stay away from dinner and he brings it to me in my room. He has furnished me now for four days and I will owe him after today $1.25 and I have only 50cts left. I will get him to trust me and pay him at the end of the month.","I have made my money hold out right well. I brought $8 here with me, you sent me $10 which made $18. I paid $7 for a bed, 75 cts for a chair, 75cts for a broom, $1 for a water bucket, $1 to get my gun cleaned (It was so rusty I could do nothing with it and I was obliged to have it cleaned or I would have been reported every time I went on drill), $1 loaned to Tom Henderson and 50cts to the Soldiers Aid Society up town, which left me about $4.50 with which I have bought apples, cakes \u0026 at different times when I was very hungry. I have made my money go as far as I possibly could because I knew you had no money to waste.","I do not think I could have stood the fare much longer if it had not have been for your kind offer. I began to feel weak about the legs, a dizziness about the eyes, violent head-ache and a feeling of emptyness about the stomach. I had this feeling nearly all the time and still have it slightly, but I feel a great deal better since I have been buying from the old negro. But I have not regained my my weight by 15 lbs. By the time I eat some more of my dinners I think I will feel right well. There is a report amongst the boys that Gen Smith is going to give us coffee \u0026 ham, if so I will buy no more dinners. It may be only a rumour for all I know but I think it very\nprobable for Gen. Smith certainly can have more feeling than to feed us on Bread \u0026 milk all the winter.","We get up every morning at 5 o'clock to Rev (before day), go on Squad drill at 5½ \u0026 drill til 6½ (You may imagine how cold is is especially our hands which rests against the butt of the stock which is covered with Iron), after we come off to find no fire in our room which is considered the coldest in Barracks (It is heated by steam through pipes). We intend to apply for another room or apply to Gen. Smith to have the pipes fixed so some steam will come up.","(3 o'clock p.m.). Your most welcome letter of the 29th is just recd (It ought to have gotten here yesterday) containing a check for $15 for which I am very much obliged. I will get my shoes this evening and make them last as long as possible. I have also recd the seven Examiners \u0026 will have a treat in reading them.","Dr. Madison says the risings in my ear were caused by the old cadets pulling them, he put some laudanum \u0026 sweet oil in them which casued them to run and they feel a great deal better. I still keep wood in them \u0026 will continue to do so until they are entirely well. May hearing is as good as ever when I take the wool out.","Gen. Smith's cloth was expected today. I will then have two uniforms. I will take care of the one made out of his cloth and wear my own every day because his will be much prettier. He will not let me have an overcoat because the cloth will hardly furnish all with uniforms. I cannot take an overcoat \u0026 no uniform because all are obliged to have uniforms alike to wear on drills, dress parade \u0026 so I will be obliged to use my cloth, besides an overcoat out of my cloth will not cost near as much as one out of his.","I am sorry to hear you are sick with the Jaundice (I do not know what it is but suppose it is something concerning the stomach). I hope it is not serious enough to make you lie down and hope you will soon recover. I know you are in good hands \u0026 wish I could have been as lucky when I was sick. I have a very poor opinion of Dr. Madison as a physician.","There is a disease in Barracks which I do not like. It breaks out on the hands \u0026 resembles the \"Itch\". You need say nothing about it as I am not sure of its being the \"Itch.\"","I do not wish to disappoint you but I do not think the chances are very good for my getting a furlough Christmas. I intend to try very hard to get one \u0026 am almost sure I can with a recommendation from you.","I recd a letter today from Tom McRoberts. He is keeping books for a firm in Raymond, Hinds Co., Miss and is doing very well. He has been discharged from the army. Please let me know where Bro is \u0026 what he is doing. With love to all I remain. \nYour affectionate son \nJ Henry Reid.","P.S. Ask Ma to look \u0026 see if I left my buck skin gloves with her. If I brought them with me they have disappeared in some way, altho I am more carefull of my clothes than any one in Barracks. If you have them please send them to me. What did hte cloth you bought from Flannagan cost per yard? \nHenry","Camp Carter's Station \nMarch 7th 1864","Dear Pa \nHaving received no answer to my last which contained an account of my hardships in coming out and entering camp, I suppose you must be in Richmond and I having an opportunity write again.","We have had some very fine weather since I last wrote, but it is raining today which makes camp life very unpleasant. We have been expecting to move ever since last Tuesday, but the cars are without an engine and consequently we cannot go until one does come, which I hope will not be shortly as it is a great deal of trouble moving and making bunks etc. Although I like this life very well I am sure it it not as pleasant as in the Engineer service. We get wet one day, dry the next, get wet the next and so on. In the Engineer Corps we can always get to some house out of the rain and mud.","Besides the people out here are all Yankees and it is very hard to get anything to eat. They are the most ignorant set of people I ever saw. I have been for miles around and have not come across the first respectable looking man yet. The ladies call us Rebels, abuse us \u0026. You seldom find that elegance and taste which belongs to a Virginia lady and especially Lynchburgers. Get the Detail if you possibly can and write me as soon as you hear.","I must close as I am lying on my side in a crowded bunk with my feet poking out in the rain writing this. With love to Ma, Miss Emma, Miss Annie, Miss Millie and all the ladies, I remain, \nYour affectionate son \nJ. Henry Reid.","P.S. I wish if you can possibly do it to purchase me a large knife \u0026 send it by the first opportunity . It is one of the most useful articles to a soldier. What must I do with my large Confederate notes. I cannot pass them out here. I expect we will go to the front for Maj. King wants his battalion to do something for him to get promoted.","Direct Otey Battery, 13th Battalion Va Artillery, Longstreet's Corps."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJames H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["James H. Reid papers, 1862-1867. MS 0222. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp.\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"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The James H. Reid papers consist of the Civil War correspondence (18 items) of Reid. Included are 14 letters (dated August-November 1862) from Reid to his parents written while he was a fourth classman at VMI. This correspondence contains many references to wartime cadet life, including the use of the term \"rat\" as a name for new cadets, hazing, uniforms, food, guard duty, and other aspects of life at VMI.","The papers also contain one letter (dated March 7 1864) written while Reid was serving with the 13th Virginia Light Artillery Regiment, Confederate States of America, and four letters that date between 1865 and 1867.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life, mentioning the cirriculum and the slang term \"rat.\"","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards cadet life.","Written from Camp at Carter's Station. Letter regards life at camp."],"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_b7b56d7445b436a790a7777302cc9008\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878"],"persname_ssim":["Reid, James H. (James Henry), 1845-1921","Williamson, Thomas H. (Thomas Hoomes), 1813-1888","Madison, Robert L. (Robert Lewis), 1828-1878","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Shipp, Scott, 1839-1917","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":19,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:24.880Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_613_c01_c01_c02"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618_c01","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to John W. C. Watson","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618_c01#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618_c01#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618_c01","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618_c01"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618_c01","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"text":["Edward M. Watson letter","Letter to John W. C. Watson","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence","English .","V.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868","Dear Pa,","As I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.","I will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning","[End of letter written vertically at right top]","Since finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie","morning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.","In cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.","At the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.","Now, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise. \nGoodbye. \nYour Affectionate Son, \ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet."],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to John W. C. Watson","title_ssm":["Letter to John W. C. Watson"],"title_tesim":["Letter to John W. C. Watson"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1868 September 17"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1868"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to John W. C. Watson"],"component_level_isim":[1],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"sort_isi":1,"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":[1868],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa,\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAs I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[End of letter written vertically at right top]\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eSince finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003emorning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eAt the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eNow, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise.\u003cbr/\u003e\nGoodbye.\u003cbr/\u003e\nYour Affectionate Son,\u003cbr/\u003e\ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868","Dear Pa,","As I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.","I will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning","[End of letter written vertically at right top]","Since finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie","morning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.","In cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.","At the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.","Now, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise. \nGoodbye. \nYour Affectionate Son, \ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. 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Watson letter","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Correspondence","There are no restrictions.","Edward Minor Watson was born in 1851, the son of John W. C. Watson, a lawyer and judge. He entered VMI on September 14, 1868, from his home in Holly Springs, Mississippi and studied at VMI for one academic year, resigning his cadetship in 1869. Watson subsequently read law and received his license in 1871. He served as an attorney in the Department of Justice during President Grover Cleveland's first administration. Watson married Lily Moore of Noxubee County, Mississippi in 1871 and the couple had five children: Dudley, Edward, William, Jean, and Anne. He died on December 7, 1887.","V.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868","Dear Pa,","As I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.","I will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning","[End of letter written vertically at right top]","Since finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie","morning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.","In cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.","At the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.","Now, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise. \nGoodbye. \nYour Affectionate Son, \ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet","This collection consists of one letter (September 17, 1868) written by Edward M. Watson to his father. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study, recitation, drill, and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.","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","Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0011","/repositories/3/resources/618"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"collection_title_tesim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"collection_ssim":["Edward M. Watson letter"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"creator_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"creators_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"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":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Slang","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1872","Correspondence"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["1 items"],"extent_tesim":["1 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence"],"date_range_isim":[1868],"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\u003eEdward Minor Watson was born in 1851, the son of John W. C. Watson, a lawyer and judge. He entered VMI on September 14, 1868, from his home in Holly Springs, Mississippi and studied at VMI for one academic year, resigning his cadetship in 1869. Watson subsequently read law and received his license in 1871. He served as an attorney in the Department of Justice during President Grover Cleveland's first administration. Watson married Lily Moore of Noxubee County, Mississippi in 1871 and the couple had five children: Dudley, Edward, William, Jean, and Anne. He died on December 7, 1887.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Edward Minor Watson was born in 1851, the son of John W. C. Watson, a lawyer and judge. He entered VMI on September 14, 1868, from his home in Holly Springs, Mississippi and studied at VMI for one academic year, resigning his cadetship in 1869. Watson subsequently read law and received his license in 1871. He served as an attorney in the Department of Justice during President Grover Cleveland's first administration. Watson married Lily Moore of Noxubee County, Mississippi in 1871 and the couple had five children: Dudley, Edward, William, Jean, and Anne. He died on December 7, 1887."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDear Pa,\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAs I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003e[End of letter written vertically at right top]\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eSince finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003emorning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAt the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eNow, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise.\u003cbr\u003e\nGoodbye.\u003cbr\u003e\nYour Affectionate Son,\u003cbr\u003e\ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I., Sept. 17th, 1868","Dear Pa,","As I expected when I wrote to Ma, I reported to Gen. Smith on Monday morning and went into barracks the same day. Now, as I promised to do before I left home, I will give an account of how I spent the next day after my arrival, and in doing that I tell what has passed every day since and will pass every day to come, Saturdays and Sundays excepted, for the next ten months.","I will begin my description just at 5 o'clock when I awakened by a most dreadful noise. I at first thought that the house was falling or that a volcano had burst in about a quarter of a mile from - I hardly knew where, as I found myself lying with nothing between me and floor except a mattress about three feet wide. I was soon enlightened as to the cause of the disturbance by an old cadet who in the dim light of the very early morning","[End of letter written vertically at right top]","Since finishing the last line I have received Jim's letter. Present the old fellow my compliments and tell him to do so some more. Tell Sister Cora please to write quick. I will write to Sis Lis in a few days. I intended to copy this letter but the drum is sounding and I must close. You must answer this soon. s/Eddie","morning, as he stood dressing close by, I had not noticed. He remarked in a tone which seemed anything but motherly, \"Rat, get up, Sir, and go to reveille.\" At this I opened my eyes somewhat wider, and remembering the state of affairs, I thought it best to do as he said. I got up and doing as he did, hurried on my clothes, not tying my shoes or washing my face or combing my hair, and rushed frantically down three flights of steps to the front of the barracks. All the cadets were there before me. We fell in companies and answered to our names as the Or. Sr. called the roll. We were then disbanded and were given ½ hour to make our toilets and clean up our room.","In cleaning up our room we have to take everything from the tables and chairs and put them in their proper place and have to roll up our beds in a bundle about 2 feet in diameter and lay them in a corner. At the end of the half hour the inspector visits and sees that everything is right. Then in a few minutes the drum calls us to the front and we fall in and after our names have been called we march into the breakfast room. Each one having reached the seat assigned assumes the position of a soldier and standing staring the boy on the opposite of the table in the face (who by the way in my case is mighty ugly), we have to wait until everybody has formed in his place. Then at the word \"be seated\" each head of the three hundred cadets bobs down and we commence eating.","At the end of fifteen minutes we are commanded to rise. We at the door again fall in and march round to the front, there we disband. For fifteen minutes we do what we please. Then the drum calls us to study. We recite until one o'clock when time is given for dinner. We march to dinner and march back as we did at breakfast. At 2 o'clock we are again called to study. At 4 o'clock we are dismissed. At 4 ½ we are called for evening drill. The drill lasts 1 ½ hours. We have then 15 minutes to fix for dress parade. After parade 5 minutes is given to change clothes. We then march to supper and the dinner ceremony is repeated. We have then 15 minutes, when we are called to study. We study until half past nine when we are called to tattoo. Then in five minutes the drum sounds for blowing out lights. The inspector visits immediately to see that everybody is in bed and then nothing is heard but the tread or challenge of the sentinel until five in the morning.","Now, Pa, when you remember that we are compelled to clean our shoes before falling in ranks every time and that it must be done well, for even a speck on the heel is noticed, you must know that I am right busy. Tell Sis Lizzie I have entered the third class and am studying mathematics, Descriptive Geometry. Give everybody my love and write soon. Tell Ma and Sister that I do love them a heap more for their letters which were received just when I was most homesick. Kiss Sister Cora and ask her please to write. Tell Jim to give my love to Miss Vee and fulfill his promise. \nGoodbye. \nYour Affectionate Son, \ns/ Eddie Watson, Cadet"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eEdward M. Watson ;etter, 1868 September 17. MS 0011. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["Edward M. Watson ;etter, 1868 September 17. MS 0011. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThis collection consists of one letter (September 17, 1868) written by Edward M. Watson to his father. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study, recitation, drill, and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["This collection consists of one letter (September 17, 1868) written by Edward M. Watson to his father. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study, recitation, drill, and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Edward M. Watson describes in detail the typical daily new cadet routine at VMI during the post-Civil War years. Topics include reveille, roll call, inspections, meals, study and recitation, drill and parade. The letter contains one of the earliest documented examples of term \"rat\" as a reference to a new cadet."],"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_11d728f96281ccd10449421036e48d7c\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Watson, Edward Minor, 1851-1887"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":1,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:10:53.151Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_618_c01"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c01_c01_c01","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to Joseph M. Barton","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c01_c01_c01#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c01_c01_c01#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c01_c01_c01","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c01_c01_c01"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c01_c01_c01","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c01_c01","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c01_c01","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c01_c01"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c01_c01"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["Barton family papers","Charles M. Barton papers","Correspondence"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Barton family papers","Charles M. Barton papers","Correspondence"],"text":["Barton family papers","Charles M. Barton papers","Correspondence","Letter to Joseph M. Barton","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Correspondence","English .","V.M.I. Sept. 28th 55. \nDear Joe","In the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026 go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026 the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026 generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026 the other grand rascals.","I can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026 everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026 I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.","I have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026 the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.","I find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026 I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.","The study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026 taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,","The V.M.I. O What a spot \nIn winter cold, in summer hot \nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder \nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026 Thunder","I am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026 ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026 even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026 have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy. ","[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin \nC.M. Barton","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\""],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to Joseph M. Barton","title_ssm":["Letter to Joseph M. Barton"],"title_tesim":["Letter to Joseph M. Barton"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1855 September 28"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1855"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to Joseph M. Barton"],"component_level_isim":[3],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"collection_ssim":["Barton family papers"],"creator_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"child_component_count_isi":0,"level_ssm":["Item"],"level_ssim":["Item"],"sort_isi":3,"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":[1855],"names_ssim":["Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"persname_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sept. 28th 55.\u003cbr/\u003e\nDear Joe\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIn the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026amp; go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026amp; the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026amp; generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026amp; the other grand rascals.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026amp; everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026amp; I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026amp; the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026amp; I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026amp; taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe V.M.I. O What a spot\u003cbr/\u003e\nIn winter cold, in summer hot\u003cbr/\u003e\nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder\u003cbr/\u003e\nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026amp; Thunder\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026amp;, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026amp; ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026amp; even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026amp; have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003e[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin\u003cbr/\u003e\nC.M. Barton\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I. Sept. 28th 55. \nDear Joe","In the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026 go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026 the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026 generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026 the other grand rascals.","I can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026 everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026 I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.","I have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026 the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.","I find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026 I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.","The study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026 taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,","The V.M.I. O What a spot \nIn winter cold, in summer hot \nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder \nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026 Thunder","I am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026 ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026 even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026 have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy. ","[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin \nC.M. Barton"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\""],"_nest_path_":"/components#0/components#0/components#0","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:12:13.177Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_104.xml","aspace_url_ssi":"http://ead.lib.virginia.edu/vivaxtf/view?docId=vmi/vilxv00049.xml","title_ssm":["Barton family papers"],"title_tesim":["Barton family papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1855-1869"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1855-1869"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0020","/repositories/3/resources/104"],"text":["MS.0020","/repositories/3/resources/104","Barton family papers","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1856","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Notebooks","Poetry","There are no restrictions","Charles Marshall Barton, the eldest son of David W. Barton and and Frances (Fanny) Jones Barton, was born in Winchester, Virginia on November 30, 1836. His preparatory education was received at Winchester Academy and at Episcopal High School (Alexandria, Virginia). He entered VMI in 1852 and graduated in 1856. He subsequently returned to the Winchester area where he was a farmer. Charles married Ellen Harvie Marshall of Fauquier County in 1859. During the Civil War, he served with Cutshaw's Artillery Battery and was mortally wounded in action near Winchester on May 25, 1862.","Randolph J. Barton, Charles's younger brother, was born in Winchester on April 24, 1844. He attended the VMI for one year (1860-1861), and joined the 33rd Virginia Infantry Regiment at the beginning of the Civil War. He subsequently served in the 2nd Virginia Infantry and as a Staff Officer for Generals Elisha F. Paxton, James A. Walker, and William R. Terry. Following the War, Randolph practiced law in Baltimore, Maryland. He married Agnes P. Kirkland of Baltimore on December 29, 1869 and the couple had nine children. He died on March 15, 1921.","Bolling W. Barton, a younger brother of Charles and Randolph, was born in Winchester on November 24, 1846. He entered VMI on September 25, 1862, and while at the Institute, took part in the Battle of New Market (Virginia) on May 15, 1864. In November 1864 he joined the 1st Foreign Battalion. After the Civil War, Bolling studied and practiced medicine, and also taught botany at Johns Hopkins University. He married Ella Jane Gibson in 1872 and the couple had no children. He died in Loudoun County, Virginia on February 18, 1924.","V.M.I. Sept. 28th 55. \nDear Joe","In the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026 go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026 the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026 generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026 the other grand rascals.","I can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026 everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026 I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.","I have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026 the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.","I find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026 I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.","The study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026 taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,","The V.M.I. O What a spot \nIn winter cold, in summer hot \nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder \nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026 Thunder","I am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026 ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026 even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026 have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy. ","[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin \nC.M. Barton","A larger collection of Barton family papers is located at the Handley Library in Winchester, Virginia.","The Barton family papers consist of the papers of three members of the Barton family who attended VMI during the mid-19th century. Papers related to Charles M. Barton (VMI Class of 1856) include a letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles to his cousin Joseph M. Barton in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). Other Charles Barton material is found in a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook described above, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph Barton (VMI Class of 1864), an attorney.","Material related to Bolling W. Barton (VMI Class of 1866) includes one letter (dated January 18, 1864) from Frank (last name unknown, but a VMI alumnus), and six documents, primarily French language exercises.","Material related to Randolph J. Barton includes a typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph to the VMI Class of 1912.","Includes one letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles M. Barton to his cousin Joseph M. Barton, in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). ","Also included is a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"","The notebook (approximately 250 pages) contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Includes four class exercises and one note indicating math and French marks. Also includes two items of correspondence.","Geometry class exercise submitted to Lieutenant T. B. Robinson.","French exercise submitted to Lieutenant Miller.","One paper that details math and French marks. Additionally, the paper contains an address for Robert T. Barton.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Note requests that cadet Crawford be granted a leave of absence to \"attend to very important business.\"","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter requests that Bolling W. Barton look after \"Mr. Rutherford,\" a cadet soon to be entering VMI.","Includes one typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912.","Typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912. Originial typescript is housed at the Handley Library Archives in Winchester, Virginia.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Barton family","Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895","English \n.    "],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0020","/repositories/3/resources/104"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Barton family papers"],"collection_title_tesim":["Barton family papers"],"collection_ssim":["Barton family papers"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"creator_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"creators_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1856","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Notebooks","Poetry"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1850-1859","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Anecdotes","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet compositions—Poetry","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1856","New Market Cadets","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1866","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Murder—Virginia—Lexington","Notebooks","Poetry"],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["10 items"],"extent_tesim":["10 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Notebooks","Poetry"],"date_range_isim":[1855,1856,1857,1858,1859,1860,1861,1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867,1868,1869],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions\u003c/p\u003e"],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions"],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eCharles Marshall Barton, the eldest son of David W. Barton and and Frances (Fanny) Jones Barton, was born in Winchester, Virginia on November 30, 1836. His preparatory education was received at Winchester Academy and at Episcopal High School (Alexandria, Virginia). He entered VMI in 1852 and graduated in 1856. He subsequently returned to the Winchester area where he was a farmer. Charles married Ellen Harvie Marshall of Fauquier County in 1859. During the Civil War, he served with Cutshaw's Artillery Battery and was mortally wounded in action near Winchester on May 25, 1862.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eRandolph J. Barton, Charles's younger brother, was born in Winchester on April 24, 1844. He attended the VMI for one year (1860-1861), and joined the 33rd Virginia Infantry Regiment at the beginning of the Civil War. He subsequently served in the 2nd Virginia Infantry and as a Staff Officer for Generals Elisha F. Paxton, James A. Walker, and William R. Terry. Following the War, Randolph practiced law in Baltimore, Maryland. He married Agnes P. Kirkland of Baltimore on December 29, 1869 and the couple had nine children. He died on March 15, 1921.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eBolling W. Barton, a younger brother of Charles and Randolph, was born in Winchester on November 24, 1846. He entered VMI on September 25, 1862, and while at the Institute, took part in the Battle of New Market (Virginia) on May 15, 1864. In November 1864 he joined the 1st Foreign Battalion. After the Civil War, Bolling studied and practiced medicine, and also taught botany at Johns Hopkins University. He married Ella Jane Gibson in 1872 and the couple had no children. He died in Loudoun County, Virginia on February 18, 1924.\u003c/p\u003e"],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Charles Marshall Barton, the eldest son of David W. Barton and and Frances (Fanny) Jones Barton, was born in Winchester, Virginia on November 30, 1836. His preparatory education was received at Winchester Academy and at Episcopal High School (Alexandria, Virginia). He entered VMI in 1852 and graduated in 1856. He subsequently returned to the Winchester area where he was a farmer. Charles married Ellen Harvie Marshall of Fauquier County in 1859. During the Civil War, he served with Cutshaw's Artillery Battery and was mortally wounded in action near Winchester on May 25, 1862.","Randolph J. Barton, Charles's younger brother, was born in Winchester on April 24, 1844. He attended the VMI for one year (1860-1861), and joined the 33rd Virginia Infantry Regiment at the beginning of the Civil War. He subsequently served in the 2nd Virginia Infantry and as a Staff Officer for Generals Elisha F. Paxton, James A. Walker, and William R. Terry. Following the War, Randolph practiced law in Baltimore, Maryland. He married Agnes P. Kirkland of Baltimore on December 29, 1869 and the couple had nine children. He died on March 15, 1921.","Bolling W. Barton, a younger brother of Charles and Randolph, was born in Winchester on November 24, 1846. He entered VMI on September 25, 1862, and while at the Institute, took part in the Battle of New Market (Virginia) on May 15, 1864. In November 1864 he joined the 1st Foreign Battalion. After the Civil War, Bolling studied and practiced medicine, and also taught botany at Johns Hopkins University. He married Ella Jane Gibson in 1872 and the couple had no children. He died in Loudoun County, Virginia on February 18, 1924."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eV.M.I. Sept. 28th 55.\u003cbr\u003e\nDear Joe\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eIn the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026amp; go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026amp; the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026amp; generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026amp; the other grand rascals.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026amp; everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026amp; I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026amp; the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026amp; I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026amp; taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe V.M.I. O What a spot\u003cbr\u003e\nIn winter cold, in summer hot\u003cbr\u003e\nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder\u003cbr\u003e\nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026amp; Thunder\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eI am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026amp;, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026amp; ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026amp; even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026amp; have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy. \u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003e[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin\u003cbr\u003e\nC.M. Barton\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["V.M.I. Sept. 28th 55. \nDear Joe","In the eloquent language of one of my roommates, Thank God Friday night has come again. You can't imagine with what deep interest I count the days as they come \u0026 go. I have a calendar on my ward robe door \u0026 the first thing after my return from reveille in the morning is to scratch off the preceding day \u0026 generally, I find my way back into bed pretty near as fast as I have to get out of it, although in direct opposition to the regulations of V.M.I. But from many years, I may say, of practice, I have become cute enough to dodge Spex, Gil \u0026 the other grand rascals.","I can assure you that I am heartily sick of the military, studies \u0026 everything else connected with the V.M.I. \u0026 I don't think I will touch a gun, book, or anything that bears any resemblance to them for some time after I leave here, that is if I ever do get away.","I have been here so long that I feel as if I had been living here all my life, \u0026 the idea of leaving it, perhaps never to return, seems almost impossible to believe.","I find the studies this years a great deal more interesting than they have been heretofore, with the exception of one single one, which so counterbalances the rest as to throw all the good part into the shade. We commenced studying engineering this year. I find the military engineering quite interesting \u0026 I hope I may find civil equally so, as it is the only thing I care knowing anything about.","The study I referred to just now was Optics, which from being so very difficult, \u0026 taught by such a hell of a fool, whose name is Jackson, has suggested the following lines,","The V.M.I. O What a spot \nIn winter cold, in summer hot \nGreat Lord Al- what a wonder \nMajor Jackson Hell \u0026 Thunder","I am afraid I have digressed too far, to refer to the reception of your letter which I can assure you was the most welcome one I have received for a long time. I'll swear I am almost ashamed [to] send off a letter like this full of evasions, mistakes \u0026, but I know you will excuse me when I tell you that I have my four roommates in a very exciting discussion, cursing \u0026 ripping so that I can hardly hear myself. In such a fuss as this I can hardly compose myself sufficiently to refer to that sweet note that has been ringing in my ears ever since its reception. Oh, how much I wished to be back at least for a day or two. It brought on quite a relapse as I felt like leaving the V.M.I. immediately. I felt nearly reconciled to stay this year out, but for three or four days I have not been able to open a book, I can't account for the reason. You asked me to burn up your letter. Of course you did not include that part or it, \u0026 even if you did I don't think I would grant your request. I carry it in my left pocket \u0026 have nearly worn it out already. I think I must send soon after an original copy. ","[End of letter appears on page 1]\nI reckon that name, which you did not want to mention in your letter, got in there after all, for the same reason as you gave I do not like to write it in mine. I believe at last it has been decided that we shall not go to Richmond. I did not care much about going, so I was not much disappointed. Write soon. Give love to all enquiring friends. I remain your affectionate cousin \nC.M. Barton"],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eBarton family papers, 1855-1869. MS 0020. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"prefercite_tesim":["Barton family papers, 1855-1869. MS 0020. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"relatedmaterial_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eA larger collection of Barton family papers is located at the Handley Library in Winchester, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"relatedmaterial_heading_ssm":["Related Materials"],"relatedmaterial_tesim":["A larger collection of Barton family papers is located at the Handley Library in Winchester, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe Barton family papers consist of the papers of three members of the Barton family who attended VMI during the mid-19th century. Papers related to Charles M. Barton (VMI Class of 1856) include a letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles to his cousin Joseph M. Barton in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). Other Charles Barton material is found in a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook described above, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph Barton (VMI Class of 1864), an attorney.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMaterial related to Bolling W. Barton (VMI Class of 1866) includes one letter (dated January 18, 1864) from Frank (last name unknown, but a VMI alumnus), and six documents, primarily French language exercises.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eMaterial related to Randolph J. Barton includes a typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph to the VMI Class of 1912.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIncludes one letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles M. Barton to his cousin Joseph M. Barton, in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). \u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eAlso included is a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook (approximately 250 pages) contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eThe notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIncludes four class exercises and one note indicating math and French marks. Also includes two items of correspondence.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eGeometry class exercise submitted to Lieutenant T. B. Robinson.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eFrench exercise submitted to Lieutenant Miller.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOne paper that details math and French marks. Additionally, the paper contains an address for Robert T. Barton.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Note requests that cadet Crawford be granted a leave of absence to \"attend to very important business.\"\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Richmond, Virginia. Letter requests that Bolling W. Barton look after \"Mr. Rutherford,\" a cadet soon to be entering VMI.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIncludes one typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTypescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912. Originial typescript is housed at the Handley Library Archives in Winchester, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The Barton family papers consist of the papers of three members of the Barton family who attended VMI during the mid-19th century. Papers related to Charles M. Barton (VMI Class of 1856) include a letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles to his cousin Joseph M. Barton in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). Other Charles Barton material is found in a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook described above, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph Barton (VMI Class of 1864), an attorney.","Material related to Bolling W. Barton (VMI Class of 1866) includes one letter (dated January 18, 1864) from Frank (last name unknown, but a VMI alumnus), and six documents, primarily French language exercises.","Material related to Randolph J. Barton includes a typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph to the VMI Class of 1912.","Includes one letter (dated September 28, 1855) from Charles M. Barton to his cousin Joseph M. Barton, in which he complains about VMI life and about his instructor Thomas J. \"Stonewall\" Jackson (Jackson is described as a \"hell of a fool\"). ","Also included is a notebook (approximately 250 pages) that contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. In the letter, Charles M. Barton complains about VMI life and about his instructor Stonewall Jackson, who he describes as a \"hell of a fool.\"","The notebook (approximately 250 pages) contains poetry copied by Charles, including \"The Faculty of the VMI,\" which describes Francis H. Smith, John T.L. Preston, and other early faculty members; class notes from lectures given by Francis H. Smith; autographs of his VMI classmates, and a resolution on the death of Cadet Thomas Blackburn.","The notebook, although pertaining largely to Charles, also contains notes on law and notations concerning legal cases and fees. This material likely relates to Randolph J. Barton, an attorney.","Includes four class exercises and one note indicating math and French marks. Also includes two items of correspondence.","Geometry class exercise submitted to Lieutenant T. B. Robinson.","French exercise submitted to Lieutenant Miller.","One paper that details math and French marks. Additionally, the paper contains an address for Robert T. Barton.","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Note requests that cadet Crawford be granted a leave of absence to \"attend to very important business.\"","Written from Richmond, Virginia. Letter requests that Bolling W. Barton look after \"Mr. Rutherford,\" a cadet soon to be entering VMI.","Includes one typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912.","Typescript photocopy of a speech delivered by Randolph J. Barton to the VMI Class of 1912. Originial typescript is housed at the Handley Library Archives in Winchester, Virginia."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e"],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_42cb3f2e301940272676fb2f5080e20a\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Barton family","Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Barton family","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854"],"famname_ssim":["Barton family"],"persname_ssim":["Barton, Charles M. (Charles Marshall), 1836-1862","Barton, Bolling W. (Bolling Walter), 1845-1924","Barton, Randolph J., 1844-1921","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Blackburn, Thomas, 1834-1854","Robinson, Thomas B. (Thomas Beverly), 1836-1895"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":17,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:12:13.177Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_104_c01_c01_c01"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c03","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to Perry L. Derby","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c03#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses good health, academics, and candidates for Virginia legislature.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c03#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c03","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c03"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c03","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["Charles A. Derby papers","Charles A. Derby papers","Correspondence"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Charles A. Derby papers","Charles A. Derby papers","Correspondence"],"text":["Charles A. Derby papers","Charles A. Derby papers","Correspondence","Letter to Perry L. Derby","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1848","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Correspondence","English .","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","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses good health, academics, and candidates for Virginia legislature."],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to Perry L. Derby","title_ssm":["Letter to Perry L. Derby"],"title_tesim":["Letter to Perry L. Derby"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1846 April 4"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1846"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to Perry L. 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":5,"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":[1846],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1848","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1848","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVM Institute\u003cbr/\u003e\nApril 4th 1846\u003c/p\u003e","\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"],"odd_heading_ssm":["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"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses good health, academics, and candidates for Virginia legislature.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses good health, academics, and candidates for Virginia legislature."],"_nest_path_":"/components#0/components#0/components#2","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:06.300Z","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's cadet letters (dated 1846-1847) are available  online .","Derby's 1862 letters are avaliable  online .","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.","Two announcements 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 \n.    "],"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"],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eCharles A. Derby's cadet letters (dated 1846-1847) are available \u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/1205\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDerby's 1862 letters are avaliable \u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/search/collection/p15821coll11/searchterm/MS%200030/order/manusa\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["Charles A. Derby's cadet letters (dated 1846-1847) are available  online .","Derby's 1862 letters are avaliable  online ."],"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\u003eTwo announcements 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.","Two announcements 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. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_a99018bbaf530d0adbfbbb07d3e700f4\"\u003eManuscripts stacks and Oversized Case 1\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks and Oversized Case 1"],"names_ssim":["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"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Derby Family","Stancell Family","Derby, Charles A., 1828-1862"],"famname_ssim":["Derby Family","Stancell Family"],"persname_ssim":["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"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":90,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:06.300Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c03"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c06","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to Perry L. Derby","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c06#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards results of mid-year examinations, a cadet Christmas celebration, and a severe snowstorm.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c06#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c06","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c06"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c06","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["Charles A. Derby papers","Charles A. Derby papers","Correspondence"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Charles A. Derby papers","Charles A. Derby papers","Correspondence"],"text":["Charles A. Derby papers","Charles A. Derby papers","Correspondence","Letter to Perry L. Derby","Virginia Military Institute—Social life and customs","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1848","Correspondence","English .","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","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards results of mid-year examinations, a cadet Christmas celebration, and a severe snowstorm."],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to Perry L. Derby","title_ssm":["Letter to Perry L. Derby"],"title_tesim":["Letter to Perry L. Derby"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1847 January 19"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1847"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to Perry L. 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":8,"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":[1847],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Social life and customs","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1848","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Social life and customs","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1848","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVa Military Institute\u003cbr/\u003e\nJany 19th 1847\u003c/p\u003e","\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","\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"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["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"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards results of mid-year examinations, a cadet Christmas celebration, and a severe snowstorm.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards results of mid-year examinations, a cadet Christmas celebration, and a severe snowstorm."],"_nest_path_":"/components#0/components#0/components#5","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:06.300Z","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's cadet letters (dated 1846-1847) are available  online .","Derby's 1862 letters are avaliable  online .","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.","Two announcements 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 \n.    "],"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"],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eCharles A. Derby's cadet letters (dated 1846-1847) are available \u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/1205\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDerby's 1862 letters are avaliable \u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/search/collection/p15821coll11/searchterm/MS%200030/order/manusa\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["Charles A. Derby's cadet letters (dated 1846-1847) are available  online .","Derby's 1862 letters are avaliable  online ."],"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\u003eTwo announcements 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.","Two announcements 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. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_a99018bbaf530d0adbfbbb07d3e700f4\"\u003eManuscripts stacks and Oversized Case 1\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks and Oversized Case 1"],"names_ssim":["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"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Derby Family","Stancell Family","Derby, Charles A., 1828-1862"],"famname_ssim":["Derby Family","Stancell Family"],"persname_ssim":["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. 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Letter discusses perseverance and value of hard work, problems with chemistry and sciences, and cadet Christmas celebrations.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c08#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c08","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c08"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c08","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01"],"parent_unittitles_ssm":["Charles A. Derby papers","Charles A. Derby papers","Correspondence"],"parent_unittitles_tesim":["Charles A. Derby papers","Charles A. Derby papers","Correspondence"],"text":["Charles A. Derby papers","Charles A. Derby papers","Correspondence","Letter to Perry L. Derby","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Social life and customs","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1848","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Correspondence","English .","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","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses perseverance and value of hard work, problems with chemistry and sciences, and cadet Christmas celebrations."],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to Perry L. Derby","title_ssm":["Letter to Perry L. Derby"],"title_tesim":["Letter to Perry L. Derby"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1847 December 27"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1847"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to Perry L. 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":10,"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":[1847],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Social life and customs","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1848","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Social life and customs","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1848","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1840-1849","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English ."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr/\u003e\nDec 27th 1847\u003c/p\u003e","\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"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["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"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\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"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter discusses perseverance and value of hard work, problems with chemistry and sciences, and cadet Christmas celebrations."],"_nest_path_":"/components#0/components#0/components#7","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:06.300Z","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's cadet letters (dated 1846-1847) are available  online .","Derby's 1862 letters are avaliable  online .","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.","Two announcements 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 \n.    "],"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"],"altformavail_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eCharles A. Derby's cadet letters (dated 1846-1847) are available \u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/ref/collection/p15821coll11/id/1205\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n","\u003cp\u003eDerby's 1862 letters are avaliable \u003ca href=\"http://digitalcollections.vmi.edu/cdm/search/collection/p15821coll11/searchterm/MS%200030/order/manusa\"\u003eonline\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"],"altformavail_heading_ssm":["Online Access"],"altformavail_tesim":["Charles A. Derby's cadet letters (dated 1846-1847) are available  online .","Derby's 1862 letters are avaliable  online ."],"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\u003eTwo announcements 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.","Two announcements 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. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_a99018bbaf530d0adbfbbb07d3e700f4\"\u003eManuscripts stacks and Oversized Case 1\u003c/physloc\u003e"],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks and Oversized Case 1"],"names_ssim":["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"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"names_coll_ssim":["Derby Family","Stancell Family","Derby, Charles A., 1828-1862"],"famname_ssim":["Derby Family","Stancell Family"],"persname_ssim":["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"],"language_ssim":["English \n.    "],"total_component_count_is":90,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:09:06.300Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_600_c01_c01_c08"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c01_c06","type":"Item","attributes":{"title":"Letter to William B. Gatewood","abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c01_c06#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter mentions examinations and the secession of South Carolina.\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c01_c06#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"ref_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c01_c06","ref_ssm":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c01_c06"],"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c01_c06","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c01","parent_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c01","parent_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c01"],"parent_ids_ssim":["vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01","vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c01"],"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 William B. Gatewood","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Secession","Correspondence","English","Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter mentions examinations and the secession of South Carolina."],"title_filing_ssi":"Letter to William B. Gatewood","title_ssm":["Letter to William B. Gatewood"],"title_tesim":["Letter to William B. Gatewood"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1860 December 22"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1860"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Letter to William B. 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":8,"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":[1860],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Secession","Correspondence"],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1864","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1860-1869","Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century","Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865","Secession","Correspondence"],"language_ssim":["English"],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eWritten from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter mentions examinations and the secession of South Carolina.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter mentions examinations and the secession of South Carolina."],"_nest_path_":"/components#0/components#0/components#5","timestamp":"2026-05-21T00:10:42.873Z","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":"2026-05-21T00:10:42.873Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_582_c01_c01_c06"}}],"included":[{"type":"facet","id":"repository_ssim","attributes":{"label":"Repository","items":[{"attributes":{"label":"Virginia Military Institute Archives","value":"Virginia Military Institute Archives","hits":53},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Academics%E2%80%94History%E2%80%9419th+century\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=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Academics%E2%80%94History%E2%80%9419th+century"}},{"type":"facet","id":"collection_ssim","attributes":{"label":"Collection","items":[{"attributes":{"label":"Alumni and VMI certificates and citations collection","value":"Alumni and VMI certificates and citations collection","hits":1},"links":{"self":"https://arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Virginia+Military+Institute%E2%80%94Academics%E2%80%94History%E2%80%9419th+century\u0026f%5Bcollection%5D%5B%5D=Alumni+and+VMI+certificates+and+citations+collection"}},{"attributes":{"label":"Andrew C. 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