Lee Monument Association (Richmond, Va.) cornerstone collection, 1887-1889

Access and use

Location of collection:
Library of Virginia
The Library of Virginia
800 East Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Contact for questions and access:
POC: Archives Reference Services
Phone: (804) 692-3888

Summary

Extent:
6.8 cubic feet (15 boxes and 15 folders)
Creator:
Lee Monument Association (Richmond, Va.)
Language:
English

Background

Scope and content:

Collection, 1887, of items placed in a copper box in the cornerstone of the Robert E. Lee monument located at the circle of Monument Avenue and Allen Avenue in Richmond, Virginia. A second box made of lead was placed in a building block in 1889. Items include calling cards, Confederate currency, genealogical charts, letters, maps, muster rolls, newspapers, notes, pictures, programs, and other items.

Some items retained by the Department of Historic Resources.

Some items unavailable due to conservation needs.

Biographical / historical:

Established in 1870, the Lee Monument Association raised funds for a statue of Robert E. Lee (1807-1870) to be erected in Richmond, Virginia. The association commissioned a sculpture of Lee from French sculptor Antonin Mercie. The construction of the monument itself began in 1887, and the cornerstone was laid 27 October 1887. Individuals donated items to be placed in the cornerstone of the plinth. This time capsule was discovered 28 December 2021 during the dismantling of the plinth. A second box, made of lead, was placed in the tower of the plinth in 1889. It was discovered 17 December 2021.

Acquisition information:
Transferred