Robert E. Lee Family papers, 1792/1935, bulk 1833/1870

Access and use

Location of collection:
Washington and Lee University, Leyburn Library
Special Collections and Archives
James G. Leyburn Library
Washington and Lee University
204 W. Washington Street
Lexington, VA 24450
Contact for questions and access:
POC: Tom Camden
Phone: (540) 458-8649
Phone: (540) 463-8109
Fax: (540) 463-8964
Restrictions:

The collection is open for research use. When available, photocopies, digital surrogates, or other reproductions must be used in place of original documents.

Terms of access:

The materials from Washington and Lee University Special Collections are made available for use in research, teaching, and private study, pursuant to U.S. Copyright law. The user assumes full responsibility for any use of the materials, including but not limited to, infringement of copyright and publication rights of reproduced materials. Any materials used should be fully credited with the source. Permission for publication of this material, in part or in full, must be secured with the Head of Special Collections.

Preferred citation:

[Identification of item], Robert E. Lee Family Papers, WLU Coll 0064, Special Collections and Archives, James G. Leyburn Library, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, VA.

In some cases the citation format may vary. Please contact Special Collections' staff to verify the appropriate format.

Summary

Extent:
24 Linear Feet
Creator:
Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870
Language:
English
Preferred citation:

[Identification of item], Robert E. Lee Family Papers, WLU Coll 0064, Special Collections and Archives, James G. Leyburn Library, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, VA.

In some cases the citation format may vary. Please contact Special Collections' staff to verify the appropriate format.

Background

Scope and content:

This collection contains primary and secondary resources pertaining to Robert E. Lee and the Lee family. Included are correspondences from, to, and about Lee and various family members; memorabilia, pamphlets, photographs, reminiscences, miscellaneous personal papers, family history and genealogy. The collection includes materials acquired from the Lee family and items donated to and purchased and compiled by W&L University since Lee's tenure as president of Washington College from 1865 - 1870. Adminstrative papers, such as President's Reports, etc..., from Robert E. Lee's presidency of the school may be found within the W&L University Archives. Please contact W&L Special Collections for information regarding the University Archives.

Letter from Robert E. Lee to William McCloud Bowe dated April 18, 1863 rejecting a request for furlough from the army. The letter was likely dictated but is signed by Lee.

Letter from Robert E. Lee to Edward Turner about the death of Col. J. A. Washington (John Augustine Washington) at Valley River, dated 14 September 14, 1861

In Special Order 56, Army of Northern Virginia, which is dated Feb 27, 1864, Lee decrees the end of Lieutenant Granville Gray's career stating that he is now living in the lunatic asylum in Staunton, Va. The document was written in Staunton. It is signed by Walter H. Taylor.

Robert E. Lee's last order as commander of the Army of Northern Virginia. This copy is written and signed by Lee.

In this letter Robert E. Lee writes to the Board of Trustess of Washington College accepting the presidency of the institution.

This letter contains information about the furniture that Charles Marshall is purchasing for Lee in Baltimore.

In this letter Lee writes to Rathmell Wilson in Philadelphia that the Washington College Board of Trustees has elected to let him purchase books for the institution.

In this letter written from Sweet Springs Robert E. Lee writies that due to his health he won't be returning to the college right away. He asks all the faculty to help the students prepare for classes. A transcription is housed with this letter.

In this letter Lee gives a prospective student advice on the choosing which state institution of higher to attend.

In this letter Lee writes to Campbell, who had recently been asked to be Superintent of the Rockbridge County Schools, that he does not think accepting this position would greatly impact his duties at Washington College.

This document is Robert E. Lee's signed Oath of office as President of Washington College. It is signed William White.

Written excuse by Robert E. Lee for William H. Kinckle to go to church on Good Friday and miss his recitation as a result.

In this letter Robert E. Lee talks his wife's health and making trips to Hot Springs and Warm Springs. He also mentions his two daughters Agnes and Mildred. He makes mentions of rumors that George Washington Custis Lee recently got engaged.

This order by Adjutant General and Inspector General of the Confederate Army, Samuel Cooper, raises Robert E. Lee to General in Chief of the Armies of the Confederacy.

In this letter Robert E. Lee writes to the students about the effects of their disruptive behavior on the town and asks them to minimize that behavior during the upcoming April Fools Day parade. A transcription of the letter is housed with the original item.

In this letter Lee thanks Walter H. Galt, who established Galt Jewelers in Washington, DC, for a color photograph of George Washington Parke Custis.

This letter from Robert E. Lee to Stilson Hutchins, founder of the Washington Post, thanks him for copies of the St. Louis Times, which contained an article on Washington College.

Letter from Frank A. Waddill, Class of 1870, to the faculty requesting permission for five days off from school. Note on the back of the board to which the letter is glued: 'Frank A. Waddill was a classmate (roomate?) of Wilmer H. Shields at Washington College (and then Washington and Lee University)...'

In this letter Lee writes to Blair Robertson returning the pet chicken, which was originally a gift from Robertson, to its orginal owner for safe keeping. Lee feels that harm may come to the chicken as the military is moving camp.

Leaf from first Washington College catalogue, which was printed before Lee was official invested as college president in October 1865. He is listed as the President and a Professor of Mental and Moral Science, Lee but never actually taught at the college.

In this letter Mary Custis Lee writes to an unknown correspondentabout her ailments, travel, General Grant's movements through VA, and inflation. The letter was written from Richmond in 1864.

This photograph is of Robert E. Lee with his floppy tie. The inscription on back says 'for my young friend John Opie from Mary Custis Lee'.

Lee writes to Louisa upon the death of her father, John Augustine Washington, who was killed in battle during the American Civil War.

In this letter Robert E. Lee writes to Louisa about the last letter ever written by her father John Augustine Washington.

In this letter Robert E. Lee asks Louise when he can see her and invites her to visit his military camp.

In this letter Lee writes to Louisa about arrangements for the family to received her father's (John Augustine Washington) personal papers. He notes that John was the last proprietor of Mount Vernon of the family of Washington.

In this letter Lee writes to Louisa about her cousin Charles Alexander who was taken by the Union military as a prisoner of war. He writes that he has made a request for Alexander's release.

In this letter Lee writes to Louisa about suggestions for what to inscribe on her father's (John Augustine Washington) tombstone.

This document is Robert E. Lee's last will and testament. There is also a note on back of will from November 7, 1870.

Three (3) copies of handbill/broadside 'Funeral Obsequies. October 15, 1870.' for funeral of Robert E. Lee.

Includes a letter and a portrait of Julia Gratiot, R.E. Lee's niece and wife of General Charles Gratiot.

This letter included a carte de viite photograph from Lee to J. D. Driesbach's son. The photograph was removed to the Robert E. Lee photographs box. The year of the letter was originally mis-identified as 1866 and it is physically located in the box that includes letters written in October 1866.

Included in this folder are two copies of Robert E. Lee's will. One copy is a photograph of the original will. The other copy is a published transcription and facsimile of the will, created by Washington and Lee University in 1928.

This contract details the agreement between the Washington College Survey Board and the renowned topographical surveyor Jedadiah Hotchkiss. It is a contract for Hotchkiss to perform various surveys on behalf of the Board of Survey to expand the college's map resources. The five year contract stipulates assorted restrictions on Hotchkiss's rights to the maps. It is signed by R.E. Lee on behalf of the Board of Survey.

Notations are in Lee's hand

West Point cadet Putnam writes to his father regarding his his first semester at the academy. He mentions a number of officers including West Point Superintendent Robert E. Lee.

W.N. Pendleton writes to Lee upon learning of his election to the Presidency of Washington College. Pendleton writes "chiefly as a resident of Lexington for the last ten or twelve years, and an observer of the college this wile [sic] to give you my impressions respecting the locality, Institution, etc."

Two letters are included, one from William MacFarland to Robert E. Lee and one from Reverdy Johnson to William MacFarland. MacFarland referenced the Johnson letter in his own letter to Lee and included it in the envelope.

A Letter of reference from Alabama Supreme Court Justice John D. Phelan and Benjamin H. Porter is included with the letter.

Ralph Lete wrote to Robert E. Lee on February 1, 1866 from Ironton, Ohio. He wrote to express his admiration for Lee, as well as to request a course catalog of Washington College for his son to potentially attend the school.

In this letter, Jones Bros. & Co. Subscription Book Publishers of Philadelphia, PA wrote a business letter to Robert E. Lee on February 2, 1866. In the letter, the company attempts to solicit their services to publish Lee's current writings on his Civil War Campaigns.

This letter was written by J. Temple of Richmond, Virginia to Robert E. Lee on February 2, 1866. In the letter, Temple requests that Lee send him a number of circulars on Washington College for those in the area of Richmond who are interested in attending.

This letter was written by J. B. Williams of Enfield, North Carolina to Robert E. Lee. He wrote to request a set of course catalogs for Washington College, and explains that he is recommending the school to his students.

This letter was written by W. W. Anderson of Bethany, West Virginia on February 2, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Anderson explains his dissatisfaction with the state of Bethany College. He requests that Lee, upon evaluation, accept himself and a dozen other Bethany College students into Washington College.

This letter was written by Robert H. Patterson of Abingdon, Virginia on February 3, 1866. Patterson wrote to request Lee send to him a catalog of Washington College as well as the Law School.

This letter was written by Joseph Finnegan of Fenandina, Florida on February 3, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Finnegan explains to Lee that his friend, Captain Taylor, had recently passed away. He goes on to explain that Captain Taylor's two son's were currently attending Washington College. Finnegan continues to explain that the sons of Taylor are likely undisciplined due to their lack of quality education in their formative years. He requests that Lee offer them additional guidance in their situation.

This letter was written by Captain William Parker Snow of Nyack, New York on February 3, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Snow explains his intense admiration for Lee and his leadership. He explains that he is in the process of authoring a monograph on the subject of southern generals during the Civil War. He goes on to express his patriotism for the United States in its current form and his admiration of Lee's willingness to fight for what he believed in.

This letter was written by C. B. Richardson of New York, NY on February 3, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Richardson expresses his company's interest in Lee's experiences, and mentions an included copy of a book on the "Army of the Potomac" for Lee to examine. Richardson also requests a photograph of General Pendleton be sent with Lee's response.

This letter was written by M. Taylor on February 3, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Taylor explains to Lee that a catalog previously requested of Lee did not arrive with its accompanying letter. Taylor goes on to explain that he sent his sons to Washington College without first knowing the requirements due to the missing catalog.

This letter was written by H. B. Magruder of Greensboro, Alabama on February 4, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The letter is written on behalf of the Southern University's branch of the Clariosophic Society to Lee, extending to him honorary membership based upon the merit of his actions during the Civil War.

This letter was written on behalf of the Virginia Railroad Company in Richmond, Virginia on February 4, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The letter was written to Lee to inform him of a bill advocating the railroad's repair and to continue his support of the reconstruction of Virginia's infrastructure. The letter includes the bill itself, a printed prospectus, and assorted newspaper clippings referencing the project.

This letter was written by R. L. Dabney to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Dabney relayed that Lee's previous letter had been delivered to him safely. He goes on to thank Lee for his advice and describes ways in which he applied it.

This letter was written by George J. Stewart of Madison Station, Virginia on February 5, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Stewart explains that he intends to apply to and attend Washington College for the coming semester. He also explains that he very much desired to attend the school where Lee was president, which led to a mistaken application to Virginia Military Institute where he initially believed Lee was president.

This letter was written by Sam Beach Jones of Bridgeton, New Jersey on February 5, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Jones relays that he his sending in tandem a copy of General Patterson's publication, which he would like Lee to look over and potentially give his permission to use Lee's name within.

This letter was written by Charles Marshall on February 5, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Marshall relays to Lee that his previous letter had been received, and that he is heeding Lee's advice as best he can.

This letter was written by Rathwell Wilson in Philidelphia, Pennsylvania on February 6, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Wilson explains that he has recently inherited of a scientific library of books from his late brother, Thomas B. Wilson. He expresses his desire to donate a large portion it to various southern institutions of higher learning. He goes on to express his desire for Washington College to be one of the institutions to benefit from his donation. Included in the letter is a list of various monographs which Wilson sent to Washington College. Each title includes the number of volumes which were donated.

This letter was written by Major C. H. Woodward of Rockbridge Baths, Virginia on February 6, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Woodward requests a loan from Lee, which he promises to repay in short order.

This letter was written by J. W. Francis on February 6, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Francis explains to Lee that he has in his possession two documents that were taken from Lee's Arlington house during the Civil War by the army stationed on the Potomac. The documents mentioned include a deed dated 1632 and a work on the "Anti-Christian Conspiracy." Francis expresses his desire to return these items to Lee's possession at his earliest convenience.

This letter was written by Samuel H. Anderson from Georgetown College in Washington, DC on February 8, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Anderson explains in the letter that the Philodemic Society of Georgetown College had elected to make Lee an honorary member.

This letter was written by a representative of Lancaster & Co from Richmond, Virginia on February 9, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The company is informing Lee of a check from the treasurer of Ohio made out to Lee for $105 accrued in interest on bonds.

This letter was written by George Washignton Garmany from Savannah, Georgia on February 10, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Garmany wrote the letter as a recommendation for John B. Mays, a potential student of Washington College.

This letter was written by Charles O. DeLahoussaye in New Orleans, Louisiana on February 10, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, DeLahoussaye writes requesting that Lee send a catalog for Virginia Military Institute, as he desires to send his nephew to atttend school. DeLahoussaye potentially erroneously ascertained that Lee was the president of VMI.

This letter was written by M. A. Gibbs from Vicksburg, Mississippi on February 10, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. He requests in the letter that Lee admit his son into Washington College.

This letter was written by Sam Tyler from Frederick City, Maryland on February 12, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Tyler informs Lee that Prof. Baer intends to have a collection of minerals identified and labeled within several months for the use of Washington College.

This letter was written by L. Davis from Prospect Hill, Georgia on February 12, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Davis relays to Lee that he had heard a speech on history recounting the evacuation of Richmond by Jefferson Davis, and transcribed a section he believed would be of interest to Lee, which is also included with the letter.

This letter was written by W. M. Black from Lynchburg, Virginia on February 13, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Black explains to Lee that a package has been recovered at his Southern Express Company office that contains cash addressed to Lee. He requests that Lee respond with instructions on what to do with the package.

This letter was written by John Raglan Glascock from the University of Virginia on February 14, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Glascock requests that a catalog or circular for Washington College be forwarded to him at the request of a friend from California interested in attending.

This letter was written by J. B. Heck on February 14, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The letter acts as a bill and statement of service to Washington College. Heck states the materials needed and the requested services for building shelving for the Washington College Library.

This letter was written by J. P. Branch from Augusta, Georgia on February 15, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Branch expresses his admiration for Lee and requests an autograph be sent to him.

This letter was written by L. Jervey from Charleston, South Carolina on February 15, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Jervey informed Lee of a bulk of cotton in his possession that he wishes to give to Lee. He goes on to praise him for his character and actions during the war.

This letter was written by A. B. Robertson from New Wartrace, Tennessee on February 15, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Robertson requests Lee to send him a circular on Washington College. He goes on to explain his motivations in doing so.

This letter was written by Mrs. E. F. Farrar and Annie De Moss from Vicksburg, Mississippi on February 15, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The two women write that their letter includes a check for $536 intended for Stonewall Jackson's widow and child, and request that Lee forward it at his convenience. The letter continues and expresses the pain that is felt by them in defeat after the war's end, and describe the nature with which life continues in the south. They express their admiration for both Jackson and Lee, and describe the reverence with which their names are held in their households.

This letter was written by A. S. Buford from Richmond, Virginia on February 16, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Buford writes from Richmond as president of the Richmond & Danville Rail Road, and presents to Lee tickets for use on the railroad. He concludes by requesting an autograph from Lee.

This letter was written by William P. Marlin on February 16, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Marlin writes to request that Lee send to his address a circular for Washington College for his son, a prospective student.

This letter was written by Burk, Herbert & Co. from Alexandria, Virginia on February 17, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The company is writing to inform Lee that $25 have been added to the account of Sydney Smith Lee.

This letter was written by J. Warner from Washington, D.C. on February 17, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Warner writes to Lee to inform that he had come across an individual in Philadelphia in possession of a scrapbook of material relating to the Washington family. Warner requests that Lee relay any knowledge which could be used to return the scrapbook to its rightful owner.

This letter was written by George, Count Joannes from New York City on February 17, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, he expresses his admiration of Lee and his displeasure with the established concepts of Reconstruction and of the "radical cloud" rising from Congress. He makes mention of his public letters which have been published in the New York News. He goes on to say that when he next visits Virginia that he will donate to Washington College a portion of his profits.

This letter was written by N. B. Feagin from Midway, Alabama on February 18, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Fiegan requests Lee send to him a Washington College circular due to his interest in attending.

This letter was written by M. S. Clarke from Louisville, Kentucky on February 19, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Clarke requsts a set of catalogs for himself and several other young men in his area, as they are interesting in attending Washington College.

This letter was written by Henry B. Dawson from Morrisania, New York on February 18, 1866. In the letter, Dawson expresses his interest in Lee's efforts to publish his father's memoirs. Dawson offers his assistance as an historian, and includes a segment of The Historical Magazine highlighting his past historical work.

This letter was written by C. R. Hubbard from Montgomery, Alabama on February 20, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Hubbard asks Lee to send to him a catalogue of classes at Washington College, as well to write back any information that would ensure his admission to the college.

This letter was written by Frank Magruder from Goshen, Kentucky on February 20, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Magruder requests that Lee send to him a circular for Washington College, as his son is interested in attending the school.

This letter was written by D. S. Mulee from Fort Pulaski, Georgia on February 20, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Mulee writes from the fort prison, vouching for the character of his friend, John M. Taylor's, sons who had been sent to attend school at Washington College.

This letter was written by Charles E. Waters from Baltimore, Maryland on February 21, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Waters describes how the ladies of Baltimore are organizing a fair to raise funds for the relief of southerners affected bt the Civil War. He requests, at the suggestion of his wife, that Lee send a set of his autographs to be sold at the fair to raise money for their cause.

This letter is written by Robert E. Lee Jr. on February 19, 1866 to his father, Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Robert E. Lee Jr. expresses to his father that he was happy to hear from him and his mother recently. He goes on to ask advice from his father regarding the mill he now operates. He explains the situation of some mechanical problems witht he mill and dam, and asks his father to provide advice on the course of action to take and how to apply the repairs effectively.

This letter was writen by J. Lawrence Saulsbury from Richmond, Virginia on February 20, 1866. Saulsbury begins the letter by expressing his admiration for Lee and his wish to meet him in person. He then transitions into encouraging Lee to allow the company he represents, Blakeney & Co., to supply Washington College's students with sets of gold pens at the cost of $1 each.

This letter was written by W. P. Moore from Palmyra, Missouri on February 22, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Moore requests a response from Lee on the question of to whom he needed to seek the copyright of Lee's historical exploits during the war while in Missouri.

This letter was written by Laura G. Ogle from New Castle, Delaware on February 23, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The letter is a follow up to a previous response given by Lee. Ogle expresses her gratitude for Lee's fulfillment of her reqeust of a signed photograph.

This letter was written by former CSA Staff member of General Stevenson, Major George L. Gillespie from Chatanooga, Tennessee on February 24, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Gillespie writes the letter as an introduction to two relatives of his attending Washington College, Robert N. and Thomas J. Gillespie. He vouches for their quality of character and hopes Lee will provide them with a role model.

This letter was written by Horace Sheley on behalf of the Philologic Society of Westminster College on February 24, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The letter extends an invitation for Lee to become and honorary member of the Philologic Society.

This letter was written by William H. Botts from Glasgow, Kentucky on February 26, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Botts writes to introduce Buford Leslie to Lee and vouch for his character while he attends Washignton College.

This letter was written by William Brazelton from New Market, Tennessee on February 25, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Brazelton writes as a way to introduce J. M. Gillespie from Rhea County who attended Washington College. He also explains some events of his life, as well as the nature of young southern men.

This letter was written on behalf of the company of art-dealers Butler, Perrigo, and Way from Baltimore, Maryland on February 26, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The dealers express their thanks to Lee for sending them a series of autographs they had previously requested. They inform Lee that the autographs are to be framed and sold by their dealership.

This letter was written by D. Creel from Chillicothe, Ohio on February 24, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The letter begins by praising Lee and making several biblical comparisons to Lee. Creel continues and begins to refer to his relation to Stonewall Jackson by marriage, and begins to recount events of Jackson's life as he viewed them up until his death during the Civil War. Creel also describes events of his own life, including raids by northern militias on his home.

This letter was written on behalf of Jones Bros. & Co. from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on February 26, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The company writes to follow up on Lee's rejection of the previous offer for the company to publish his personal works. The follow up resolves with an open offer should Lee change his mind.

This letter was written on behalf of the Demosthenian Society from the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia on February 27, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The Demosthenian Society writes to inform Lee that he has been made an honorary member based upon his reputation and actions.

This letter was written by Bishop J. Johns on February 27, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Johns writes from Theological Seminary to inform Lee of the death of "Bishop Meade."

This letter was written on behalf of the Demosthenian Society of Roanoke College from Salem, Virginia on February 28, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The society writes to inform Lee that he has been elected to be an honorary member of the society.

This letter was written by the Cordes Sisters and their personal friend Mary Byrnes from Ridgevill, South Carolina on February 27, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The letter was sent in care of the sisters' father, Captain Theodore Cordes from Charleston, South Carolina. The letter is a follow up to a previous request of the sisters that went unanswered from December of 1865. The sisters requested some small memento from Lee, as they had great respect for him.

This letter was written by Mary G. Slaughter on February 27, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Slaughter writes to introduce Stark Arnold to Lee as the nephew of Stonewall Jackson. She vouches for his integrity and explains his situation of desiring an education without direct means. She requests that Lee assist him in gaining an education.

This letter was written by G. W. Leyburn from Big Lick, Virginia on February 27, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Leyburn makes reference to a previous conversation he and Lee had regarding the nature of education. He expands on this topic and asks a series of questions regarding education in the South and requests a written response to the questions. He explains that he wishes to have Lee's stance while Leyburn acts to acquire subscriptions for Washington College's endowment.

This letter was written by Mrs. M. B. Smith from Port Royal, Virginia on March 1, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Smith informs Lee that she wishes for her son to attend Washington College. She requests Lee for a school catalogue.

This letter was written by J. M. Handely on March 1, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Handely requests a copy of Lee's ongoing work on the history of the "Great Rebellion."

This letter and attached news clippings were written by Edward A. Pollard from Norfolk, Virginia on March 2, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Pollard explains, in reference to a previous correspondence, that he has become aware of an individual who has published his own scholarly work on the Civil War called "The Lost Cause" in the newspaper The New York News and is seeking action. He sent the letter attached with two clippings from papers in which Pollard directly addresses the culprit and publicly denounces his actions of infringement.

This letter was written on behalf of the Great Southern & Western Accident & Life Insurace Company of New Orleans, Louisiana on March 2, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The company writes to inform Lee that he has been elected one of five members of the Non-Resident Board of stockholders.

This letter was written by W. S. Neal on behalf of the Jefferson Davis Society of the Stonewall Institute from Perry County, Alabama on March 3, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The letter explains the society's purpose and goals, while praising southern ideals. It then invites and requests Lee to become a member of the society.

This letter was written by J. Longstreet from New Orleans, Louisiana on March 3, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Longstreet writes to Lee informing him that he has inserted Lee's name as a one of the non-resident board of directors for the Great Southern and Western Life and Accident Insurance Company. He gives description of the company and its then-current assets. Included with the letter is a typed transcript.

This letter was written by J. Johns Jr. from Richmond, Virginia on March 3, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Johns writes to Lee that his letter accompanies another letter from Dr. Julius Doetsh. He explains that, upon his advice, Doetsh wishes to make a translation of Lee's work. He then vouches for Doetsh's credentials and character.

This letter was written by Dr. Julius Edmund Doetsh from Richmond, Virginia on March 3, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Doetsh introduces himself to Lee and makes an offer to translate Lee's in-progress memoirs into German for European publication. He explains that interest in Europe is high for such a publication, and explains the potential avenues for publication which he can take advantage of.

This letter was written by W. H. McGuire from Washington, DC on March 4, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In her letter, McGuire relays to Lee her thanks for his assistance and relaying of the news of her husband's death.

This letter was written by Thomas H. Ellis from Richmond, Virginia on March 6, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Ellis writes to inform Lee that the company's general assembly has voted to move forward with granting a French company an amended charter with contents that had been requested by the French company. He goes on to express his unease at working with the French, given bad relations and lack of resources following the Civil War. He then requests Lee write to him his opinions on the topics of the canal project, as well as peace relations abroad.

This letter was written by J. Speer Howarth from Delaware County, Pennsylvania on March 6, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Howarth requests information on Washington College pertaining to its student population and the general atmosphere of the college.

This letter was written by J. Emanuel on March 7, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Emanuel expresses interest in sending his son to Washington College and requests information on admission.

This letter was written by George Michael Branner from Knoxville, Tennessee on March 7, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Branner writes the letter as an introduction to his son Hardy Bryan Branner and his friend Rudolph Bryan. He vouches for their character, and explains that all funds for their education are accommodated.

This letter was written by E. C. Middleton from Washington, DC on March 7, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Middleton introduces his agent, E. F. Lutz of Baltimore. Middleton then explains that his previous request of an oil painting of Lee had been rejected due to a lack of one existing. Middleton explains that Lutz will take notes of Lee's complexion and then, using a recent photograph by Mathew Brady, create an oil painting which he wishes Lee to sign.

This letter was written by John W. Lapsley from Shelby County, Alabama on March 7, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. He writes to Lee introducing his son, John B. Lapsley who is attending Washington College. He goes into deep detail about his son's mannerisms and behavior, expressing hope that Lee's leadership will help to mold him appropriately.

This letter was written by Benjamin B. Stith from Bewleyville, Kentucky on March 7, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Stith writes that he wishes to send his son to a military academy, believing Lee to be the president of VMI. He asks Lee to send him information and his favor in accepting his son into the school.

This letter was written by Thomas E. McNeill from Lynchburg, Virginia on March 8, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. McNeill writes to share with Lee the mission of the newly-formed Virginia Mining and Manufacturing Bureau. He asks Lee for his support and includes an attached circular pertaining to the organization.

This letter was written by William W. Early from Hyattsville, Maryland on March 9, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Early requests from Lee a catalogue of classes for Washington College.

This letter was written by N. S. Ray from Lebanon, Kentucky on March 9, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Ray asks in the letter for a catalogue of studies, as well as general information for Washington College. Ray explains that his son wishes to transfer from Centre College in Kentucky to Washington College.

This letter was written by William Hunter from Savannah, Georgia on March 9, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Hunter writes to Lee informing him that his three sons wish to attend Washington College. He describes the natures of his sons as well as their academic potential.

Ths letter was written by E. L. Hadden from New York City on March 10, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Hadden writes to Lee informing him that he is returning to Lee a series of items recovered from the occupation of Arlington House at the onset of the Civil War.

This letter was written by J. L. Hocker on behalf of the Periclean Society of the University of Kentucky in Lexington, Kentucky on March 10, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The letter is written to inform Lee that he has been elected as an honorary member of the society.

This letter was written by C. Newton from Louisiana State Seminary (later Louisiana State University) on March 10, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. The letter is written to inform Lee that a society has been formed at the school named the Lee Society, and that Lee has been elected an honorary member.

This letter was written by VMI Superintendent Francis H. Smith on March 12, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Smith writes to inform Lee that a new VMI cadet, William F. Dancey, believes that the damage to VMI has resulted in the institution being unable to perform its purpose. He relays Dancey's desire to instead enroll in Washington College.

This letter was written by Sam Barnett from Washington, Georgia on March 12, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Barnett writes to Lee informing him that his ward, William H. Barnett, wishes to attended Washington College.

This letter was written by Rathmell Wilson from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on March 12, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Wilson writes the letter as a follow up to his previous correspondence with Lee regarding the donation of Thomas B. Wilson's library to Washington College. Wilson inquires whether the boxes of books arrived as planned. He also indicates that he wishes to donate further books in his possession to Washington College on the stipulation that the donated books be cared for, retain Thomas Wilson's book plate, and be called "the Wilson contribution to the Library of Washington College." Wilson additionally indicates that he has included a copy of Thomas Wilson's memoir in the donation.

This letter was written by J. Marshall Dent from Maryland Agricultural College on March 13, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Dent explains to Lee that the classes at Maryland Agricultural College are to be suspended by March 25. He requests information on Washington College and inquires of the possibility of enrolling late in the term.

This letter was written by C. G. Freuman from Eminence, Kentucky on March 13, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Freuman requests that Lee send him a catalog for the "military institute" which Lee is head of, mistakenly assuming Lee is the head of Virginia Military Institute also in Lexington, VA.

This letter was written by William H. Kinnon from Tangipaho Station, Lousiana on March 13, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Kinnon writes to request information on costs of attendance for the sons of his five sisters.

This letter was written by C. B. Richardson from New York City on March 13, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Richardson thanks Lee for his previous correspondence and expresses interest in sending Lee a series of documents and books to assist him.

This letter was written by S. D. Stuart from Baltimore, Maryland on March 14, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Stuart writes on behalf of Mrs. James Robb, asking for a likeness of Lee, whom she greatly admires.

This letter was written by George William Green from Shieldfield , Newcastle on Tyne, England.

This letter was written by W. Scott Glore from Louisville, Kentucky to Robert E. Lee. Glore offers to pay for $1000 of the publication costs of Lee's proposed book on his campaigns during the American Civil War.

This letter was written by P. T. Moore from Richmond, Virginia to Robert E. Lee. Moore explains that his friend from the British Parliament has requested an autographed photograph and he inquires about a potential faculty position in Agriculture or Geology at Washington College for Dr. Thomas Antisell.

This letter was written by American educator Emma Willard on March 15, 1866 to Robert E. Lee. Willard introduces herself and explains that she is a writer of history and has followed Lee's career through the war. She expresses her wish to establish contact with various generals, including Lee, to record their views of experiences for an upcoming school history book on the topic.

This letter to R. E. Lee was written by S. S. Scranton and J. B. Burr from the American Publishing Company of Hartford, Connecticut. They write to inquire on Lee's status in writing his history of the war, and continue to express interest in negotiating a publishing contract.

This letter informs Robert E. Lee of his honorary membership to the Jackson Society, a literary society at the College of William and Mary. This was written by J. A. G. Williamson, the secretary of the society. The reverse shows that Robert E. Lee answered the letter on March 23rd, 1866.

This letter to Robert E. Lee is from Meade Woodson of Fincastle, Botetourt County, VA. Woodson writes to Lee on behalf of a Ms. Hamilton who is considering sending her two sons to the institution. She wonders if there will military training at Washington College and if there's boarding for students available with Christian professors.

This is a letter from William C. Folkes to Robert E. Lee. He has sent a list of Battle Reports from the Confederate States of America (CSA). Along with the letter is a yellow piece of paper listing the battles recognized by the CSA.

This letter was sent to Robert E. Lee from "Fanny" Bain, a corresponding secretary of the Eunomian Literary Society at the Masonic College at La Grange, KY. The society offers Lee honorary membership if he would send a letter of acceptance and make a contribution to the Literary Gems paper.

This letter was written by Thomas Munford for Robert E. Lee. Having learned that R. E. Lee is planning to write a war memoir, Munford writes to Lee to correct information within the offical Confederate report of the cavalry battle at Aldie, Virginia in 1863.

This letter to Robert E. Lee is from Reverend Abner Johnson Leavenworth, writing as secretary of the Teachers' Association of Virginia. He asks Lee to address the organization's anniversary meeting in July 1866 about acceptance and education of Virginia's formerly enslaved people. Lee noted on the reverse of the Letter that he declined the invitation to speak.

This letter to Robert E. Lee is from Charles W. Cole. Originally this letter was given to Lee with two books, "Rollin's Belles Lettres" and "The Letters of Cicero" that came from his home in Arlington. This letter is an explanation for how Cole obtained them and why he is giving them back.

This letter to Robert E. Lee is from John W. Fiwell. Fiwell asks for a circular of Washington College. Fiwell also mentions he is a wounded soldier from Company A of the Fourth Virginia Cavalry.

This letter to Robert E. Lee comes from R. G. Williams. In this letter he reminds Lee about a hat he agreed to last December. This letter came with the hat when it was finally finished in March of 1866.

This letter to Robert E. Lee is from Edward Long Hedden. Hedden tells Lee he has received the engraving of Washington and gives his thanks.

This letter to Robert E. Lee is from S. J. Henderson. Henderson and Judge Charles Lewis McConnell have heard Lee plans to write a book on the American Civil War. Henderson and McConnell ask to have publishing agency in Kentucky for Lee's book.

This letter to Robert E. Lee is from the book publisher Sargent, Wilson and Hinkle. This letter asks Lee for his approval of McGuffey Eclectic Readers books on the American Civil War.

Wilmer McLean asks Lee if he would visit Appomattox (Va.) to have a photograph of him taken in the room where he surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant.

This letter to Robert E. Lee comes from Ellen Reily. She asks Lee if he could include her husband in his book on the American Civil War. She includes newspaper clippings, orders, and letters by and about her husband Colonel James Reily.

This letter to Robert E. Lee is from Elizabeth (referred to as Lizzie in the letter) Hull. She asks for information about Washington College for her adopted child.

This letter to Robert E. Lee is from Algernon Sidney Vigus. Vigus explains that he has acquired Lee family letters removed from the Lee family home at Arlington during the Civil War and that he'd like to return them. Vigus asks to keep one of the letters, to a Custis family member from London in 1728. Vigus ultimately returned the correspondence and Lee honored Vigus' request for the 1728 letter.

McLeavy, a third-year student of Soule University in Texas, wishes to attend Washington College for his fourth year. He also mentions his career in the Confederate Army and some of the classes he has completed at Soule.

This letter to Robert E. Lee is from Hezekiah George David (H. G. D.) Brown. Brown wishes to send his son to Washington College. He states that his son served in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War and was paroled in Alabama.

Charles Wesley Andrews, an Episcopal minister and acquaintance of Lee, shares that his wife Sarah died in 1863 and includes other family matters. He also requests two autographed photographs of Lee. Andrews includes with the letter a pamphlet that he recently published.

This letter accompanied a report by Brown of the Coal River Navigation Company which he hopes will take interest in minerals found in Virginia.

This letter to Robert E. Lee is from Benjamin S. Elliott. Elliott wishes to give Lee a colt sired by horse "Patrick Henry". Included with this letter is a carte de visite photograph of the "Patrick Henry".

Reverend Robert S. Clark asks for the rights to sell Lee's proposed history of the American Civil War throughout Mississippi. The letter includes five signatures of references for Reverend Clark - some of whom identify themselves as former Confederate soldiers and one, George Paul Turner, the editor of the "National Star" newspaper of Mississippi.

Hope, a real estate lawyer in Virginia, wishes to assist Lee in recovering his Arlington estate. He includes a newspaper annnouncing that Union soldiers killed at numnerous wartime battlefields would be reinterred at Arlington and that a memorial would be placed there in their honor.

Richardson plans to donate $1,000 in books to the library of Washington College. He also says he will publish Lee's father's memoir once the family portraits arrive for engraving.

Phtographer Alexander Gardner plans to send Lee photographs that are on hand in his studio at that include his company's imprint. He also plans to print and mount one-hundred photographs without his imprint, per Lee's request.

Lemuel Parker Conner of Natchez, Mississippi, writes a letter of introduction to Robert E. Lee for his nephew William C. Conner, a new student at Washington College.

John O. Sullivan of Lincoln County, Tennessee requests catalogues of Washington College for some of his students who wish to attend.

S. P. Cunningham of Kentucky wants to obtain Washington College catalogues for Fairview Academy students wanting to attend.

The Washington College benefactor Warren Newcomb explains his Colonial era Massachusetts ancestry and requests a photograph of Lee.

William Andrew Quarles wishes to send his son to Washington College and asks for a catalog. He notes that his son in Canada and was formerly a lieutenant in the Confederate Army.

Walton has been informed by Carter James Harris, professor of Latin at Washington College, that Lee had taken offense to rumors published by Walton. Walton writes to Lee as an apology for any misunderstandings.

This letter mention from James Caskie mentions items pruchased for the Lee family in Richmond, daughters Agnes and Mildred and son W.H.F. Lee are mentioned. There is account information on Lee's account with Caskie on the reverse of the letter. Caskie reports he is glad to hear that the vase and chair that he has sent are cherished. Caskie also informs Lee that he received 2 dozen photographs of Lee from Richmond photographer Julian Vannerson but that Vannerson would not accept payment for the images.

Smith writes to Lee to inquire about Washington College's plans to introduce a program for engineering.

This letter to Robert E. Lee comes from E. H. Campbell, secretary for the Charles Town (W.Va.)Christian Association. Campbell informs Lee that he has been made an honorary member.

Clara Banks of Liverpool, England writes to Robert E. Lee requesting asking an autograph.

Daniel Moreau Barringer of Raleigh, North Carolina, wishes to send his son Lewin to Washington College and is asking for a catalogue.

This letter to Robert E. Lee comes from J. L. Greer who wishes to send his brother to Washington College for his junior year. He asks for a catalogue so his brother can properly prepare.

Oden Bowie, Governor of Maryland, asks Lee to send a catalogue for an aquaintance interested in Washington College.

James Woods Smith plans to attend Washington College and asks for a catalogue and additional information.

Rosan wishes to attend Washington College and requests a circular of the school.

This letter is from Elizabeth S. Myrick writing as "Mrs. S. P. Myrick". Elizabeth wishes to send her son, James to Washington College and asks for a circular and admission requirements. She explains that her son left school at fifteen to serve in the Civil War and fears his age and limited schooling before the war may hinder his opportunity to attend the school.

Barling wishes for his nephew to attend Washington College and asks for a circular. He explains that his nephew lived in Georgia until late in the war and is currently an exemplary student at his new school in Troy, New York.

John Reynolds Winston inquires if Lee is writing a history of the American Civil War urging him to do so, if not.

Matthews explains that he left school during the Civil War to serve in the Confederate Army. He now wishes to attend Washington College and requests a circular and admission requirements.

Mayer requests information on Washington College as he wishes to send his son to the school.

James A. Mitchell is interested in attending Washington College and would like catalogues sent for him and other potential students from Edmonton, Kentucky.

This letter to Robert E. Lee comes from John Hough James. James writes Lee regarding Washington College's subscription to the Urbana Union (Ohio) newspaper.

This letter to Robert E. Lee comes from George Lyttleton Peyton. Peyton invites Lee to visit the Virginia Hotel in Staunton, Virginia.

This letter to Robert E. Lee comes from S. S. Louisa Cochrane. Cochrane hopes to send her son William G. "Gilly" Cochrane to Washington College and requests a catalogue or circular.

This letter is addressed to Robert E. Lee from Dominick James Dillon.Dillon wishes to send his son to Washington College and is awaiting an academic catalogue from the school.

This letter to Robert E. Lee comes from Benjamin S. Elliott. Elliott informs Lee that he fullfilled a favor that Lee requested in a previous letter. Although Lee did not accept Elliott's previous offer of a colt - sired by the horse "Patrick Henry", Elliott is negotiating that a two-year-old colt to be given to Lee. This letter also contains its original envelope.

The note explains a parcel of books from Algernon Sidney Vigus to Robert E. Lee that Vigus had removed from the Lee family's library at "Arlington House" during the American Civil War.

Jenifer, formerly of the 8th Virginia Cavalry during the Civil War, announces that he has retired from cavalry service and is running a business, "Jenifer and Brother" of Baltimore, Maryland. He offers his services and merchandise to Lee. Included with this letter is an advertisement for Jenifer's business.

Netterville wishes to attend Washington College in the fall of 1866 and would like a catalogue.

Breckinridge introduces to Robert E. Lee three brothers, William, James, and Edward Carson, who are attending or en route to Washington College from Louisiana and asks that Lee be attentive to their well being. He also mentions Lee's proposed book on the Civil War campaigns of Virginia but that while he has no reports he'd be happy to write about any actions of which he had a part.

This letter by S. G. Landes is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Landes requests an autograph of Lee and mentions he's a native of Rockbridge and Augusta counties of Virginia.

This letter by the Strobridge Lithography Company is addressed to Robert E. Lee and references their lithographs of Robert E. Lee and that fire had destroyed its Cincinnati studio, including a Lee portrait. They share that a third Lee lithograph is in process as well as a portrait of Stonewall Jackson.

This letter by F. Bullwinkle is for Robert E. Lee. Bullwinkle wishes to get a mathematical education from Washington College and would like a catalogue.

This letter by members of the Stonewall Literary Society is for Robert E. Lee. The society writes to Lee that they have decided to make him an honorary member for his actions during the Siege of Petersburg, Virginia during the American Civil War.

This letter by Richard Pennefather Rothwell is to Robert E. Lee. Rothwell has heard that Washington College is increasing its staff and he offers his services as a professor of mining, metallurgy, mineralogy, or geology.

This letter by Robert Vinkler Richardson is for Robert E. Lee. Richardson is trying to establish foreign investment in the southern American cotton industry. His letter is written on a circular sent out to different cotton planters.

This letter by Thomas Roberts Slicer is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Slicer, the son of Lee's friend Henry Slicer, inquires about a position to teach elocution at Washington College.

This letter by Daniel F. Wright is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Wright asks for a circular of Washington College to give a potential student he knows. He also mentions that he was a surgeon in Archer's Brigade during the American Civil War.

This letter by James Cleland is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Cleland, a plumber and gas-fitter in Lynchburg, offers his services to Washington College to install a gas system. Included with this letter is a pamphlet from the Automatic Gas Company of Baltimore advertising their product.

This letter by J. C. Parks is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Parks asks Lee if he and "Mr. Frazier" may be the publishers of Lee's proposed American Civil War. As part of theri proposal, they would liberally compensate Lee and offer half of the profits to widows and orphans of fallen Confederate soldiers. They list Casper Bell, John Bullock Clark, and John Heagan as references.

This letter by Warren S. Barlow is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Barlow writes that Lee's lithograph portrait by Elijah C. Middleton has been completed and he'll send it by express Lee via "Mr. Lutz".

This letter by Simon Bolivar Buckner is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Buckner introduces a student of Washington College he knows, J. Esten Cooke, Jr. Buckner also tells Lee that he is currently in New Orleans working as an editor for a paper.

This letter by Charles B. Richardson is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Enclosed with this letter was a map of the Army of the Potomac that Lee requested, as well as John Beauchamp Jones' "A Rebel War Clerk's Diary". Along with this package, Richardson updates Lee on the publishing of Henry Lee III's memoirs. Richardson also tells Lee that he is facing financial setbacks but they shouldn't hinder his business.

This letter by Ancrum B. Burr is addressed to Robert E. Lee. She wishes for her son, Edward Johnston, to attend Washington College and would like a circular. Burr also says that Edward's father may have graduated from the United States Military Academy around the same time as Lee, but that he died in the Mexican-American War.

This letter by John Mimms and Edwin O'Brien is addressed to Robert E. Lee. They say that several students in their town wish to attend Washington College and would like a catalogue.

This letter by members of the Richmond Light Infantry Blues is addressed to Robert E. Lee. The militia group is celebrating its seventy-third anniversary on May 10, 1866 and invites Lee to attend.

This letter by Houston Rucker is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Rucker writes that he would like a circular and information on Washington College for a friend's son.

This letter by Seaton Gales is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Gales, an editor of the Raleigh Sentinel (N.C.) newspaper, offers to help identify a publisher for Lee's proposed book on the American Civil War. Gales included a copy of the Raleigh Sentinel with the letter. At the end of the letter Gales notes that he was an Assistant Adjutant General under General Stephen Dodson Ramseur

This letter by George Dawes Appleton is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Dawes writes that he wants to admit his son to Washington College and would like information about attending.

Adkisson, who had attended Dolbear Commercial College in New Orleans, La., inquires about continuing his education at Washington College and offers a plan for how he may be able to afford it. He notes that he served in a Texas Brigade during the American Civil War.

This letter by James F. Dumble is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Dumble wants to send his son, Edwiw, to Washington College and would like to know the terms of entering. He also asks if his son can board with a family.

This letter by Reverend William Norvell Ward is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Ward asks if Lee would like a photographic copy of a painting Stratford Hall, the Lee ancestral home in Virginia, by Mattie Ward, his daughter.

This letter by J. F. Heun is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Heun asks Lee for an autographed wartime document.

This letter by W. H. Nettleton is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Nettleton, an Englishman having traveled the county over the past year, writes that he would like a hand-written line or two from Lee as a souvenir of this trip.

This letter by Josiah Warren is addressed to Robert E. Lee. This letter accompanied a book Warren gifted to Lee.

This letter by Horatio Richardson Moore is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Moore asks permission for acquaintances in New Orleans to use Lee's name in their company.

This letter by William T. Somervell is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Somervell wishes to attend Washington College and asks for a circular, terms, and regulations for applying.

This letter by Mansfield Lovell is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Having heard that Lee is writing a history of the American Civil War, Lovell offers a list of documents from Confederate officers in his possession for Lee's review. Mansfield notes documents taken by the Joint Congressional Committee on the affairs of the Confederate Naval Department and correspondence between the Confederate War Department and General Lafayette McLaws concerning the surrender of New Orleans, Louisiana to Union forces.

This letter by Robert Lewis Dabney is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Dabney writes that an advertisement of his Stonewall Jackson biography gives credit of Lee's review and revisions to the publisher instead. He explains to Lee that the publisher decided to do this, not him.

This letter by Lizzie C. Hull is addressed to Robert E. Lee. She acknowledges that her son cannot attend Washington College and offers her well wishes to the Lee.

This letter by Jeannette Ritchie Hadermann Walworth is addressed to Robert E. Lee. She requests a lock of Lee's hair for her nephew who is also named Lee in honor of him.

Jubal Early recounts his participation in battles of the American Civil War and describes his experience living in Mexico since the Confederate surrender and his planned move to Canada.

The original envelope is included with this letter.

This letter by Aaron Howell Pierson Sr. is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Pierson wishes to send his son to Washington College but does not know the requirements. Pierson worries that because of his son's service in the American Civil War, he may be too far behind his studies to attend.

This letter by James Dabney McCabe is addressed to Robert E. Lee. McCabe asks permission to write about Lee's actions during the American Civil War. He includes that as an ex-cadet of Virginia Military Institue, he published "A Life of Lieut. Gen. T. J. Jackson" during the war.

This letter by R. Thompson is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Thompson offers to publish a British edition of Lee's planned book on the American Civil War. Lee never wrote the book.

This letter by the Reverend Samuel Beach Jones is addressed to Robert E. Lee. In the letter, Jones mentions locating artwork and possibly a book possibly removed Arlington House during the war. The book he mentions was inscribed to Charles A. Atkinson. Jones offers to fund raise for Washington College.

This letter by John Speck LaFever is addressed to Robert E. Lee. LaFever asks for information to attend Washington College.

This letter by Dr. Wesley Emmett Gatewood is addressed to Robert E. Lee. Gatewood would like information on attending Washington College and a piece of clothing Lee wore during the American Civil War.

This letter by Augustus Machim Garber is addressed to Robert E. Lee. He writes that he has sent catalogues of Washington College to his uncle. However, his uncle would like information on fees and payment to the school. Garber also mentions sculptor William Rudolph O'Donovan and shares that the scultpor, with approval from Lee, will continue workingon a bust of Stonwall Jackson.

Originally included with this letter was a photograph of O'Donovan's bust of Stonewall Jackson.

This letter by C. Williams is addressed to Robert E. Lee on behalf of the Great Southern and Western Life and Accident Insurance Company announcing a forthcoming shareholders meeting.

Sister Mary Baptista Linton invites Robert E. Lee to speak at Mount de Chental Visitation Academy.

Please note - this folder also includes related content - a copy of Lee's response to the invitation; a booklet from the one-hundred and fiftieth anniversary of the school with a quote from Robert E. Lee on the front; materials from the Georgetown Academy of the Visitation on Sister Baptista, a scan of Lee's letter to Sister Baptista, and a section of Mount de Chental's centennial booklet on its southern fund.

This folder contains two original letters from Mercer University faculty, and photographic reproductions made in 1944 from negatives taken by Michael Miley

Frederick A. P. Barnard sends Robert E. Lee an introduction and recommendation for Robert B. White, D. D. to be chair of the department of Mental and Moral Philosophy at Washington College.

Charles P. Stone offers coal to Washington College from Dover Mines, his coal mining company in Goochland, Virginia. Stone was a Union general during the American Civil War and ran the Dover Mines until 1869.

Former Confederate Cheif Medical Officer Lafayette Guild writes a letter of introduction to Robert E. Lee for William G. Cochrane, a new Washington College student. Guild mentions that he's been in contact with former Confederate general Walter H. Stevens who was in Mexico.

Burr Harrison McCown requests two catalogues of Washington College - one for him, and one for Joseph Henry in Leavenworth, Kansas.

J. B. Moore requests a catalogue of Washington College.

J. Hewett offers Robert E. Lee the position of superintendent of Natchez Institute (Mississippi).

Aaron Howell Pierson Sr. acknowledges receipt of a letter from Lee explaining that his son, Aaron Howell Pierson Jr., needs to attend preparatory school.

Lawyer James Patterson Rogers writes to Washington College president Robert E. Lee representing Lieutenant Samuel S. Mathers, a former Union soldier from West Virginia. Rogers relays that Lieutenant Mathers wished to return an original letter written by George Washington to the trustess of Washington Academy which he's taken from Washington College in 1864 during Hunter's Raid.

W. C. Park asks Robert E. Lee if Professor Maximilian Schele de Vere is teaching at Washington College.

Andrew Jackson Moses asks Robert E. Lee about attending Washington College.

J. Ditzler asks Robert E. Lee how he can contact Professor Albert Taylor Bledsoe. He also offers to lecture at Washington College and send Lee a copy of his history book.

Mrs. Joseph Jones (Caroline Wright) invites Robert E. Lee to Warren County on August 8th for the unveiling of a memorial for his daughter Anne Carter Lee.

William Greenleaf Rolfe asks Robert E. Lee for information on Washington College and Virginia Military Institute for potential students in Ashley County, Arkansas.

Mary Hardaway asks Robert E. Lee for a catalogue of Washington College.

George J. Hobday asks Robert E. Lee for a catalogue of Washington College.

William A. Rogers asks Robert E. Lee if students of Washington College may begin after the official start date of academic terms. He also asks for the address of Charles R. Jones.

Mary C. Allen asks Robert E. Lee about sending her sons to Washington College.

Albert Jefer Montgomery asks about attending Washington College. He notes that he is a veteran of the Confederate States Army.

Delaware B. Kemper shares that he is applying for professorship at Hampden-Sydney College and they have asked for his military references. He asks President Lee if he can give a reference.

W. A. Wash asks Robert E. Lee for a catalogue of Washington College.

Duff Green writes to Robert E. Lee that he plans to send his grandson, Benjamin Green Maynard, to Washington College.

Wade Hampton informs Robert E. Lee that he has gathered data from his old officers for Lee's proposed volume on the American Civil War.

J. W. Heatley asks Robert E. Lee for a catalogue of Washington College.

Waller O. Bullock asks Robert E. Lee for a catalogue of Washington College.

A. J. Frantz sends Robert E. Lee an advertisement for advertising space in the Brandon Republican newspaper Rankin County, Mississippi.

Thomas Treadwell Eaton asks Robert E. Lee if he can attend Washington College for the Fall term of 1866. He also asks if he can secure places for friends Adelbert Smith and William H. Washington.

John T. Harrison informs Robert E. Lee that he is behind in the Latin and Greek requirements for Washington College admission and asks about preparatory schools.

George Anderson Mayse invites Robert E. Lee to Warm Springs, VA for the summer season.

Alexander McKinley inquires about entering his son into Washington College.

R. M. McClellan introduces Washington College student David L. Anderson to President Lee. He explains that Anderson is behind in Greek and suggests that he be enrolled specifically in that class.

Samuel Wethered inquires about sending his son to Washington College.

James Springfield Edwards asks for a catalogue of Washington College.

John Edward Burson requests a catalogue of Washington College. He also asks about boarding and the potential for other students from his community accompanying him to school in Lexington.

Professor Richard Sears McCulloh, writing from New York City and having consulted with architects, sends a basic floor plan, specifications, and cost estimates for the contruction of a chapel at Washington College.

Benjamin Franklin French offers resources for Lee's planned book on the history of the American Civil War.

Gabriel James Rains wishes to leave Summerville Institute to teach at Virginia Military Institute (V.M.I.). Rains mistakenly suggests that Lee is presiding over V.M.I. rather than Washington College.

Jesse Shanks inquires about sending his brother to Washington College.

William A. Brown asks Robert E. Lee for a catalogue of Washington College.

R. M. McClellan introduces admitted Washignton College student William W. Collins to Robert E. Lee and suggests that Collins should enroll in a preparatory Greek course.

W. R. Abbott announces Robert E. Lee's election to the Educational Asssociation of Virginia.

H. A. (Hampton A.) Rice asks for a catalogue or a list of expenses for attending Washington College for potential students in Macon, Ga. On the back of this letter Rice asks for a catalog to be sent to H. L. (Hampton Lea) Jarnagin Jr.

Charles A. (Charles Alfred) Welch asks when his son, Francis Welch, should come to Washington College for examination. Welch also asks if there are uniform or clothing regulations that his son must follow.

Welch asks that Lee addresses his response to "Sohier and Welch" of Boston, Massachussetts.

Between February 1868 and February 1870 Washington College professor and former Confederate Ordinance officer, William Allan, had five conversations with college president Robert E. Lee which he manually recorded in this memo book which he titled "Conversations with Gen. R. E. Lee". Soon after each conversation, Allan described retreating to his office to record the highlights. In 1886, former Washington College Clerk of faculty and Librarian, Edward Clifford "E.C." Gordon shared with Allan, by mail, a similar manuscript reminiscence of a discussion he had with Lee in 1868 on the Sharpsburg/Antietam campaign, specifically the story of Lee's "Lost Dispatch". Allan transcribed Gordon's reminiscence into his memo book – with a background note. (Gordon's original reminiscence was then purportedly returned to him.) The memo book is accompanied by an informative 1886 letter from Gordon to Allan on the Lee conversations. There are also two letters regarding the gift of the memoranda book to Washington and Lee University in 1946 by Mrs. Louisa P. Allan, William Allan's daughter – in – law. Subjects of the conversations include Lee's objectives and strategy at different points during the American Civil War; Lee's decision to resign from the United States Army on April 20, 1861 including his conversations with U.S. Army General Winfield Scott; and commentary, at times critical, of Federal and Confederate generals and leaders including George McClellan, D.H. Hill, James Longstreet, Jefferson Davis, Richard Ewell, Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson, Joseph Johnston, J.E.B. Stuart, and John-Fitz Porter. Civil War battles mentioned or discussed include Antietam, Fredericksburg, Gaines Mill and the Seven Days Battles, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, and the fall of the defenses at Petersburg, Va.

Robert E. Lee's copy of D.H. Hill's post Civil War magazine "The Land We Love," which published an article pertaining to the story of Lee's "Lost Dispatch" - an order by General Robert E. Lee directing movements of his Army of Northern Virginia during the Maryland Campaign of 1862. It was lost by an unidentified Confederate courier and found by Union soldiers and subsequently forwarded to Union General George B. McClellan. The contents of the dispatch influenced the battles of South Mountain and Antietam.

Letter from E.C.(Edward Clifford)Gordon, former Washington College Clerk of Faculty, to Col. William Allan of th eMcDonough institute in Baltimore, Md. and former mathematics professor at Washington College between 1866 and 1873 regarding an accompanying memo book in which Gordon documented a long conversation he had with Robert E. Lee on February 16, 1868. A main theme of the letter is the content from the memo book regarding the story of Lee's "Lost Dispatch" during his Maryland Campaign of 1862. The second letter accompanied the memo book when it was given by Louisa P. Allan, Col. William Allan's daughter - in - law, to Washington and Lee University President Francis Pendleton Gaines in 1946.

Reminiscences of Robert E. Lee including manuscripts, typescripts, newspaper clippings, and published materials by subjects with surnames begininng with letters B through J. See agents list for authors.

Reminiscences of Robert E. Lee including manuscripts, typescripts, newspaper clippings, and published materials by subjects with surnames begininng with letters K through Z. See agents list for authors.

The core of this series is comprised of letters written by members of Robert E. Lee's immediate family, though it includes letters from some more distant relatives and descendants.

Two oversize scrapbooks commemorating the life of Robert E. Lee. Both scrapbooks contain voluminous amounts of newspaper clippings, some pamphlets and published materials, manuscript and typescript documents, and printed Lee imagery. The compiler of each scrapbook is unknown.

Typescript notecards created during the 1940s with information on students who attended Washington College's undergraduate and law school during Robert E. Lee's presidency. Details included were, for the most part, limited to hometown (town, state) and current location at the time that the original information was gathered. This information was copied in the 1940s likely from some original list, perhaps from the Washington and Lee University alumni catalog of 1888.

Biographical / historical:

Letter from Moses D. Hoge to Gen. Robert E. Lee discussing a trip to England where he procured religous provisions for the Confederate soldiers. Wrote of the English's admiration for Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson.

Rules or conventions:
Describing Archives: A Content Standard