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This collection consists of one notebook compiled by VMI Cadet Howard Osburn. The notebook contains copied poetry, orders, and an anecdote concerning Benjamin F. Ficklin, VMI Class of 1849.

The James W. Massie papers consist of the personal papers (40 items) of Massie, including:

• Incoming correspondence (1855-1857)
• Civil War papers, primarily incoming letters, orders, and commissions (1861-1863)
• Post-War papers, including letters written by Massie's wife, Sophonisba Breckinridge McDowell (Massie), and documents related to their son, James McDowell Massie
• Confederate bonds
• Envelopes

This collection consists of one letter (dated September 18, 1847) from VMI Superintendent Francis H. Smith to General E. C. Carrington. The letter recommends a United States Army commission for John P. Bowyer. Bowyer had volunteered for service in the Mexican War, in which he subsequently served.

This collection (four items) consists of items dating from John W. Steenbergen's cadetship, including a one volume notebook that contains copied poetry and notes, two essays, and his VMI account book documenting school expenses (1846-1849).

The VMI diplomas collection consists of VMI diplomas from various eras. The oldest is that of Edmund Pendleton, Class of 1842. Contact the VMI Archives for a complete list.

The VMI historical appointment documents collection consists of notices of appointment sent to new cadets at VMI. The documents date from the 1840s into the 1900s. These are typically pre-printed forms on which the name, date, and other details are filled in by hand. They also include a list of supplies needed and information about expenses.

This collection consists of the notebook and diary (1849-1853) of Robert Gatewood. Entries include original and copies poetry dating from his last year at VMI, essays, and diary entries written while Gatewood was teaching at the College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia (1851-1853). Diary entries and notes frequently have a religious theme.

This collection consists of certificates awarded to graduating members by two 19th century cadet literary and debating organizations known as The Society of Cadets (established 1840) and the Virginia Dialectic Society (established 1848). The certificates of James V. Hall (Class of 1852) and Edward L. Fant (Class of 1856) were autographed by classmates.

This collection consists of one commission document (dated May 9, 1861) that appoints Samuel Garland, Jr. a Colonel in the Virginia Volunteer Forces. The document is signed by Governor John Letcher. Endorsement on verso by Lewis B. Butler, Justice of the Peace for Prince William County, certifying that Garland took various prescribed oaths.