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The annual reports of the Superintendent contain a detailed account of the activities for each academic year. The 19th century through mid-20th century reports are an excellent primary source for exploring the administrative and academic history of the Institute. In addition to annual reports, special reports were occasionally issued to provide details about specific topics; and "semi-annual" reports were published during parts of the 19th century to provide the results of mid-year examinations and other mid-year updates.

These records consist of one chronological file, 1909-1953, primarily containing Superintendent's working reports and memoranda to the Board of Visitors; some annotations. In addition, there are Superintendent's copies of BOV meeting packets for Gen. Shell and Irby; some with annotations.

Correspondence, 1840-1918, originating in the Superintendent's office, unrelated to any other records series. Primarily about purchases and business transactions, and miscellaneous file.

Newsletters, circulars and other mass mailings created by the Office of the Superintendent. These include the annual newsletter to parents. These mailings began with General Nichols and the frequency/subject varies among administrations.

Records relating to the inaugural ceremonies or assumption of command events for the various Superintendents. In recent administations there have not been elaborate inaugural ceremonies.

Records of the administration of VMI Superintendent Charles E. Kilbourne. Includes correspondence, biographical information, speeches and related Institute official records, 1937-1946. These records cover the World War II era at VMI.

Official records of the Edward W. Nichols Administration, 1907-1924. Includes official correspondence, annual reports, and other material documenting Nichols's years as Superintendent.

These files constitute the major record series generated by the office of Francis H. Smith, VMI's first Superintendent. He served from 1839-1889. The records, (ca. 30 linear feet) consist of incoming and outgoing correspondence, order books, speeches and publications, annual reports, personal file, and subject files.

Official records of the George R. E. Shell administration, including correspondence, annual reports, and related papers/records for the period 1961-1970.

Official records of the Lejeune administration, including correspondence, annual reports, and other offical records originating in the office of the Superintendent, 1929-1937