Collection is open to all researchers. Manuscript collections and archival records may contain materials with sensitive or confidential information that is protected under federal or state right to privacy laws and regulations, such as the Virginia Public Records Act (Code of Virginia. § 42.1-76-91); and the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (Code of Virginia § 2.2-3705.5). Confidential material may include, but is not limited to, educational, medical, and personnel records. If sensitive material is found in this collection, please contact a staff member immediately. The disclosure of personally identifiable information pertaining to a living individual may have legal consequences for which the College of William and Mary assumes no responsibility.
Purchased with the Lilia S. H. Swem Fund.
James R. Dobbyn (1836-1912) was a carpenter in Washington, D.C. He enlisted in the 1st District of Columbia Cavalry in June 1863. His regiment was formed for the defense of the Federal Capital, but was transfered to the Department of Virgina and North Carolina in 1864. In March of 1864 Dobbyn's letter indicates he was in Great Bridge, VA.
The letter mentions a skirmish between an all-Black cavalry regiment, thought to be the 2nd United States Colored Cavalry, and Confederate forces near Suffolk, VA. The letter also lists prices for eggs and sweet potatoes.
James R. Dobbyn letter, Special Collections Research Center, William & Mary Libraries.
The collection contains 1 letter written and signed by James R Dobbyn to his brother in 1864. The letter was written while Dobbyn was serving in the 2nd US Colored Cavalry of the Union Army during the US Civil War. The collection also contains a typed transcription of the letter.
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