{"links":{"self":"https://search.arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Speeches%2C+Addresses%2C+etc.\u0026f%5Bdate_range%5D%5B%5D=1841\u0026f%5Blevel%5D%5B%5D=Collection","last":"https://search.arvasarchive.org/catalog.json?f%5Baccess_subjects%5D%5B%5D=Speeches%2C+Addresses%2C+etc.\u0026f%5Bdate_range%5D%5B%5D=1841\u0026f%5Blevel%5D%5B%5D=Collection\u0026page=1"},"meta":{"pages":{"current_page":1,"next_page":null,"prev_page":null,"total_pages":1,"limit_value":10,"offset_value":0,"total_count":2,"first_page?":true,"last_page?":true}},"data":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_322","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"John T. L. Preston papers, 1806/1889","creator":{"id":"https://search.arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_322#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://search.arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_322#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThe John T. L. Preston papers consist of the personal papers of Preston, including: \u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA farm account book (1834-1887)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBills\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeeds\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMemoranda\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReceipts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCorrespondence\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA photocopy and transcription of Preston's Civil War journal (\"Jottings\"), which dates from his military service at Craney Island, Virginia from late July to October 1861. The original journal is held by the Library of Congress.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePreston's United States passport (May 1851)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFranklin Society membership certificate (1851)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA typescript \"brief historical sketch\" of VMI written as a speech for the Institute's semi-centennial celebration in 1889 (the typescript contains handwritten corrections in ink; Preston's son delivered the address on behalf of his father).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e The majority of the papers relate to Preston's personal, financial, and property (land) transactions and do not involve his work at VMI. \u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://search.arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_322#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_322","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_322","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_322","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_322","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_322.xml","title_ssm":["John T. L. Preston papers"],"title_tesim":["John T. L. Preston papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1806-1889"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1806-1889"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1806/1889"],"normalized_title_ssm":["John T. L. Preston papers, 1806/1889"],"text":["John T. L. Preston papers, 1806/1889","MS.0240","/repositories/3/resources/322","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Biography","Account Books","Receipts (financial records)","Correspondence","Memorabilia","Certificates","Financial records","Speeches, Addresses, etc.","There are no restrictions.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","John Thomas Lewis Preston (1811-1890) was one of the founders of VMI. He served at VMI as a member of the first Board of Visitors (1839) and as a Professor of Modern Languages from 1839 to 1875. During the Civil War he was on the staff of General Stonewall Jackson.","Lexington April 28, 1863","Dr General,\nAccording to your direction I have purchased for you $2700 of 8 prct [percent] Confed. Bonds. This leaves a small balance to your credit. The bonds are deposited in the Bank of Rockbridge.","Our tannery has been very prosperous. I have not deemed it necessary to write to you about it hitherto. But now I have to say that the concern will be ready to pay over to you in a few weeks, as your share of the profits from ten to fifteen thousand dollars ($10,000 - 15,000). We have on hand a contract for tanning from the Government which will not be as profitable as our operations heretofore have been but it will be remunerative and [left edge] Maggie sends her love at the same time safe. If I can be of any service to you in investing your money let me know. I was informed at the VMI that there was a balance of $50 against you on the Treasurer's Book. I told the Supt. that I would settle it out of your funds. Maggie wrote lately to Mrs. Jackson something about your house. I cannot recollect any other business items.","I expect to leave home, day after tomorrow for the Gen. Assembly at Columbia. I go with the earnest wish and prayer that this the supreme council of our branch of the church may under the guidance of the Holy Spirit be able to devise something which will be operative in impregnating the institutions of our very nation with the spirit of vital Christianity. I cannot myself think of any new mode of attempting this. We have in operation all the agencies prescribed in the Gospel and if these are used in the spirit of the Gospel they will prove sufficient. But the real battle of the Church will begin when the national struggle is closed and Peace opens the flood gates through which will flow upon society the stream of evils generated by War. Profanity, Sabbath breaking, intemperance, idleness, lawlessness and general looseness of morals may be expected partly as the reactive influence of the scenes through which the entire youthful population of the land have been called to pass. Against all this the church must lift up her banners if would maintain her own. But instead of merely maintaining her own she does not make the reorganization of things the occasion of assuming an advanced position, will she be guiltless.\nDr. Palmer has replied to Dr. White who had communicated [illegible] about supplying the army with religious service. He does not express any very decided convictions upon the subject and looks to some action by the Gen. Assb. I trust it is a good Providence that has given to your corps Mr. Lacy.  Remember me warmly to him.","If you can make any suggestions touching church matters, write to me at Columbia Pres. Gen. Assembly. On business at Lex. If you wish anything done before I return Gilham or Fuller will attend to it for you. My love to your wife if she is still with you.\nYrs. Trly J. T. L. Preston.","July 4, 1889\nMy dear General and old-time comrade-\nFinis Opus Coronat\nThe crown of a worthy work is its successful completion.  How unspeakably precious is this crown, when the work is one's life work! No other work to be done, and therefore, no apprehension of failure in the future.","The proof of your work is twofold- first in rearing a noble structure upon its foundation and then in raising it from its ruins.  Testimony to this work is found in the annals of the state of Virginia, in the records of successive Boards of Visitors, by the voices and the lives of the Alumni who have gone forth from its walls, and by these words from him who is the sole surviving sharer of your labors from the founding of the V. M. I. to its semi-centennial Jubilee.","But best of all is the testimony of your own conscience, that you have never swerved from your purpose, nor spared yourself in your devotion to the object you had set before you.","With the many, various, and formidable obstacles you had to encounter I am familiar, but what other and unrevealed struggles were yours, none but yourself may ever know.","The crown of a completed work is yours.","But for all true and faithful followers of the Master there is another crown laid up – a crown of glory – a crown, not for the closing of this mortal life, but a crown for the opening of an immortal life – a crown to be worn forever!","May this crown, my old friend, be yours and mine!\nAnd for this hope let us united in saying – Laus Deo!\nAffectionately,\nJ. T. L. Preston\n1839-1889","The original journal is located in the Library of Congress (John Thomas Lewis Preston MMC-1936; MSS94284).","The John T. L. Preston papers consist of the personal papers of Preston, including:\n\nA farm account book (1834-1887)\nBills\nDeeds\nMemoranda\nReceipts\nCorrespondence\nA photocopy and transcription of Preston's Civil War journal (\"Jottings\"), which dates from his military service at Craney Island, Virginia from late July to October 1861. The original journal is held by the Library of Congress.\nPreston's United States passport (May 1851)\nFranklin Society membership certificate (1851)\nA typescript \"brief historical sketch\" of VMI written as a speech for the Institute's semi-centennial celebration in 1889 (the typescript contains handwritten corrections in ink; Preston's son delivered the address on behalf of his father).\n\nThe majority of the papers relate to Preston's personal, financial, and property (land) transactions and do not involve his work at VMI.","A noteable item includes a letter (dated April 24 1863) to General Stonewall Jackson (to whom Preston was related by marriage) in which Preston discusses religious and financial matters.","Passport for John T. L. Preston.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Topics financial transactions affecting Stonewall Jackson, including the purchase of Confederate bonds and proceeds from sale of tannery. The letter also concerns religious matters, particularly the upcoming General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Columbia, South Carolina.","Typescript sketch written by John T. L. Preston. It was prepared at the request of the VMI Board of Visitors to mark the Institute's semicentennial celebration. Preston had planned to deliver this as an address, but he was not able to do so and it was read by his son Reverend Dr. T. L. Preston.","The sketch includes details about events leading to the establishment of VMI, including debates in the local Franklin Society and letters to the local newspaper written by Preston under the penname \"Cives\" in 1835.","Reprint in pamphlet form of letters written by John T. L. Preston to the Lexington (Virginia) Gazette in 1835, discussing the desirability of turning the local arsenal into a military college. Preston wrote these letters under the pen name \"Cives\" and these are often referred to as the \"Cives letters.\"  This pamphlet was issued in 1889 to mark VMI's semicentennial.","Copy and transcription of John T. L. Preston's journal, which he called \"Jottings.\" This journal was written during his military assignment at Craney Island, Virginia in the the summer and fall of 1861.","The journal relates to his activities while with the 9th Virginia Infantry Regiment under the command of VMI Superintendent Francis H. Smith. It includes comments on the cause of the Civil War, the defense of Norfolk, Virginia, military science, and family.","This letter was written on the occasion of VMI's semicentennial celebration, in which John T. L. Preston reminiscences about Francis H. Smith's role in the founding and growth of VMI.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Franklin Society and Library Company of Lexington (Lexington, VA)","Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890","Preston, Margaret Junkin, 1820-1897","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Crutchfield, Stapleton, 1835-1865","English"],"collection_title_tesim":["John T. L. Preston papers, 1806/1889"],"collection_ssim":["John T. L. Preston papers, 1806/1889"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0240","/repositories/3/resources/322"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0240","/repositories/3/resources/322"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890"],"creator_ssim":["Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890","Preston, Margaret Junkin, 1820-1897","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Crutchfield, Stapleton, 1835-1865"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Franklin Society and Library Company of Lexington (Lexington, VA)"],"creators_ssim":["Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890","Preston, Margaret Junkin, 1820-1897","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Crutchfield, Stapleton, 1835-1865","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Franklin Society and Library Company of Lexington (Lexington, VA)"],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Biography","Account Books","Receipts (financial records)","Correspondence","Memorabilia","Certificates","Financial records","Speeches, Addresses, etc."],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Biography","Account Books","Receipts (financial records)","Correspondence","Memorabilia","Certificates","Financial records","Speeches, Addresses, etc."],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["0.69 cubic feet 1 2.5-inch legal document box and 1 5-inch legal document box"],"extent_tesim":["0.69 cubic feet 1 2.5-inch legal document box and 1 5-inch legal document box"],"genreform_ssim":["Account Books","Receipts (financial records)","Correspondence","Memorabilia","Certificates","Financial records","Speeches, Addresses, etc."],"date_range_isim":[1806,1807,1808,1809,1810,1811,1812,1813,1814,1815,1816,1817,1818,1819,1820,1821,1822,1823,1824,1825,1826,1827,1828,1829,1830,1831,1832,1833,1834,1835,1836,1837,1838,1839,1840,1841,1842,1843,1844,1845,1846,1847,1848,1849,1850,1851,1852,1853,1854,1855,1856,1857,1858,1859,1860,1861,1862,1863,1864,1865,1866,1867,1868,1869,1870,1871,1872,1873,1874,1875,1876,1877,1878,1879,1880,1881,1882,1883,1884,1885,1886,1887,1888,1889],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access","Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn Thomas Lewis Preston (1811-1890) was one of the founders of VMI. He served at VMI as a member of the first Board of Visitors (1839) and as a Professor of Modern Languages from 1839 to 1875. During the Civil War he was on the staff of General Stonewall Jackson.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["John Thomas Lewis Preston (1811-1890) was one of the founders of VMI. He served at VMI as a member of the first Board of Visitors (1839) and as a Professor of Modern Languages from 1839 to 1875. During the Civil War he was on the staff of General Stonewall Jackson."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eLexington April 28, 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDr General,\u003cbr\u003e\nAccording to your direction I have purchased for you $2700 of 8 prct [percent] Confed. Bonds. This leaves a small balance to your credit. The bonds are deposited in the Bank of Rockbridge.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur tannery has been very prosperous. I have not deemed it necessary to write to you about it hitherto. But now I have to say that the concern will be ready to pay over to you in a few weeks, as your share of the profits from ten to fifteen thousand dollars ($10,000 - 15,000). We have on hand a contract for tanning from the Government which will not be as profitable as our operations heretofore have been but it will be remunerative and [left edge] Maggie sends her love at the same time safe. If I can be of any service to you in investing your money let me know. I was informed at the VMI that there was a balance of $50 against you on the Treasurer's Book. I told the Supt. that I would settle it out of your funds. Maggie wrote lately to Mrs. Jackson something about your house. I cannot recollect any other business items.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI expect to leave home, day after tomorrow for the Gen. Assembly at Columbia. I go with the earnest wish and prayer that this the supreme council of our branch of the church may under the guidance of the Holy Spirit be able to devise something which will be operative in impregnating the institutions of our very nation with the spirit of vital Christianity. I cannot myself think of any new mode of attempting this. We have in operation all the agencies prescribed in the Gospel and if these are used in the spirit of the Gospel they will prove sufficient. But the real battle of the Church will begin when the national struggle is closed and Peace opens the flood gates through which will flow upon society the stream of evils generated by War. Profanity, Sabbath breaking, intemperance, idleness, lawlessness and general looseness of morals may be expected partly as the reactive influence of the scenes through which the entire youthful population of the land have been called to pass. Against all this the church must lift up her banners if would maintain her own. But instead of merely maintaining her own she does not make the reorganization of things the occasion of assuming an advanced position, will she be guiltless.\nDr. Palmer has replied to Dr. White who had communicated [illegible] about supplying the army with religious service. He does not express any very decided convictions upon the subject and looks to some action by the Gen. Assb. I trust it is a good Providence that has given to your corps Mr. Lacy.  Remember me warmly to him.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIf you can make any suggestions touching church matters, write to me at Columbia Pres. Gen. Assembly. On business at Lex. If you wish anything done before I return Gilham or Fuller will attend to it for you. My love to your wife if she is still with you.\u003cbr\u003e\nYrs. Trly J. T. L. Preston.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eJuly 4, 1889\u003cbr\u003e\nMy dear General and old-time comrade-\u003cbr\u003e\nFinis Opus Coronat\u003cbr\u003e\nThe crown of a worthy work is its successful completion.  How unspeakably precious is this crown, when the work is one's life work! No other work to be done, and therefore, no apprehension of failure in the future.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe proof of your work is twofold- first in rearing a noble structure upon its foundation and then in raising it from its ruins.  Testimony to this work is found in the annals of the state of Virginia, in the records of successive Boards of Visitors, by the voices and the lives of the Alumni who have gone forth from its walls, and by these words from him who is the sole surviving sharer of your labors from the founding of the V. M. I. to its semi-centennial Jubilee.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBut best of all is the testimony of your own conscience, that you have never swerved from your purpose, nor spared yourself in your devotion to the object you had set before you.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWith the many, various, and formidable obstacles you had to encounter I am familiar, but what other and unrevealed struggles were yours, none but yourself may ever know.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe crown of a completed work is yours.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBut for all true and faithful followers of the Master there is another crown laid up – a crown of glory – a crown, not for the closing of this mortal life, but a crown for the opening of an immortal life – a crown to be worn forever!\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMay this crown, my old friend, be yours and mine!\u003cbr\u003e\nAnd for this hope let us united in saying – Laus Deo!\u003cbr\u003e\nAffectionately,\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. T. L. Preston\u003cbr\u003e\n1839-1889\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Lexington April 28, 1863","Dr General,\nAccording to your direction I have purchased for you $2700 of 8 prct [percent] Confed. Bonds. This leaves a small balance to your credit. The bonds are deposited in the Bank of Rockbridge.","Our tannery has been very prosperous. I have not deemed it necessary to write to you about it hitherto. But now I have to say that the concern will be ready to pay over to you in a few weeks, as your share of the profits from ten to fifteen thousand dollars ($10,000 - 15,000). We have on hand a contract for tanning from the Government which will not be as profitable as our operations heretofore have been but it will be remunerative and [left edge] Maggie sends her love at the same time safe. If I can be of any service to you in investing your money let me know. I was informed at the VMI that there was a balance of $50 against you on the Treasurer's Book. I told the Supt. that I would settle it out of your funds. Maggie wrote lately to Mrs. Jackson something about your house. I cannot recollect any other business items.","I expect to leave home, day after tomorrow for the Gen. Assembly at Columbia. I go with the earnest wish and prayer that this the supreme council of our branch of the church may under the guidance of the Holy Spirit be able to devise something which will be operative in impregnating the institutions of our very nation with the spirit of vital Christianity. I cannot myself think of any new mode of attempting this. We have in operation all the agencies prescribed in the Gospel and if these are used in the spirit of the Gospel they will prove sufficient. But the real battle of the Church will begin when the national struggle is closed and Peace opens the flood gates through which will flow upon society the stream of evils generated by War. Profanity, Sabbath breaking, intemperance, idleness, lawlessness and general looseness of morals may be expected partly as the reactive influence of the scenes through which the entire youthful population of the land have been called to pass. Against all this the church must lift up her banners if would maintain her own. But instead of merely maintaining her own she does not make the reorganization of things the occasion of assuming an advanced position, will she be guiltless.\nDr. Palmer has replied to Dr. White who had communicated [illegible] about supplying the army with religious service. He does not express any very decided convictions upon the subject and looks to some action by the Gen. Assb. I trust it is a good Providence that has given to your corps Mr. Lacy.  Remember me warmly to him.","If you can make any suggestions touching church matters, write to me at Columbia Pres. Gen. Assembly. On business at Lex. If you wish anything done before I return Gilham or Fuller will attend to it for you. My love to your wife if she is still with you.\nYrs. Trly J. T. L. Preston.","July 4, 1889\nMy dear General and old-time comrade-\nFinis Opus Coronat\nThe crown of a worthy work is its successful completion.  How unspeakably precious is this crown, when the work is one's life work! No other work to be done, and therefore, no apprehension of failure in the future.","The proof of your work is twofold- first in rearing a noble structure upon its foundation and then in raising it from its ruins.  Testimony to this work is found in the annals of the state of Virginia, in the records of successive Boards of Visitors, by the voices and the lives of the Alumni who have gone forth from its walls, and by these words from him who is the sole surviving sharer of your labors from the founding of the V. M. I. to its semi-centennial Jubilee.","But best of all is the testimony of your own conscience, that you have never swerved from your purpose, nor spared yourself in your devotion to the object you had set before you.","With the many, various, and formidable obstacles you had to encounter I am familiar, but what other and unrevealed struggles were yours, none but yourself may ever know.","The crown of a completed work is yours.","But for all true and faithful followers of the Master there is another crown laid up – a crown of glory – a crown, not for the closing of this mortal life, but a crown for the opening of an immortal life – a crown to be worn forever!","May this crown, my old friend, be yours and mine!\nAnd for this hope let us united in saying – Laus Deo!\nAffectionately,\nJ. T. L. Preston\n1839-1889"],"originalsloc_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe original journal is located in the Library of Congress (John Thomas Lewis Preston MMC-1936; MSS94284).\u003c/p\u003e"],"originalsloc_heading_ssm":["Existence and Location of Originals"],"originalsloc_tesim":["The original journal is located in the Library of Congress (John Thomas Lewis Preston MMC-1936; MSS94284)."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn T. L. Preston papers, 1806-1889. MS 0240. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["John T. L. Preston papers, 1806-1889. MS 0240. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe John T. L. Preston papers consist of the personal papers of Preston, including:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA farm account book (1834-1887)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBills\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeeds\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMemoranda\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReceipts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCorrespondence\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA photocopy and transcription of Preston's Civil War journal (\"Jottings\"), which dates from his military service at Craney Island, Virginia from late July to October 1861. The original journal is held by the Library of Congress.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePreston's United States passport (May 1851)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFranklin Society membership certificate (1851)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA typescript \"brief historical sketch\" of VMI written as a speech for the Institute's semi-centennial celebration in 1889 (the typescript contains handwritten corrections in ink; Preston's son delivered the address on behalf of his father).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\nThe majority of the papers relate to Preston's personal, financial, and property (land) transactions and do not involve his work at VMI. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eA noteable item includes a letter (dated April 24 1863) to General Stonewall Jackson (to whom Preston was related by marriage) in which Preston discusses religious and financial matters.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003ePassport for John T. L. Preston.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Topics financial transactions affecting Stonewall Jackson, including the purchase of Confederate bonds and proceeds from sale of tannery. The letter also concerns religious matters, particularly the upcoming General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Columbia, South Carolina.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTypescript sketch written by John T. L. Preston. It was prepared at the request of the VMI Board of Visitors to mark the Institute's semicentennial celebration. Preston had planned to deliver this as an address, but he was not able to do so and it was read by his son Reverend Dr. T. L. Preston.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe sketch includes details about events leading to the establishment of VMI, including debates in the local Franklin Society and letters to the local newspaper written by Preston under the penname \"Cives\" in 1835.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eReprint in pamphlet form of letters written by John T. L. Preston to the Lexington (Virginia) Gazette in 1835, discussing the desirability of turning the local arsenal into a military college. Preston wrote these letters under the pen name \"Cives\" and these are often referred to as the \"Cives letters.\"  This pamphlet was issued in 1889 to mark VMI's semicentennial.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCopy and transcription of John T. L. Preston's journal, which he called \"Jottings.\" This journal was written during his military assignment at Craney Island, Virginia in the the summer and fall of 1861.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe journal relates to his activities while with the 9th Virginia Infantry Regiment under the command of VMI Superintendent Francis H. Smith. It includes comments on the cause of the Civil War, the defense of Norfolk, Virginia, military science, and family.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThis letter was written on the occasion of VMI's semicentennial celebration, in which John T. L. Preston reminiscences about Francis H. Smith's role in the founding and growth of VMI.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The John T. L. Preston papers consist of the personal papers of Preston, including:\n\nA farm account book (1834-1887)\nBills\nDeeds\nMemoranda\nReceipts\nCorrespondence\nA photocopy and transcription of Preston's Civil War journal (\"Jottings\"), which dates from his military service at Craney Island, Virginia from late July to October 1861. The original journal is held by the Library of Congress.\nPreston's United States passport (May 1851)\nFranklin Society membership certificate (1851)\nA typescript \"brief historical sketch\" of VMI written as a speech for the Institute's semi-centennial celebration in 1889 (the typescript contains handwritten corrections in ink; Preston's son delivered the address on behalf of his father).\n\nThe majority of the papers relate to Preston's personal, financial, and property (land) transactions and do not involve his work at VMI.","A noteable item includes a letter (dated April 24 1863) to General Stonewall Jackson (to whom Preston was related by marriage) in which Preston discusses religious and financial matters.","Passport for John T. L. Preston.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Topics financial transactions affecting Stonewall Jackson, including the purchase of Confederate bonds and proceeds from sale of tannery. The letter also concerns religious matters, particularly the upcoming General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Columbia, South Carolina.","Typescript sketch written by John T. L. Preston. It was prepared at the request of the VMI Board of Visitors to mark the Institute's semicentennial celebration. Preston had planned to deliver this as an address, but he was not able to do so and it was read by his son Reverend Dr. T. L. Preston.","The sketch includes details about events leading to the establishment of VMI, including debates in the local Franklin Society and letters to the local newspaper written by Preston under the penname \"Cives\" in 1835.","Reprint in pamphlet form of letters written by John T. L. Preston to the Lexington (Virginia) Gazette in 1835, discussing the desirability of turning the local arsenal into a military college. Preston wrote these letters under the pen name \"Cives\" and these are often referred to as the \"Cives letters.\"  This pamphlet was issued in 1889 to mark VMI's semicentennial.","Copy and transcription of John T. L. Preston's journal, which he called \"Jottings.\" This journal was written during his military assignment at Craney Island, Virginia in the the summer and fall of 1861.","The journal relates to his activities while with the 9th Virginia Infantry Regiment under the command of VMI Superintendent Francis H. Smith. It includes comments on the cause of the Civil War, the defense of Norfolk, Virginia, military science, and family.","This letter was written on the occasion of VMI's semicentennial celebration, in which John T. L. Preston reminiscences about Francis H. Smith's role in the founding and growth of VMI."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_381c5f8510d064f2b89dfdd78d5a613d\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Franklin Society and Library Company of Lexington (Lexington, VA)"],"persname_ssim":["Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890","Preston, Margaret Junkin, 1820-1897","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Crutchfield, Stapleton, 1835-1865"],"names_coll_ssim":["Preston, Margaret Junkin, 1820-1897","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Franklin Society and Library Company of Lexington (Lexington, VA)","Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890","Preston, Margaret Junkin, 1820-1897","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Crutchfield, Stapleton, 1835-1865"],"language_ssim":["English"],"total_component_count_is":7,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_322","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_322","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_322","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_322","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_322.xml","title_ssm":["John T. L. Preston papers"],"title_tesim":["John T. L. Preston papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1806-1889"],"unitdate_inclusive_ssm":["1806-1889"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1806/1889"],"normalized_title_ssm":["John T. L. Preston papers, 1806/1889"],"text":["John T. L. Preston papers, 1806/1889","MS.0240","/repositories/3/resources/322","Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—Biography","Account Books","Receipts (financial records)","Correspondence","Memorabilia","Certificates","Financial records","Speeches, Addresses, etc.","There are no restrictions.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","John Thomas Lewis Preston (1811-1890) was one of the founders of VMI. He served at VMI as a member of the first Board of Visitors (1839) and as a Professor of Modern Languages from 1839 to 1875. During the Civil War he was on the staff of General Stonewall Jackson.","Lexington April 28, 1863","Dr General,\nAccording to your direction I have purchased for you $2700 of 8 prct [percent] Confed. Bonds. This leaves a small balance to your credit. The bonds are deposited in the Bank of Rockbridge.","Our tannery has been very prosperous. I have not deemed it necessary to write to you about it hitherto. But now I have to say that the concern will be ready to pay over to you in a few weeks, as your share of the profits from ten to fifteen thousand dollars ($10,000 - 15,000). We have on hand a contract for tanning from the Government which will not be as profitable as our operations heretofore have been but it will be remunerative and [left edge] Maggie sends her love at the same time safe. If I can be of any service to you in investing your money let me know. I was informed at the VMI that there was a balance of $50 against you on the Treasurer's Book. I told the Supt. that I would settle it out of your funds. Maggie wrote lately to Mrs. Jackson something about your house. I cannot recollect any other business items.","I expect to leave home, day after tomorrow for the Gen. Assembly at Columbia. I go with the earnest wish and prayer that this the supreme council of our branch of the church may under the guidance of the Holy Spirit be able to devise something which will be operative in impregnating the institutions of our very nation with the spirit of vital Christianity. I cannot myself think of any new mode of attempting this. We have in operation all the agencies prescribed in the Gospel and if these are used in the spirit of the Gospel they will prove sufficient. But the real battle of the Church will begin when the national struggle is closed and Peace opens the flood gates through which will flow upon society the stream of evils generated by War. Profanity, Sabbath breaking, intemperance, idleness, lawlessness and general looseness of morals may be expected partly as the reactive influence of the scenes through which the entire youthful population of the land have been called to pass. Against all this the church must lift up her banners if would maintain her own. But instead of merely maintaining her own she does not make the reorganization of things the occasion of assuming an advanced position, will she be guiltless.\nDr. Palmer has replied to Dr. White who had communicated [illegible] about supplying the army with religious service. He does not express any very decided convictions upon the subject and looks to some action by the Gen. Assb. I trust it is a good Providence that has given to your corps Mr. Lacy.  Remember me warmly to him.","If you can make any suggestions touching church matters, write to me at Columbia Pres. Gen. Assembly. On business at Lex. If you wish anything done before I return Gilham or Fuller will attend to it for you. My love to your wife if she is still with you.\nYrs. Trly J. T. L. Preston.","July 4, 1889\nMy dear General and old-time comrade-\nFinis Opus Coronat\nThe crown of a worthy work is its successful completion.  How unspeakably precious is this crown, when the work is one's life work! No other work to be done, and therefore, no apprehension of failure in the future.","The proof of your work is twofold- first in rearing a noble structure upon its foundation and then in raising it from its ruins.  Testimony to this work is found in the annals of the state of Virginia, in the records of successive Boards of Visitors, by the voices and the lives of the Alumni who have gone forth from its walls, and by these words from him who is the sole surviving sharer of your labors from the founding of the V. M. I. to its semi-centennial Jubilee.","But best of all is the testimony of your own conscience, that you have never swerved from your purpose, nor spared yourself in your devotion to the object you had set before you.","With the many, various, and formidable obstacles you had to encounter I am familiar, but what other and unrevealed struggles were yours, none but yourself may ever know.","The crown of a completed work is yours.","But for all true and faithful followers of the Master there is another crown laid up – a crown of glory – a crown, not for the closing of this mortal life, but a crown for the opening of an immortal life – a crown to be worn forever!","May this crown, my old friend, be yours and mine!\nAnd for this hope let us united in saying – Laus Deo!\nAffectionately,\nJ. T. L. Preston\n1839-1889","The original journal is located in the Library of Congress (John Thomas Lewis Preston MMC-1936; MSS94284).","The John T. L. Preston papers consist of the personal papers of Preston, including:\n\nA farm account book (1834-1887)\nBills\nDeeds\nMemoranda\nReceipts\nCorrespondence\nA photocopy and transcription of Preston's Civil War journal (\"Jottings\"), which dates from his military service at Craney Island, Virginia from late July to October 1861. The original journal is held by the Library of Congress.\nPreston's United States passport (May 1851)\nFranklin Society membership certificate (1851)\nA typescript \"brief historical sketch\" of VMI written as a speech for the Institute's semi-centennial celebration in 1889 (the typescript contains handwritten corrections in ink; Preston's son delivered the address on behalf of his father).\n\nThe majority of the papers relate to Preston's personal, financial, and property (land) transactions and do not involve his work at VMI.","A noteable item includes a letter (dated April 24 1863) to General Stonewall Jackson (to whom Preston was related by marriage) in which Preston discusses religious and financial matters.","Passport for John T. L. Preston.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Topics financial transactions affecting Stonewall Jackson, including the purchase of Confederate bonds and proceeds from sale of tannery. The letter also concerns religious matters, particularly the upcoming General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Columbia, South Carolina.","Typescript sketch written by John T. L. Preston. It was prepared at the request of the VMI Board of Visitors to mark the Institute's semicentennial celebration. Preston had planned to deliver this as an address, but he was not able to do so and it was read by his son Reverend Dr. T. L. Preston.","The sketch includes details about events leading to the establishment of VMI, including debates in the local Franklin Society and letters to the local newspaper written by Preston under the penname \"Cives\" in 1835.","Reprint in pamphlet form of letters written by John T. L. Preston to the Lexington (Virginia) Gazette in 1835, discussing the desirability of turning the local arsenal into a military college. Preston wrote these letters under the pen name \"Cives\" and these are often referred to as the \"Cives letters.\"  This pamphlet was issued in 1889 to mark VMI's semicentennial.","Copy and transcription of John T. L. Preston's journal, which he called \"Jottings.\" This journal was written during his military assignment at Craney Island, Virginia in the the summer and fall of 1861.","The journal relates to his activities while with the 9th Virginia Infantry Regiment under the command of VMI Superintendent Francis H. Smith. It includes comments on the cause of the Civil War, the defense of Norfolk, Virginia, military science, and family.","This letter was written on the occasion of VMI's semicentennial celebration, in which John T. L. Preston reminiscences about Francis H. Smith's role in the founding and growth of VMI.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Franklin Society and Library Company of Lexington (Lexington, VA)","Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890","Preston, Margaret Junkin, 1820-1897","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Crutchfield, Stapleton, 1835-1865","English"],"collection_title_tesim":["John T. L. Preston papers, 1806/1889"],"collection_ssim":["John T. L. Preston papers, 1806/1889"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0240","/repositories/3/resources/322"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0240","/repositories/3/resources/322"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890"],"creator_ssim":["Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890","Preston, Margaret Junkin, 1820-1897","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Smith, Francis H. 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The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access","Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn Thomas Lewis Preston (1811-1890) was one of the founders of VMI. He served at VMI as a member of the first Board of Visitors (1839) and as a Professor of Modern Languages from 1839 to 1875. During the Civil War he was on the staff of General Stonewall Jackson.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["John Thomas Lewis Preston (1811-1890) was one of the founders of VMI. He served at VMI as a member of the first Board of Visitors (1839) and as a Professor of Modern Languages from 1839 to 1875. During the Civil War he was on the staff of General Stonewall Jackson."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eLexington April 28, 1863\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eDr General,\u003cbr\u003e\nAccording to your direction I have purchased for you $2700 of 8 prct [percent] Confed. Bonds. This leaves a small balance to your credit. The bonds are deposited in the Bank of Rockbridge.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur tannery has been very prosperous. I have not deemed it necessary to write to you about it hitherto. But now I have to say that the concern will be ready to pay over to you in a few weeks, as your share of the profits from ten to fifteen thousand dollars ($10,000 - 15,000). We have on hand a contract for tanning from the Government which will not be as profitable as our operations heretofore have been but it will be remunerative and [left edge] Maggie sends her love at the same time safe. If I can be of any service to you in investing your money let me know. I was informed at the VMI that there was a balance of $50 against you on the Treasurer's Book. I told the Supt. that I would settle it out of your funds. Maggie wrote lately to Mrs. Jackson something about your house. I cannot recollect any other business items.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI expect to leave home, day after tomorrow for the Gen. Assembly at Columbia. I go with the earnest wish and prayer that this the supreme council of our branch of the church may under the guidance of the Holy Spirit be able to devise something which will be operative in impregnating the institutions of our very nation with the spirit of vital Christianity. I cannot myself think of any new mode of attempting this. We have in operation all the agencies prescribed in the Gospel and if these are used in the spirit of the Gospel they will prove sufficient. But the real battle of the Church will begin when the national struggle is closed and Peace opens the flood gates through which will flow upon society the stream of evils generated by War. Profanity, Sabbath breaking, intemperance, idleness, lawlessness and general looseness of morals may be expected partly as the reactive influence of the scenes through which the entire youthful population of the land have been called to pass. Against all this the church must lift up her banners if would maintain her own. But instead of merely maintaining her own she does not make the reorganization of things the occasion of assuming an advanced position, will she be guiltless.\nDr. Palmer has replied to Dr. White who had communicated [illegible] about supplying the army with religious service. He does not express any very decided convictions upon the subject and looks to some action by the Gen. Assb. I trust it is a good Providence that has given to your corps Mr. Lacy.  Remember me warmly to him.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eIf you can make any suggestions touching church matters, write to me at Columbia Pres. Gen. Assembly. On business at Lex. If you wish anything done before I return Gilham or Fuller will attend to it for you. My love to your wife if she is still with you.\u003cbr\u003e\nYrs. Trly J. T. L. Preston.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eJuly 4, 1889\u003cbr\u003e\nMy dear General and old-time comrade-\u003cbr\u003e\nFinis Opus Coronat\u003cbr\u003e\nThe crown of a worthy work is its successful completion.  How unspeakably precious is this crown, when the work is one's life work! No other work to be done, and therefore, no apprehension of failure in the future.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe proof of your work is twofold- first in rearing a noble structure upon its foundation and then in raising it from its ruins.  Testimony to this work is found in the annals of the state of Virginia, in the records of successive Boards of Visitors, by the voices and the lives of the Alumni who have gone forth from its walls, and by these words from him who is the sole surviving sharer of your labors from the founding of the V. M. I. to its semi-centennial Jubilee.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBut best of all is the testimony of your own conscience, that you have never swerved from your purpose, nor spared yourself in your devotion to the object you had set before you.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWith the many, various, and formidable obstacles you had to encounter I am familiar, but what other and unrevealed struggles were yours, none but yourself may ever know.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe crown of a completed work is yours.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eBut for all true and faithful followers of the Master there is another crown laid up – a crown of glory – a crown, not for the closing of this mortal life, but a crown for the opening of an immortal life – a crown to be worn forever!\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMay this crown, my old friend, be yours and mine!\u003cbr\u003e\nAnd for this hope let us united in saying – Laus Deo!\u003cbr\u003e\nAffectionately,\u003cbr\u003e\nJ. T. L. Preston\u003cbr\u003e\n1839-1889\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription","Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Lexington April 28, 1863","Dr General,\nAccording to your direction I have purchased for you $2700 of 8 prct [percent] Confed. Bonds. This leaves a small balance to your credit. The bonds are deposited in the Bank of Rockbridge.","Our tannery has been very prosperous. I have not deemed it necessary to write to you about it hitherto. But now I have to say that the concern will be ready to pay over to you in a few weeks, as your share of the profits from ten to fifteen thousand dollars ($10,000 - 15,000). We have on hand a contract for tanning from the Government which will not be as profitable as our operations heretofore have been but it will be remunerative and [left edge] Maggie sends her love at the same time safe. If I can be of any service to you in investing your money let me know. I was informed at the VMI that there was a balance of $50 against you on the Treasurer's Book. I told the Supt. that I would settle it out of your funds. Maggie wrote lately to Mrs. Jackson something about your house. I cannot recollect any other business items.","I expect to leave home, day after tomorrow for the Gen. Assembly at Columbia. I go with the earnest wish and prayer that this the supreme council of our branch of the church may under the guidance of the Holy Spirit be able to devise something which will be operative in impregnating the institutions of our very nation with the spirit of vital Christianity. I cannot myself think of any new mode of attempting this. We have in operation all the agencies prescribed in the Gospel and if these are used in the spirit of the Gospel they will prove sufficient. But the real battle of the Church will begin when the national struggle is closed and Peace opens the flood gates through which will flow upon society the stream of evils generated by War. Profanity, Sabbath breaking, intemperance, idleness, lawlessness and general looseness of morals may be expected partly as the reactive influence of the scenes through which the entire youthful population of the land have been called to pass. Against all this the church must lift up her banners if would maintain her own. But instead of merely maintaining her own she does not make the reorganization of things the occasion of assuming an advanced position, will she be guiltless.\nDr. Palmer has replied to Dr. White who had communicated [illegible] about supplying the army with religious service. He does not express any very decided convictions upon the subject and looks to some action by the Gen. Assb. I trust it is a good Providence that has given to your corps Mr. Lacy.  Remember me warmly to him.","If you can make any suggestions touching church matters, write to me at Columbia Pres. Gen. Assembly. On business at Lex. If you wish anything done before I return Gilham or Fuller will attend to it for you. My love to your wife if she is still with you.\nYrs. Trly J. T. L. Preston.","July 4, 1889\nMy dear General and old-time comrade-\nFinis Opus Coronat\nThe crown of a worthy work is its successful completion.  How unspeakably precious is this crown, when the work is one's life work! No other work to be done, and therefore, no apprehension of failure in the future.","The proof of your work is twofold- first in rearing a noble structure upon its foundation and then in raising it from its ruins.  Testimony to this work is found in the annals of the state of Virginia, in the records of successive Boards of Visitors, by the voices and the lives of the Alumni who have gone forth from its walls, and by these words from him who is the sole surviving sharer of your labors from the founding of the V. M. I. to its semi-centennial Jubilee.","But best of all is the testimony of your own conscience, that you have never swerved from your purpose, nor spared yourself in your devotion to the object you had set before you.","With the many, various, and formidable obstacles you had to encounter I am familiar, but what other and unrevealed struggles were yours, none but yourself may ever know.","The crown of a completed work is yours.","But for all true and faithful followers of the Master there is another crown laid up – a crown of glory – a crown, not for the closing of this mortal life, but a crown for the opening of an immortal life – a crown to be worn forever!","May this crown, my old friend, be yours and mine!\nAnd for this hope let us united in saying – Laus Deo!\nAffectionately,\nJ. T. L. Preston\n1839-1889"],"originalsloc_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe original journal is located in the Library of Congress (John Thomas Lewis Preston MMC-1936; MSS94284).\u003c/p\u003e"],"originalsloc_heading_ssm":["Existence and Location of Originals"],"originalsloc_tesim":["The original journal is located in the Library of Congress (John Thomas Lewis Preston MMC-1936; MSS94284)."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eJohn T. L. Preston papers, 1806-1889. MS 0240. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["John T. L. Preston papers, 1806-1889. MS 0240. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe John T. L. Preston papers consist of the personal papers of Preston, including:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA farm account book (1834-1887)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBills\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDeeds\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMemoranda\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReceipts\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCorrespondence\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA photocopy and transcription of Preston's Civil War journal (\"Jottings\"), which dates from his military service at Craney Island, Virginia from late July to October 1861. The original journal is held by the Library of Congress.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePreston's United States passport (May 1851)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFranklin Society membership certificate (1851)\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA typescript \"brief historical sketch\" of VMI written as a speech for the Institute's semi-centennial celebration in 1889 (the typescript contains handwritten corrections in ink; Preston's son delivered the address on behalf of his father).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\nThe majority of the papers relate to Preston's personal, financial, and property (land) transactions and do not involve his work at VMI. \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eA noteable item includes a letter (dated April 24 1863) to General Stonewall Jackson (to whom Preston was related by marriage) in which Preston discusses religious and financial matters.\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003ePassport for John T. L. Preston.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eWritten from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Topics financial transactions affecting Stonewall Jackson, including the purchase of Confederate bonds and proceeds from sale of tannery. The letter also concerns religious matters, particularly the upcoming General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Columbia, South Carolina.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTypescript sketch written by John T. L. Preston. It was prepared at the request of the VMI Board of Visitors to mark the Institute's semicentennial celebration. Preston had planned to deliver this as an address, but he was not able to do so and it was read by his son Reverend Dr. T. L. Preston.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe sketch includes details about events leading to the establishment of VMI, including debates in the local Franklin Society and letters to the local newspaper written by Preston under the penname \"Cives\" in 1835.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eReprint in pamphlet form of letters written by John T. L. Preston to the Lexington (Virginia) Gazette in 1835, discussing the desirability of turning the local arsenal into a military college. Preston wrote these letters under the pen name \"Cives\" and these are often referred to as the \"Cives letters.\"  This pamphlet was issued in 1889 to mark VMI's semicentennial.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eCopy and transcription of John T. L. Preston's journal, which he called \"Jottings.\" This journal was written during his military assignment at Craney Island, Virginia in the the summer and fall of 1861.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe journal relates to his activities while with the 9th Virginia Infantry Regiment under the command of VMI Superintendent Francis H. Smith. It includes comments on the cause of the Civil War, the defense of Norfolk, Virginia, military science, and family.  \u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThis letter was written on the occasion of VMI's semicentennial celebration, in which John T. L. Preston reminiscences about Francis H. Smith's role in the founding and growth of VMI.\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The John T. L. Preston papers consist of the personal papers of Preston, including:\n\nA farm account book (1834-1887)\nBills\nDeeds\nMemoranda\nReceipts\nCorrespondence\nA photocopy and transcription of Preston's Civil War journal (\"Jottings\"), which dates from his military service at Craney Island, Virginia from late July to October 1861. The original journal is held by the Library of Congress.\nPreston's United States passport (May 1851)\nFranklin Society membership certificate (1851)\nA typescript \"brief historical sketch\" of VMI written as a speech for the Institute's semi-centennial celebration in 1889 (the typescript contains handwritten corrections in ink; Preston's son delivered the address on behalf of his father).\n\nThe majority of the papers relate to Preston's personal, financial, and property (land) transactions and do not involve his work at VMI.","A noteable item includes a letter (dated April 24 1863) to General Stonewall Jackson (to whom Preston was related by marriage) in which Preston discusses religious and financial matters.","Passport for John T. L. Preston.","Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Topics financial transactions affecting Stonewall Jackson, including the purchase of Confederate bonds and proceeds from sale of tannery. The letter also concerns religious matters, particularly the upcoming General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Columbia, South Carolina.","Typescript sketch written by John T. L. Preston. It was prepared at the request of the VMI Board of Visitors to mark the Institute's semicentennial celebration. Preston had planned to deliver this as an address, but he was not able to do so and it was read by his son Reverend Dr. T. L. Preston.","The sketch includes details about events leading to the establishment of VMI, including debates in the local Franklin Society and letters to the local newspaper written by Preston under the penname \"Cives\" in 1835.","Reprint in pamphlet form of letters written by John T. L. Preston to the Lexington (Virginia) Gazette in 1835, discussing the desirability of turning the local arsenal into a military college. Preston wrote these letters under the pen name \"Cives\" and these are often referred to as the \"Cives letters.\"  This pamphlet was issued in 1889 to mark VMI's semicentennial.","Copy and transcription of John T. L. Preston's journal, which he called \"Jottings.\" This journal was written during his military assignment at Craney Island, Virginia in the the summer and fall of 1861.","The journal relates to his activities while with the 9th Virginia Infantry Regiment under the command of VMI Superintendent Francis H. Smith. It includes comments on the cause of the Civil War, the defense of Norfolk, Virginia, military science, and family.","This letter was written on the occasion of VMI's semicentennial celebration, in which John T. L. Preston reminiscences about Francis H. Smith's role in the founding and growth of VMI."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_381c5f8510d064f2b89dfdd78d5a613d\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Franklin Society and Library Company of Lexington (Lexington, VA)"],"persname_ssim":["Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890","Preston, Margaret Junkin, 1820-1897","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Crutchfield, Stapleton, 1835-1865"],"names_coll_ssim":["Preston, Margaret Junkin, 1820-1897","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Franklin Society and Library Company of Lexington (Lexington, VA)","Preston, John T. L. (John Thomas Lewis), 1811-1890","Preston, Margaret Junkin, 1820-1897","Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Crutchfield, Stapleton, 1835-1865"],"language_ssim":["English"],"total_component_count_is":7,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:54.976Z"}]}},"label":"Breadcrumbs"}}},"links":{"self":"https://search.arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_322"}},{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_145","type":"collection","attributes":{"title":"Valentine C. Saunders papers, 1839/1866","creator":{"id":"https://search.arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_145#creator","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"Saunders, Valentine C. (Valentine Cook), 1820-1894","label":"Creator"}},"abstract_or_scope":{"id":"https://search.arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_145#abstract_or_scope","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":"\u003cp\u003eThe Valentine C. Saunders papers consist of one letter from Cadet Saunders to his parents. This letter is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following: \u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArsenal\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRelationship with Washington College\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMethod of instruction\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCourse of studies\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H. Smith.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e The papers also contain Saunders' copy of a published address by Francis H. Smith titled \"The Inner Life of the VMI Cadet\" (1866).\u003c/p\u003e","label":"Abstract Or Scope"}},"breadcrumbs":{"id":"https://search.arvasarchive.org/catalog/vilxv_repositories_3_resources_145#breadcrumbs","type":"document_value","attributes":{"value":{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_145","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_145","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_145","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_145","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_145.xml","title_ssm":["Valentine C. Saunders papers"],"title_tesim":["Valentine C. Saunders papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1839-1866"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1839-1866"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1839/1866"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Valentine C. Saunders papers, 1839/1866"],"text":["Valentine C. Saunders papers, 1839/1866","MS.0071","/repositories/3/resources/145","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1842","Washington and Lee University—History","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1830-1839","Correspondence","Speeches, Addresses, etc.","There are no restrictions.","Valentine Cook Saunders was born on November 15, 1820 in Leesburg, Virginia to Everitt Saunders and Susan Bashaw. He entered VMI on November 11, 1839 and graduated on July 4, 1842, standing 12th of 16 graduates. After graduation, he began a career as a teacher, which he continued until his death on December 21, 1894, in Leesburg.","Virginia Military Institute\nNov. 30, 1839\nDear Father and Mother","I received your letter of the 21st yesterday, being the first I have got since I left home, and you may be sure it gave me much pleasure. I have just returned from exploring the dusky halls of the old Arsenal. There are deposited in this arsenal at which we are stationed fifty six thousand stand of arms including a vast number of old rifles, muskets, pistols, and dragoon swords. The value of the whole is estimated at about seven hundred thousand dollars so you see we have great responsibility resting upon us for this property is confided to our immediate care.","The method of instruction pursued in this Institute is the best and most efficient that could be possibly adopted. The leisure hours are from breakfast till 9 oclock, from twelve till two, from 4 till supper. There are 4 assigned to each room to pursue their respective studies to themselves; at a particular hour we are marched in squads at the beat of the drum to the recitation room where we are examined individually by Major Smith in the presence of the whole corps to see what progress we have made in our studies. If he finds us deficient in the least we get a mark of demerit besides requiring us to recite the same lesson next morning; his course of instruction is conducted on the [Peohloggian] system, by interrogating us on the particular branch we have been studying and requiring us to demonstrate it on the blackboard put up in the recitation room for that purpose.","Major Smith the principal Professor is a man of the nicest discrimination and shrewdness I ever knew. I will defy anyone to fool or dupe him, for one can't get along here otherwise than doing his duty. He is very polite and kind to the cadets but keeps them at a respective distance as is necessary in such a place this.","I have been particularly fortunate since I have been here. The third night after I came here I was appointed seargeant of the Guard and of course have not acted as sentinel one night since I entered upon duty. My service is to visit the sentinel at stated times in the night to see that he does his duty and don't sleep on post, to make off my report in the morning and present it to the Major for inspection.","I am among an excellent set of fellows. There appears to exist in the breast of every Virginian a homogeneous feeling that prompts them to treat each other like brothers and adapts them to each others company. I never saw so much kind feelings, sociability as are here among these cadets. No ill feeling or discord has occurred among them since we have been together.","I was introduced to Gen. Bernard B. Peyton the other day who told me he had known many of the family, particularly cousin James with whom he had served during the late war. He spoke in the highest terms of him as an officer and made very particular inquiries about his family.","The Corps of Cadets is increased to fifty by an accession from Washington College, each one in full uniform. We are drilled every day by the Major who is making every exertion to qualify us for a display on the 22d of February being Washington's Birthday. Our present course of instruction includes Algebra and French. Algebra is the most important part of Mathematics as it facilitates the acquisition and operations of all the succeeding branches of the Mathematics. In this department we have made great proficiency under the superior guidance and management of our able Professor Francis H. Smith. We also progress rapidly in the study of French under the instruction of Mr. Preston, Professor of Languages. He is an accomplished scholar and gentleman, treats us with the utmost politeness and kindness and is well qualified to discharge the duties in the department which he has the honor to fill.","Our service here is very hard especially those that do not act in the capacity of Sergeant and Corporals for their duty is nothing in comparison to the sentinel. There is appointed a guard every night by the officer of the day, one seargeant, one corporal, 3 privates constitute the guard for the night. It is mounted a 6 oclock P.M. and continued throughout the night in rotation, 2 hours allotted to each sentinel till the revilee proclaims the dawn of day. They are then discharged. No weather will excuse the sentinel from performing his duty.","I was sorry to hear that [brother] was returned again to Florida after suffering so much during his campaign last winter in that detestable county, but it was an office of his own seeking therefore he must submit to all the privations and dangers incidental to the life of a soldier. I wish him all the success in the world and a happy escape from the fatigues and dangers attendant upon a Florida campaign. Let me know about him when you write again (and send the chronicle). Your letter contained very unexpected news of the death of Mr. Peck. When I saw him last he was walking the streets of Leesburg in apparent health, but such is the uncertainty of life no situation or circumstance can exempt us from death. Let it be what it may we must go the way of all the earth sooner or later. I truly pity his large and helpless family left behind.","Tell mother I wish her to look in the Book case and get my Spanish Grammar and lock it up in her side board drawer for me. I shall want it if I ever get home. We can't see home under two years. If I can possibly get home before that time I will. Don't forget the chronicle. I never hear any Florida news at this place. Mother must write to me soon. Tell Uncle Raney I received a short letter from him this morning and will answer it as soon as I can. I have but little time to spare at this place but will write as often as I can. Tell me of John Wildman--what is he doing in Leesburg--now I wish he was here. Give my love to all at home and except the same yourselves.\nYours affectionately, V.C. Saunders.","The Valentine C. Saunders papers consist of one letter from Cadet Saunders to his parents. This letter is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following:\n\nArsenal\nRelationship with Washington College\nMethod of instruction\nCourse of studies\nAn opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H. Smith.\nThe papers also contain Saunders' copy of a published address by Francis H. Smith titled \"The Inner Life of the VMI Cadet\" (1866).","This letter from cadet Valentine C. Saunders to his parents is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following:\n\nArsenal\nRelationship with Washington College\nMethod of instruction\nCourse of studies\nAn opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H. Smith.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Saunders, Valentine C. (Valentine Cook), 1820-1894","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Valentine C. Saunders papers, 1839/1866"],"collection_ssim":["Valentine C. Saunders papers, 1839/1866"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0071","/repositories/3/resources/145"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0071","/repositories/3/resources/145"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Saunders, Valentine C. (Valentine Cook), 1820-1894"],"creator_ssim":["Saunders, Valentine C. (Valentine Cook), 1820-1894"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Saunders, Valentine C. (Valentine Cook), 1820-1894","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Saunders, Valentine C. (Valentine Cook), 1820-1894","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1842","Washington and Lee University—History","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1830-1839","Correspondence","Speeches, Addresses, etc."],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1842","Washington and Lee University—History","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1830-1839","Correspondence","Speeches, Addresses, etc."],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["2 items"],"extent_tesim":["2 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence","Speeches, Addresses, etc."],"date_range_isim":[1839,1840,1841,1842,1843,1844,1845,1846,1847,1848,1849,1850,1851,1852,1853,1854,1855,1856,1857,1858,1859,1860,1861,1862,1863,1864,1865,1866],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eValentine Cook Saunders was born on November 15, 1820 in Leesburg, Virginia to Everitt Saunders and Susan Bashaw. He entered VMI on November 11, 1839 and graduated on July 4, 1842, standing 12th of 16 graduates. After graduation, he began a career as a teacher, which he continued until his death on December 21, 1894, in Leesburg.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Valentine Cook Saunders was born on November 15, 1820 in Leesburg, Virginia to Everitt Saunders and Susan Bashaw. He entered VMI on November 11, 1839 and graduated on July 4, 1842, standing 12th of 16 graduates. After graduation, he began a career as a teacher, which he continued until his death on December 21, 1894, in Leesburg."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nNov. 30, 1839\u003cbr\u003e\nDear Father and Mother\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI received your letter of the 21st yesterday, being the first I have got since I left home, and you may be sure it gave me much pleasure. I have just returned from exploring the dusky halls of the old Arsenal. There are deposited in this arsenal at which we are stationed fifty six thousand stand of arms including a vast number of old rifles, muskets, pistols, and dragoon swords. The value of the whole is estimated at about seven hundred thousand dollars so you see we have great responsibility resting upon us for this property is confided to our immediate care.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe method of instruction pursued in this Institute is the best and most efficient that could be possibly adopted. The leisure hours are from breakfast till 9 oclock, from twelve till two, from 4 till supper. There are 4 assigned to each room to pursue their respective studies to themselves; at a particular hour we are marched in squads at the beat of the drum to the recitation room where we are examined individually by Major Smith in the presence of the whole corps to see what progress we have made in our studies. If he finds us deficient in the least we get a mark of demerit besides requiring us to recite the same lesson next morning; his course of instruction is conducted on the [Peohloggian] system, by interrogating us on the particular branch we have been studying and requiring us to demonstrate it on the blackboard put up in the recitation room for that purpose.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMajor Smith the principal Professor is a man of the nicest discrimination and shrewdness I ever knew. I will defy anyone to fool or dupe him, for one can't get along here otherwise than doing his duty. He is very polite and kind to the cadets but keeps them at a respective distance as is necessary in such a place this.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been particularly fortunate since I have been here. The third night after I came here I was appointed seargeant of the Guard and of course have not acted as sentinel one night since I entered upon duty. My service is to visit the sentinel at stated times in the night to see that he does his duty and don't sleep on post, to make off my report in the morning and present it to the Major for inspection.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am among an excellent set of fellows. There appears to exist in the breast of every Virginian a homogeneous feeling that prompts them to treat each other like brothers and adapts them to each others company. I never saw so much kind feelings, sociability as are here among these cadets. No ill feeling or discord has occurred among them since we have been together.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI was introduced to Gen. Bernard B. Peyton the other day who told me he had known many of the family, particularly cousin James with whom he had served during the late war. He spoke in the highest terms of him as an officer and made very particular inquiries about his family.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe Corps of Cadets is increased to fifty by an accession from Washington College, each one in full uniform. We are drilled every day by the Major who is making every exertion to qualify us for a display on the 22d of February being Washington's Birthday. Our present course of instruction includes Algebra and French. Algebra is the most important part of Mathematics as it facilitates the acquisition and operations of all the succeeding branches of the Mathematics. In this department we have made great proficiency under the superior guidance and management of our able Professor Francis H. Smith. We also progress rapidly in the study of French under the instruction of Mr. Preston, Professor of Languages. He is an accomplished scholar and gentleman, treats us with the utmost politeness and kindness and is well qualified to discharge the duties in the department which he has the honor to fill.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur service here is very hard especially those that do not act in the capacity of Sergeant and Corporals for their duty is nothing in comparison to the sentinel. There is appointed a guard every night by the officer of the day, one seargeant, one corporal, 3 privates constitute the guard for the night. It is mounted a 6 oclock P.M. and continued throughout the night in rotation, 2 hours allotted to each sentinel till the revilee proclaims the dawn of day. They are then discharged. No weather will excuse the sentinel from performing his duty.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI was sorry to hear that [brother] was returned again to Florida after suffering so much during his campaign last winter in that detestable county, but it was an office of his own seeking therefore he must submit to all the privations and dangers incidental to the life of a soldier. I wish him all the success in the world and a happy escape from the fatigues and dangers attendant upon a Florida campaign. Let me know about him when you write again (and send the chronicle). Your letter contained very unexpected news of the death of Mr. Peck. When I saw him last he was walking the streets of Leesburg in apparent health, but such is the uncertainty of life no situation or circumstance can exempt us from death. Let it be what it may we must go the way of all the earth sooner or later. I truly pity his large and helpless family left behind.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell mother I wish her to look in the Book case and get my Spanish Grammar and lock it up in her side board drawer for me. I shall want it if I ever get home. We can't see home under two years. If I can possibly get home before that time I will. Don't forget the chronicle. I never hear any Florida news at this place. Mother must write to me soon. Tell Uncle Raney I received a short letter from him this morning and will answer it as soon as I can. I have but little time to spare at this place but will write as often as I can. Tell me of John Wildman--what is he doing in Leesburg--now I wish he was here. Give my love to all at home and except the same yourselves.\u003cbr\u003e\nYours affectionately, V.C. Saunders.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Virginia Military Institute\nNov. 30, 1839\nDear Father and Mother","I received your letter of the 21st yesterday, being the first I have got since I left home, and you may be sure it gave me much pleasure. I have just returned from exploring the dusky halls of the old Arsenal. There are deposited in this arsenal at which we are stationed fifty six thousand stand of arms including a vast number of old rifles, muskets, pistols, and dragoon swords. The value of the whole is estimated at about seven hundred thousand dollars so you see we have great responsibility resting upon us for this property is confided to our immediate care.","The method of instruction pursued in this Institute is the best and most efficient that could be possibly adopted. The leisure hours are from breakfast till 9 oclock, from twelve till two, from 4 till supper. There are 4 assigned to each room to pursue their respective studies to themselves; at a particular hour we are marched in squads at the beat of the drum to the recitation room where we are examined individually by Major Smith in the presence of the whole corps to see what progress we have made in our studies. If he finds us deficient in the least we get a mark of demerit besides requiring us to recite the same lesson next morning; his course of instruction is conducted on the [Peohloggian] system, by interrogating us on the particular branch we have been studying and requiring us to demonstrate it on the blackboard put up in the recitation room for that purpose.","Major Smith the principal Professor is a man of the nicest discrimination and shrewdness I ever knew. I will defy anyone to fool or dupe him, for one can't get along here otherwise than doing his duty. He is very polite and kind to the cadets but keeps them at a respective distance as is necessary in such a place this.","I have been particularly fortunate since I have been here. The third night after I came here I was appointed seargeant of the Guard and of course have not acted as sentinel one night since I entered upon duty. My service is to visit the sentinel at stated times in the night to see that he does his duty and don't sleep on post, to make off my report in the morning and present it to the Major for inspection.","I am among an excellent set of fellows. There appears to exist in the breast of every Virginian a homogeneous feeling that prompts them to treat each other like brothers and adapts them to each others company. I never saw so much kind feelings, sociability as are here among these cadets. No ill feeling or discord has occurred among them since we have been together.","I was introduced to Gen. Bernard B. Peyton the other day who told me he had known many of the family, particularly cousin James with whom he had served during the late war. He spoke in the highest terms of him as an officer and made very particular inquiries about his family.","The Corps of Cadets is increased to fifty by an accession from Washington College, each one in full uniform. We are drilled every day by the Major who is making every exertion to qualify us for a display on the 22d of February being Washington's Birthday. Our present course of instruction includes Algebra and French. Algebra is the most important part of Mathematics as it facilitates the acquisition and operations of all the succeeding branches of the Mathematics. In this department we have made great proficiency under the superior guidance and management of our able Professor Francis H. Smith. We also progress rapidly in the study of French under the instruction of Mr. Preston, Professor of Languages. He is an accomplished scholar and gentleman, treats us with the utmost politeness and kindness and is well qualified to discharge the duties in the department which he has the honor to fill.","Our service here is very hard especially those that do not act in the capacity of Sergeant and Corporals for their duty is nothing in comparison to the sentinel. There is appointed a guard every night by the officer of the day, one seargeant, one corporal, 3 privates constitute the guard for the night. It is mounted a 6 oclock P.M. and continued throughout the night in rotation, 2 hours allotted to each sentinel till the revilee proclaims the dawn of day. They are then discharged. No weather will excuse the sentinel from performing his duty.","I was sorry to hear that [brother] was returned again to Florida after suffering so much during his campaign last winter in that detestable county, but it was an office of his own seeking therefore he must submit to all the privations and dangers incidental to the life of a soldier. I wish him all the success in the world and a happy escape from the fatigues and dangers attendant upon a Florida campaign. Let me know about him when you write again (and send the chronicle). Your letter contained very unexpected news of the death of Mr. Peck. When I saw him last he was walking the streets of Leesburg in apparent health, but such is the uncertainty of life no situation or circumstance can exempt us from death. Let it be what it may we must go the way of all the earth sooner or later. I truly pity his large and helpless family left behind.","Tell mother I wish her to look in the Book case and get my Spanish Grammar and lock it up in her side board drawer for me. I shall want it if I ever get home. We can't see home under two years. If I can possibly get home before that time I will. Don't forget the chronicle. I never hear any Florida news at this place. Mother must write to me soon. Tell Uncle Raney I received a short letter from him this morning and will answer it as soon as I can. I have but little time to spare at this place but will write as often as I can. Tell me of John Wildman--what is he doing in Leesburg--now I wish he was here. Give my love to all at home and except the same yourselves.\nYours affectionately, V.C. Saunders."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eValentine C. Saunders papers, 1839-1866. MS 0071. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Valentine C. Saunders papers, 1839-1866. MS 0071. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe Valentine C. Saunders papers consist of one letter from Cadet Saunders to his parents. This letter is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArsenal\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRelationship with Washington College\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMethod of instruction\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCourse of studies\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H. Smith.\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\nThe papers also contain Saunders' copy of a published address by Francis H. Smith titled \"The Inner Life of the VMI Cadet\" (1866).\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eThis letter from cadet Valentine C. Saunders to his parents is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArsenal\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRelationship with Washington College\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMethod of instruction\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCourse of studies\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H. Smith.\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The Valentine C. Saunders papers consist of one letter from Cadet Saunders to his parents. This letter is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following:\n\nArsenal\nRelationship with Washington College\nMethod of instruction\nCourse of studies\nAn opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H. Smith.\nThe papers also contain Saunders' copy of a published address by Francis H. Smith titled \"The Inner Life of the VMI Cadet\" (1866).","This letter from cadet Valentine C. Saunders to his parents is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following:\n\nArsenal\nRelationship with Washington College\nMethod of instruction\nCourse of studies\nAn opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H. Smith."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"physloc_html_tesm":["\u003cphysloc id=\"aspace_e61f4abfb072fb514b0c237c6a15d949\"\u003eManuscripts stacks\u003c/physloc\u003e\n    "],"physloc_tesim":["Manuscripts stacks"],"corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"persname_ssim":["Saunders, Valentine C. (Valentine Cook), 1820-1894","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"names_coll_ssim":["Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"names_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives","Saunders, Valentine C. (Valentine Cook), 1820-1894","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"language_ssim":["English\n."],"total_component_count_is":1,"online_item_count_is":0,"component_level_isim":[0],"sort_isi":0,"timestamp":"2026-06-23T06:59:04.198Z","collection":{"numFound":1,"start":0,"numFoundExact":true,"docs":[{"id":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_145","ead_ssi":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_145","_root_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_145","_nest_parent_":"vilxv_repositories_3_resources_145","ead_source_url_ssi":"data/oai/VMI/repositories_3_resources_145.xml","title_ssm":["Valentine C. Saunders papers"],"title_tesim":["Valentine C. Saunders papers"],"unitdate_ssm":["1839-1866"],"unitdate_other_ssim":["1839-1866"],"normalized_date_ssm":["1839/1866"],"normalized_title_ssm":["Valentine C. Saunders papers, 1839/1866"],"text":["Valentine C. Saunders papers, 1839/1866","MS.0071","/repositories/3/resources/145","Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1842","Washington and Lee University—History","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1830-1839","Correspondence","Speeches, Addresses, etc.","There are no restrictions.","Valentine Cook Saunders was born on November 15, 1820 in Leesburg, Virginia to Everitt Saunders and Susan Bashaw. He entered VMI on November 11, 1839 and graduated on July 4, 1842, standing 12th of 16 graduates. After graduation, he began a career as a teacher, which he continued until his death on December 21, 1894, in Leesburg.","Virginia Military Institute\nNov. 30, 1839\nDear Father and Mother","I received your letter of the 21st yesterday, being the first I have got since I left home, and you may be sure it gave me much pleasure. I have just returned from exploring the dusky halls of the old Arsenal. There are deposited in this arsenal at which we are stationed fifty six thousand stand of arms including a vast number of old rifles, muskets, pistols, and dragoon swords. The value of the whole is estimated at about seven hundred thousand dollars so you see we have great responsibility resting upon us for this property is confided to our immediate care.","The method of instruction pursued in this Institute is the best and most efficient that could be possibly adopted. The leisure hours are from breakfast till 9 oclock, from twelve till two, from 4 till supper. There are 4 assigned to each room to pursue their respective studies to themselves; at a particular hour we are marched in squads at the beat of the drum to the recitation room where we are examined individually by Major Smith in the presence of the whole corps to see what progress we have made in our studies. If he finds us deficient in the least we get a mark of demerit besides requiring us to recite the same lesson next morning; his course of instruction is conducted on the [Peohloggian] system, by interrogating us on the particular branch we have been studying and requiring us to demonstrate it on the blackboard put up in the recitation room for that purpose.","Major Smith the principal Professor is a man of the nicest discrimination and shrewdness I ever knew. I will defy anyone to fool or dupe him, for one can't get along here otherwise than doing his duty. He is very polite and kind to the cadets but keeps them at a respective distance as is necessary in such a place this.","I have been particularly fortunate since I have been here. The third night after I came here I was appointed seargeant of the Guard and of course have not acted as sentinel one night since I entered upon duty. My service is to visit the sentinel at stated times in the night to see that he does his duty and don't sleep on post, to make off my report in the morning and present it to the Major for inspection.","I am among an excellent set of fellows. There appears to exist in the breast of every Virginian a homogeneous feeling that prompts them to treat each other like brothers and adapts them to each others company. I never saw so much kind feelings, sociability as are here among these cadets. No ill feeling or discord has occurred among them since we have been together.","I was introduced to Gen. Bernard B. Peyton the other day who told me he had known many of the family, particularly cousin James with whom he had served during the late war. He spoke in the highest terms of him as an officer and made very particular inquiries about his family.","The Corps of Cadets is increased to fifty by an accession from Washington College, each one in full uniform. We are drilled every day by the Major who is making every exertion to qualify us for a display on the 22d of February being Washington's Birthday. Our present course of instruction includes Algebra and French. Algebra is the most important part of Mathematics as it facilitates the acquisition and operations of all the succeeding branches of the Mathematics. In this department we have made great proficiency under the superior guidance and management of our able Professor Francis H. Smith. We also progress rapidly in the study of French under the instruction of Mr. Preston, Professor of Languages. He is an accomplished scholar and gentleman, treats us with the utmost politeness and kindness and is well qualified to discharge the duties in the department which he has the honor to fill.","Our service here is very hard especially those that do not act in the capacity of Sergeant and Corporals for their duty is nothing in comparison to the sentinel. There is appointed a guard every night by the officer of the day, one seargeant, one corporal, 3 privates constitute the guard for the night. It is mounted a 6 oclock P.M. and continued throughout the night in rotation, 2 hours allotted to each sentinel till the revilee proclaims the dawn of day. They are then discharged. No weather will excuse the sentinel from performing his duty.","I was sorry to hear that [brother] was returned again to Florida after suffering so much during his campaign last winter in that detestable county, but it was an office of his own seeking therefore he must submit to all the privations and dangers incidental to the life of a soldier. I wish him all the success in the world and a happy escape from the fatigues and dangers attendant upon a Florida campaign. Let me know about him when you write again (and send the chronicle). Your letter contained very unexpected news of the death of Mr. Peck. When I saw him last he was walking the streets of Leesburg in apparent health, but such is the uncertainty of life no situation or circumstance can exempt us from death. Let it be what it may we must go the way of all the earth sooner or later. I truly pity his large and helpless family left behind.","Tell mother I wish her to look in the Book case and get my Spanish Grammar and lock it up in her side board drawer for me. I shall want it if I ever get home. We can't see home under two years. If I can possibly get home before that time I will. Don't forget the chronicle. I never hear any Florida news at this place. Mother must write to me soon. Tell Uncle Raney I received a short letter from him this morning and will answer it as soon as I can. I have but little time to spare at this place but will write as often as I can. Tell me of John Wildman--what is he doing in Leesburg--now I wish he was here. Give my love to all at home and except the same yourselves.\nYours affectionately, V.C. Saunders.","The Valentine C. Saunders papers consist of one letter from Cadet Saunders to his parents. This letter is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following:\n\nArsenal\nRelationship with Washington College\nMethod of instruction\nCourse of studies\nAn opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H. Smith.\nThe papers also contain Saunders' copy of a published address by Francis H. Smith titled \"The Inner Life of the VMI Cadet\" (1866).","This letter from cadet Valentine C. Saunders to his parents is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following:\n\nArsenal\nRelationship with Washington College\nMethod of instruction\nCourse of studies\nAn opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H. Smith.","Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.","Manuscripts stacks","Virginia Military Institute Archives","Saunders, Valentine C. (Valentine Cook), 1820-1894","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","English\n."],"collection_title_tesim":["Valentine C. Saunders papers, 1839/1866"],"collection_ssim":["Valentine C. Saunders papers, 1839/1866"],"level_ssm":["collection"],"level_ssim":["Collection"],"unitid_ssm":["MS.0071","/repositories/3/resources/145"],"unitid_tesim":["MS.0071","/repositories/3/resources/145"],"repository_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"repository_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creator_ssm":["Saunders, Valentine C. (Valentine Cook), 1820-1894"],"creator_ssim":["Saunders, Valentine C. (Valentine Cook), 1820-1894"],"creator_persname_ssim":["Saunders, Valentine C. (Valentine Cook), 1820-1894","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890"],"creator_corpname_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"creators_ssim":["Saunders, Valentine C. (Valentine Cook), 1820-1894","Smith, Francis H. (Francis Henney), 1812-1890","Virginia Military Institute Archives"],"access_terms_ssm":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information."],"access_subjects_ssim":["Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1842","Washington and Lee University—History","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1830-1839","Correspondence","Speeches, Addresses, etc."],"access_subjects_ssm":["Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century","Virginia Military Institute—Curricula","Virginia Military Institute—Class of 1842","Washington and Lee University—History","Virginia Military Institute—Cadet life—1830-1839","Correspondence","Speeches, Addresses, etc."],"has_online_content_ssim":["false"],"extent_ssm":["2 items"],"extent_tesim":["2 items"],"genreform_ssim":["Correspondence","Speeches, Addresses, etc."],"date_range_isim":[1839,1840,1841,1842,1843,1844,1845,1846,1847,1848,1849,1850,1851,1852,1853,1854,1855,1856,1857,1858,1859,1860,1861,1862,1863,1864,1865,1866],"accessrestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThere are no restrictions.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"accessrestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Access"],"accessrestrict_tesim":["There are no restrictions."],"bioghist_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eValentine Cook Saunders was born on November 15, 1820 in Leesburg, Virginia to Everitt Saunders and Susan Bashaw. He entered VMI on November 11, 1839 and graduated on July 4, 1842, standing 12th of 16 graduates. After graduation, he began a career as a teacher, which he continued until his death on December 21, 1894, in Leesburg.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"bioghist_heading_ssm":["Biographical / Historical"],"bioghist_tesim":["Valentine Cook Saunders was born on November 15, 1820 in Leesburg, Virginia to Everitt Saunders and Susan Bashaw. He entered VMI on November 11, 1839 and graduated on July 4, 1842, standing 12th of 16 graduates. After graduation, he began a career as a teacher, which he continued until his death on December 21, 1894, in Leesburg."],"odd_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eVirginia Military Institute\u003cbr\u003e\nNov. 30, 1839\u003cbr\u003e\nDear Father and Mother\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI received your letter of the 21st yesterday, being the first I have got since I left home, and you may be sure it gave me much pleasure. I have just returned from exploring the dusky halls of the old Arsenal. There are deposited in this arsenal at which we are stationed fifty six thousand stand of arms including a vast number of old rifles, muskets, pistols, and dragoon swords. The value of the whole is estimated at about seven hundred thousand dollars so you see we have great responsibility resting upon us for this property is confided to our immediate care.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe method of instruction pursued in this Institute is the best and most efficient that could be possibly adopted. The leisure hours are from breakfast till 9 oclock, from twelve till two, from 4 till supper. There are 4 assigned to each room to pursue their respective studies to themselves; at a particular hour we are marched in squads at the beat of the drum to the recitation room where we are examined individually by Major Smith in the presence of the whole corps to see what progress we have made in our studies. If he finds us deficient in the least we get a mark of demerit besides requiring us to recite the same lesson next morning; his course of instruction is conducted on the [Peohloggian] system, by interrogating us on the particular branch we have been studying and requiring us to demonstrate it on the blackboard put up in the recitation room for that purpose.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eMajor Smith the principal Professor is a man of the nicest discrimination and shrewdness I ever knew. I will defy anyone to fool or dupe him, for one can't get along here otherwise than doing his duty. He is very polite and kind to the cadets but keeps them at a respective distance as is necessary in such a place this.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI have been particularly fortunate since I have been here. The third night after I came here I was appointed seargeant of the Guard and of course have not acted as sentinel one night since I entered upon duty. My service is to visit the sentinel at stated times in the night to see that he does his duty and don't sleep on post, to make off my report in the morning and present it to the Major for inspection.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI am among an excellent set of fellows. There appears to exist in the breast of every Virginian a homogeneous feeling that prompts them to treat each other like brothers and adapts them to each others company. I never saw so much kind feelings, sociability as are here among these cadets. No ill feeling or discord has occurred among them since we have been together.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI was introduced to Gen. Bernard B. Peyton the other day who told me he had known many of the family, particularly cousin James with whom he had served during the late war. He spoke in the highest terms of him as an officer and made very particular inquiries about his family.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eThe Corps of Cadets is increased to fifty by an accession from Washington College, each one in full uniform. We are drilled every day by the Major who is making every exertion to qualify us for a display on the 22d of February being Washington's Birthday. Our present course of instruction includes Algebra and French. Algebra is the most important part of Mathematics as it facilitates the acquisition and operations of all the succeeding branches of the Mathematics. In this department we have made great proficiency under the superior guidance and management of our able Professor Francis H. Smith. We also progress rapidly in the study of French under the instruction of Mr. Preston, Professor of Languages. He is an accomplished scholar and gentleman, treats us with the utmost politeness and kindness and is well qualified to discharge the duties in the department which he has the honor to fill.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eOur service here is very hard especially those that do not act in the capacity of Sergeant and Corporals for their duty is nothing in comparison to the sentinel. There is appointed a guard every night by the officer of the day, one seargeant, one corporal, 3 privates constitute the guard for the night. It is mounted a 6 oclock P.M. and continued throughout the night in rotation, 2 hours allotted to each sentinel till the revilee proclaims the dawn of day. They are then discharged. No weather will excuse the sentinel from performing his duty.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eI was sorry to hear that [brother] was returned again to Florida after suffering so much during his campaign last winter in that detestable county, but it was an office of his own seeking therefore he must submit to all the privations and dangers incidental to the life of a soldier. I wish him all the success in the world and a happy escape from the fatigues and dangers attendant upon a Florida campaign. Let me know about him when you write again (and send the chronicle). Your letter contained very unexpected news of the death of Mr. Peck. When I saw him last he was walking the streets of Leesburg in apparent health, but such is the uncertainty of life no situation or circumstance can exempt us from death. Let it be what it may we must go the way of all the earth sooner or later. I truly pity his large and helpless family left behind.\u003c/p\u003e","\u003cp\u003eTell mother I wish her to look in the Book case and get my Spanish Grammar and lock it up in her side board drawer for me. I shall want it if I ever get home. We can't see home under two years. If I can possibly get home before that time I will. Don't forget the chronicle. I never hear any Florida news at this place. Mother must write to me soon. Tell Uncle Raney I received a short letter from him this morning and will answer it as soon as I can. I have but little time to spare at this place but will write as often as I can. Tell me of John Wildman--what is he doing in Leesburg--now I wish he was here. Give my love to all at home and except the same yourselves.\u003cbr\u003e\nYours affectionately, V.C. Saunders.\u003c/p\u003e"],"odd_heading_ssm":["Transcription"],"odd_tesim":["Virginia Military Institute\nNov. 30, 1839\nDear Father and Mother","I received your letter of the 21st yesterday, being the first I have got since I left home, and you may be sure it gave me much pleasure. I have just returned from exploring the dusky halls of the old Arsenal. There are deposited in this arsenal at which we are stationed fifty six thousand stand of arms including a vast number of old rifles, muskets, pistols, and dragoon swords. The value of the whole is estimated at about seven hundred thousand dollars so you see we have great responsibility resting upon us for this property is confided to our immediate care.","The method of instruction pursued in this Institute is the best and most efficient that could be possibly adopted. The leisure hours are from breakfast till 9 oclock, from twelve till two, from 4 till supper. There are 4 assigned to each room to pursue their respective studies to themselves; at a particular hour we are marched in squads at the beat of the drum to the recitation room where we are examined individually by Major Smith in the presence of the whole corps to see what progress we have made in our studies. If he finds us deficient in the least we get a mark of demerit besides requiring us to recite the same lesson next morning; his course of instruction is conducted on the [Peohloggian] system, by interrogating us on the particular branch we have been studying and requiring us to demonstrate it on the blackboard put up in the recitation room for that purpose.","Major Smith the principal Professor is a man of the nicest discrimination and shrewdness I ever knew. I will defy anyone to fool or dupe him, for one can't get along here otherwise than doing his duty. He is very polite and kind to the cadets but keeps them at a respective distance as is necessary in such a place this.","I have been particularly fortunate since I have been here. The third night after I came here I was appointed seargeant of the Guard and of course have not acted as sentinel one night since I entered upon duty. My service is to visit the sentinel at stated times in the night to see that he does his duty and don't sleep on post, to make off my report in the morning and present it to the Major for inspection.","I am among an excellent set of fellows. There appears to exist in the breast of every Virginian a homogeneous feeling that prompts them to treat each other like brothers and adapts them to each others company. I never saw so much kind feelings, sociability as are here among these cadets. No ill feeling or discord has occurred among them since we have been together.","I was introduced to Gen. Bernard B. Peyton the other day who told me he had known many of the family, particularly cousin James with whom he had served during the late war. He spoke in the highest terms of him as an officer and made very particular inquiries about his family.","The Corps of Cadets is increased to fifty by an accession from Washington College, each one in full uniform. We are drilled every day by the Major who is making every exertion to qualify us for a display on the 22d of February being Washington's Birthday. Our present course of instruction includes Algebra and French. Algebra is the most important part of Mathematics as it facilitates the acquisition and operations of all the succeeding branches of the Mathematics. In this department we have made great proficiency under the superior guidance and management of our able Professor Francis H. Smith. We also progress rapidly in the study of French under the instruction of Mr. Preston, Professor of Languages. He is an accomplished scholar and gentleman, treats us with the utmost politeness and kindness and is well qualified to discharge the duties in the department which he has the honor to fill.","Our service here is very hard especially those that do not act in the capacity of Sergeant and Corporals for their duty is nothing in comparison to the sentinel. There is appointed a guard every night by the officer of the day, one seargeant, one corporal, 3 privates constitute the guard for the night. It is mounted a 6 oclock P.M. and continued throughout the night in rotation, 2 hours allotted to each sentinel till the revilee proclaims the dawn of day. They are then discharged. No weather will excuse the sentinel from performing his duty.","I was sorry to hear that [brother] was returned again to Florida after suffering so much during his campaign last winter in that detestable county, but it was an office of his own seeking therefore he must submit to all the privations and dangers incidental to the life of a soldier. I wish him all the success in the world and a happy escape from the fatigues and dangers attendant upon a Florida campaign. Let me know about him when you write again (and send the chronicle). Your letter contained very unexpected news of the death of Mr. Peck. When I saw him last he was walking the streets of Leesburg in apparent health, but such is the uncertainty of life no situation or circumstance can exempt us from death. Let it be what it may we must go the way of all the earth sooner or later. I truly pity his large and helpless family left behind.","Tell mother I wish her to look in the Book case and get my Spanish Grammar and lock it up in her side board drawer for me. I shall want it if I ever get home. We can't see home under two years. If I can possibly get home before that time I will. Don't forget the chronicle. I never hear any Florida news at this place. Mother must write to me soon. Tell Uncle Raney I received a short letter from him this morning and will answer it as soon as I can. I have but little time to spare at this place but will write as often as I can. Tell me of John Wildman--what is he doing in Leesburg--now I wish he was here. Give my love to all at home and except the same yourselves.\nYours affectionately, V.C. Saunders."],"prefercite_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eValentine C. Saunders papers, 1839-1866. MS 0071. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"prefercite_tesim":["Valentine C. Saunders papers, 1839-1866. MS 0071. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia."],"scopecontent_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eThe Valentine C. Saunders papers consist of one letter from Cadet Saunders to his parents. This letter is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArsenal\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRelationship with Washington College\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMethod of instruction\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCourse of studies\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H. Smith.\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\nThe papers also contain Saunders' copy of a published address by Francis H. Smith titled \"The Inner Life of the VMI Cadet\" (1866).\u003c/p\u003e  ","\u003cp\u003eThis letter from cadet Valentine C. Saunders to his parents is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following:\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eArsenal\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRelationship with Washington College\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMethod of instruction\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCourse of studies\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAn opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H. Smith.\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e"],"scopecontent_heading_ssm":["Scope and Contents","Scope and Contents"],"scopecontent_tesim":["The Valentine C. Saunders papers consist of one letter from Cadet Saunders to his parents. This letter is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following:\n\nArsenal\nRelationship with Washington College\nMethod of instruction\nCourse of studies\nAn opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H. Smith.\nThe papers also contain Saunders' copy of a published address by Francis H. Smith titled \"The Inner Life of the VMI Cadet\" (1866).","This letter from cadet Valentine C. Saunders to his parents is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following:\n\nArsenal\nRelationship with Washington College\nMethod of instruction\nCourse of studies\nAn opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H. Smith."],"userestrict_html_tesm":["\u003cp\u003eManuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.\u003c/p\u003e  "],"userestrict_heading_ssm":["Conditions Governing Use"],"userestrict_tesim":["Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. 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