Stonewall Jackson papers, 1844/1915
Access and use
- Location of collection:
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Preston LibraryVirginia Military Institute345 Letcher Ave.Lexington, VA 24450-0304
- Contact for questions and access:
- POC: Jeffrey S. KozakEmail: archives@vmi.eduPhone: (540) 464-7516Phone: (540) 464-7566Fax: (540) 464-7089Web: www.vmi.edu/archives
- Restrictions:
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The collection is open to research, but there are special conditions governing use.
- Terms of access:
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Researchers are required to use photocopies or online versions of the Stonewall Jackson documents.
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.
- Preferred citation:
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Stonewall Jackson papers, 1844-1915. MS 0102. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.
Collection context
Summary
- Extent:
- 3 Linear Feet
- Creator:
- Jackson, Stonewall, 1824-1863, Jackson, Mary Anna, 1831-1915, Hill, Daniel Harvey, 1821-1899, Preston, Margaret Junkin, 1820-1897, and Johnston, Joseph E. (Joseph Eggleston), 1807-1891
- Language:
- English
- Preferred citation:
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Stonewall Jackson papers, 1844-1915. MS 0102. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.
Background
- Scope and content:
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The Stonewall Jackson papers consist primarily of the personal papers of Civil War General Thomas Jonathan "Stonewall" Jackson (1824-1863). The bulk of the letters date from the pre-Civil War period and concern professional, personal, and domestic matters, including many in which Jackson writes about his religious faith, his concerns about health and diet, and his family.
The papers provide insight into Jackson's personality and philosophy, and present a portrait of the man as he was in the years before he gained national fame as a wartime military leader. A small percentage of the documents date from the Civil War period and are directly related to Jackson's Confederate Army service.
The papers include approximately 160 items of Jackson's outgoing correspondence (dated 1844 to 1863) spanning his cadetship at West Point, his service in the United States Army (1846 to 1851), including his participation in the Mexican War, his years as a faculty member at the VMI (1851 to 1861), and his career in the Confederate States Army. The bulk of the correspondence is addressed to his sister, Laura Ann Arnold (Jackson). Other correspondents include Margaret Junkin Preston, and Confederate Generals Joseph E. Johnston and Daniel Harvey Hill.
Other series include incoming correspondence, Civil War reports, orders, dispatches, and documents associated with Jackson.
In addition to Jackson's personal papers, this collection contains the allied papers of Jackson's second wife, Mary Anna Jackson (Morrison) (approximately 143 items), his daughter Julia Jackson Christian (approximately 10 items), and his sister Laura Ann Arnold (Jackson)(approximately 115 items).
All are original letters (ALS) written by Stonewall Jackson, unless noted otherwise.
Letters written while Stonewall Jackson was a cadet at the United States Military Academy, West Point, New York.
Letter fragment regards Stonewall Jackson's health and furlough.
Letter regards daily life at the United States Military Academy, West Point, New York.
Letter regards daily life at the United States Military Academy, West Point, New York.
Letter regards daily life at the United States Military Academy, West Point, New York.
Letters written by Stonewall Jackson during the Mexican War.
Written on board the ship James L. Day. Letter regards travel to Point Isabel, Texas and general news about the Mexican War.
Written from Point Isabel, Texas. Letter regards travel to Texas, family matters, and plans to travel "up the Rio Grande tomorrow."
Written from Veracruz, Mexico. Letter regards news of the Mexican War, daily life at camp, Stonewall Jackson's health, and family matters.
Written from camp near Veracruz, Mexico. Letter requests compensation for quartermaster duties.
Written from Jalapa, Mexico. Letter regards a "detailed acount of Mexico."
Written from Jalapa, Mexico. Letter regards troop movements and life at camp.
Written from Mexico City, Mexico. Letter regards general news of the war and family matters.
Written from Mexico City, Mexico. Letter describes the Passeo, a central road through the city, and general news of the war.
Written from National Palace, Mexico. Letter regards news of the war and General Pillow's trial.
Written from Mexico City, Mexico. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's appointment.
Written from Governors Island, New York. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's new station.
Written from Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania. Letter regards a trip to attend a court martial and the desire to visit Laura Ann Arnold (Jackson).
Written from Fort Hamilton, New York. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's health and travel back to New York.
Written from Fort Hamilton, New York. Letter regards style of dress, historical studies, and that "cholera has entirely disappeared from this place." Additionally, the letter includes a discussion of a thermometer.
Written from Fort Hamilton, New York. Letter regards book catalogs and Stonewall Jackson's health.
Written from Fort Hamilton, New York. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's health, magazine subscriptions, and finances.
Written from Fort Hamilton, New York. Letter regards family news, Stonewall Jackson's concern for Laura Ann Arnold's (Jackson) eyesight, and a new diet.
Written from Fort Hamilton, New York. Letter regards a fire at the stables, a potential visit in October, and Stonewall Jackson's health.
Written from Fort Hamilton, New York. Letter regards the death of "Uncle Cummins" and family finances.
Written from Plattsburgh, New York. Letter regards travel to New York "for the purpose of trying some prisoners."
Written from Fort Hamilton, New York. Letter regards an Invoice of Public Property.
Written from Fort Hamilton, New York. Letter regards a potential visit in October and the death of "Uncle Cummins."
Written from Fort Ontario, New York. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's membership "of Courts Martial."
Written from West Point, New York. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's visit to West Point.
Written from Fort Meade, Florida. In the letter, Stonewall Jackson gives his approval to put his name before the VMI Board of Visitors for a professorship position.
Written from Fort Meade, Florida. Letter regards a potential position at VMI and family news.
Written from Fort Meade, Florida. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's appointment as a VMI Professor of Natural and Experimental Philosophy and Artillery Tactics.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's arrival at VMI.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson starting his academic duties and general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Laura Ann Arnold's (Jackson) health and a discussion of Christianty.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards academic duties and general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and Stonewall Jackson's trip to see Laura Ann Arnold (Jackson) next summer.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards garden seeds, fruit, and general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards a potential visit from George P. Terrill and general news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards a missing package, family news, and a vocal concert.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and barracks construction.
Written from Rockbridge Alum Springs, Virgina. Letter regards the springs and Stonewall Jackson's health.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards an appreciation of Lexington and general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards course designs for law lectures and general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Laura Ann Arnold's (Jackson) health.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news and preparations for teaching Natural Philosophy and Artillery.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards health and general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and a potential visit in July.
Written from Rockbridge Alum Springs, Virginia. Letter regards the springs and general news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards a trip to Niagara Falls, New York.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the birth of Laura Ann Arnold's (Jackson) daughter and general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's application for professorship at the University of Virginia.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the death of Laura Ann Arnold's (Jackson) infant daughter and Stonewall Jackson's pending appointment at the University of Virginia.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general news and includes a portion written by Elinor Junkin Jackson.
Written from Healing Springs, Virginia. Letter regards travel to the springs.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the death of Stonewall Jackson's wife Elinor Junkin Jackson.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards purchase of books and health.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and health.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from "Uncle Alred's." Letter regards the potential purchase of land.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news.
Letter regards family news and notes that the cadets "have been absent at Petersburg and Richmond [Virginia] but are expected to be home today."
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter fragment regards family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news.
Fragment regards general family news.
Letter regards general family news.
Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Letter regards general family news.
Written from VMI, Lextington, Virginia. Letter regards corrections to the letter and general family news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Letter regards general family news.
Written from New York City, New York. Letter regards a trip to Liverpool, England.
Written from "Ship Asia at Sea." Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's trip to Europe and the cities he wants to visit.
Written from Naples, Italy. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's trip to Europe.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the places Stonewall Jackson visited during his trip to Europe.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's trip to Europe and family news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's trip to Europe and family news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's trip to Europe.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's trip to Europe and general family news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. In the letter Stonewall Jackson announces his engagement to Mary Anna Morrison.
Written from Rockbridge Alum Springs, Virginia. Letter regards travel to Alum Springs.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general news and mentions VMI faculty meetings.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's health and general family news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards religion and general news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the birth of Mary Graham Jackson.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the birth of Mary Graham Jackson.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family health news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the death of Mary Graham Jackson.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards the Lexington Colored Sabbath School.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from New York City, New York. Letter regards a trip to visit the Arnold family.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Laura Ann Arnold's (Jackson) son Thomas arriving in Virginia.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Laura Ann Arnold's (Jackson) son Thomas.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Stonewall Jackson's trip to Europe.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from White Sulphur Springs, Virginia. Letter regards family health news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family health news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards family news and Thomas Arnold's accounts, which are written on the back of the letter.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Letter fragment regards discussion of purchases.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news and Grace Arnold's education.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Letter regards general family news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards purchases for the house. The letter also contains a portion written by Mary Anna Jackson regarding a clothing pattern.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards Grace Arnold's education and general news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards a trip to visit Laura Ann Arnold (Jackson) and general family news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from Northampton, Massachusetts. Letter regards future purchases for Laura Ann Arnold (Jackson).
Written from Northampton, Massachusetts. Letter regards future purchases for Laura Ann Arnold (Jackson).
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards furniture purchases.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards furniture purchases.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards religion and general family news.
Written from Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards general family news.
Telegram regards "equalizing taxation onproperty" in Virginia.
Written from Harpers Ferry, [West] Virginia. Letter regards military officers.
Written from Harpers Ferry, [West] Virginia. Letter regards appointing W. S. H. Baylor as a colonel.
Letter regards rations and general news.
Written from "Under's Store, HQ, Valley District." Letter regards enemy troop movements.
Written from Winchester, Virginia. Letter regards news of the Civil War and Stonewall Jackson's desire to return to VMI.
Written from Winchester, Virginia. Letter regards Civil War news and troop movements.
Written from Winchester, Virginia. Letter regards general Civil War news.
Written from Winchester, Virginia. Letter regards support of the Colonel in response to "such foul aspirations against your character."
Written from "Near Mr. Jackson," Virginia. Letter praises William N. Pendleton for actions in battle.
Letter regards the status of Margaret K. Langhorne's son.
Written from Big Spring, Virginia. Letter requests assistance from Colonel Williamson.
Written from Swift Run Gap, Virginia. Letter requests assistance from Colonel Williamson.
Order regards VMI Corps of Cadets joining the Civil War.
Written "Near Harrisonburg," Virginia. Letter regards troop movements.
Written from Valley District, Virginia. Letter thanks Francis H. Smith for his cooperation.
Written from Port Republic, Virginia. Letter regards promotion requests.
Written from Gordonsville, Virginia. Letter regards potential promotions.
Written from White Oak Bridge, Virginia. Letter regards troop movements.
Written from Bunker Hill, Virginia. Letter regards a potential position for "Mr. Estill."
Written "Near Gordonsville," Virginia. Letter regards a leave of absence for Cadet Morrison.
Written from Bristow, Virginia. Letter regards Isaac R. Trimble's promotion.
Letter thanks Miss Fairfield for breakfast.
Letter regards the potential appointment of Corporal Jas. P. Smith.
Order regards rovoking Col. D. K. McBeal as a brigadier general.
Letter regards religion.
Written from "Hd. Qrs. 2d. Corps A. N.Va." Letter regards general Civil War news.
Written from "Hd Qrs. 2d Corps, A. N. Va." Letter regards commissary.
Written from Caroline County, Virgina. Letter regards "Gen. Hill" leaving the Army.
Written from Caroline County, Virginia. Letter regards general Civil War news.
Letter recommends that "Col. B. D. Penn 7th La. Regt. be appointing Judge Advocate by the Genl. C. Martial for the trial of Brig. Genl. J. R. Jones."
Written from "Near Fredericksburg," Virginia. Letter thanks Mitchell and Tyler for repairing a watch.
Letter regards troop movements.
Post-Civil War memoirs (circa 1865), written by Roberta Cary Corbin Kinsolving. The memoirs recount the winter of 1862-1863 when Stonewall Jackson established winter quarters on the Corbin estate in Moss Neck, Virginia.
This series consists primarily of VMI paychecks endorsed on reverse by Stonewall Jackson. It also contains a bankshare certificate (1858) and an estate document (dated June 5, 1863).
This series consists primarily of the incoming and outgoing correspondence files of Mary Anna Jackson (Morrison) from the post-Civil War era.
This series contains papers relating to Julia Jackson Christian.
This series includes correspondence to and from Laura Ann Arnold (Jackson), Stark W. Arnold, Jonathan Arnold, and others.
This series includes pamphlets concerning the life of Stonewall Jackson, sheet music dedicated to Jackson, and other items.
- Biographical / historical:
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Thomas Jonathan Jackson was born on January 21, 1824 in western Virginia (now West Virginia) to Julia Neale Jackson and Jonathan Jackson. Jackson was orphaned at a young age and he was raised by extended members of his father's family, mainly his uncle, Cummins Jackson.
Jackson graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in June 1846 and subsequently served in the United States Army, during which time he fought in the Mexican War. Jackson resigned his commission in 1851, after he was appointed Professor of Natural and Experimental Philosophy at VMI. He moved to Lexington, Virginia and settled into life as a civilian.
In April 1861, Jackson rode off to war. Following the first Battle of Manassas (Virginia), he became widely known by the nickname "Stonewall" and earned lasting fame for his leadership of Confederate forces, especially during the Valley Campaign of 1862.
Jackson died on May 10, 1863 as a result of complications from wounds received at Chancellorsville, Virginia along with pneumonia. His body was brought back to Lexington for burial in a cemetery on the south edge of town.
Roberta Cary Corbin Kinsolving (1826-1919). Her first husband was Richard Corbin of Moss Neck Plantation near Fredericksburg, Virginia. Following Richard's death in the Civil War, she married Reverend Ovid Americus Kinsolving.
- Physical location:
- Manuscripts stacks and Oversized Case 2
Related
- Alternative form available:
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A significant portion of the Stonewall Jackson papers are available online.
- Other descriptive data:
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...Be not discouraged by disappointments & difficulties but on the contrary let each stimulate you to greater exertions for attaining noble ends & an approving conscience at least will be your reward. Please write to me soon. My health is as good as usual. During my furlough I was made an officer consequently my duties are lighter than usual. You may rest assured of my ....(section of letter missing)
....what I have formerly...
...difficulty in obtaining them from the post office on account of another cadet's name being Thomas. R. Jackson.
I am at present living in a room by myself my room mate having resigned in consequence of his father's ill health. The weather has been extremely cold & stormy here for the last few days though at present it is moderating. My studies for the approaching June examination will include Optics Mechanics Astronomy Magnetism & Chemistry together with drawing. I expect to commence taking exercises in riding in a day or two. At the examination last I rose in each of department of my studies.
A few days since I was called upon to pay the last token of my respect to a friend & fellow classmate in whom were combined both shining talents & the characteristics of a gentleman. His death was much lamented by his class mates who a few days subsequent to his death assembled & appointed a committee to attend to the erection of a monument to his memory. My health is at present as good as usual & I remain your well wishing brother
U.S.M.A. Aug 2nd 1845
You may infer that I am well and enjoying myself very well considering that I am deprived of the blessings of a home the society of the friends of my child-hood the cordial welcome of relatives and above all the presence of an only sister. Times are now far different from what they once were. Once I was in my native state at my adopted home none to give there mandates none for me to obey but as I chose surrounded by my playmates and natives all apparently eager to promote my happiness. But those were the days of my youth they have fled never again to return. They have been succeeded by days of quite a different aspect they have brought forth manhood with all its cares.
I have before me two courses either of which I may chose in case that I am blessed with health and long life they are widely different in their natures and consequences. The first I may say would be to follow the profession of arms the second that of a civil pursuit as law. If I should adopt the first I could live independently & surrounded by friends whom I have all ready made have no fear of want, my pay would be be fixed. The principal thing I would have to attend to would be futurity. If I adopt the latter I presume that I would still find plenty of friends but my exertions would have to be great in order to acquire a name. This course is most congenial to my taste and consequently I expect to adopt it after spending a few years in pursuing the former.
I have forgotten the contents of my former letter consequently I will mention my standing as it exists at present . In Drawing it is 59th, in Chemistry 25th, in general standing 20th, in Philosophy 11th, in conduct 1st. There are 60 members in my class at present nineteen above me and forty below me.
I propose on coming to see my friends and yourself in July next.
A member of the Corps was drowned a few days since his body was recovered about 5 days subsequent to the fatal stroke and interred with the honors of war. I had the pleasure of his acquaintance. He was a youth of promise stood high in his class and bid fair for long life. The news must have inflicted a sore wound on the hearts of his parents for he certainly was a favorite child. The corps is at present in mourning for him.There have been a number of distinguished men on the point for some time back among whom was Major General Scott. Many visitors favour us with calls among them are a number of ladies but they are not so fair as the daughters of western Virginia.
Write to me frequently as your brother
West Point U.S.M.A. Nov. 25th 1845
As to your health it is my sincere wish that you may again recover it and of which I continue to live in hopes. My constitution as well as your own has received a severe shock but I believe is gradually recovering from its debilitated state. My exercises this year with the broad sword as well as the small are well calculated to strengthen the chest & expand the muscles so that I have some reason to believe that they will have the desired effects of restoring me to perfect health. And I hope that the same kind providence which has preserved us as the remnant of a family up to the present period will again favor us with an interview although in its wisdom it has marked out for us (at least for a period) widely different spheres of action and different places of abode. But I look forward with no small degree of satisfaction to the period when my circumstances will allow me to settle down near you & among my relatives in order to share with yourselves the ineffable pleasures of domestic circles. For your kind advice, and well wishes, you have my hearty thanks.
Since my last letter I have been transferred to the first section in Ethics & I think that I have probably a mark in it which will place me among the first five in my class in this science & which I consider as preferable to any other in the course.
There is a young gentleman here by the name of Withers who is from the south he has told me that his father was formerly of Virginia & that he has relatives still living there & that one of them who is a doctor visited his father two or three years since.This youth is an associate of mine & I would be glad to know whether or no he is a relative of mine which I could do probably if I knew the given name of doctor Withers of Fauquier who I know visited the south sometime previous to my coming here. If you recollect the time of his passing through Weston as well as his name I would be glad if you would insert them in your next provided it will be convenient to you though I do not wish you to put yourself to the least trouble on that account as I can obtain them otherwise.
It is probable that you think hard of me because of my not writing more frequent. But I hope that the strict requirements of many duties as well as want of information & [_____] will prove a partial if not a complete excuse. Give my respects to Mr. Arnold & rest assured of my immutable attachment.
...is a little excitement owing to the proximity of Furlough & graduation.
I have been expecting a letter from you in answer to my last but not knowing what might have occurred I have deemed it best to attempt another hoping that it will meet with better success than the former. [Futile?] may be the effort and feeble it must be [missing word or words] -ation that I but seldom turn my atten[tion] [missing word or words] elegance of [missing]. I hope that you will [missing] it to pass unnoticed. Thought it be divested of ev[ery] artificial merit yet it [be possessed of] a natural....
Rumor appears to indicated a rupture between our government & that of the Mexican. If such should be the case the probability is that I will be ordered to join the army of occupation immediately & if so I will hardly see home until after my return & the next letter that you will receive from me may be dated Texas or Mexico. But be the decre[e?] [missing] all knowing God as they may I hope that [missing] [s]hall ever continue to love you with a [missing].....
On Board the James L. Day
Dear Uncle
I sent uncle a few days since tell him if it is not there it to Clarksburg and tell (the merchant) that I wish him to give for it. It will be more to him than. (Note: the sentence contains several words that have been blacked out with ink, thus making the full meaning difficult to determine)
The weather here is more pleasant than it was in the north before I left there. The city of New Orleans is very healthy and there is no yellow fever in it at present. I am enjoying comparatively good health at present and I do not believe that I have the liver complaint but am under the impression that the disease is neuralgic.
Give my respects to my friends including your family of course and write to me as soon as you [can] ascertain where to direct your letter.
T. J. Jackson
TJJ
Point Isabel Texas
Dear Sister:
It is useless for me to attempt to give a detailed account or narrative of occurrences since I last parted with you but suffice it to say that I arrived home on the following Monday and on the succeeding Wednesday received orders to report without delay to Capt. Francis Taylor and the following day in compliance with my orders bid farewell to my uncle's family and proceeded to Fort Columbus but on arriving there ascertained that he had left. On receiving this information I proceeded to Fort Hamilton where I found him. From that post in connection with Capt. Taylor thirty men and forty horses I took up march for this place. After traveling upwards of 400 miles by land we reached Pittsburgh where we took water and have finally arrived here after a March of about 36 days.
Whilst I was in Clarksburg I learned that Mr. McWilliams was still in your house and unable to pay rent for it and I was advised to consult Burtin Despard. He told me that the house could be cleared of its occupants in a short time but that it might cost about fifteen dollars to effect it and if Mr. Arnold should desire him that he would attend to it. And if I had to employ any one he should have the preference in as much as he would in my opinion effect it in a shorter time than any other attorney in Clarksburg. The lot which you were speaking of purchasing he told me that in his opinion you could not get a good title for it if you should purchase it because it is already covered by three deeds of trust. Any further information upon the subject can be obtained by applying to Mr. Despard.
I have not yet landed but an officer of the Quartermasters Department has been aboard and stated that General Taylor had observed that he would be ready for another battle by yesterday. This news came by letter from Col. Whiting. Whether the Battle came off or not I can not say.
I belong to K company 1st Artillery which to use the common phrase is a flying company of Artillery. I could say much more but I am writing in a strong gale of wind and where things are all confusion. I am in hopes of starting up the Rio Grande tomorrow and on reaching General Taylor as soon as possible. I wish you to write to me soon directing your letter to Lieut T.J. Jackson, Comp K, 1st Artillery, Army of Occupation Mexico. It may reach me but not with certainty. My health is better than it has been for some time. Give my respects to the good people of Beverly they still occupy a high place in my esteem especially your amiable husband whose kindness as well as yours has been indelibly written on my heart and memory.
T.J. Jackson
Dear Sister
It would have [afforded] me much pleasure to have been with the gallant and victorious General Taylor at the battle of Buena Vista in which he has acquired laurels as imperishable as he history which shall record the invasion of Mexico by our victorious armies. But I was ordered away from Saltillo in January last and I believe for the best inasmuch as I am now with the most important portion of the army and on the most important line of operations.
I am now encamped on the road leading from Vera Cruz to the city of Mexico. Our troops landed about two miles from the former city on the ninth inst and on the same night were fired on by the Mexicans. On the following day we commenced surrounding the city and operating against it. The operations after the [investment] was completed consisted principally in bombarding and cannonading which were continued until not only the city but the castle of San Juan Dulloa agreed to surrender. The capitulation occurred yesterday. The terms are that all the public property falls into our hands, the troops march out under the condition of not serving against us during the present war unless exchanged. The troops marched out yesterday and surrendered their arms and we took possession immediately. This capitulation has thrown into our hands the strong hold of this republic and being a regular [siege] in connection with other circumstances must in my opinion excel any military operations known in the history of our country. I approve of all except allowing the enemy to retire that I can not approve of in as much as we had them secure and could have taken them prisoners of war unconditionally.
Our loss is not accurately known nor that of the enemy either yet but in my estimation ours can not exceed twenty men in killed, we lost only two captains (Capt Vinton of the artillery and Capt Alburtis of the infantry). I have been in the city and was much surprised at its strength. It is surrounded on the land side by a wall about 10 feet high and a series of forts and on the other side is protected by the castle.
You asked me whether I belonged to General Worth's division. I had the honor of being in it so long as it existed but it has been broken up during the past siege. I was part of the time with him and part of the time with General Twigs. Whilst I was at the advanced batteries a cannon ball came in about five steps of me. I presume that you think my name ought to appear in the papers but when you come to consider the composition of our army you will entertain different views. Its composition is such that those who have independent commands only are as a general rule spoken of for instance Ridgely May [Bra--] Duncan Ringold Smith all commanded companies. If an officer wishes to distinguish himself he must remain long in service until he obtains rank then he obtains the praise not only for his efforts but for the efforts of the officers and men under him. That portion of praise which may be due to me must of course go to those above me or be included in the praise given to the army.
My health is extremely good. I probably look better than I have for years. I expect to remain in Mexico for the remainder of the war and expect to move forward with the leading Brigade. I expect to be promoted in a short time to a second lieutenancy. This will probably occasion me to leave the light battery but it will give me more rank which is of the greatest importance in the army.
Remember me in the warmest terms to Mr. Arnold and all my other friends. I rejoice at your prosperity and hope and doubt not that it will continue. I hope soon to march forward towards the city of Mexico. Vera Cruz continues healthy. I intend writing soon and more frequently as my feelings incline me to and as a brother ought. Your last letters coming in such quick succession served as a just rebuke but my means for writing are poor. Even now I am using a box for a chair and my camp bedstead as a writing desk and think myself comfortably situated. You have all the conveniences necessary and I hope that you will use them to write often to one who esteems you above all.
Camp near Vera Cruz Mexico
Sir:
Your Obt Servt
Jalapa Mexico
Dear Sister
But passing to the south the aspect of things change. You frequently {see} elegant buildings in the country. Genl Santa Anna owns between this place & Vera Cruz 5 beautiful houses and a tract of land about fifty five miles in length. The country in the south is very similar to our own. Whilst I was in Monterey my quarters were in the outskirts of the city having a large back lot attached which contained beautiful orange orchard. Also in this lot was a fine bathing establishment the dimensions being about 25 by 30 ft. Monterey is the most beautiful city which I have seen in the North of this distracted country.
About 50 miles farther west is Saltillo the capital of Coahuila. Its [height] is about 2000 feet above the level of Monterey on an inclined plane at the edge of the table lands. The houses are generally built of sun dried brick as are most of the houses in that region. The church is the most highly ornamented on the interior of any edifice which has ever come under my observation. On entering this magnificent structure we are struck with the gaudy appearance on every side but most especially the opposite end which appears to be gilded with gold. At the bottom is a magnificent silver altar and on each side are statues which can not fail to attract the attention of the astonished beholder. The music is of the highest character. The priests are robed in the most gaudy of apparel. The inhabitants take off their hats on approaching the church and do not replace them until past it. One day whilst I was near the building I observed a señora (lady) gradually approaching the door on another occasion I saw a female looking at a statue and weeping like a child. Such is the superstition of this race.
After obtaining a [limited] transportation for General Twigg's division it set forward for Jalapa on the road leading to the city of Mexico. But on arriving near Cerro Gordo we learned that General Santa Anna held the pass in force consequently we waited for reinforcements which finally arrived and on the 17nst we attacked the Mexicans but did not succeed in routing them completely until the 18th when we took some thousand prisoners and completely routed the remainder. We followed close on the retreating column until night and came near enough to give the retreating enemy a few shots from the battery. But they succeeded in effecting their escape for want of our dragoons. General Scott after disarming the prisoners allowed them to retire the officers on [parole]. But General La Vega who is again our prisoner refused to except of his and I presume that he will be sent back to the U.S. Our loss has been considerable but not known neither is the Mexican. General Santa Anna escaped but in his haste left us his carriage & together with some thousand dollars in specie.
General Twiggs' division has fought the battle. General Worth has again got a division but he did not get it into action owing to its being used as a reserve and General Twiggs' as the advance. Capt Taylor in his report to General Twiggs has spoken of me in very flattering terms. I am now in Jalapa which is situated about 60 miles from Vera Cruz and 195 from the city of Mexico. General Worth is now in advance and if there is any fighting at Perote he will be apt to distinguish himself. He will probably be in the vicinity of Perote tomorrow at farthest and possibly today. It is rumored here that the Mexicans are fortifying their capital if so then we may have the grand battle there. A Mexican officer came here last evening from the city of Mexico and stated that his father had written to him from San [Louis] stating that General Taylor was there & had met with no opposition.
I can say no more as I have just learned that the escort by which I wish to send this has started because I must mount my horse & over take it or miss a good opportunity. I am in better health than usual.
Jalapa, May 25th, 1847
Lovely Sister
The army was to move at the time which I mentioned but General Scott concluded to disband the volunteers as their time had nearly expired and this so much diminished our force that we delayed the advance until a couple of days since. General Scott left on Sunday with an escort following in the wake of his troops. General Worth has been in Puebla for about 10 days. Santa Anna marched from Orezaba and commenced fortifying about half way between the cities of Puebla and Mexico but owing to some [cause] he relinquished it and marched into the capital left the army and is now in the presidential chair. As to his motives I cannot say anything further. But I suppose that he thinks that his influence will be more powerful there than elsewhere. The people here think him an infamous man. An election was held on the 15th for president and Herera was the successful candidate but will not take his seat for a few months yet.
I am in fine quarters and making rapid progress in the Spanish language and have an idea of making some female acquaintances shortly. I see many things here of interest by the way of ornament and fruits and wish that I only had an opportunity of sending some to you and Thomas. I well know that he would like to have a ranchero (Mexican) on horse back followed by some large dogs. I would be much pleased to hear from Wirt poor fellow?
Give my respects to your estimable husband. I want to hear whether the reports about Uncles Cummins & Edward are true. I think of you often and my heart more than once upbraided me for my neglect to you. But I feared to inform you of things as they were in this unholy land. Your Brother always.
T.J. Jackson
City of Mexico
Dearest Sister
Let not this letter trouble you dearest sister for I could not write one of a different cast with a clear conscience when you speak to me so ominously. But do not be [deterred] by any cause from saying to me plainly that I am sick or that I am well for ambiguity in relation to you is very painful to me.
You appear to think hard of my not writing more frequently but I have not only written by every mail but on one occasion sent by a Spanish friend in [five]. I have embraced every opportunity to say to you that I am in such or such a state of health. But for the future the intention is to send the mail by escorts twice a month on the first and fifteenth so that you may expect to hear from me by every mail until I am ordered from this city which may and which may not be at all as I am in General Smith's brigade and he is governor of the city. I am first Lieutenant and belong to Capt. Taylor's Battery. I hope the war may soon terminate but do not entertain much hope although the terms of a treaty have been sent to Washington and at present an armistice is being made or has been concluded but as yet is not public. Santa Anna has asked of his government a passport for the purpose of leaving the country and it was granted to him on the 13th inst. But it is doubtful whether he will go as several of the states have expressed themselves favorably to him and [------------] has offered him an asylum.
If we both live I expect to see you. Do not allow my words about marrying in Mexico to disturb you. I have sometimes thought of staying here and again of going home. I have no tie in this country equal to you. You speak of my fine horse as in your opinion being rather extravagant but if an officer wishes to appear best he should appear well in everything. I bought the horse having plenty of money and need of [ ] and have since been offered three hundred and fifty dollars for him, that is a hundred and seventy more than I gave and can at any time get more than I gave. My pay whilst with Capt. Magruder was one hundred and four dollars per month and I expect it will soon be the same here but at present it is only about ninety so that I have plenty of money and am in the long run economical although it would not appear to you so as here everything is dear and with you cheap. I dress as a gentleman should who wishes to be received as such. I do not gamble nor spend my money as I think foolishly.
I am very desirous of peace as it may be better for the United States & it may give me an opportunity of again entering your hospitable house & having that sight most delightful of all other earthly ones that is of my sister. My health I think is improving in this country and at all events my knowledge of Spanish is. As I shall have a better idea when the mail will start hereafter I shall try and send you more interesting letters. Remember me to Mr. Arnold & friends in the warmest terms. Your brother.
T.J. Jackson
City of Mexico. March 23, 1848.
Dear Sister
I thought at one time of writing a journal but I can not find the time as although I am usually up at six o'clock and retire to bed at ten and eleven still the day is not long enough. The morning hours I occupy in studies & business and the evening in a similar manner but generally taking a walk after dinner and sometimes a ride on the Passeo or elsewhere in the evening. The Passeo is a wide road on the south west of the city and about a half of a mile in length with a beautiful fountain in the center and is a place of fashionable resort. Families of wealth appear there in the carriages at sunset partly if not entirely for show. There is also a place of morning resort between the city and the Passeo called the Almeda which is a beautiful grove of about four hundred by six hundred yards and containing I think eight fountains. At the central one is celebrated the anniversary of Mexican independence and from this which is the largest beautiful walks diverge to the different outlets (the grove being surrounded by a wall). I purpose on riding to both these places this evening hoping to see something there more attractive than at home. When not on duty I generally pay a visit after supper or tea. Among those families which I visit are some of the first in the republic as Don Lucas Aleman Martinez del Rio and I also have the acquaintance of others of some distinction.
My studies are now principally directed to the formation of my manners and the rules of society and a more thorough knowledge of human nature and the latter I perceive from your letter meets with your approbation and I doubt not but that the former two objects will also as they are very important to a man's success in life. You will pardon me for the mistake I have made in turning the leaves of this sheet. But returning to my subject this country offers me greater advantages for acquiring graces than I will probably ever meet with again unless I should visit Europe. The book which I am studying is Lord Chesterfield's letters to his son translated into Spanish so that whilst I am obtaining his thoughts I am also acquiring a knowledge of the Spanish tongue. I have also purchased the work in English and after having read it in Spanish I then purpose on reading it in English. Subsequent to this I shall study Shakespeare's works which I purchased a few days since and then if I can obtain good histories I wish to devote some time to them.
If Uncle Cummins & Edward should leave Lewis I wish you would get Uncle Edward to box up my books which are in his possession and send them to you. I hope that you will try and write me a letter once a week. I should write more frequently to you if an opportunity offered of sending letters more than twice a month. Owing to my knowledge of the language of the country and the acquaintances which I have made I think that I pass my time more agreeably than the greater portion of the officers of the Army, but if your company could also be had I would spend my hours still more agreeably. My love to all enquiring friends. My health is as good if not better than usual. General Scott's case has been investigated. The charges against Col. Duncan were withdrawn. Also General Worth withdrew his against General Scott. General Pillow's case is now being investigated.
National Palace Mexico. April 10, 1848
Dear Sister
The treaty has arrived from Washington, with its amendments. Many think that it will receive the ratification of this government. But some think that it will not. For my own part I hope it will. Mr. Sevier I presume will be here in a few days. At last dates from Queretaro there were wanting fifteen congressmen, and three senators to complete the quorum. We have received news here of a battle at [Chiguagua], in which we took fourteen pieces of artillery from the enemy. I am at present studying Humboldt's history of Mexico, in Spanish. The rain is quite abundant here at present and interferes somewhat with my evening visits. It is believed that our presence here is destroying the extreme superstition of this country. But not withstanding the influence of our presence, the natives still with uncovered heads drop on their knees, at the approach of the Archbishop's carriage; which is recognized by its being drawn by two spotted mules.
General Pillow's trial is not yet finished and the general opinion is that it will be terminated in the United States. We are told here that our people at home, think that the army do not wish to return from Mexico, but if such is the truth they are much mistaken. An expedition started a few days since, for [Popocatepitl] which is a volcanic mountain to the S.E. of and in full view of this city, and which still issues clouds of smoke at times. I should probably have gone my self, but as the temperature is so extremely low, resulting from the crest being capped with snow, I feared that my health might suffer.
In conformity with the armistice, the Mexicans have taken possession of their archives, and have resumed the civil administration of their government. Santa Anna at last news, was at his hacienda near Jalapa (Encerro) again bidding adieu to his country. Whilst at his hacienda he received the visits of Colonel Hews, and several other American officers. General Valencia died a few days since in this city, the news of which proved fatal to his daughter, who died a few hours subsequent to its reception. I have heard of no other who mourned his fate. The general hospital is ordered to be moved to Jalapa, and General Patterson I believe will go down at the same time, to take command of the station. This movement appears to indicate an anticipation of leaving the country.
Remember me to Mr. Arnold, Thomas and other friends.
T.J. Jackson
City of Mexico. May 20th 1848
Sir
I am sir very respectfully your obdt. servt.
T.J. Jackson
Governors Island
Dear Sister
But I am in hopes that next summer I shall be able to see you and if so I purpose on visiting the springs at several places and visiting those parts of Virginia most remarkable such as the Natural Bridge. You will please let me know the distance from Beverly to Staunton, & the time in which the stage [visits] it, and also the distance from Beverly to the White Sulphur Springs.
As yet I do not know where I will be stationed. I hope that ere this your eyes are perfectly recovered. I am still getting better. I have been brevetted a captain though as yet it is not published. Write frequently to your brother.
T.J. Jackson
Carlisle Barracks Penn
Dear Sister
There are many very interesting ladies here, and there has been almost a soiree every day since my arrival, and at which I have enjoyed myself well. When I obtain my leave, should I get it, you must not expect me to stay with you more than a month. And I hope that your health will be much improved by that time. You need not write to me, until you receive another letter from me, as I cannot say where I may be any coming day. Remember me to Mr. Arnold, your family, and my other friends. My health I think, is still improving.
Your brother
Fort Hamilton N.Y. Harbor. Jany 1st 1849
Dear Sister
I saw about that claim of [Warren's], and it is worth nothing, the Sheriff having failed to make his certificate. Whilst in Richmond, I called on Mr. Carlisle, and was received by him, in a very cordial manner, and during my stay there, he allowed no opportunity to pass unimproved, in which he could manifest his kindness. The night after I left your house I passed out at the head of the Valley river, and the next morning was in about 17 miles of Huntersville. But not withstanding I reached the Hot Springs too late for the Wednesday's stage, and consequently had to wait until Friday.
I am as you have observed at Fort Hamilton, which is on Long Island about ten miles below the city of New York, and on the east bank of the Hudson River. Remember me to Mr. Arnold, the children & c.
Your brother
Fort Hamilton. Feby 1st 1849
Dear Sister
I have begun my historical studies having read about one fourth of Ro[bi]ns Ancient History. If Mr. Arnold can prevail on the wagoner who may bring my books to Cumberland, to put the box in the office of Adams & Co. who have an office in Cumberland, and a train of cars running from there to New York, he will secure them to me more effectually than in any other way. Let the man take a receipt for them, and forward it to me at this place. The box should be marked as follows: Captain T.J. Jackson, care of the Quartermaster in New York City, N.Y. The manner in which the company do business, is to give a receipt when any thing is delivered at the office and then to turn over the article when the receipt is presented, and if the article should get lost to pay the owner for it.
The cholera has entirely disappeared from this place (Quarantine). The weather is quite disagreeable. I caught the rheumatism in your salubrious mountain air, which is harassing me no little. I am gaining strength and flesh. If Mr. Gibson will write to Captain Arnold, who is at Fort Monroe Va I am of the opinion, that he will get some information in relation to the ammunition which was charged to his brother, as he was a lieutenant in Arnold's Company. I am well fixed here, having my rooms both carpeted and decently furnished. Remember me to Mr. Arnold, the family, Aunt White, Uncle, and our other relatives.
Your brother T.J. Jackson
P.S. The gold fever is running very high here. I have conversed with Mr. Lo[e]ser, an officer of the Army from California, who says that a person can gather on an average about seventy five dollars per day, and that the climate is most delightful, the thermometer standing at from 60 to 70 degrees. As you may not know much about Thermometers, it may not be amiss for me to state, that the higher the thermometer stands, the warmer the weather is. Fahrenheit's thermometer which is the one commonly used in this country and the one referred to above, stands at 32 degrees when water freezes, at 55 degrees the air is temperate, at 75 degrees the air is at summer heat, at 95 degrees the air is at blood heat, and at 212 degrees the air would be at the temperature of boiling water. From the foregoing you observe that the climate referred to must be charming.
T.J.J.
Fort Hamilton N.Y. Harbor April 27th 1849
Dear Sister
Your request had not yet been complied with, but I rely on your generosity of character; as my strength has forbid much exercise, and especially walking on the hard pavements of N.Y. city. But I am improving in both flesh and strength and I hope in health also. I am now under the care of one of the first medical men of N.Y. city. I have lately commenced visiting more frequently, and every few evenings receive an invitation to some social party. Yesterday whilst walking through the city, I thought of the pleasure which I would derive from sharing the contemplations of its beauties and wonders with you. Naturally I recalled to mind, and applied to N.Y. what the Frenchman asserted of Paris, when he said that when a man had seen Paris, that he had seen all the world.
In New York may be found all most anything which the inclinations may desire; but peaceful quiet: every thing is in motion, every thing is alive with animation. In its busy throng, none feel the long tedious hour; even the invalid for the time forgets his infirmities, and with wondering admiration contemplates the surrounding scene.
Frequently you are the subject of my thoughts, and if you were only within reach of rapid communication would receive more frequent visits. The weather is moderating here.
Fort Hamilton, N.Y. Harbor, June 12th/49
Dear Sister,
I wish when practicable to write to you once every month, and I do not wish you to reply unless your eyes will admit of it without pain, because I prefer that your health should be preserved to any other Earthly consideration, and I hope that you will not strain your eyes on any account whatever. We can not appreciate our blessings unless deprived of them. My health is improving.
I forward to Mr. Arnold a catalogue of Harper's publications. If there is anything in it which he wishes, I hope that he will not fail to let me know. When you get possession of my books, I wish that you would retain them until I see you, or write relative to them.
I have not subscribed for Graham's magazine, but will do so if you desire. I merely sent a copy in order to see how you would like it. I hope to send you a copy or number(?) of the Lady's Book which some prefer to Graham's, though I can not say which is best, but when you shall have received it, you can judge for yourself.
I have received my commission as Brevet Major, and am gratified that you had an opportunity of doing Judge Lee a favor.
I sent a fifty dollar bank draft to Sylvanus White, with a request that he would pay Miss Caroline Norris a small sum, I think 2.50, 3.00 or 3.50 cts, which she let me have for the purpose of making a small purchase, which I did not make; and as I have heard nothing of him since, and as some months have elapsed, I fear that something may be wrong. I wish that you would ask Miss Eliza Norris about it, and if Sylvanus has not settled it, I wish that you would. If at any time, you should not receive an expected letter, try and make yourself easy, as in case of any accident happening to me, I have friends who would not fail to give the necessary information.
The Cholera in the city is on the decline. I have no dread of it as I believe that those who keep their system in a healthy state have but little to fear.
Your sincere brother
Fort Hamilton, N.Y. Harbor, Monday, July 2/49
My Dear Sister,
I feel much concern about your eyes, for I fear you will strain them. Remember that the best physicians are opposed to straining that important organ and when it fails or begins to fail naturally that they recommend spectacles. But this should be the last resort, and should only be used when necessary : for instance, some persons can walk about, out of doors and in doors without the light hurting their eyes: but must use this auxiliary in reading. The great objection to spectacles is that when their use is once commenced, it must be generally continued through life. A person when selecting a pair should select the lowest number, which will answer the proposed end and then as circumstances require, increase it. But I would advise you not to use them as long as you can do without them (at the same time avoiding pain).
My eyes were so weak some months since that I could not look long at objects through the window and to look out of doors was frequently painful, though but for a moment, and I was reduced to the necessity of masking my looking glass on account of its reflection, and I could not look at a candle, not even for a second, without pain. I consulted my physician and he told me not to use them, and at the same time to avoid spectacles. I did so and at present can read a letter of three or four pages without feeling any inconvenience of consequence. My health is improving and my strength adhered to my wholesome diet, of stale bread and plainly dressed meat (having nothing on it but salt), that I prefer it now to almost anything else. The other evening, I tasted a piece of bread with butter on it and then the bread without it, and rather gave my preference to the unbuttered bread; and hence I may never taste any more of this once much relished seasoning. And I think if you would adopt for your breakfast a cup of moderately strong black tea, stale wheat bread (wheat bread, raised and not less that 24 hours old) fresh meat, broiled or roasted is best, the yolk of one or two eggs (the white is hardly worth eating as it requires digestion and affords but little nutrition). For dinner the same kind of bread & meat, one vegetable only, say peas, beans or this years potatoes, and for drink plain water. For tea, the same kind of bread and drink as for breakfast and nothing else, unless you choose a little butter. The great beauty of the foregoing is that it furnishes all the nutrition which food can give and at the same time does not interfere in the digestive process like other substances such as salt meats, cabbage, lettuce, desert (such as pies, preserves, nuts, and all kinds of sweetmeats). Of what I have recommended, you can eat as much as your appetite craves, provided that you take regular meals, and plenty of exercise, say not less than three hours per day. I presume that your daily duties require you to be moving probably that much. Salt meats may be eaten, but fresh is preferable, and I regard green tea & coffee so injurious to the nerves that you should always prefer water to either. Now if you can make up your mind to adopt the foregoing for one year, I think that you will probably never wish to change it, and that after using such a diet for two or three months that you may experience marked advantage from it, but you must bear in mind that your meals must be at fixed hours. If you arise at seven five or six O'clock and go to bed at nine or ten, then seven would be a good hour for breakfast, one for dinner and seven for tea. And you ought to always retire to bed before eleven. If you should conclude to adopt the forgoing, do not taste other things of which you are fond: unless it be fruits and those should be ripe. I think that a small quantity of fruit eaten when ripe and in the fore part of the day, is advantageous. You should try and forget that you are infirm and pay no attention to your symptoms as most any person can by being too attentive to every little pain.
Remember that good wholesome food taken at proper times is one of the best of medicines. I shall have hopes of your improvement when you have resolved to taste nothing of which you are fond, except such things as I have mentioned. If you commence on this diet, remember that it is like a man joining the temperance society; if he afterwards tastes liquor, he is gone.
Fort Hamilton April 1st 1850
My Dear Sister
I regret to say that circumstances will prevent my return home this summer, but on the 1st of October, I expect to be ordered to Fort Washington, opposite Mount Vernon, where I expect to get a leave, and visit you during some portion of that month.
My health continues to improve. My muscles have become quite solid. My exercises are of a violent character, when the chill blain {chilblain} on my feet do not prevent it. I hope that Little Ann has entirely recovered.
When I make my proposed visit, I shall endeavor to take with me such things as your letter has specified, provided that they are attainable. Some of them may be difficult to get. My past winter has been much more pleasant than the preceding. The weather here is at present delightful; but in a few days it may be the reverse as it is much influenced here on the Sea Board, by the direction of the winds.
On Thursday last, I, in company with 18 others had a grand sleigh ride, it was the best snow of the season, but in 24 hours, there was hardly a trace of it to be found.
Sincerely your Brother
Fort Hamilton N.Y. Harbor
My Dear Uncle,
There is no man on Earth, whom I would befriend sooner than Uncle Cummins. Let me know who have betrayed him and in what he has been betrayed, give me a full history of names and facts as soon as possible; and strain every nerve to prevent the granting of the decree. I expect to return home in the Fall, when I will see what can be done; though I fear that I will not be able to do any thing, but I can not tell what good luck I may meet with by that time.
I believe that I will leave my horse in the possession of McLean until then. I am in much better health then when we parted and hope through the blessings of a kind Providence soon to be restored to perfect health. I have not received a single line from California. I have a delightful station and hope to pass a pleasant Summer.
Remember me kindly to Aunt and other relatives and friends.
Plattsburg Barracks N.Y.
My Dear Sister,
My health is still improving and in a short time I expect to return home to Fort Hamilton. In coming to this place I have passed some charming scenery. This place is on the Western bank of Lake Champlain. I should like very much to visit Montreal and Quebec before returning South, but want of time and money will prevent it. On my way here I saw the old Fort Ticonderoga and Crown Point. And in front of this Garrison, was fought the great Naval action of the late war.
Remember me kindly to Mr. A and Family.
Fort Hamilton N.Y.
Sir,
I am Sir,
To S. Lansing Jr. Esq.
Fort Hamilton N.Y. Harbor
My Dear Sister,
I will not get home this summer, but have some hopes of coming in October, but I can not say what the result will be. How can I get through those mountains during the Winter season.
I wish that I could come and spend the entire winter with you, but such I fear will be impractical. Do not make any calculations, but expect me when circumstances will best admit of my taking a leave. I have recently received a letter from uncle John White and Aunt Catherine. The family is well, uncle Jack and Aunt Nancy are dead.
Uncle had recently received a letter from our cousins in California and they say that Uncle Cummins is undoubtedly dead. This is news which goes to my heart, uncle was a father to me.
I want to bring Thomas a good violin, if neither you nor Mr. A. has any objection to his learning to play on one. Remember me kindly to Mr. A. and family.
Your brother,
Fort Ontario N.Y.
My Dear Sister,
The Court will probably remain in session for several days.
Fort Ontario is situated on the lake of the same name and in view of the city of Oswego.
If circumstances permit me to return home to Va. this coming fall, how can I get to your town most conveniently from Washington City. My health is still improving, but is as yet so delicate as to render much regularity necessary, and it is probable that I am more particular in my rules that any person of your acquaintance.
I fear that I will be much exposed in crossing the mountains, unless there is a stage line through from Eastern Virginia. When you write, let me know what kind of flowers, plants, & are in your garden and what kind you would like for me to bring. I expect that I can obtain almost every description in New York.
I am to commence staying at a water cure establishment this evening where I expect to remain during my stay here. I have great faith in them for such infirmities as mine. I have been for some months adopting it to a certain extent, and with advantage.
Remember me very kindly to Mr. A. and the family.
Your brother,
West Point N.Y.
My Dear Sister,
I have been quite unwell and had it not have been for my judicious application of water, I can not say what would have been the consequence.
Remember me very kindly to Mr. A. and family.
Your brother,
Fort Meade, Fla.
Dear Sir,
Though strong ties bind me to the Army, yet I can not consent to decline so flattering an offer. Please present my name to the Board and accept my thanks for your kindness.
I am sir,
Fort Meade Fla.
My Dear Sister,
I have hopes of being able to live near you for a while. I received a letter from Col. Smith, the Superintendent of the Virginia Military Institute at Lexington, in which he kindly offers to present my name to the Board of Visitors in June next, as a candidate for the Professorship in Natural and Experimental Philosophy in the Institute. I have accepted his offer; but am unable to say whether I shall be elected. If I knew who would compose the Board, then I could form a better idea. If I have a few friends on it, my chance will probably be good. I consider the situation both conspicuous and desirable. I will be in about 150 or 160 miles from you, will have quarters, and receive twelve hundred dollars per year. Philosophy is my favorite subject. I hope through the blessings of Providence to succeed in securing the Post.
I have heard that the Hon. Joseph Johnson is to be our Governor. Is it Joseph Johnson of Harrison? if so I am much pleased, as he had befriended me on more than one occasion.
I believe that John Stringer will probably be on the Board of Visitors in June next. This information I received by yesterdays mail. Where does he live? I see that Mr. Carlisle has been making two speeches in the convention. I look upon him as one of the promising sons of Virginia. I hope before long to see him in Congress. I am much pleased at seeing cousin Wm. J. Jackson also in the Convention. Indeed I have some hopes that our ancient reputation may be revived.
I might have sent this letter sooner, but I designedly delayed it for to see if yesterday's mail (6th of April) would not enable me to give you some good news, but I did not receive the information which I was waiting for, but in my next I hope to be in possession of agreeable tidings for you, but I am not over sanguine.
I received a few days since, a very kind, and well-wishing letter from Genl. John J. Jackson. When I visit you, I want also to visit him. I find that I have many friends, indeed I have found that all to whom I apply for assistance are ready to give me a helping hand. The generals letter was particularly gratifying to me.
I shall not attempt a Theological discussion with you a present, hoping to see you during the present year, when I hope that you will have all of your questions and ideas prepared for the investigation of your brother.
Remember me very kindly to Mr. A., to Aunt White, to Uncle, Cousin John, Uncle Stalnaker and Col. Goff and other friends.
Your brother
Fort Meade Florida
Col.
The high honor, conferred by the Board of Visitors, in selecting me, unanimously, to fill such a Professorship, gratified me exceedingly.
I hope to be able to meet the Board on the 25th of June next, but fear that circumstances, over which I have no control, will prevent my doing do before that time. For your kindness in endeavoring to procure me a leave of absence for six months, as well as for the interest you have otherwise manifested in my behalf, I feel under strong and lasting obligations.
Should I desire a furlough of more than than one month commencing on the 1st of July next, it would be for the purpose of visiting Europe.
I regret that recent illness has prevented my giving you an earlier answer.
Any communication which you may have to make previous to the 1st of June, please direct to this place.
I am Col.
Lexington, VA
My Dear Sister
I sent you a pamphlet a few days since, it was by the request of my old Physician with whom I was residing in the North. He appeared to take a deep interest in me and to be interested in those who were interested in your brother. From him I have learned many important truths concerning health. His names is Lowry Barney. I felt home sick at bidding adieu to his estimable family. Mrs. B. said that I did not appear like a stranger but like a relative, they were more kind than I could have desired.
From my present room which is in the 2d story of the Lexington Hotel. I have a lovely view of Mountain scenery. Lexington is the most beautiful place that I remember of having ever seen when taken in connection with the surrounding country.
I expect to go to the Springs next month with the Corps of Cadets. We shall leave about the 8th and return about the 25th, about the 13th we will arrive at the White Sulphur.
Remember me very kindly to Mr. A. & family and to my friends and relatives. I suppose that you had a fine mental feast on Miss B's notes. I designed burning them. Please save me the trouble by doing me the favor
Your brother,
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
I have seen Mr. Cowen and requested him to call on you, and have made a similar request of Mr. Henderson, whom I esteem very highly. He is the brother-in-law of Col. Smith. I am much obliged for the articles. An opportunity will hardly be afforded for visiting you this winter. I have received a letter from Cousin Margaret Neale: She as well as our other relatives are well.
The academic duties commenced on yesterday week.
My health has through the blessings of Providence been so much improved to enable me to enter on my duties, with which I am delighted.
Remember me very kindly to Mr. A. and family, and to all enquiring relatives & friends.
And say to Mr. A. that I hope to be able by his assistance to get some fine fossil specimens from his farm when I next visit Beverly. I remember of having seen some beautiful specimens of shells, near the bridge about Mrs. Bakers. These he showed me in 1848.
Your brother
Va. Military Institute
My Dear Sister,
I have been desirous of writing at an earlier day; but our examination and other duties have prevented my doing so, and even now this pleasing task is performed during the height of the examination. It could be delayed no longer without a degree of pain, which your brother is unwilling to experience on this subject. This trying ordeal will close about Thursday next.
I hope that you will look back if you through your past life and see if you can not find some cause for your afflictions.
Now my dear sister. You are aware that I am troubled about your hopes in relation to the endless futurity. The best plan that I can conceive for an unbeliever in God, as presented to us in the Bible, is to first consider things in reference merely to expediency. Now considering the subject with reference to expediency only, let us examine whether it is safer to be a Christian or an Infidel. Suppose two persons, one a Christian and the other an infidel, to be closing their earthly existences and suppose that the infidel is right and the Christian is wrong, they will then after death be upon an equality. But instead of the infidel being right, suppose him to be wrong and the Christian right, then will the state of the latter after death be inestimably superior to that of the other. And if you will examine the history of mankind it will be plain that Christianity contributes much more to happiness in this life, than that of infidelity. Now having briefly glanced at this subject, to what decision are we forced on the mere ground of expediency, certainly it is to the adoption of Christianity.
Having made our selection of Christianity, the next point is to consider whether we can believe the teachings of the Sacred volume; if so, then its adoption should of necessity follow. I have examined the subject maturely, and the evidence is very conclusive, and if we do not receive the Bible as being authentic and creditable, we must reject every other ancient work; as there is no other in favor of which, so much evidence can be adduced. Oh Sister! do pray to God for his mercy, and eternal life through our Redeemer Jesus Christ.
I have not yet been able to procure the peaches of which I spoke in my former letter. Cousin Harriet has returned from her visit to Point Pleasant, which was to her very pleasant. Uncle Minor Neale's daughter has returned home, with her grand-father who came north for her. Talk to Thomas & Grace for me and tell them that their uncle is very much obliged to them and that they must continue to be good children, and do what their mother and father may require of them.
Remember me very kindly to all inquiring friends and Relatives.
I should be much pleased to see a literary institution in Beverly; but I cannot see how to be serviceable to it. If you will state in your next what I would have to do as agent I would be enabled to give a more definite answer.
Your brother,
Va. Mil. Institute
My Dear Sister,
Next week I hope to take up the subject of Optics. The approaching summer is looked forward to by me with no small degree of interest, as our vacation will commence after the 4th of July.
Your health I hope is completely restored before this time: mine is still delicate. When did you last hear from Parkersburg and how are our relatives and friends? Do you see anything of John White's family. The weather had been extremely cold, but at present it is lovely.
I have not heard from you in weeks upon weeks. Remember me very kindly to Mr. A & family and to all enquiring friends.
Your brother,
V.M. Institute
My Dear Sister,
I am glad that cousin stopped with you. I received a letter from cousin Sylvanus White recently in which he states that his location is in Missouri, but for the future, he can not say to what quarter his steps will be directed.
My health has improved. What do you propose doing next summer during my visit. I suppose that plans you have in abundance. How is the family: give my regards to all individually. Tell Thomas that I should like to have him with me sometimes very much & that he must be at home the next time that I visit him. Remember me to all inquiring friends and relatives. How is Cousin John White and Aunt White.
Your Brother,
V.M. Institute Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister
I sent for my box sometime since, but have not yet obtained possession of it. This is a beautiful day, though the preceding few have been cold and have injured the fruit prospects, particularly the apricots and other early fruit. The plank road from Staunton to Buckhannon, which latter place is about 25 miles distant from here is now under construction, through our town. The stage travels about one third faster on it than on the dirt road.
I am anxiously looking forward to July.
When did you last hear from Cousin Margaret. She appears to have dropped me as a correspondent. I certainly gave her ostensible reason for so doing by not answering her letter more promptly. But this was occasioned by the pressure of other things.
Remember me very kindly to Mr. A., the family & to all enquiring friends and relations.
Tell Thomas and Grace I am not going to allow them to see their Aunt Nancy until they both offer to love me more than her. Tell them that their Aunt does not care about them half as much as I do.
Your brother,
V.M. Institute
My Dear Doctor,
How are you pleased with Philadelphia? What are Penrose's prospects for distinction in his profession. Of all the cities in this Union, that of the Quakers has my preference. Its public squares, magnificent edifices, it's water works & c, including that universal task which strikes the eye at all its points, must make it very interesting to all, who are only consulting pleasure.
Trueheart is now in Washington city, engaged in the Coast Survey. There is only one assistant here at present (Stewart). Our appropriation bill has not yet been acted on by the Legislature.
Judge Baldwin is not expected to recover from his recent attack. Judge Brockenbrough will probably be a candidate in place of Judge Baldwin for the Court of Appeals.
Prof. Calhoun of Washington College will leave this coming summer; his successor is so far unknown. Every thing is quiet at present in the Institute and I hope will ever continue so.
There is to be strong [stage] opposition through here this season. Let me here from you whenever a spare moment will permit.
Your sincere friend,
[On verso; not in Jackson's hand]
Resolved that it is with feelings of the most profound regret that we have heard the announcement of the decease of our fellow student & associate Dr. [illegible] Weir; whose gentlemanly bearing & Christian deportment has served not only to endear him to all with whom he came in contact but to render him an ornament and honour to the noble profession of which he was so faithful a votary. Resolved that we do sympathize most sincerely with the bereaved relatives & friends of his House upon whom this dispensation of Providence has fallen so unexpectedly & painfully.
Resolved that from respect to his memory we will wear the usual badge of mourning for thirty days.
Resolved that a copy of the proceedings of this meeting signed by the Secy. & Pres. be forwarded to the family of the deceased & that the same be published in the Richmond & Alexandria papers.
Va. Military Institute
My dear Sister,
I wish that you would either get Miss H. to take it back to Beverly on her return, or else send a servant with it to the stage office at Staunton and have it sent to me put on the way bill and directed to me at Lexington, Va. to the care of E. Porter.
I have recently received a letter from Cousin Margaret Neale, which states that she is engaged in teaching a school and that all our relations are well and that Cousin Lizzie Neale, daughter of Uncle Minor is on a visit and that she will probably remain North all summer.
I hope that by this time your health is entirely restored. Though my manner of living is very abstemious, yet health has not returned with all its blessings. Yet I am much better than when I last bid you good bye.
Remember me very kindly to Mr. A. & family. Tell Thomas and Grace that their aunt does not say a single word about either of them.
The weather had been very pleasant for the past few days, though the present one is not remarkably agreeable as a part of the time is sunshine and a part rainy and the balance is a mixture of both. In Beverly there is probably snow to be seen even this late in May.
This evening we are to be favored with a vocal concert. I wish that you could accompany me. I believe that as yet you had not been informed of my daily exercise. I have to walk about a mile and a half for each meal: 3/4 to and 3/4 from it. And in the morning I usually walk about a mile and a half before breakfast and in the afternoon about two miles or more before tea.
Your brother,
Va. Military Institute
My Dear Sister,
My box has not yet arrived, but I have spoken to a friend whose family lives in Staunton to endeavor to have his family to forward it. I shall try to get some grafts to take with me.
Is it a fur hat which I am to get for Thomas, if so it would be desirable to have the measure of his head.
The weather is quite cool here this morning though for sometime back it has been very warm.
The people are beginning to visit the Alum Springs.
I wish that you could see our Institute for I consider that it is the most tasty edifice in the state. We have had green peas for sometime and the strawberries are I believe beginning to disappear. But the cherries are just coming in season.
Beverly must be cold enough for all practicable purposes even at this late period. I am enjoying myself more than I have done for some years; but still my health requires much care and rigid regard to diet.
I hope that the news may be true that Uncle Cummins has returned; to meet him will be a proud day in my life. He has certainly been a good friend to me. Have you heard anything from cousin E.J. Jackson.
A bill has recently passed out state Legislature which appropriates 30,000 dollars for the purpose of completing our Barracks. We expect during the coming session to have about 18 or 20 more cadets that at any previous one and when the buildings shall be completed the accommodations will admit of upwards of 200. This past year we had to refuse admission to a large number. Remember me very kindly to Mr. A & family & to all inquiring friends and relatives.
Your brother
Alum Springs Rockbridge Cty July 12 1852
I arrived here yesterday in as good health as usual and am delighted with the waters so far. The Springs are crowded there being about four hundred visitors and the accommodations being only adequate for 275 or 300. I succeeded in procuring 1/2 a bed; there being one room for four occupants. In a few days I hope to be better off. Though we have but two beds to 4 persons in my quarters; yet the beds are good, and the servants, and proprietors, and the their assistants are attentive.
Boarding is 10 dollars per week. This water I consider is the water of waters. This place is more crowded than any other in the mountains and I have not heard of a single person who is dissatisfied though my enquiries have been many.
My appetite and digestion have already improved and I indulge rather freely. My dinner was principally bread (which was rather fresh), potatoes and green corn which is by no means digestible. My supper rich corn bread & the same for breakfast (using butter freely at each meal)
Remember me very kindly to all enquiring Relatives and friends. Your brother, Thomas
This establishment was sold a few days since for one hundred and fifty thousand dollars.
Lexington Va.
My Dear Sister,
The checks have not yet come to hand, has the letter containing them been received by you. Our duties at the Institute have been resumed, and things omen well.
I have for months back admired Lexington, but now for the first time have truly and fully appreciated it. Of all the places which have come under my observation in the U. States, this little village is the most beautiful.
In a few days I hope to write a letter to cousin Harriet Murdoc and I shall urge her to leave home next year. She is a lovely lady and if she were not my cousin I might ardently desire her to be my wife. She is so estimable: I feel proud of her as a cousin. I enjoyed myself very much at the springs and would have been delighted to have had her with me.
I wrote to Richard Camden and to Dr. Bland requesting them to join me at the Alum but have heard nothing from either of them.
I hope that the baby has entirely recovered and that your health continues to improve. Remember me very kindly to the family and to all inquiring friends and relatives.
Your brother, Thomas
Has Cousin Nancy returned home? How is Miss Eliza and Mrs. Hilly?
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
I have found on my return home that the peaches here were not so abundant as I had supposed but the apples are at abundance. Though peaches are not so plentiful as I had supposed, yet I have spoken to a person to secure me two or three bushels and if he fails I will endeavor to secure them by sending to Lynchburg, which is near forty miles and through that section I have been informed that there has been no scarcity. I hope that by this time the baby is entirely well and that health and prosperity are among the number of your domestic blessings.
My health has been much improved by visiting the Alum Springs. I have been and am still using the water, but its effects are not so good as when used at the Springs.
Cousin Harriet has written me a letter which I prize very much, it speaks the purity of her character. I wish that I could be with her during my leisure moments. They would pass so delightfully under her pure and elevating influence.
Cousin Margaret is married, though of this you have probably already been informed. She is the wife of the person to whom I believe you alluded when we were at Parkersburg. Aunt would not consent to her being married at home and she was consequently married at Uncle William Neale's.
The weather here is very warm and the ground is quite dry.
What news have you from the letter containing the drafts. I wish you would let me know as soon as convenient, whether there is any hopes of getting possession of them. Let me hear from you as soon as convenient.
John Gittings is doing very well.
Remember me very kindly to each member of the family and to all enquiring relatives and friends.
Your brother
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
George Lurty has been here for about two weeks. He and Mr. Harrison (son of Wm. Harrison of Clarksburg) design taking a course of law lectures this winter under Judge Brockenbrough.1 George is a young man of very fine mind, and I hope that he will acquit himself with much credit this winter. A young Mr. Stribling from Point Pleasant is also here. He is brother to the Miss S. of whom I presume you have
1Now, Washington and Lee University School of Law, Lexington, Virginia. heard cousin Harriet Murdoc frequently speak. Cousin Harriet I regard as being one of the sweetest ladies with whom I have ever met. I wish that we could be together frequently. I hope that she will make a visit next summer to this most beautiful of places. How sweet it is to meet with congenial spirits!
I wish that you would forward me the checks by the first mail as I am in need of them. The peaches have not yet come to hand but as soon as they do I will forward them without delay.
I weighed yesterday one hundred and seventy two pounds and a fraction. This is six pounds more than any former weight. My health has much improved and I hope that through the blessings of God, I will ultimately enjoy perfect health. Remember me very kindly to Mr. A and family and to all enquiring friends.
Your brother
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
I expect that you have probably been devoting too much care to the articles which you spoke of forwarding to me. Now do not think any more about me in relation to them, but bear in mind that I have plenty of everything except health and that this has much improved.
I hope that health will return to you with all of its blessings. I have written twice to cousin Harriet since we parted. I do think her one of the sweetest ladies. I wish that I could be in her society more frequently than circumstances will permit.
We have had a lovely fall in this portion of the state. My kindest regards to Mr. Arnold's family, all inquiring friends.
Your brother, Thomas
P.S. This morning I fired ten guns from the Battery of Artillery in commemoration of the origin of the Institute. This day, thirteen years it went into operation and it is now in a very flourishing condition, so much so that we cannot accommodate all the applications.
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
I trust that this will find you improving if not well. Our session will have its semi-annual examination in the early part of the coming January. When did you last hear from Cousin Harriet Murdoc. A cadet from Point Pleasant tells me that she had been there on a visit, but that she has returned home.
Lexington has been very gay for some time back, owing to the marriage of one of the daughters of the late Governor McDowell. The weather is quite inclement at present.
You must talk to Thomas and Grace for me and tell them that their uncle frequently thinks of them and that he would be very glad to have them with him. But that he does not like bad children and always talk to them for me in such a manner as to make them better. I suppose that you have heard of Cousin Margaret Neale's marriage.
I am very busy this winter with studying and hearing recitations, having not only to prepare on Natural Philosophy and Artillery, but to be in the section room three and four hours per day additional. My spare time is given to reading and to other sources of improvement.
Your brother,
Va. Military Institute
My Dear Sister,
My Dear Sister, it is useless for men to tell me that there is no God, and that his benign influence is not to be experienced in prayer, when it is offered in conformity to the Bible. For some time past, not a single day has passed by without my feeling his hallowing presence whilst at my morning prayers. I endeavor to live in accordance with the above passage which means as I understand it, in all thy ways acknowledge God and he shall take care of you in all respects.
What better protector can we desire that one who is omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent and who hath promised that he will take care of us in all things, and in addition to all this the pledge coming from One who cannot lie.
Our weather here has been quite cold for sometime back, but at present it is very beautiful; too much so to be of long duration I fear. Persons I believe have generally filled their ice houses.
I rather begin to despair of the peaches as I have not seen a dry one to my recollection since returning home.
You remember that during the past summer I was very much reduced in flesh, at present I have more than desirable and sometimes endeavor to reduce it, but the nervousness with which I have been so much troubled and the disagreeableness of cold feet induce me to adhere to the indulgence of the palate. But my dishes are very plain: generally brown bread is the principle article for Breakfast and Tea and sometimes I probably do not taste meat for more than a month and I have not to my recollection used any other drink than cold water since my return home, and hope that such may continue to be the case.
I heard from Judge Allen a few days since: Cousin Mary is well, one of her daughters is rather ill. I met the daughter at the Alum Springs during the past summer. She is a beautiful girl.
Though I desire to hear from you frequently; yet I never wish to do so when there doing so, requires that your eyes should be tasked. To know that you are destroying or endangering the happiness of yourself, and those around you, produces more pain than the receipt of a letter cam compensate for.
Cousin Harriet Murdock was well when her last letter was written. A letter from her is daily expected.
Your Brother,
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
I too have crosses, and am at times deeply afflicted! But however sore may be the trials they lose their poignancy, and instead of producing injury I feel that I am but improved by the ordeal. But how is this accomplished? By throwing myself upon the protection of him, whose law book is the wonderful Bible. My dear sister I would not part with this book for countless universes. I feel ready to make every sacrifice to carry out the will of him who so loved us, as to give his only begotten son to die for me. How exceedingly great must have been that love!
The more I learn, the more dear does the precious volume appear to me. O Sister, if you would only pray! If you would only become religious! I derive much pleasure from morning walks, in which is to be enjoyed the pure sweetness of caroling birds.
The weather is delightful at present, and our peach trees are beginning to bloom, and in the course of a few more weeks, the forests will be clad with verdure.
Judge Brockenbrough's law school has closed its session and George Lurty has returned home; after having passed a profitable winter. If he will only make the best of his facilities, a brilliant career may be expected as his reward. He possesses talents of a high order.
I have not heard from Cousin Harriet for a long time. It appears she has forgotten me.
Sometime since, Cousin Sylvanus wrote to me, and stated that he was at home, but expected in a few days to leave for the west. Talk to the children for me as I would were I with you. Remember me very kindly to the whole family and to all enquiring relatives and friends.
Your brother,
Lexington Rockbridge County, Va.
My Dear Sister,
I wish that you would send me by the return mail the daguerreotype which I had taken in New York after having shaved. The one with the beard on, was taken at New Orleans soon after my return from Mexico. This last one I wish you to keep safely as I prize it highly. If you remember, I gave you two others one being taken with a stern countenance, and the other with a smile, it is the smiling one which I want and don't fail to send it well enveloped, by the first mail. If you wish it to be returned, I will try and do so in a few months or else a better one in its stead; as I think your brother is a better looking man than he was when that was taken. It may be that you have not got the one which I had taken with the beard on, if not it is lost. I am anxious to get Father's, in order to have a facsimile of it taken, but do not trust it to the mail. I believe you let Cousin Harriet have the grim looking one, which I gave you, ungrateful girl that she is. I am going to write to her in a few days such a letter as such conduct in a pretty cousin merits.
I hope that you are out of bed, and able to enjoy the comforts of domestic life. Kiss the children and tell them a great many things such as their uncle would tell him were he in their company.
Remember me very kindly to Mr. A. and to all the family and to all enquiring relatives & friends. Should any person be coming here, I would be glad to get my Blair's Rhetoric.
Your brother,
Lexington, Va.
My Dearest & only Sister,
What my dear sister is this life, and all its joys, compared to that which is to come. How happy would I be did I but know that beyond this probationary life we should be together for ever more, there with those who have gone before us, to enjoy endless happiness. My sister, do reflect upon my course of life, think and see if I have ever erred since arriving at mature age, and then consider how I could ever have been satisfied of the truth of the Gospel; unless it is true. Have I ever erred in the affairs of this life? Remember too what strong irreligious influences have been brought to bear on me and yet in spite of all opposing obstacles, I am one of the most devoted of Christians.
Will you not have some faith in the prayers of a dying mother & brother? My dearest sister, do throw yourself into the hands of God. Throw yourself upon his mercy, repent of your sins and believe that the father will accept your prayers, and forgive your transgressions, for the sake of his son's merits. Remember that he hath said that they who come unto him he will in nowise cast off.
I shall leave here as soon as my vacation shall permit and hope to be with you by the 12 of July if not before. I had designed making you a visit this summer, but did not know whether it would be before or after my return from the North. I have business which calls me to New York City this summer and I was desirous of going some more distant places.
You speak of Dr. Bosworth's son. I wish that it was in my power to do him a service but being here as Professor, I ought not to abuse my trust in any way. I wrote to the Doctor in reference to his son, but I believe omitted to state that in his letter to the superintendent of the Institute he should state that he was unable to educate his son himself. When he calls to see you, I wish that you would mention this to him & also tell him that Col. Samuel L. Hayes is on the new Board of Visitors for your place.
I most sincerely hope that his son will get the appointment and if there is anything which I can do for him consistent with my duty as Professor, it shall be done with a great deal of pleasure.
Your brother,
Rockbridge Alum Springs
My Dear Sister,
Say to Dr. Bosworth that I saw John1 yesterday, and that he was well with the exception of a sore leg. I asked him if he had written home, and he said that he had not done so, that he did not wish to, because of his leg being sore. I advised him to write and say nothing about his leg as it would be better to let them hear from him, though he should say nothing in respect to this. His leg did not appear to trouble him much, he was going about the encampment and did not appear much lame. He told me that he would write. If you should say anything to the Doctor about John's leg, tell him to have no concern about it. But probably it would be best to say nothing about the subject of health. I am scarce of paper. Tell Miss Eliza that she must be on the look out for something in relation to me, and in reference to which she called my attention.
Your brother,
Say to Doctor Bosworth that I did not hand in the list for John, because of its having already been done.
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
In my last letter, I spoke of being in Philadelphia. We remained there from Saturday until Monday, when we proceeded to West Point where I was delighted with my easy associations: The beautiful plains, the frowning ruins of Fort Putnam, the majestic river, and magnificent scenery all conspired to enhance my happiness which had already been of a high order. The ladies1 also were much pleased with it.
After remaining there until about 12 o'clock next day, we resumed out route for Niagara Falls. This of all natural curiosities is the most sublime and imposing which has ever come under my observation. We put up at the Cataract House, which is on the American side, and the next morning crossed over to Goat's Island which separates the Falls into two parts, that point on the East of the Island is called the Transcript American Falls and that on the West side the Canadian. The latter is much the larger, by reason of the greater quantity of water which passes down on this side of the island. The Canadian falls are called the horseshoe falls from their resemblance to a horseshoe, the toe being up stream. When looking at this wonder of nature I desired to be left to my own interrupted thoughts, it lulls the mind and forbids interruption, it calls on the mind for its entire and undivided contemplation. More of this in my next. Remember me very kindly to Mr. A. the family and all enquiring friends & relatives.
Your brother,
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
At present my health is influenced by a cold in the head; but to such things in my own case, I attach but little importance, for with care they are dissipated in a few days. My wife is in good health, and sends her love to you & the family.
Things here are working smoothly, the weather is fine, and I am much pleased with the coming prospects. Give my love to Mr. A. and the rest of the family. Tell Mrs. Hillie that I saw the gentleman to whom I made application in her case, but a few days since, and that he that he had not been able to do anything for her as yet, but on account of the recent expenses of the lodge; but that he was certain that he would get twenty dollars at least, and that he would be in Richmond this winter, and that he would bring her case before the grand lodge of the State. But tell her not to be too sanguine about success for fear that she may be disappointed. In my opinion, something will be done for her, but how much it is impossible to say.
I believe that at the close of my last letter I was making some remarks upon Niagara, and I had probably finished them. After leaving there, we proceeded in a carriage down the Niagara River for a few miles to Lewiston, where we took a steamer and proceeded to cross Lake Ontario on our way to the St. Lawrence River, and at dawn the next morning we were around a cluster of islands called the thousand islands, which present an extremely beautiful aspect and they are probably a thousand in number, some almost covered by bare and rugged rocks and crops and the other beautifully varied with forests of Northern growth. I enjoyed the scene much! Very much! During the day, we passed through the perilous rapids of that remarkable river. In passing one of them we took on board a special pilot of large an athletic dimensions. After thus passing a very pleasant day, we arrived safely at Montreal. To be remembered to all inquiring relatives & friends is the request of your only brother,
P.S. You may form some idea of one of the rapids from the circumstance that though we were on a high decked steamer, yes the spray was thrown extremely over her prow and so as to fall upon her deck.
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
It is very singular that Mr. Tanner neglected to give you the things entrusted to him, possibly he changed his route after having seen me and did not pass through Beverly.
I wish that I could get Tom some suitable books here. I may have an opportunity of getting some by the time that any person from this place goes to Beverly.
I send you a lock of Ellie's hair which she reluctantly parts with because of its color, which she hopes may prove more acceptable to your taste than it has ever been to hers. My message to you is that you must prize it very highly as being the token of a sister's love and from a brother's wife.
Send us a lock from your hair and also one from Grace. Tell her to give me the prettiest she has so that I may look at it when I am so far off that I cannot see her pretty face. Tell her furthermore that I have told her Aunt that Grace is very pretty & her conduct much as good as her face.
I have not yet heard of any money being collected for Mrs. Hillie and I feel uneasy about it; yet I have strong reassurances that something will be done, and I shall press the matter until a definite answer shall have been obtained, and the result I will inform Mrs. Hillie of immediately. Ellie joins me in love to you and the family.
Your brother,
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
I hope that Mrs. Hillie is improving in health. I am anxious about her claim, no recent account has been given me in reference to it. Should nothing be reported to me before summer, I shall go to Staunton in person and see about it. Until that time my occupation requires me to be at the Institute.
We have recently been called to mourn the death of my mother-in-law, she without any apparent uneasy concern passed in to that unseen world where the weary are at rest. Her life was such as to attract around her many warm friends, and if she had any enemy in this world it was and continues to be a secret to me. Hers was a Christian life and hers was a Christian death. She had been afflicted with rheumatism for several months previous to the close of her life and on Saturday preceding her death she had the return of hernia which had formerly afflicted her. On the 23rd of February about 3 o'clock P.M. her husband told her that her end had come. She asked how long she could live and he told her two or three hours, and although the Physicians had the same day pronounced her symptoms favorable, she appeared perfectly reconciled. She said that she was not afraid to die and that she found Jesus precious to her soul. [text at left margin] She asked us to kiss her and told her children to live near to Jesus and to be kind to one another. When asked by one her daughters what they should do without her, she replied that the Lord would provide. She was strongly attached to her family and [they] to her; yet she appeared to have no concern about what would become of herself or family, such was her complete confidence in the promises of the Bible. She felt assured that God would provide for her family and she felt that she was going to her saviour, with whom she expected to enjoy unending happiness. Her death was no leaping into the dark. She died with the bright hope of an unending immortality of happiness.
My sister, Oh! That you could thus live, then might you thus die. Do you not remember how much you are concerned about your children when you apprehend the approach of a dying hour. Do my sister turn to God and cast all your care in Jesus. I believe that you had our Mother's and Warren's prayers and now you have mine, and more than mine. My Dear Sister, do seek religion.
Remember me very kindly to each member of the family, my wife sends her love also.
Remember me to all enquiring relations and friends.
Your brother
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
I hope that by the time you receive this that your health will have much improved. But my sister, be that as it may, do turn to God, and obey the teachings of the Bible. If you do not believe its teachings at least obey its doctrines and I believe that God will give you faith. Make but the effort, and resolve to do what it teaches to the close of life, and then you may expect death to be disrobed of its terrors. Remember that you have your brother's prayers, and I hope those of several members of my wife's family, and I believe that you also received the prayers of our Mother and Brother.
I received a letter a few days since from Aunt Clementine Neale. She and Uncle Alford had been south to see Uncle Thornton and Wirt, but a short time before they reached Uncle Thornton's Wirt had gone to California. She tells me that Wirt is a very tall man, and that Uncle Thornton has a very high opinion of him. Uncle Minor's wife lost her last husband in New Orleans some months since and she is consequently again thrown upon her father's protection. I have also received a letter from Uncle John White; his health has improved and that of his family is generally good. Uncle George White's family at last account was well.
My dear sister do try and follow your Brother's council now and remember that this letter is prayed over by him, that it may be the means of your eternal happiness. Let me hear from you soon.
Your affectionate Brother,
Lexington, VA
My Dear Sister,
Your brother,
V.M. Institute
My Dear Sister,
Tell Mrs. Hilley that I have not been able to get anything for her as yet, but that the necessary steps have been taken and that we must await the result which she shall be made acquainted with.
I am a candidate for the Professorship of Mathematics in the University of Va. I am well pleased with my present position, yet the other is more desirable both by reason of its being more prominent, and its being about three thousand dollars. The professor is elected by the Board of Visitors for the University of Va.
We have had some very cold weather here during the past few days but at present it is very fine.
My wife has had the left side of her face partially [paralyzed]1
Your brother,
P.S. Remember me very kindly to Mr. A. and to all the family and inquiring relations and friends. T.J.J.
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
I hope that your health may continue to improve. The poor little Babe what can be the matter with it? I suppose that it is difficult to decide in so young a child, but let us hope for the better while we continue to be prepared for the worst.
Ellie's face has not yet entirely recovered; but I am of the opinion that time will effect a perfect restoration.
Remember me very kindly to Mr. A. and to all enquiring relatives and friends. Tell Thomas and the other children, that I love them, and that they must be good children. Ellie joins me in love to you all.
Your brother,
P.S. Tell Thomas that I am sorry that he is sick, and that I wish that I could do something for him. T.J.J.
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
I am endeavoring to get an answer about Mrs. Hilley's money: and if I do not get it soon I shall go and see about it in person, and will have the matter settled either one way or the other. Remember me to her and to all my other friends.
Your brother
[Note 1 - Reference to the death of Laura's infant daughter, Laura Zell Arnold (b. Dec. 1853 d. May 1854).] [Note 2 - Reference to Jackson's pending application for a professorship at the University of Virginia. Shortly after this letter was written, the University's Board awarded the position to another candidate.]
My Dear Sister,
I wish you would say to Mrs. Hillie that I have failed in my efforts to procure her any assistance. I much regret this. I do not know of any person belonging to the Staunton Lodge who would have been more likely of success than Mr. Watts, the gentleman to whom I entrusted it. Your Brother Thomas
My dear Laura,
Excuse this hasty note as I am much pressed with business. Mr. Bledsoe of Kentucky was elected at the University to the chair for which I was a candidate.
Healing Springs, Va.
My dear Laura,
[at top of page]
The Major says they did not know when they would make any mass at the Bath Alum, but he says if you want it he will direct them to send you a keg of it, but he expects the transportation will cost a good deal. companion with us, whose vivacity and intelligence beguiled our way very much. His name was Henry O. Middleton & he is a great land owner & speculator. Much of his talk was about land. It was nine o'clock when we reached Monterey and we left it at two in the morning, so we did not have very much rest-- but by lying down on the seat with my head on the Major's knees & Mr. Middleton's overcoat for a pillow I rested somewhat & did not feel the jolting so terribly as I did sometimes. At Yager's where we dined, they had according to the Major's request a fine dish of trout and I can assure you we did full justice to them. We did not go all the way to Staunton on Saturday, but stopped 15 miles short of it at Dudley's. From there the landlord brought us over to Oakland on the other turnpike. There we stayed over Sunday and on Monday evening we took the stage again. That night we slept at Cloverdale & the next day we came on here, stopping to breakfast at the Bath Alum.
The Major inquired there for the mass according to your wish but they had none and were making none. There were very few visitors there.
We reached these Springs about noon on Tuesday. A good many people have come since we did and now I suppose there are 50 or 60 here. The water is disagreeably warm to drink, but is very pleasant to bathe in. I drink about 5 glasses a day & the Major drinks more. They keep an excellent table and we get the very nicest brown bread, plenty of venison & other meat and twice they had tomatoes, but they were brought from Richmond. They have been examining my face this morning & I think it is a little improved. I let the water run over it when I was in the bath. The Major thinks the water is doing him good. He joins with me in sending love to you & the children & compliments to Mr. Arnold.
Yours Affect. E.J. Jackson
Lexington, Va.
My dear sister
My Dear Ellie thought to pass over the stage route from here to Beverly was a hard undertaking for her. After she returned home she was pleased with her visit. She has now gone on a glorious visit though through a gloomy portal. Her companion are of the glorified Host. I look forward with delight to the day when I shall join her. Religion is all that I desire it to be. I am reconciled to my loss and have joy in hope of a future reunion where the wicked cease from troubling and the weary are at rest. I am much obliged to you for you kind desire to come and stay with Ellie.
Your affectionate brother,
Lex. Va.
My Dear Sister,
I have just written to Wirt I to have done so some time since but have been prevented by my eyes. He is at Mount Vernon Indiana where he recently returned from California. He saw hard times and was glad to get back even with his life, though he brought some money $340 dollars.
My eyes are improving but still I have to be careful with them, the spots continue to float before them. I am obliged to you for your kind suggestion not to hurt them even in writing to you. Maggie has been in Philadelphia for about three months for her health. Is there anything of Dear Ellie's which you would like to have, her pencil, her glasses or anything else?
Love to all.
[Note: the last page of this document contains a handwritten copy of a letter not in our collection]
Lexington Va
My Dear Sister
Your affectionate
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
[text below continues from page 4; it appears on the left and top margins of page 1]
here but I am unable to select for fear that you may have them or that they may not suit your taste. Remember me very kindly to Wirt when he arrives, to Mr. A., to all the family and to all enquiring friends and relatives.
Your affectionate brother,
hope he will relinquish. I am inclined to the belief that he would probably do as well by making Civil Engineering his profession as at any thing else to which he could turn his attention under present circumstances. But of this I can not speak definitely. He must judge of this for himself. Try and get him to stay with you if you can, until I come and get him to study arithmetic & geography and history: and for this purpose lend him Rollin's ancient history. If Wirt will study Latin I will give him lessons during the summer and put him in the way of learning it so that he can teach Thomas.
I will also if he will consent to do so give him instruction in the different sciences, of Algebra, Geometry and in Engineering and other branches of necessary education and bring with me the necessary books. If he thinks that it will take up too much time for a perfect education, he can take enough for an Engineer in the course of a few months. He can then commence the practice on some of our internal improvements. I have an idea that he might succeed well in this sphere of life. He could whilst practicing his profession make himself a good historian, but it would be the safer plan to get a good education before he commences the practice of the profession.
I hope that for the present Wirt will conclude to teach and then he can as he progresses with his education decide on his profession. I am anxious to know as soon as practicable his determination. I think that the plan of staying in Beverly and taking up a school is the proper one for him if all things are favorable to it, so far as obtaining Mr. Arnold's approbation and a moderate school. I send you two styles of writing but I would not advise the use of but one. If you will let me know which you have selected I can send you [some] others when wanted.
I bought four papers of seed, but can only find three. If you will name the kind of seed you want I think that I can probably get them for there is a variety
[end of letter appears in margin on page 1]
Lex. Va.
My Dear Sister,
I am sorry that your eyes are so much impaired, but hope that they will be better before this reaches you. I would recommend you to fill a basin full of water and put your face under the water and hold your eyes open in it as long as you can hold your breath. Just do this once whenever your eyes are very painful. This is the course which I am now pursuing. I do it about six times a day in cold water & the water should be as cold as when just drawn from the well or taken from the river. My eyes are quite bad at present. Don't write but make Thomas do it for you. I would be glad if Wirt would write to me. Tell Thomas that I shall answer his letter in a few days and that I am very thankful to him for it. Tell him that I am much pleased with his good spelling. I sent the primer and reader by the last mail. Give my love to all and the family and Wirt.
Your affectionate brother,
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
I hope that before this, you have recovered at least the usual use of your eyes and that all things are moving on pleasantly. How is Thomas getting along with his studies?
This a rainy day here, but is rather brighter that it was early in the morning. I have received the railing for dear Ellie's grave and this summer expect to take steps for the Tomb stones to be brought from Philadelphia. I intend to have them of Italian marble. The iron railing is neat and when I put it up it will be about three feet high.
Pure and lovely companion of my happier days, I feel that she has entered upon the blissful enjoyment of which the human mind cannot have a clear conception. Ere many long years roll by I hope to be with her, where there will be no more separation. We loved each other on Earth and shall that love be diminished in eternity I do not believe it, but on the contrary will be greatly enhanced. Had I one request on Earth to ask in accordance with my own feelings and apart from duty it would be that I might join her before the close of another day after this. I have many pleasures here, but I believe that there are greater in reserve beyond this life.
If you want me to bring any thing in July, let me know in your next.
Give me love to all the family & to all inquiring relatives & friends.
Your affectionate brother,
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
Julia last week purchased two collars for you but she could not find a suitable belt. I afterwards went in search of one, but with a similar result. There are plenty of them, but not such as please me, so I intend postponing the purchase until I reach Staunton. I could get a bonnet but I am afraid that it would get broken. I shall think it over when I am in Staunton. The [shawl] I have had no opportunity as yet of sending for. I shall try and bring you some slips from dear Ellie's flowers.
It will give me much pleasure to teach Thomas while I am with you. I have a few old clothes which I will take with me. I much obliged for your kindness in reference to the shirts but don't let any thing be touched until I see you.
Wirt has not written since your last.
Remember me very kindly to Mrs. Hilley & to Miss El[illegible] and to other enquiring friends.
Give my love to all the family. I hope that Aunt and Cousin John's health have improved.
Your affectionate brother,
Uncle Alfred's
My Dear Sister,
As my eyes continue weak you must excuse this brief letter. Wirt sends his love & thanks for the articles of clothing and says that he wants you to write to him, that he has only received that one short note from you though he has written several letters. Uncle's family are in usual health.
Your affectionate brother,
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
Your affectionate brother
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
Mr. Thomas left for home yesterday and I left at the house where he was staying a testament for him to carry to Mrs. Hilley. It may possibly be that it was not delivered to him, please let me know whether Mrs. Hilley gets it. He was not in when I left the book and he told me afterwards that he had not received it, but I requested him to ask for it before leaving.
Tell Mr. Arnold that I want to get about two thousand acres of land warrant and ask him whether he could purchase me any if I were to forward the money and at about what price does he think it can be procured. I do not want to make any purchases until after Christmas as the general impression I believe is that the price will be lower about that time, but I would like to know what it is worth now. Tell him that my intention is to let the land lay after purchasing it for a number of years without selling it and that as the lands in Kansas are less culled over than those in the free states I will for the same amount of money get better land and that Kansas will almost certainly be a free state and this will give the advantage of a free state in selling should I years hence wish to dispose of them. Ask him what he thinks of these views. Tell him that I have been told there is considerable good land in Illinois still unappropriated and if so I want to lay warrants on some of it as it must ultimately command a high price.
I hope Mr. Campbell will come on and that you will be able to keep him. Aunt Clem told me in a recent letter that soon after my leaving she was laid up from
[end of letter appears in margin of this and previous pages]
Charly & Julia took prizes.
I received Dear Ellie's tomb stones today enclosed a draft of the head stone, it has a full blown rose and a rose bud on the top. William Junkin my youngest brother-in-law is to be married tomorrow to Miss Anna Anderson a lovely a pretty girl. Our synod was a delightful assembly. Your affectionate brother.
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
When Wirt shall have purchased land, then I expect to furnish him some money to enable him to work it. This he may be able to dispose of, but I will be on my guard about entrusting him with it if there is any danger of [Will?/him?] going back to Uncle Thornton's
I am thankful to you for having written a plain letter to Wirt upon his conduct. I have received a letter from Wirt dated Sept. 19th in which he states that he had reached William Neale's but in going up the Mississippi River the boat was s[wamp?]ed and he left his berth to go forward leaving his purse under his pillow and when he returned it was gone. He says that the country is very healthy. But that improved land is worth from 25 to 30 dollars per acre. Cousin Wm. has advised him to go elsewhere and he is going to look at the lands of Johnson County. He expresses himself pleased with the country and I hope that he may do well. I do not want him to go into a free state if it can be avoided for he would probably become an abolitionist and then in the event of trouble between the N & S he would stand on one side and we on the opposite. Tell Mr. Arnold that next year I want to go West and make investments in land and would be glad could he go along and make some purchases for himself if he desires to make such.
[end of letter in margins of this and previous pages]
William Woodson says that he acknowledges his obligation to assist Wirt but that he is not able. I agree with him that land in a free state rises most rapidly. But I have a scheme on hand which I think approve of and which I will give in my next.
Your affectionate brother
Nov. 3rd 1855
I wish that you would not omit to let me know Mr. Arnold's views in your next and whether he thinks that he will go with me and the prospect of buying say one thousand acres of land warrant & the price per acre.
I wrote to James Dicks a few days since, and the reference to his putting up stones at Brother Warren's grave, and I wish that you would drop him a line as soon as convenient giving the days of his birth and death. If you have my letter upon the subject of his death you may find one of the dates from it.
I got Aunt Coty Williams to go with me to Father's and our sisters graves and made arrangement with her for having the graves fixed up so far as renewing the Earth over them and I hope that before a [great while?] we shall be able to erect stones.
The Cadets have been absent at Petersburg and Richmond but are expected to be home today.
T.J.J.
Lexington Va.
[fragment; only top portion exists]
...it as he was going West to buy land, and gave his note payable in two months. So your....
[fragment; only top portion exists]
-pects be applied as I originally designed. He wrote to me that he could get two hundred dollars for his bargain and if so will have done well by the purchase and sale of it again. I don't know what to do about him. I told him at the time that I made the proposition not to accept of it unless he felt it would be to his interest, and I wrote in reply to his letter expressing the advantages that Indiana offered, that if he was dissatisfied with our engagement not to consider himself bound by it.
Cousin Hardin Neale it appears is really consumptive.
Remember me very affectionately to all the family and very kindly to all inquiring relatives & friends.
Your affectionate brother
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Nephew,
I have corrected your letter & believing that you would understand the corrections better if I returned the letter with the corrections I have concluded to return it with this. And now I am not going to look over my letter, and I expect that there are some mistakes in it & if so I wish when you read it that you would point them out to your Pa or Ma and tell me of them when you next write, and if there are many you can just correct them, and return the letter thus corrected. I hope that you will get to a good school this Winter. I saw Doctor Bosworth this morning at the Hotel or Tavern in Town. He is up paying his son John a visit during the Christmas holidays & I wish that you would go & tell Mrs. Bosworth that I saw him & tell her also that John is well.
The Doctor told me that he thought that you would have a good teacher in Town this winter. I hope that you will get enough money to buy a calf and that you will grow up to be a good & wise man.
Give much love to your Father, Mother, Grace & Stark.
Your affectionate Uncle
Jany 14th 1856
My Dear Aunt,
[top margin text is end of letter, see page 2] unless they are responsible persons. that though he promised you not to purchase the watch, yet he violated his promise to you and excused himself by saying that the man made him do so. For the present and until he satisfies me that it would be proper to give him aid I must decline doing it. But it will give me pleasure to assist whenever I can do so with the consciousness that he will do what is right.
Tell uncle that I am anxiously looking for the check from him on New York City as I want to forward funds there as soon as practicable. Much love to uncle and to all the family. Please let me hear from you soon.
Your affectionate nephew,
I return one of Wirt's papers and will return the others letter hereafter. The deed is to be made to Wirt & this not until is directly the reverse of his obligations & the time of making the deed is deferred until the last purchase money shall be paid & then if they cannot make it, there it ends unless they are responsible persons.
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
My paper you see is variegated with colors by obviously not much beautified by such acquisition. This varied appearance has resulted not from color but from the absence of color produced by spilling some nitric acid on it & it has given me about a [illegible] of the same stamp. Tell Thomas he must never give up his Latin grammar nor his English either. That if he perseveres that he may expect to find both of great use after awhile. Tell him that his uncle had to study hard for years at more difficult things than the Latin & grammar and that after he learns it, that it will all be very easy. Tell him also that I want a letter from him when he finds time to write. But he must make himself perfect master of his spelling book and grammar now when he is young and then he may expect to write correct letters, but without knowing these two books he can hardly expect to write correctly. Because all correct writing must have the words spelled correctly and written grammatically.
How is cousin John getting? I have not yet written to him, but if your next letter brings the news of his life being prolonged I think that I will try and write very soon after. My time is taken up during the day and I am afraid to write at night. But my eyes are improving. I have no recent news of Wirt at least for several weeks & I do not know where he is. The last I heard from him was through a letter written to Aunt Clem. Cousin Hardin appointed Uncle Alfred his administrator. If Cousin John is still living, give him my warm remembrances & hope that the visions of the future may grow brighter until faith is lost in reality of those joys which passeth all understanding. Much love to all.
Your affectionate brother,
My Dear Sister,
I received, and answered your other letter in regard to the tombstones at Brother Warren's grave. But as I usually answer letters from recollection, thus saving my eyes from rereading, I forgot
[end of letter from page 4 appears on margins of page 1]
Thomas need not repeat his English verb when he is conjugating his Latin verb, but ask him what his Latin verb is in English. I have heard from Wirt and written a very plain letter to him like that which I wrote to you. Much love to all.
Thomas
to answer that particular inquiry, but remembered it afterwards and should have answered it. In this: I wish to put stones to his grave and also to Father's & sister's, and also to Mother's if I knew certainly the spot, but it appears to me that it would be best to put all up at the same time during the coming year. But if you would prefer having Warren's put up now, write to Jas. Dicks & ask him to do so, and pay him the twelve dollars, and ask Doctor Bosworth if it will not suit him to let you have my part of the expense and let me pay it over to Colonel Smith here the same amount for him, it will save him the risk of the losing it by mail, in the event of his sending his money by mail. But should it not be convenient for the Doctor to do so, and you can spare the money until I shall have an opportunity of getting a check I will forward it to you and should there be other expenses beyond twelve dollars I will share them with you.
The congregation here to which I belong have objects to which they subscribe of much more importance to them than your Academy can be, that I am well satisfied that your application would meet with little or no favor here, and I would advise that no effort should be made. We have six annual contributions, and then certain others which are first recommended by over session, and I am well satisfied that the session would consider other objects as more demanding their recommendation than the academy. You need not be afraid of the opposing party doing anything here if they were to do so it would give me an opportunity which I would embrace if at home of urging your claims.
[end continues margins of page 1]
Thomas need not repeat his English verb when he is conjugating his Latin verb, but ask him what his Latin verb is in English. I have heard from Wirt and written a very plain letter to him like that which I wrote to you. Much love to all.
Thomas
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Nephew,
I am glad to see them doing so well in their studies. And if you study your Latin grammar well, I think that you will be apt to like it after you become well acquainted with it. We generally like those things best which we can do the best. We usually find that the little boy who can run faster than any other boy fond of running races and the one who can read the best of any in his class fond of reading. And the man who can talk better and speak better than others fond of talking and speaking. I want to see you a good talker, but especially a good speaker and your Latin is very important in making you a good speaker, and so study it with all your might. Besides the correction of my letter let us see if you can correct these words viz.:
[end of letter continues on margins of page 1]
Philadelfia, Pensilvania.
Give much love to all the family.
Your affectionate
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
I wish that you would drop a note to Mr. Criss or to Cousin Elizabeth and see whether he could not see to putting up the stones at the graves of Father & Sister, and ask what they will come to including the cost of putting them up. And if you can get it attended to I will advance the money at any time for the purpose but before closing the terms let me know because if they are not as good as I can get elsewhere I had better have it done. But it appears to me that all the
[part of end of letter appears on this page]
be absorbed but I hope not, and trust that I shall get through in time to visit you. probabilities are in favor of getting it done cheaper in by Mr. Criss than I could get it done abroad from Clarksburg. I have not been able to ascertain the cost of railing for you but intend writing to Phil. about it. The railing around Ellie's grave was about one dollar and a half per foot.
Maggie left for Phil. last Saturday. I received a letter from Wirt in which he expresses his probable intention of going West again and I understand from his language that he means California; as he speaks of going over the plains or some such phraseology. I have been trying to find his letter but have not succeeded at this time. I fear that I will not get to Beverly this summer as I am very anxious to go direct to Washington City, & begin my work of finding out and locating land and as I may have much to do in the West in endeavoring to find out the best land
[end of letter in margins of page 1 and 2]
all my time may be absorbed but I hope not, and trust that I shall get through in time to visit you.
Let me hear from you soon. I hope that Thomas has received my letter.
Your much attached brother,
We have had a great revival of religion here.
Lexington
My Dear Aunt,
And you are probably by this time beginning to think that he has not much to say or else he would commence setting about it. But such is not the case, for we have such an outpouring of the Spirit of God in our churches here as I never remember of having seen elsewhere. Your branch of the church has recently been increased though I can not say how much. The Episcopal church about a week since took in nearly twenty five and from present appearances I suppose that about fifty will join the Presbyterian church in a few days when we are to have our commission. The Baptist church is also being blest, and I think that we may reasonably expect more than one hundred from this revival. I feel very thankful to God for such divine blessings.
I wish that Laura was here. I want you dear Aunt to make her one of the number for whom you regularly pray. What answer did she give you in regard to your very kind and Christian letter to her. Pray that the Glorious work of grace here may go on. Laura appears to be blest with unusual good health this summer. I wrote to Wirt sometime since a letter of very plain talk about the same that I wrote to you in regard to him. It was the result of a letter which he wrote to me. I thought that in reply I had better be plain even though he should take offence. For he would then see that I only wish to have business transactions with persons who were entirely reliable. Please give much love to Uncle & to all the family. Remember that I attach unusual importance to your letters.
Your affectionate nephew
June 6th 1856
My Dear Sister
In reference to Wirt, I am interested in his welfare and had he followed my advice I feel that he would most certainly have been benefited by it. I wrote to him not long since in answer to a letter from him. Ask Mr. Arnold if there is anything which I can do for him this summer in the way of locating land warrants or otherwise. Tell him that my present purpose is to go to Washington from here and after finding out all that I can there in reference to Western lands, to pass into Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, and probably Arkansas and say to him that I design following out Transcript his idea of locating some land in a Northern state, but that I am a little afraid to put much there for fear that in the event of dissolution of the Union, that the property of Southerners may be confiscated. I want to locate about three thousand acres, maybe a little more, and if I can please myself will probably put down about one half of it in a Northern state. I would be thankful for suggestions from Mr. Arnold if he has any to make. As yet I have not purchased This is Monday afternoon and no news as yet in regard to the railing by my next letter you may expect to hear about the cost.
Remember me very kindly to all the family. I hope that Thomas is doing well in his Latin and English grammar.
Your affectionate brother,
New York City
My Dear Sister,
Much love to all
Your affectionate brother,
Ship Asia at Sea
My Dear Sister,
This year as the time for going West drew near, I became more and more discouraged in regard to investing money in such distant lands, and a gentleman with whom I conversed and who has had much experience told me that he did not think it a safe and profitable investment. Another friend told me that he had come very near losing a part of his, in consequence of his being so far off as to interfere with his giving sufficient attention to it. And I have rather concluded to keep my money invested in stocks of different kinds and thus get my dividends regularly and trust to the blessing of Providence for gradually increasing my worldly goods.
Thus circumstanced I a few days before starting concluded that an opportunity was now offered of going to Europe which would probably never again be presented to me. What should I do with the two months this before me was a question which I did not know how to solve satisfactorily. You are a very kind and affectionate sister. Yet even with you I would be reminded of the loss of that happiness which I once enjoyed with Dear Ellie. So I have to some extent torn myself away from that state of mind which I feared should my summer have been passed at home or in the W. States.
I hope that you will be able to get up the tomb stones by the aid of thirty dollars from Dr. Bosworth. But don't ask anything of Mr. A and when I return I will let you have what ever may be wanting should you not be able to get along with what you have.
I expect to visit Liverpool, London, Paris, Genoa, Florence, Pisa, Rome, Naples, Brussels, Antwerp, Edinburgh, and some other points of interest. I wish you would write me a letter to N.Y. City during the first week of October. Remember me very kindly to Mr. A. and to all the family. Kindest regards to all inquiring relatives.
Your affectionate brother
Naples
My Dear Sister,
Since landing at Liverpool I have been at Glasgow, Sterling Castle & Edinburgh Scotland, York, London & other places in England; Antwerp, Brussels, Waterloo & other places in Belgium. Since then I have passed through Aix La Chapellr, Bonn, Frankfort on the Main,[? going] ascended the Rhine.
From Frankfort I proceeded to Heidelberg and thence on to Baden Baden in Germany, Strasbourg in France, Basle, Lakes Lucerne, Brienze, Thun, Geneva & the city of Geneva in Switzerland, and so on to the great ice berg called Mer de Glas that is sea of ice. I continued in Switzerland for about a week and crossed the Alps by the Simplon Pass as it is called through which Napoleon entered Italy. The scenery of Switzerland is very grand.
Upon entering Italy I passed on through the cities of Milan, Venice, Mantua, Modena, Florence, Pisa, Leghorn and finally to this place. With Venice, Florence and Naples I have been very much gratified. I was at the volcano of Vesuvius last Friday and went about half way down one of the active craters. The scene was truly grand this evening. I leave for Rome. Much love to all.
Your much attached brother
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
After reaching Liverpool I passed town to the old town of Chester and then out to the Residence of the Marquis of Westminster. His house is called Eaton Hall. Afterwards I returned to Liverpool and preceded North into Scotland passing through Glasgow, Sterling and Edinburgh. After leaving Edinburgh I returned to England visiting York, the residence of Oliver Cromwell, the University of Cambridge & London city. I took a steamboat to the continent landing at Antwerp and passing on to Brussels, Waterloo, Aix la Chapelle, Cologne, Bonn, Coblentz, Frankfort on the Main, Heidelberg, Baden Baden, Strasburg, Basle, Lakes Lucerne, Brienze, Thun, Berne, Freiburg, [illegible], Lake Geneva, Geneva, Mer de Glas (sea of ice) over the Alps, through the Simplon Pass. Milan, Verona, Venice, Mantua, Modena, Florence, Pisa, Leghorn, Naples, Rome, Genoa, Marseilles, Lyons, Paris, Calais, London, Liverpool, N. York, home.
I could talk to you with much pleasure about the very many things of much interest. Tell Thomas that I intend answering his letter in a few days. I am much gratified that you are putting up the grave stones. Should you want any more funds let me know. I found two letters from Wirt waiting for me at home. I will send him a check for thirty dollars if I can get one on N. York for that amount.
[end of letter in bottom margin page 1]
Much love to all.
Your affectionate brother,
Lexington,Va.
My very dear Aunt,
I would like to have a long talk with you all about the many interesting things which came under my observation, but must forgoe the pleasure for the present and to attempt to write about it would be unsatisfactory as a long letter would hardly touch upon the subject. You were doubtless surprised at my sudden determination not to go west but to go to the "Old World." My friends discouraged me so much that about the time that I had contemplated starting as induced me not to go and as my summer was then left unappropriated it appeared as Providence had opened the way for my long contemplated visit and I am much gratified at having gone.
I have determined to send by the next mail a check to Wirt for thirty dollars and as I have not been able to get a check on N.Y. from any bank I have shall send one signed by myself on the person with whom my money is deposited. Should Wirt not be able to pass it, I have requested him to send it to Uncle Alfred hoping that Uncle will be able to get the Parkersburg bank to give a check in exchange. Should Uncle not be able to do so, please return it to me and I will write on to N. York and get a bill or check of deposit if necessary. I hope that their will be no occasion of forwarding it to Uncle. Give much love to uncle and to all the Family and remember that I am always glad to hear from you.
Your affectionate nephew, Thomas.
Lexington,Va.
My dear Nephew,
I am much obliged to you all for sending those daguerreotypes & the sugar egg. I shall have much to talk about when we meet of the find paintings & sculpture, and beautiful countries through which I passed last summer. Tell Mr. Thomas when you have an opportunity that Mr. Lyle is much better and that he can walk about some in his room. And does your Pa like the new President Mr. Buch {Buchanan}.
While I was gone I saw some funny things too as well as pretty ones. I remember seeing in England in a town called Chester about 98 miles from Liverpool which I will mention presently as soon as I tell you that Chester is a town with a wall around it, and it and the city of York are about the only cities in England that are still walled and that the York walls are more recent than those of Chester and hence not so interesting as they don't tell us so much about the ancient Britons. It appears that the walls of Chester were built by the Britons in order to protect themselves from the Welsh who lived a little West of Chester. But now for that funny thing and what so you think it was. Well I went into their largest church (called a Cathedral) which once belonged to the Roman Catholics and there among many other things I saw a representation of the Devil in the shape of him swallowing a man feet foremost.
I never knew before that Old Nick lived on men and I saw some other things which I would like to talk to you about.
Write to me soon. Give much love to your Pa, Ma, to Grace & Stark and remember me to all inquiring friends.
Your affectionate uncle, Thomas
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
You would probably like to hear a little of my whereabouts during the past summer and I purpose on giving you a kind of journal should you so desire me. But should you get tired at any time just let me know. I believe that I said something to you in my last, but as I failed to take a note of my stopping points I shall again commence at Liverpool.
Leaving Liverpool the same day of my landing I proceeded to the city of Chester which is about 18 miles from Liverpool and on entering the Hotel was met by a lady instead of a landlord as I had been accustomed in at home, and she wished to know whether I would have a room & After having secured my quarters I proceeded to the Cathedral, which is a large edifice formerly occupied by the Roman Catholics. At the door I was met by a man who upon learning where I was from inquired after the Fairfax family stating that the representative of that house lived in America and that he was entitled to the succession. It was about the hour of evening service. They have 2 services there per day and this was about 4 o'clock P.M.
He turned me over to the sexton who showed me to a seat upon the condition that I should not leave it until after the service was over. After service he showed me through the building which was quite interesting. Among other things were the seats for the friars or monks which were so constructed that should they become drowsy & forgetful of their duty, their seats suddenly dropt them on the floor & recalled their wandering thoughts. I walked around the wall and saw the tower on which King Charles the 1st stood & saw the defeat of his army at Routen Moor.
Much love to all the family & kind regards to all inquiring friends.
Your affectionate brother, Thomas
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
I received a letter from Aunt Clem requesting me to lend Uncle Alfred two or four hundred dollars for Wirt to buy stock to drive to California. I did not have the money and even if I had should not have lent it for one reason among others is that if Wirt goes to California, he will probably throw himself away or be ruined.
I have recently heard from him and he asks me to lend him thirty dollars but says nothing about going to C. I think that next month when our bank gets in operation that I will send him thirty dollars. I am unable to say whether I will first visit Beverly or North Carolina.
Our winter has been very severe, but for near a fortnight we have had beautiful weather. The aspen is in bloom the and weeping willow is beginning to look green. I am still at Dr. Junkin's.
Tell Miss Eliza that if I should bring her a beau that she must not tell on me lest the old bachelors about Beverly should mob me for trampling on their toes.
I infer from your letter that I was when I dropped my narrative at the Cathedral of Chester. After leaving Chester I passed to a beautiful estate of an English nobleman by the name of the Marquis of Westminster; he lives about three miles from the city, but after driving about half a mile I came to a beautiful gateway somewhat resembling the front of a fine building. Here the porter who had charge of it admitted me and I drove through a park containing about 1800 [or 1900] deer, the race course on which he tries his horses, etc. the fences being made of iron and the grounds containing a variety of luxuriant trees. After passing on thus for near 2 ½ miles, I came to a magnificent palace covered with pinnacles. Here after ringing the bell a servant of quite a gentlemanly appearance came to the door and admitted me by my giving him my ticket of admission which I had procured before leaving Chester. The interior of the building is magnificent. One of the rooms is copied from the celebrated Alhambra of Granada in Spain which was built by the Moors.
Do you wish me to send you the old clothes of which you spoke next summer. As they are not worth much the cost of transportation may cost more than they are worth. If you wish them sent let me know in your next. Much love to all.
Your brother
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
Well you see I have finished & hope I am done with the first page of my letter & am running on at a tremendous rate, so that if I don't tell you soon, you will hardly get it all from this sheet. Well now having cultivated your patience a little as all women are said to have curiosity I will tell you that Miss Mary Anna Morrison, a friend of mine in the Western part of N. Carolina and in the Southern part of the State, is engaged to be married to an acquaintance of yours living in this village & she has requested me to urge you to attend her wedding in July next. To use her own words she says "I hope your sister will come. You must urge her to do so. I should be very glad if she could come." The wedding is not to be large. I told her that I would give the invitation & having done so, feel that I am free from all further responsibility in the matter. I told her that I didn't think that you would be able to accept it, and if you can't just let me know in your next & transfer the invitation to your humble servant, and he will not decline, for he is very anxious to go as he is much interested in the ceremony & the occasion & the young lady is a very special friend of mine.
I hope that you have had a very pleasant trip to the River. I deposited in our bank a few days since twenty dollars & transferred the evidence of deposit to Wirt & forwarded it to him stating that he might expect more next July.
The present which you made Ellie was never made up, & if you can dispose of it in any way I think that I will send it to you when John Bosworth goes home for I suppose that Anna would feel some delicacy in having it made up. Our weather is beautiful at present & I suppose that spring will rapidly advance now.
Give much love to all.
Rockbridge Alum Springs
My Dear Sister,
We reached here last Wednesday evening and the enlargement has apparently diminished considerably since that time. We expect to remain here till near the close of my vacation & then return to Lexington. I regret that we have been unable to visit you this summer but I felt that under the circumstances it was my duty to make Anna's health the first object of concern. In coming from Staunton here I fell in with Cousin [Flo?] & her little boy on their way to the Healing Springs. Let me hear from you soon & if you can write before the 25th of this month, direct to this place, otherwise direct to Lexington. Give love to all. Anna joins me in love to you.
Your affectionate brother
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
Through the continued blessings of Providence, my health continues to improve. At present, I suffer more with cold feet than anything else. I have been accustomed to bathing them in cold water; but they have cracked open so much as to render the discontinuance of it necessary. I have an invitation to a party this evening, but must decline going. The citizens of this place are such as I admire.
I have tried on my shirts and they fit very well with the exception of the collars which are not long enough in the band. Accept of my thanks for the present. How are Thos. and the family.
I hope to see you next summer. I had a pleasant time at the Springs, but only visited the Rockbridge Alum, the Bath Alum and the Warm Springs. I saw the blowing cave: it is a remarkable curiosity. There is at one time a strong current of air rushing out and at another time, a strong current rushing in. There has never been but one mouth found to the cave. It is in Bath county and about eight miles from the Bath Alum Springs. My love to all.
Your brother,
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
The eye medicine helped me for a while I think but I can't say that I have been permanently benefited, and I would advise you not to try the medicine.
Anna is quite robust again. She joins me in love to you all. I wrote to Wirt, advising him to go to some active occupation and to read standard books and thus endeavor to apply his knowledge of grammar and become thus acquainted acquainted with the construction of the language- use is of great importance. His knowledge of the grammar considering the time he has given to it is discouraging. To keep him at school with such little progress is pretty much throwing away the money and time.
Let me hear from you soon.
Your affectionate brother,
Lexington, Va.
My Dear Sister,
You wish to know how to come to God; so as to have your sins forgiven, and to receive "the inheritance which is incorruptible and undefiled, and that fadeth not away." Now my dear sister the way is plain: the savior says in Mark XVI chapter, 16th verse "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved." But you may ask what is it to believe. To explain this I will quote from an able theologian, and devoted servant of God. To believe in the sense in which the word is used here, "is feeling and acting as if there were a God, a Heaven, a Hell; as if we were sinners and must die; as if we deserve eternal death, and were in danger of it. And in view of all, casting our eternal interests on the mercy of God in Christ Jesus. To do this is to be a Christian."
You speak of having done all that you know in order to be accepted: this is too apt to be our error. We must not depend on making ourselves holy: but just come to the Father, and ask him to forgive our sins for the sake of Jesus, and rely entirely on the merits of Christ for our prayer being answered. The Father loves the Son and for his sake pardons those who plead the Son's merits. We should never think of presenting any merits of our own for we are all sinners.
Do not trouble yourself too much about not having repented enough for your sins, for your letter shows that you have much concern about the subject. But let me advise you simply to do as God enabled me to do, that is, resolve to spend the remaining part of life in His service, to obey the teachings of the Bible until death, and to rely entirely on the mercy of God for being saved, and though the future looked dark, yet it has become very bright. Never despair, even old Christians have dark moments.
Never omit of pray at regular times. For years your salvation has been my daily prayer and shall continue so. Write to me often and tell me all your trials, that I may
Do not trouble yourself too much about Were it not for my throat, Anna & myself would like very much to pay you a visit this winter. My throat & the sale of a neighbors property next week are the two obstacles. Anna is anxious to go next [week?]. She joins me in love to you all.
Your affectionate brother,
Lexington, VA.
My Dear Brother
Your affectionate brother,
Lexington, Va.
My dear sister,
My eyes have been troubling me much lately. I regret that you have had so much suffering, it appears to have resembled my attack. I am now using glycerine which is the essence of oil. I take it through the nostrils for the purpose of curing the inflammation at the entrance of the nasal tubes into the mouth and I find it of great service. God had blest its use to me very much. I tried caustic or nitrate of silver, but with much less effect. I hope that you will soon be well. I ascertained to day that I can get a copy of "Silver Wood" in town so you may expect one when Mr. Chenoweth goes home if not before.
Anna & the little one are both doing very well for which we are thankful to our Heavenly Father. I received a letter from Wirt a few days since. His health I think is just tolerable from what he says. I have been wanting to write to Thomas for some time & and hope to do so before long.
May the blessings of our Heavenly Father rest upon you richly is the prayer of your affectionate brother. Anna joins me in love to you & the children. Remember me very kindly to Mr. Arnold.
Your brother,
Lexington Va.
My dear sister,
I received a letter from Wirt this morning stating that he is well but that he has lost his horse by his straying off, and that he wants me to forward him one hundred & five dollars N.Y. funds, which I want to try & do; though it will cost a premium here.
Your affect. Brother
Lexington, Va.
My dear little Niece,
We hope to go & see you all this summer, but my health is so delicate, that I am disposed to go North first. I think this will give us more time to stay with you. Should we go to see you first I may have to hasten on North without staying more than two or three days.
I wish your would write to me at once and let me know which you would rather I should do. I hope that you have enjoyed your school and your vacation both very much. Remember your aunt & uncle to your Father, Mother, Thomas & Stark, and accept much love for yourself.
Your affectionate uncle,
Lexington, Va.
Dear Sir,
The system of reward you are acquainted with, and the premiums so far have been near a dozen Testaments and one Bible. The day of their presentation is the first Sabbath of each month. Several scholars are studying the shorter catechism at the present time. Each teacher keeps a class book in which is noted each scholar's department in school. The lesson should be taught one Sabbath, with a view to examination & mark on the next. Each teacher at the close of the month give me a circular (blanks having been furnished) exhibiting for each scholar the manner in which the lesson has been prepared, the conduct in school, no. of lates, absences. From these circulars, I make a monthly entry in the record book, which contains not only the no. of lates & absences, but also the names of the teachers, scholars, owners, persons with whom the scholars are living, the lates & absences of teachers, and a weekly record of the proceedings of the school. By reference to the record book, I find 91 to be the no. of scholars there reported.
Praying that the S. school convention may be a great blessing to the cause & to yourself I remain your attached friend.
T. J. Jackson
Lexington, Va.
My dear Sister,
Write to me to N.Y. City, and tell Tom and Grace that they must write to me this summer also, as soon as I let you all know where my letters will reach me after leaving N.Y. City. Tell Grace that I am much obliged to her for her letter, and that she may expect me to answer it before a great while. As to Thomas' examination, I think Mr. Thomas can judge better of his qualifications than myself, though I wish that I could be with you all before his teacher leaves. I hope to be with you in the latter part of August.
I forwarded a check to Wirt for one hundred & five dollars on N.J. I had to pay a premium of one per cent for it and urged him to refund the money on the first of Sept. according to promise. If I had known that he had found his horse, I don't know that I should have sent him so much. I have need of all the money that I can command. When you write to him, tell him that he had better sell me one of his horses.
Anna joins me in much love to you & the children. Remember me to Mr. Thomas & his lady & to all enquiring friends.
Your affec. brother,
New York City
My dear Niece,
Your Aunt Anna is quite well and we are seeing many pretty things here. Give my love and your Aunt's to all the family, and write to me as soon as you receive this. Direct your letter to New York City.
Your affectionate Uncle,
Lexington Va.
My dear sister,
I will attend to the directions of your letter & I am glad to see that your views with regard to Thomas' education & my views on the same subject are so much alike. I don't think that Thomas will get much home sick. I regret that I have not got some occupation for him & also regret not having some good companion for him to always associate with. I wrote to you about pocket money for him, but as I stated that probably he had reserved enough for that purpose, so I find such to be the case, as he since gave me three dollars to keep for him. Should you send him any clothes at any time, I would not send them of the same style as those he wears, as they are not worn here by boys as large as himself. I find that his dress makes him too marked, I will get him a suit, better adapted to his age.
My greatest concern about him is his eating. When he first came, he would use neither milk nor coffee, since then he drinks a little coffee; but I am a little afraid of his doing so, as he has not been accustomed he says to its use. I don't wish him to change his home habits in any respect unless there is necessity for so doing. I wish you would let me know how he lived at home. He gets his lessons well. Anna joins me in love to yourself & the children.
Your affectionate brother,
Lexington Va.
Sir,
As soon as you reach Liverpool purchase guide books of such countries as you design visiting. If you have time to see things leisurely, don't employ guides. Leaving L. visit Chester and drive out to Eaton Hall, which is a fine specimen of an English nobleman's estate; it belongs to the Marquis of Westminster, said by some to be the wealthiest man in England. If you have time after returning to C. take the cars and visit the great Tubular bridge, and pass over to Ireland for a few days. Should you go to I. be sure if you should pass near Parsonstown, to see the great Ross telescope, and whilst there, ask for its magnifying power, and please inform me of it. Returning to Liverpool visit the following places Glasgow, Dunbarton Castle, Loch Loman, Loch Catrine, Sterling Castle, Edinborough, York, Cambridge, London, Antwerp, Waterloo. Pass through Brussells on your way to and also on your return from Waterloo. Leaving B. visit Aix La Chappel, Cologne, Bonn, Frankfort on the Main, Heidleburg, Baden Baden, Strasburg, Baste, Lakes Lucern, Brienz & Thun. Stop for at least one day at Interlaken which is between lakes B. & T. Visit Berne, Freiberg, Lake Geneva, Geneva, Mer de Glas. From Martigny, cross the Alps by the Simplon Pass into Italy. Visit Lakes Como & Majora. Visit Milan, Verona, Venice, Florence, Pisa, Leghorn, Rome, Naples, Genoa, Turin, Paris.
I have given you the tour I should take above all others, if I did not have time for a more extensive one. It differs a little from the one taken by me. I did not see the Tubular Bridge nor visit Ireland. And instead of visiting Turin I hastened to Paris by the steamer from Genoa. Knowing the stopping points you can post yourself up on your guide book in advance.
In York observe the organ especially. In Antwerp note Reubens' paintings. In Heid. observe the castle. In Strasburg is the wonderful clock. In Feiberg is one of the best organs in the world. At Verona is the most perfect amphitheater in the world. You may find it more pleasant to visit Naples before Rome. You will fine Genoa probably the most beautiful of all the cities in consequence of its elevation being such as to present its different parts distinctly to the eye when viewed from the harbor. I omitted calling your attention to the Museum in Antwerp.
In Venice, nearly every thing of interest except its canals are on St. Mark's square. In Florence give yourself plenty of time to visit frequently the statuary in the room called the Tribuna. Study the original works of art with which you may meet in Antwerp, Florence, Rome, etc. and when you reach Paris you will see a miniature of all, serving to refresh your memory but not calling for examinations, as you have already seen the originals. In P. you should give attention to the externals, visit the neighboring Royal residences, etc.
Of course you will pass some time in London and visit the Parks, Westminster Abbey a number of times. I hope that you may be able to make the tour and that you may realize more than you even anticipate
I would be glad to hear from you during your absence & after your return. Things are here in much the same routine as when you left.
Yours truly, T. J. Jackson
Lexington, Va
My dear sister
I heard from Anna on Saturday, she says that she is learning to take things more philosophically. She says that the Dr. Sill finds some inflammation, she is to remain there until the inflammation entirely subsides. She sends love to you. Thomas was very anxious to go with his teacher & a number of the scholars to the Peaks of Otter; but I felt it was too much responsibility for me to take to let him go. Some of the boys might have guns with them & some accident might occur to him & furthermore I didn't know how much it might cost him; as they would be gone several days. Accordingly he remains at home & I hope that he will make considerable progress in Spanish. In consequence of the irritation of my throat, I have not been hearing him much in the last few days. But he is far enough advanced not to study considerably by himself. I hope to have a fine supply of vegetables for you when you come. You must try & bring some other members of the family with you.
Give much love to the children. Thomas is well.
Your affec. brother, Thomas.
White Sulphur Springs
My dear Sister
I left Anna at the Rockbridge Baths, her health has not been so good since you left and as the Baths are celebrated for such afflictions as hers I trust that she will be improved by their use. This evening I received a letter from her stating that after bathing she had internal heat & that she was fearful that the bathing was not good for her & that if she found it not to be so that she would return home in a few days. There are about 1000 persons here at present.
I hope that I may be able to visit you, notwithstanding the present aspect of things, but don't expect me unless you hear of my coming by another letter.
I hope that your health has improved. Give my love to all. Your affectionate brother, Thomas.
Lexington, Va
My dear Sister
Anna's health I fear has not improved much locally, though she gained some flesh during her stay at the Baths. Maj. Preston has just returned, and given me an account of you all. I am much gratified that Mr. Arnold invited him to stay with you. I regret that Mr. Arnold's arm continues to trouble him. I trust that you will succeed in securing a competent teacher for the children. Tell them that their aunt & I were wishing this week that we could see them.
Sulphur water appears to suit my disease better than any other remedy which I have met with, and yesterday evening Anna & myself took a ride to one of these springs about 8 miles from town. I never knew of its existence until within a few weeks. The water is very pleasant yet very weak and I fear not of much benefit.
I send you by the same mail with this letter one of our catalogues. Anna joins me in love to you all.
Your affectionate brother, Thomas
Home
My dear Sister
Anna's health has become such as to render it necessary to send her to a physician & she left last Friday for Hampden Sidney to be under the care of Dr. Watkins.
According to your request I send Thomas' account. Look at his book and see if he got anything after the last of June. The account only extends to the end of June and he may have procured things from the store after that time. I had occasion to see Lyell Wilson's account since then & he had me charged with a pass book got by Thomas in the 1st of July. This made me think that he might have got other things elsewhere. But if he didn't get anything else, don't take notice of the book, as it was only a trifle.
Give my love to Mr. A & to all the children.
Your affectionate brother, Thomas.
I fear that I will not get to see you in Nov. But my first visit as I said before is to you. May our kind Heavenly Father bless you richly is my constantly repeated prayer.
1858
1859
Store account
Home
My dear Sister
I found that the cadets designed being absent so short a time, that I concluded that I had better postpone my visit to you until next summer.
I feel that we are now greatly blessed with a good teacher for boys, he is the very man I think whom Thomas would do well under. We have a number of good schools for Grace & Stark. There is a gentleman in town who has a boy who has given him & his teacher much trouble & on Saturday he was speaking of Mr. Morgan (who is the teacher to whom I referred for Thomas) & he spoke of him in very high terms for the successful management of his boy & for the progress that his boy is making under his new teacher.
I heard from Anna on Saturday. She hoped to be at Hampden Sidney today. She feels much improved & is bringing Laura her youngest sister home with her. I hope that they will soon be here.
Let me hear from you soon & tell me what Mr. A says. I felt it would be more prudent in me not to say anything in my letter about his moving here. I would like to see him first & thus have a better opportunity of judging how he could best be approached successfully on the subject. I desired to write to you two weeks ago but I thought that Mr. A. might suspect something from the frequency of our letters.
Love to all, and trust God unreservedly in all things is my sincere prayer.
Your affectionate brother, Thomas.
Lexington, Va
My dear Sister
I reached home on last Friday night about 3 o'clock in the morning. Anna is an invalid still, but I trust that better health is in store for her. My throat has been troubling me again in consequence of a cold contracted during my military excursion.
I am thankful to you for engaging the [illegible] but I don't know when I will be able to bring them home. You must give my love to Aunt & Uncle White. Remember me very kindly to Mr. Arnold. Anna joins me in love to the children. Should you see any of Mr. Chenoweth's friends say to them that I saw him today, & that he is well.
Your affectionate brother, Thomas.
...that carpeting is used for stairs instead of oil cloth. In regard to furniture I thought it best to consult you before making the purchases. As the furniture will last a life time it is best to be careful in pleasing ourselves although it may occasion delay. I purchased the oil cloth at once lest it might be sold, it is to be forwarded to Balt. directed to J. Arnold, Beverly Randolph County Va. care of R. L. Heavener & John Gephart, Jr. 320 Balt. St. Balt., M.D. I send the oil cloth as a present. As to the other articles, Rods etc. I can get the rods with concealed fastenings for $2.85 per dozen or I can get common rods with visible band fastenings for $2.20 per doz. The length of the rods is 30 inches but as you haven't the oil cloth you may not want the rods. Let me know & if the length is not right, tell me what length you desire.
If you can't get all the articles now, you can get the others if you desire at some other time as I can order them at any time by calling Madden's attention to them now. Let me hear from you soon and
[in pencil at top] If you still wish the parlor lamp let me know what kind & what is to be burnt in it.
I will order the amount of your funds and I may be able to add some but my money matters are behind hand. I have been in debt ever since I purchased my house and have to constantly borrow from the bank in order to get along. Send your money as far as practicable in drafts on N. York for they charge a premium here for drafts & it is not safe to send bills by mail. I prefer paying the premium to running the risk. I also wish that you would write to the person from whom you purchased the draft which you sent me, & get him to procure you another as I have lost that one & when you get the draft send it to me. If I were you I would try to get along without the mattresses if possible and I would then get:
Bureau $25, wash stand $10, Tete a Tete1 $18, 4 quartets2 $5, Sofa $5, centre table $9, French bedstead $15. Total exclusive of boxing $87. Should you prefer the sofa instead of [lounge] & Tete a Tete the amount will be $3 less, & if you prefer the wash stand to match the Bureau & I would get it if my means justified, the amount will be $5 more.
[in another hand the words "29 feet eight inches."]
Give my love to all. Your affec. brother, Thomas.
Lexington, Va
My dear Sister
I hope that Anna's health is improving, but very little throws her back again. I wrote to Aunt Clem a few days since. On my return from Harper's Ferry, I came through Richmond & saw Wm. L. Jackson & his wife, Jonathan [Bennet, Burnet] & his wife and Wm. E. Arnold, Ben Bassett, John Hoffman & other friends. I wish you would write to me when are the given names of Wm. L. Jackson's wife & Bennett's wife & what relation there is between them & us, and give me a letter full of such things; as I am asked from time to time what is the Relationship me & such persons. I think Mr. Arnold knows a good deal about the subject. For example I think he knows what were grandfather's brothers. I remember having a talk with him once on the subject & I found that he appeared better acquainted with such things than myself. Who was Dr. Edward Jackson?
Anna joins me in love to you all. I hope that your health is better than when you last wrote.
Your affectionate brother, Thomas.
Home
My dear Niece
When I was young I committed the blunder of learning to read before I had learnt to spell well, and though I am now 36 years old, yet still I am mortified by my spelling words wrong; in writing this letter I have had to look in the Dictionary to see how a word was spelt and so I expect it will be all my life because I didn't give enough attention to my spelling when I was young. As your memory is better now than it may ever be, you can learn to spell more easily than when you become larger. When we are young we can recollect much better than when we are grown up.
I desire to see you an educated and accomplished lady, one that your Father and Mother will be justly proud of. After learning to spell very well then I want you to read histories, and travels and biographies, and such other books as will give you valuable information. I also hope that you will learn your Geography very well.
My Father and Mother died when I was very young, and I had to work for my living and education both; but your parents are both living and have given you a kind teacher and I trust that you will show them how thankful you are to them by studying hard. If you ever wish any information which I can give, you must ask me. I haven't written to your Mother for some time as I was afraid that I might send you the small pox, but I don't think that there is any danger now, as all are well here or about so.
I heard a student of Washington College make a beautiful speech on last Wednesday and as he is of the same name and county as your teacher, I expect that they are Relatives.
Give my love to all of the family & write to me soon. Your affectionate Uncle Thomas.
Lexington, Va.
My dear Sister
I don't know how Mr. Arnold thinks Wm. L. Jackson would do for a judge, but if he would like to see him elected over Edmondson and can do anything for him I hope that he will do so. I thought that probably there might be some person or persons living near his Father's old place beyond Weston with whom he might have influence; if such is not the case, do not say anything about the subject to him and probably you had better say nothing anyway to him upon the subject. From what I have heard, Wm. will very probably be elected.
I hope that the children are all doing well. Anna joins me in love to you all.
Your affec. brother Thomas.
April 21/60
My Dear Sister
My mind is clear in making Grace familiar with the English grammar as soon as practicable; let her commence it at once. Let her not only study the principles of the language, but require her to parse a great deal, so as to make her familiar with the application of the principles of the language. Let all her studies be English until she should become a finished English scholar. I don't attach much importance to Latin for females, it is of value to every educated person but mostly to professional men. I am glad that Mr. A. is obtaining Mr. McCuchin. You may expect another letter from me in a week or so.
Your affect. Brother
[postscript in hand of Mary Anna Jackson]
Home
My dear Sister,
[from Mary Anna Jackson]
My dear Sister,
Write soon. Much love to all.
Lexington, Va
My dear Niece
I intended to send you with this letter the pattern which you requested, but your aunt wrote in my last that you have the requested pattern at home. The weather is quite warm today. My peas are in bloom, they commenced blooming before the end of April. I hope that you have a fine garden. Write to me when ever you have leisure time. I am glad to see your teacher remaining with you. Your aunt joins me in love to you all. Your aunt's health is much improved.
Your affectionate uncle, Thomas.
Home
My dear Sister
Anna is unusually unwell but I trust that she will soon commence improving again. My eyes have improved greatly, through the blessing of Him who withholds no good thing from me, but in some respects my health is more impaired than it has been for some years. If I don't improve, I hope to leave for a Hydropathic establishment soon after our Commencement in July. And my plan is to send a servant with the carriage to meet me at the Depot nearest Beverly. What is the name of the Depot. I want the servant to get to your house a day or two in advance of the time, so that he will be certain to meet me. Anna and I will then return by Beverly in the carriage & send the servant home by the Rail Road. All this plan may be frustrated, but I am resolved to pay you the first visit which I make, so you may be satisfied that if I don't visit you that my health is such as to render medical treatment necessary.
I send some early Silesia Lettuce seed which I hope you will sow at once, and after it gets a few leaves on each plant, set the plants in rows so that the plants shall be 8 inches apart, and water them occasionally so as to keep the ground damp. I never was fond of lettuce until I tried this. I regard it as the largest, tenderest and finest flavored that I have ever tasted. If you wish any more seed let me know & I will send it. I am greatly gratified at the election of Wm. L. Jackson. I fear that I have a disease of the kidneys, the disease gives me pain every day. I experience unusual pain whilst riding in a carriage. Anna joins me in love to you all.
Your affectionate brother, Thomas.
Lexington, Va.
My dear Sister
I don't feel so well today as usual, but I have been exercising probably too much as I am at the Institute for the 3rd time. I think that my general health is better than it has been for a year or two at this season of the year, but much exercise appears to bring on increased trouble and pain. If I do not improve greatly between this time & the time that I reach N.Y. I will pass directly through and leave your purchases til my return.
Write to me at Brattleboro Vermont as I design going to a Hydropathic establishment there. If I should not stop as I go through N.Y., I will write to two different establishments there and find out on what terms they will furnish the furniture, so that on my return it will only be necessary to examine the furniture & make the purchases. In your next letter, tell me to whom I must direct your purchases. I expect that it will be cheaper to send them by water to Baltimore & from Balt. by Rail Road. If so it would be necessary to send them to somebody in Balt. as well as to some one at Webster or the stopping Depot on the R.R. Anna don't know of my writing this letter as I am at the Institute, or she might have some special message. Her health is much better than usual & I trust that through the blessing of God she will be restored this summer. Much love to all.
Your affec. brother Thomas
Round Hill Water Cure
My dear Sister
The special object of writing to you at this time is to request you to furnish me with another list of the articles you wish me to get for you &, I wish that you would put them down in the order in which you most desire them, as the amount which you sent (fifty five dollars) will not purchase half of what you named and I am apprehensive that the state of my purse will not allow me to do much for you, though I think that I will be able to do something. I would not trouble you with making out another list, had I not as it appears put those you sent me in such a special safe place of keeping that when I was about to leave home I could not find them myself.
I don't think that I will get you anything at auction. I bought our sofa there & it has turned out a great cheat. If you can't give a full list, let me have the dimensions of the oil cloth. I wrote to you by Mr. Chenoweth & I think requested you to tell me to whom I should send the purchases in Baltimore & also at Grafton. Please let me know soon after receiving this and direct your letter to Round Hill Water Cure, Northampton, Massachusetts. I wish you were here with me, it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. Anna joins me in love to you all.
Your affectionate brother, Thomas
I am on the West Side of the Connecticut River so you can find me on the map.
Round Hill
My dear Sister,
Anna and myself much regret that we must again be denied the pleasure of visiting you as we had hoped to do. But I know that at the right time our Heavenly Father will permit us to see you. I am anxiously looking forward to some opportunity during the coming session. I wrote in my last for you to give me a list of furniture, etc. in the order in which you prefer them, and I would suggest that you had better get a lower priced bedstead than ours. For instance, if a cottage one would answer it could be purchased at about half the price that we gave for ours. But if you could consent to lower the price of the other articles, I think that it would be best; of course you would not get things so serviceable & showy but I think that the increased number of articles for the same money would more than compensate.
A cottage bedstead would be rather small; but they are made neatly. I have merely made these suggestions & you must do as you think best & I will do the best I can for you in New York. I will not have the opportunity of stopping by in Philadelphia as my time is so precious. If you prefer the Philadelphia bedstead, I will write to the same person who made ours, & get you one. I send a list of some of our purchases. They were much lower than could have been bought in Lexington.
Anna joins me in love to you all. I wish I could stop in Philadelphia as I might get some things for you and also attend to an important matter. You must give my love to Harriet & the others when they visit you. May you have every needful blessing temporal & spiritual is my habitual prayer. Your affectionate brother,
Home Sept. 3rd, 1860
My dear Sister,
Boxing of table .75
All the articles are mahogany, and I like them except the $23 Bureau. I would get the $25 bureau as it is only $2 more and if the elegant wash stand is too expensive I will get him to make you a neat one for $10. I would advise you to get the $20 sofa, but if you prefer you can instead of the sofa get the tete a tate & $5 lounge which will come to $3 more than the sofa. But if you prefer the sofa, you can make a lounge of it by spreading a cloth over it. The tete a tate is handsomer than the lounge though much smaller than our tete a tate. I purchased oil cloth for the square & rectangle but didn't succeed in getting any for the stairs as it is not now fashionable for stairs. I got the oil cloth at Stewart's & they told me that they didn't know where any could be had for stairs.
Home Sept. 24th, 1860
My dear Sister,
Centre table 9. Boxing table .75
In order to get a draft on N.Y. I had to pay one dollar and eleven cents making in all one hundred and eleven dollars and eighty nine cents. Deducting from this the amount you sent me fifty five dollars leaves fifty six dollars and 89 cents adding to this the price of the oil cloth 7.50 makes the total amount sixty four dollars & 39 cents. There are 10 yards of oil cloth at 75 cents per yard.
In order to get a new draft from a Bank the person to whom the Bank gave the draft had to inform the Bank that the draft has been lost or mislaid as the case may be and satisfy the Banking officer that he is acting honestly in the matter. If our Bank were to give me a draft & I should lose it all I would have to do would be to go to the cashier of the Bank & tell him that the draft was lost & request him to give me another which he would do and he would then write to the Bank that was to pay the draft & tell it not to pay the first draft. If he thought it necessary. So if the draft sent me was given to Col. Goff ask him to write to the Bank & request another draft stating that the first has been lost or mislaid. If the cashier of the Bank does not know Col. Goff then the Col. had better enclose his letter to some friend in whom the Bank has confidence and let this friend present it to the Bank so that the Bank may be satisfied that all is right. I regret to give you so much trouble.
Lexington, Va.
My dear Sister,
I am sorry that your furniture was injured even slightly. I expect that the expenses to Webster were not much more than customary. I didn't expect that you would favor the French bedstead as much as ours, but such a one as ours I have never seen in N. York, it is the Philadelphia style & besides it costs more than yours. I like the French and Anna would exchange it with you if practicable and says if you will send her yours she will send you hers. If you had been accustomed to Leery French Bedsteads all your life you would probably think the high ones quite clumsy affairs.
I hope that Williams will exchange with Judge Thompson and would be glad if he would do so next term which commences the 12th of next Sept. I hope if he comes that he will bring his wife with him. I did not ask Mr. Rieston to take your Bible to you, as he said that he was going on horseback.
Anna joins me in love to you & the children.
Your affectionate brother
Lexington, Va.
My dear Sister,
How do you like Mr. Thomas Preston? What is being done for the Redeemers cause in Beverly? How I would like to be with you! A visit to you is one of the pleasant things in prospect. I hope that you are all well again.
Do not have too much anxiety about bringing up your children, trust in God assistance, and it will be given. I think of our Sainted Mother and take courage from God's promise I will show mercy unto thousands (of generations) of them that keep me commandments From this passage a parent as will as children may draw great comfort. If a parent but keeps God's commandments, he or she may be well assured that God's mercy will rest upon the children.
I am looking forward with great interest to the 4th of Jany. when the Christian people for assistance, of this land will lift their united prayer as incense to the Throne of God in Supplication for our unhappy country. What is the feeling about Beverly respecting Secession? I am anxious to hear from the native part of my state, I am strong for the Union at present, and if things become no worse, I hope to continue so. I think that the majority in this county are for the Union; but in counties bordering us there is a strong secession feeling. Anna joins me in love to you & the children.
Your affectionate brother,
Lexington, Va.
My dear Sister,
I feel very lonesome & greatly wish that I had you as next door neighbor. Today is raining & I stay pretty much in doors.
I hope that Thomas will spare no pains to get all the education practicable before coming to the Institution. He will thus be enabled to take our course to greater advantage, and will be in a position to graduate higher in his class.
Yesterday was celebrated with becoming honor, due to the memory of Washington. I trust that this letter will find you all in usual health at least. My throat is troubling me today. I would be glad to hear from Thomas or from any of the children.
Your affect. brother
Lexington, Va.
My dear Sister,
If temptations are presented, you must not think that you are committing sin in consequence of having a sinful thought- The Savior thought a sinful thought of worshipping Satan, what could be more abhorrent to a Christian's feeling than such a thought. But such thoughts become sinful if we derive pleasure from them, we must abhor them if we would prevent our sinning. The Devil inputs sinful ideas into our minds to disrupt our peace & to make us sin & it is our duty to see by prayer & watchfulness that we are not defiled by them. God has done great things; astonishing things for you & your family. Don't doubt his eternal love for you.
Lexington, Va.
My dear Niece,
Your Aunt will attend to your request. I am sorry to learn that Mr. Chenoweth's health has failed: but hope that he may soon be restored.
We have had very wet weather here during the present week, but I think that it is probably about over.
Your Aunt joins me in love to you all. She spoke of writing to day, but as I wanted to answer your letter she consented to postpone hers.
You must write to me often.
I am gratified to see from your letter that you are so much pleased with Mr. Preston as a preacher.
Baltimore & Ohio R. R. Telgraph
By Telegraph
Dated H. Ferry April 30, 1861
An ordinance equalizing taxation onproperty throughout the sate of Virginia passed the convention of this twenty seventh inst (27th). Let papers publish.
T. J. Jackson
Charge 25 cts.
Division Head Qrts.
Colonel,
McDonald and Cunningham both prefer the Corps of Engineers (Regular Service).
I am colonel,
To
Harper's Ferry
Governor,
Jany. 2d, 1862
Major,
I have been concerned about your health, as I hear that you do not look so well as usual. I hope that you will take special care of your health.
Respectfully yours,
Hear Quarters Valley Dist.
General,
Genl. J. E. Johnston
Winchester
My dear Doctor
After God had restored to us the county of Morgan East of the Big Capon River and the most valuable portion of Hampshire County, and was still driving the enemy from this Military District, the Secretary of War without consulting me upon the subject, sent an order to me stating that he has information, that Genl. Loring's command is in danger of being cut off, and directs me to order him back to Winchester immediately, thus unnecessarily abandoning to the enemy what had been restored to us. If such a policy as that was to be pursued by the Secretary at his desk far removed from the theatre of war, ruin must result to our cause, and I feel called upon to utter my strongest protest against such a ruinous policy, and this I designed doing by offering to resign, rather than be the willful instrument of carrying out a ruinous policy. So far as the secretary may have shown indignity to me personally, that is not a matter to be considered in times like the present. I am satisfied that my course was a good one for our cause, the effect that it may injuriously have in the estimation of men respecting me, is of but little moment.
I say it humbly but with the hope that you will live to see that my course has been what it should have been. I am every ready to remain in the field when I can have a prospect of being useful there. Pray that I may be useful. I am sincerely your friend
Winchester
General
The 1st Tennessee leaves for Knoxville at dawn tomorrow morning. Would have left this morning, but I thought it best not to move until something could be heard respecting the time when the cars could receive them, as the weather has been very bad, and the troops are comfortable in their present position, & are within a day's march of Strasburg. Tomorrow at 10 o'clock A.M. the 1st Georgia will leave, and the Regiments for Genl Humes will move in time for their R. R. transportation. As there is no evidence of an immediate move on this place, I do not attach much importance to the information respecting the crossing of the Potomac below you, but have felt it my duty to make mention of it. The information is that the crossing is to be at night. The troops for Manassas can leave at any time via Snicker's Gap; as the boats now there will transport 250 Inft. per trip, but unless I receive further instructions from you, I will keep them as you directed until after the Regiments for the Virginia District leave.
Respectfully your Obt. Servt.
Winchester, VA.
J. J. Jackson Major Gen. Comdg.
Reports information concerning enemy's strenght & intended operations on lower Potomac. Departure of the troops of Genl. Loring's command.
Winchester
General
Respectfully your Obdt. Servt.
Winchester
My Dear Colonel,
Today I will commence in a quiet way gathering up such facts and names as may be of use to you, should there be any occasion for them. Anything I can do, you must depend upon me for as it will be both a duty and pleasure to send you.
Your daughter, Mrs. [?] and Mrs. Jackson left here in the same stage on last Tuesday. Sandy is recovering from a very severe cold.
Your much attached friend,
Hd. Qrs. Valley District
My dear Colonel,
McLachlin does not appear to recollect much respecting you during the engagement as he states that his attention was given to his pieces, and that is very natural, I know that I observed but little of individuals except as duty brought me in contact with them. Though he says that you were with the leading piece when the battery went forward on the line of battle, and that his his opinion is that just before the piece went to the rear, you gave direction respecting the firing.
Should you have Brockenbrough Court Marshaled, I would advise you to have Grisby summoned as a witness.
Very Truly your friend
Hd. Qrs. Valley Dist.
Mrs. M. K. Langhorne,
Yours sincerely,
Hd. Qrs. V. Dist.
Maj. Genl. F. H. Smith
General,
I am General your obdt. servt.
Hd. Qts. at Swift Run Gap
Maj. Genl. F. H. Smith
General,
My prayer is that the proposed undertaking will receive God's blessing for without it I can do nothing.
Should you be able to grant my request, you may rest assured that I will not retain the Colonel longer than necessary and should you desire his services at any time before the completion of his work, you have but to notify me.
I send herewith authority for him to impress horses.
I am General your obedt. Servt.
Head Quarters May 3rd, 1862
Spec. Orders
Maj. Gen. F.H. Smith having brought the Corps of Cadets of the Va. Mil. Inst. into the field, Quartermasters, Commissaries, and Ordinance Officers will furnish him all necessary supplies from their respective Departments.
By Order
Near Harrisonburg
Dear Sir,
What is the prospect of having Lt. Cols. J. R. Jones & A. Snead appointed Brig. Generals.
Very truly your friend
Hd. Qtrs. Valley District
General,
Port Republic
My dear Colonel,
Col. J. goes to Richmond at my request. My recommendation of him sometime since was without his knowledge, and he is too modest a gentleman to do much in the way of pressing this matter as it affects him personally(?), and I therefore trust that this will do it for him. Please introduce him to Hon. A. R. Boteler, who has already taken steps towards securing the appointment. Remember me very kindly to the Governor.
Very truly your friend,
Gordonsville
My dear Doctor,
For our prayer accept my warmest thanks, and I trust that you, and all our Christian people will with increased [?] with God implore his blessing upon our cause. He can give us victory, and crown us with complete success, and He alone can. My trust is in Him, and in Him along, and unto His name be all the glory for every success and every blessing.
Give my kindest regards to Mrs. White and all the family.
Your much attached friend,
White Oak Bridge
General,
Stuart is still in front. I saw Capt. Rufus Barring yesterday. He says that his youngest child if dangerously ill.
Respectfully,
July 31st, 1862
My Dear Maggie
I am much obliged to you for your kindness.
I deeply sympathize with you all in the death of dear Willie. He was in my first Sabbath school class where I became attached to him when he was a little boy. I had expected to have him as one of my aid de camps but God in his providence has ordered otherwise.
Remember me very kindly to Col. Preston & all the family.
Near Gordonsville
General,
I am General yr obdt servt.
5 am Bristow
General,
If you have commissary stores enough please send 5000 rations to Genl. Ewell at Bristow as soon as you can get transportation.
I am Genl yr obdt servt.
Sharpsburg
Miss Fairfield,
Hd Qrs V. Dist Sept. 22nd, 1862
General,
I am General your most obdt. Servt.
T. J. Jackson
Revoking approval of Maj. Genl. D. H. Hill recommendation of Col. D. K. McBeal for a Brigadier Generalcy.
Hd. Qrs. A. N. Va.
Clarke County Va.
My dear Doctor,
Dec. 7th, 1862
Dear Genl,
The sermon was given me by Mrs. Brent of Winchester last winter or early in March and has not been sent out among the troops as all religious matter should.
Sincerely your friend
Hd. Qrs. 2d. Corps A. N.Va.
Genl,
I have written to Genl. Lee for the purpose of having a [c?] picket at Dickinson's crossing.
I am Genl. Yr. obdt. Servt.
Hd Qrs. 2d Corps, A. N. Va.
Major,
If you have no commissary to spare for the purpose, and you know of a suitable person I wish you would recommend him and send the recommendation through these Hd. Qrs. How would Campbell do? What I desire you to do is to recommend the most worthy if one is to be appointed.
Can one commissary attend to the duties at Milford Depot and also to seeing that the Arty. wants?
Take care of yourself & when you feel like taking a long ride, come down and see me.
Respectfully your obdt. Servt.
My dear sister Isabella,
The subject of his leaving the army gave me great concern. I did not like to take any steps which would be distasteful to him. Though I thought he ought to go to Richmond, yet as he expressed his desire not to leave if a battle was about to take place, and as one might be fought any day. So far as I knew, I felt a hesitancy about doing anything which would separate him from his division in case of an action.
Genl. Lee proposed that he should take a leave of absence, and return to his division in the Spring, but Genl. Hill did not accept of it.
Though the case has been such as to give anxiety to you, Genl. Lee & myself, I am satisfied that Our God will over rule it for good. For He causes all things to work together for good to them who love Him. If the Genl. is at home when this reaches you, please give my love to him. Joseph, Robert and Maj. Ewing[?] are well. I have not seen Mr. Barrington for nearly two months. Give love to the children.
Your affectionate brother,
Corbyn's Farm
My dear Captain,
I regret to heat of the continued delicate health of Mrs. B. & child. Joseph Morrison has gone home to see his mother who is seriously ill. Capt. Avery had also gone on leave of absence of 25 days.
Genl. Hill has been assigned to duty in N.C.
Mr. Irwin & Sis with their children were at Cottage Home at last account. I hope that they will be there when Anna & Paul arrive there.
Should you come near me. I hope that you will not pass by without calling.
Very truly yours,
P.S. Genl. Stuart has arrived since the foregoing and he desires getting you appointed on His Military Court of which he has the promise. Say nothing about this, as the court is not yet secured.
Hd. Qrs. 2d Corps A. N. V.
General,
The accompanying papers were returned to me today by Col. W. P. Bynum of the 2d N. C. I. One of the envelopes was opened by him under the impression that the package concerned his Regt.
I am Genl. your obdt. Servt.
T. J. Jackson
Near Fredericksburg, Va.
Gentlemen,
The object of this note is to thank you for your kindness, and to say that not only is the watch thoroughly repaired; but that I regard its usefulness materially enhanced by the new dial.
I am gentlemen,
7.45 A. M.
General,
Respectfully,
Major,
I hope to get you a Colonelcy.
Yours truly
Indexed terms
- Subjects:
- Mexican War, 1846-1848
Generals—Confederate States of America
Virginia—History—Civil War, 1861-1865
United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865
Chancellorsville (Va.), Battle of, 1863
Virginia Military Institute—History—19th century
Virginia Military Institute—Faculty—19th century
Virginia Military Institute—Academics—History—19th century
United States—History—Civil War, 1861-1865—Personal narratives—Confederate
Mexican War, 1846-1848—Personal narratives
Correspondence
Reports
Orders (military records)
Dispatches - Names:
- Christian, Julia Jackson
Arnold, Laura Ann Jackson, 1826-1911