George Neville-Nellie Newman Collection 1859-1865
- Abstract Or Scope
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Nellie Newman, evidently the belle of the Isle of Wight, Virginia, received many love letters from different men. But it appeared that her heart belonged to George Neville. At first their relationship was jovial, with her teasing him about other women, but with the coming of the War, their relationship took a serious turn, and toward the end of the War, Christmas 1864, they were married. The letters are from George to Nellie. This is a first-rate collection in regards to the Civil War and how it affected men and women. Evidently George Neville was a high-ranking clerk and his letters are full of information regarding the War around Richmond, especially the last desperate days. Some highlights of the collection include a letter, January 28, 1858, from Nellie's cousin, A. F. Culpepper to Nellie, discussing his latest child and blaming women for so many children. A "contract," April 5, 1859, between George Neville and Nellie Newman, since she lost a bet and could not come up with $500,000, she "herein resign, give, and yield myself unto the said George S. Neville, to have, hold, use and enjoy my body, as may best suit his pleasure." A letter dated August 19, 1859, from Hannah to Nellie, describes teaching and her social life. A letter, February 8, 1864, George to Nellie, describes a lady acquaintance who had married a Yankee because at the age of 28 she was tired of waiting. A letter dated October 20, 1864, George to Nellie, indicates that they are sending every man possible to the army, and that the men in his office do not know what will happen with them. A letter containing a call by top Confederate officials to give arms to "negroes" and have them in the army. #2024
- Collection Context