The collection is open for research.
The content of this collection is in the public domain. Contact Special Collections and University Archives for assistance in determining the use of these materials.
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Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: [identification of item], [box], [folder], Warrenton, Virginia Account Books, Ms2017-028, Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.
The Warrenton, Virginia Account Books were acquired by the university in 1939 or 1940 and transferred to Special Collections and University Archives in 1955.
These account books were rebound by Roanoke Printing Company in 1942. Information that may have helped in further identifying the owner may have been lost in the process.
The processing and description of the Warrenton, Virginia Account Books commenced and was completed in August 2017. Initial description was completed in or prior to May 1970.
The name "William G. Douglass" appears on several items inserted in the account books, suggesting that was the owner's name. In the 1870 census, William G. Douglass is documented as a 24-year-old foundryman living in the Fauquier County home of Charles C. Briggs, possibly a brother-in-law. The products of industry census, conducted that same year, lists William G. Douglass of Fauquier County as owner of a foundry, machine shop, and gristmill, employing a total of eight people. The 1880 census shows William G. Douglass, 30, living in the home of his sister, Jane E. Briggs. According to the census, Douglass is engaged in mining. In 1869, William G. Douglas of Warrenton was awarded a patent on an machine for separating cockle from wheat.
This collection contains three account books (one daybook and two ledgers) relating to an unidentified business in Warrenton, Virginia, during the late 19th century. Transactions detailed in the individual entries suggest that the business consisted of a gristmill, foundry, and general mercantile store. Individual entries provide names of customers and employees, goods purchased, and transaction dates and amounts. In addition to goods sold, the ledgers also document goods purchased by the business as well as household expenses.
The guide to the Warrenton, Virginia Account Books by Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech, is licensed under a CC0 (https://creativecommons.org/share-your- work/public-domain/cc0/).