The collection is open for research.
The copyright status of this collection is unknown. Copyright restrictions may apply. Contact Special Collections and University Archives for assistance in determining the use of these materials.
Reproduction or digitization of materials for personal or research use can be requested using our reproduction/digitization form: http://bit.ly/scuareproduction.
Reproduction or digitization of materials for publication or exhibit use can be requested using our publication/exhibition form: http://bit.ly/scuapublication.
Please contact Special Collections and University Archives (specref@vt.edu or 540-231-6308) if you need assistance with forms or to submit a completed form.
Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: [identification of item], [box], [folder], Brenneman Family Collection, 1863, Ms2025-093, Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.
The Brenneman Family Collection was donated to Special Collections and University Archives in August 2019.
The processing, arrangement, and description of the Brenneman Family Collection was completed in January 2026.
Elias Brenneman was born November 24, 1832, and married Caroline Strickler. In 1862, Elias was drafted into the Union Army during the American Civil War where he served as a private with the 166th Pennsylvania Infantry. He was discharged in July of 1863. Elias died October 7, 1904, and Caroline died December 9, 1916.
External Source:
Elias Good Brenneman. March 30, 2007. Find a Grave. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/18685267/elias_good-brenneman. Accessed January 28, 2026.
This collection contains two photographs and a letter. One photograph depicts five family members, including Annie and Steward Brenneman and two people identified as "Lucy's parents." The second photograph includes four family members, including Caroline Strickler Brenneman. The letter was written by Elias Brenneman on March 19, 1863, to his wife Caroline. The letter includes updates on Elias while he was in Camp Suffolk, Virginia, during the American Civil War. The letter has a stamp at the top that reads, "Union and Constitution. A transcription of the letter is included.
The guide to the Brenneman Family Collection by Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech, is licensed under a CC0 (