John Sims papers, 1868-1871. MS 0475. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.
John Sims was born in 1850 in Halifax County, Virginia. After graduating from VMI in 1871, he returned to Maxwelton, Halifax County and was a farmer there until his death in 1909.
This collection consists of 14 letters (dated 1868-1871) written by VMI Cadet John Sims (Class of 1871), to members of his family, a VMI quarterly grade report, and other documents. The correspondence provides rich details of cadet life during that era, as well as personal news. Sims mentions many leisure activities and comments on academic life and routine events. The letter dated October 17, 1870 mentions viewing the body of, and preparations for, the funeral of General Robert E. Lee.
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