John Sims Papers
Collection
Identifier: MS-0475
The papers consist of 14 letters written by VMI Cadet John Sims (Class of 1871), to members of his family. Dated 1868-1871, the correspondence provides rich details of cadet life during that era, as well as containing personal news. Sims mentions many leisure activities --a traveling theater troupe, baseball vs. Washington and Lee University Lee, debating societies, ice skating--as well commenting on academic life and routine events. The letter dated October 17, 1870 mentions viewing the body of and preparations for the funeral of Gen. Robert E. Lee. In addition, the papers include a quarterly grade report and other miscellaneous documents.
Dates
- 1868 - 1871
Creator
- Sims, John, 1843-1889 (Person)
Conditions Governing Access
There are no restrictions.
Conditions Governing Use
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.
Extent
17 items
Biographical / Historical
John Sims was born in Halifax County, Virginia in 1850. After graduating from VMI he returned to Maxwelton, Halifax Co. and was a farmer there until his death in 1909.
Physical Location
Manuscripts Stacks
- Baseball
- Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870
- Virginia Military Institute -- Cadet life -- 1860-1869
- Virginia Military Institute -- Cadet life -- 1870-1879
- Virginia Military Institute -- Class of 1871
- Virginia Military Institute -- History -- 19th century
- Washington and Lee University -- History
Creator
- Sims, John, 1843-1889 (Person)
Repository Details
Part of the Virginia Military Institute Archives Repository
