Washington and Lee University -- History

Scope and Contents 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...

Scope and Contents Letter is a reply to an inquiry from a parent of a prospective student at Washington College.

Scope and Contents This letter from cadet Valentine C. Saunders to his parents is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following: Arsenal Relationship with Washington College Method of instruction Course of studies An opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H....

Scope and Contents Written from VMI, Lexington, Virginia. Letter regards a potential visit from George P. Terrill and general news.

Scope and Contents This letter from cadet Valentine C. Saunders to his parents is the oldest extant letter written by a VMI cadet. Dated November 30, 1839, shortly after the first cadets arrived in Lexington, Virginia, the letter provides a cadet's view of the newly established Institute. Saunders describes the following: Arsenal Relationship with Washington College Method of instruction Course of studies An opinion (favorable) of Superintendent Francis H....

Scope and Contents Washington College (now Washington and Lee University). Several items, 1845, concerning a complaint lodged by Washington College against VMI, which ultimately led to a severance of academic ties between the two institutions. Prof. George Dodd Armstrong represented the College on this issue. For a full account, see the book 100 Years at VMI (William Couper), vol. 1, pps. 139-147. The file also includes one unrelated document from 1860.

Scope and Contents This collection consists of the papers of William G. Williamson. Included is an original manuscript Civil War notebook that contains: Reports (September 1862-May 1863) submitted to the Chief Engineer's Office, Army of Northern Virginia, in which Williamson discusses destroying bridges at Harper's Ferry, West Virginia, and reconnaissance and mapping trips in the Shenandoah Valley and Piedmont Poetry Notes about architecture, engineering, and Williamson family...