Lexington (Va.) -- Social life and customs

Scope and Contents The papers consist of five letters (1848-1854) written by Giles Gunn, a native of Connecticut, while he was a schoolteacher in Lexington, Rockbridge County, Virginia. The letters, addressed primarily to his sister Mary (living at the Gunn home in Washington, Litchfield County, Connecticut), include discussions of interesting local events as well as references to family. Topics include commencement at the Virginia Military Institute; a detailed description of his school and his methods of...

Scope and Contents Hanna's diary contains a colorful account of life at VMI and in Lexington during the spring of 1864. Entries begin April 17, 1864 and end May 9, 1864. On May 10, the cadets were called to active duty at the request of Gen. John C. Breckinridge and on May 15 participated in the Battle of New Market. The entries contain comments about VMI activities and people, Lexington social life, and discussion of personal concerns. This volume was picked up by a Union soldier, probably when Union...

Scope and Contents Notebook compiled by VMI Cadet William A. Irvine, 1888-1889. Contains poetry (copied and original), sketches, programs from the Lexington Minstrel Club and the VMI Minstrel Club.

Scope and Contents Miscellaneous papers of 19th century VMI faculty member William Gilham, including: VMI weekly class report, ca. 1860; dispatch signed Gen. Robert E. Lee; letter from Moses Ezekiel; photographs (subjects are Gen. Lee; Gilham and his wife; Libby Prison; Richmond during the Civil War); misc. incoming correspondence; invitations to social events in Lexington, Virginia from the McDowell family; Official Register of the Officers and Cadets of the U. S. Military Academy, June 1841.