Virginia Military Institute -- Cadet life -- 1870-1879
Subject
Subject Source: Local sources
Found in 2 Collections and/or Records:
John Sims Papers
Collection
Identifier: MS-0475
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...
Found in:
Virginia Military Institute Archives
/
John Sims Papers
William Nalle letter
Collection
Identifier: MS-0042
Scope and Contents
One letter (October 16, 1870) from Cadet William Nalle to his mother, Mrs. Thomas Botts Nalle. Contains a detailed account of the death and funeral of General Robert E. Lee. Nalle describes mourning activities at VMI, Washington College, and Lexington; standing guard over Lee's body with four other cadets; funeral procession. Letter also mentions flood in Rockbridge County that destroyed canal locks, bridges and other property.
