The series spans genealogical material, introductory material, poems, autographical material and John Coalter's correspondence until the death of his first wife, Maria Rind. The record of the gift of the collection, genealogical charts of the Tucker, Coalter, Tomlin and Brown families, and sundry genealogical notes which form a preface to the collection, are placed at the beginning of this box. The collection begins with 54 poems, the first of which is signed by St. George Tucker. Two signed poems by William Munford are included. The largest group of poems are those exchanged by John Coalter and Maria Rind, his first wife. Others were collected in the family papers until the middle or the latter part of the nineteenth century. The bulk of the material in Box 1 concerns John Coalter: an autobiographical sketch written by him on his 18th birthday, and letters covering the period of his early life from 1787, when he went to live with the St. George Tucker family, until the death of his first wife in 1793. Interesting letters from John Munford, a classmate of Coalter, are included, several of which concern the College of William and Mary and Harvard College.  221 items.

The subseries covers the correspondence of John Coalter during his second marriage to Margaret Davenport, and in the early years of his third marriage, to Frances Bland Tucker. Correspondence from St. George Tucker, Mrs. Lelia Tucker, Mrs. Judith Randolph, and others is included. The material traces the legal career of John Coalter from 10 April 1795, when St. George Tucker recommended him for the position of Clerk of the Court in Staunton, through the period of his second and third marriages to Margaret Davenport, 1795 (she died in 1797), and to Frances Bland Tucker, 1802. Included also are letters to Mrs. Frances Bland Tucker Coalter from her father St. George Tucker, her stepmother Mrs. Lelia Skipwith Tucker, her sister-in-law Mrs. Judith Randolph of Bizarre, and others. Correspondence with William Munford, in Williamsburg, is also included. 164 items.

Correspondence of John Coalter and his third wife while he was serving as Circuit Court Judge; correspondence of their daughters, Frances Lelia and Elizabeth Tucker Coalter, with parents and grandparents. Subseries finishes with the fourth marriage of John Coalter. Interesting comments on the effect of the embargo in South Carolina, and of episodes in the War of 1812 in the Chesapeake Bay area are found in these letters. There is also a report of the destruction wrought in Bruton Parish Church by the "youth of Williamsburg," and remarks of Saint George Tucker (June 14, 1809) upon the occasion of the birth of his first grandson, St. George Coalter, in which he strongly condemns the academies and colleges of that day. Letters include those exchanged by John Coalter with his third wife Frances Bland (Tucker) Coalter from 1809-1811, when John Coalter was serving as Circuit Judge. In 1811 he accepted an appointment as judge of the Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals; the family then moved to Richmond. There are many letters received by Mrs. Frances Bland Tucker Coalter between 1809 and her death in 1813, from her father St. George Tucker, and stepmother Mrs. Lelia Tucker, in Williamsburg, from her sister-in-law Mrs. Judith Randolph at Bizarre, and from other members of the family. There also are many letters to the daughters of John Coalter, Frances Lelia and Elizabeth Tucker, from their grandparents, from 1813 to the death of Frances Lelia Coalter in 1821.

Correspondence primarily of the two surviving children of John and Francis Bland Tucker Coalter: Elizabeth Tucker Coalter Bryan and St. George Tucker Coalter, and their respective spouses, John Randolph Bryan and Judith H. Tomlin Coalter. Includes genealogical material on the Tomlin family, and correspondence of Judith H. Tomlin before her marriage to St. George Tucker Coalter. Her letters form an important part of the collection from this time until her death in 1859. The last letters from their grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. St. George Tucker, are preserved, as well as letters to their uncles Henry and Beverley Tucker and John Randolph of Roanoke. Of special note is a letter of October 1831 in which St. George Tucker Coalter writes fully of Randolph during a visit to Roanoke. After his death in 1833, Randolph's will caused great difficulty and misunderstanding in the family, and appears to cast a slur on his step-father St. George Tucker. The letters of St. George Tucker Coalter to his wife and sister, especially those written from the springs which he visits each year, form the largest single group. In these letters an interesting picture of nineteenth century social life is to be found.

The correspondence between St. George T. Coalter, his wife, his sister Mrs. Elizabeth T. Bryan, and her husband John Randolph Bryan, form the core of the material in this box. It includes letters exchanged by the cousins, five Coalter children, and nine Bryan children. The controversy over the will of John Randolph of Roanoke is mentioned in several of the letters. St. George Tucker Coalter was a nephew of John Randolph, John Randolph Bryan was his godson, and both were heirs. St. George Tucker Coalter attempts to establish a new home where his late father John Coalter forced him to move (St. George Tucker Coalter was never financially independent of his father). A doctor's prescription, 28 April 1839, for the man who has been slowly dying of lung trouble and constant fever is: salts to be taken internally, salve rubbed on externally, baths at the medicinal springs and regular exercise. Four months later St. George Tucker Coalter died. The five surviving children of Mrs. Coalter and the nine children of Mrs. Elizabeth T. Bryan add to the correspondence as the years go on, for the families are very attached to one another and there is much visiting back and forth as well as letter writing. The letters of the cousins have been combined in this collection, so that an interesting picture is given of the life of this period; see a report of a traveling entertainer who visits the great houses (23 February 1847), a description of a costume ball at Warner Hall (8 February 1851) and a list of courses studied at a Girl's school (2 February 1852). There is much discussion of diseases which were prevalent: consumption, scarlet fever, typhoid fever, cholera, and influenza. 16-year-old John Coalter copied out a cholera cure sent by his aunt for use by two local doctors (13 July 1849).

Fanny is preparing to leave the school, having finished the course.

Scope and Contents A schoolmate and Fanny's sister write after she leaves school.

Reports that Jack Bryan, oldest son of Mrs. Elizabeth T. Bryan is dying at the Coalter home, Presley.

Scope and Contents After many years of waiting (since the death of her husband in 1839) Mrs. Coalter is finally able to buy her own place, Stanley. She tells of her move and of the illness that put her in bed afterward.

The school is closed for the summer, his wife and children are away, so he enlivens his solitude "by having a little chat with you...and where I always think of you and the delightful morning when we enjoyed the scene together...how I cherish every memorial of you. "I greatly enjoyed your last brief visit to us and that evening (do you remember it?) when the music room being full of company we found quiet, and cool breezes in the back porch. I have been sitting there tonight." (A strange letter, indeed, and one which was to cause some upset in the heart of Frances Bland Coalter, as subsequent correspondence show.)

Letter is addressed to "My own dear Aunt".

The letter is addressed to "My dear sister". Written to Mrs. Judith H. Coalter soon after she purchased her home, Stanley.

"This letter cannot hold any news, so I will fill it with love...entertaining myself by wishing that you could walk into the room and occupy a vacant chair hard by ."I hope to see you sometimes...nothing to what I would enjoy were I to keep house in a quiet way and have you for my guest a week at a time..."I would like you to marry some fine fellow and live in Richmond, only I...like you best as you are, except that you are too far from me."

"When I woke up yesterday morning and found it raining, my spirits fell as low as the mercury for I feared you would not come to Hampstead..."

"You ask me why it is that I am so partial to you--well, the very first time we get a chance to have a talk by ourselves I will tell you...When shall the opportunity come? There is always so much company at your house..."

He conducts a school: "I succeeded in six days of raising 21 scholars." He writes that Henry has graduated in Law with distinction.

"I think from his letter, Brother [William Hoge] has been much sicker than we had any idea of Mr. [Moses D.] Hogeis going on Thursday to see him and will probably remain in Baltimore until he is well enough to travel..."

Addressed to Fanny at Baltimore. Her friend writes, "Cousin Joe says you went to Baltimore purposely to see Mr. Hoge."

Scope and Contents Reports gossip concerning Fanny's Baltimore trip.

"Often when (I am) abroad, you will be in my mind and heart. Neither do I want you to get married before I return. I am to perform that service, you know..."

Concerning the gossip regarding Fanny and Rev. Hoge: "Surely you could not think me so deceitful as to profess to love you and then say that you would try to entrap a gentleman. I did not say so. I remember saying that if you went to Baltimore and were thrown with Mr. Hoge I believed he would address you, because I know he admired you very sincerely..."

A proposal of marriage.

A rumor that Frances Bland Coalter is to marry.

"Julia Green was here...when I told her that you had gotten a letter from Mr. Hoge she said she was so jealous of you that she was ready to fight..."

"I am going to Baltimore...and I shall see Mr. William Hoge! Don't you wish you were going? What shall I tell him for you?"

St. George is now in school at Staunton.

Construction work to be done at the University of Virginia.

"I hope that it will not be long before I have the pleasure of seeing you, my dear and constantly remembered friend."

Scope and Contents "I have heard several times of your engagement to Thomas--who has made himself very scarce."

Accepts invitation to the marriage of Virginia, younger sister of Fanny Coalter.

Covers lacking.

Now a practicing lawyer, he writes to his aunt on business.

Scope and Contents To her cousin regarding "Mr. President" and "The Vice." (This appears to refer to the Brown brothers, John Thompson and Henry Peronneau. Frances Bland Coalter was to marry the latter.)

"I wish you to be very particular in your conversations with Peronneau not to let him have the least idea of the tenor of my remarks to you yesterday and at the same time manage to convince him that I am not in love with you, as I am afraid such is his present opinion."

Trouble in: finding a teacher for her children; "the Roanoke business"--(evidently a reference to the still unsettled will of John Randolph of Roanoke.)

Scope and Contents Covers lacking. Concerned about the health of Fanny's mother, has a horror of those "distracting springs" for invalids.

The solution to a problem in surveying (this may be the "Thomas" to whom Frances Bland Coalter was rumored to be engaged).

On the death of Mrs. E. T. Bryan, aunt of Fanny Bland Coalter.

On the death of Mrs. Elizabeth T. Bryan.

Scope and Contents Thanks Fanny for her help at the time of the death of Mrs. Bryan, her mother.

Is in charge of the plantation since her mother's death; busy making summer clothes for the slaves.

Suggests a visit together to "cousin Horace Lacy."

Peronneau Brown and his brother, Thompson, are mentioned. (See letters of December 1855, Box-folder 6:44-45.)

Writes to ask Mrs. Coalter to stay with his daughters during his absence in the south.

Has charge of the large plantation, keeping four seamstresses, three spinners and a weaver busy.

"No, my dear Fanny, my affection for you has not changed."

Scope and Contents Regarding Mr. Willcox Brown and his brother Peronneau, future husband of Frances Bland Coalter.

Invitation to the commencement party at Hampden Sidney College.

Scope and Contents Covers lacking.

Accompanying his uncle on a business trip, he has visited the main cities of the south and attended the opera in New Orleans. "I must confess that I have been rather disappointed in the people that live in these rich lands--they are as rough as possible...live in log houses and on the very poorest fare."

Scope and Contents "I suppose your wedding will be postponed unless Mr. Brown's recovery is unusually rapid."

"The news of your engagement [to Henry P. Brown] did not surprise me...how heartily I approve of your choice..."

Scope and Contents "If my letter arrives too late for Miss Fanny Coalter, I hope Mrs. Brown will have enough affection for the old name to lay claim to it."

Regrets that he cannot attend the wedding.

This letter is undated but probably received before December 7, 1858.

This letter is undated but probably received before December 7, 1858.

This letter is undated but probably received before December 7, 1858.

Scope and Contents These letters are undated but probably received before December 7, 1858.

This letter is undated but probably received before December 7, 1858.

Scope and Contents These letters are undated but probably received before December 7, 1858.

"The King Wm. and Hanover Charaders. Positively their last appearance. At Stanley on Friday evening the 9th this brilliant Company....Ticket 1 ct., children and servants half price." A home performance by the Coalter and Bryan cousins. This item is undated but probably received before December 7, 1858.

Scope and Contents These covers are undated but probably received before December 7, 1858.

Correspondence and business papers of Capt. Henry Brown, Revolutionary War veteran who opened a store in Bedford County, in 1793; Papers of Capt. Brown as Collector of Federal taxes on stills and real property. The Brown family papers begin with the letters and papers of Capt. Henry Brown (1760-1841), successful merchant of Bedford County and Lynchburg, who established the family fortune. He was the father of John Thompson Brown, Delegate to the Virginia Assembly, whose letters and papers are collected in the next section (Boxes 14-19). A few letters and receipts pertaining to Henry Brown, 1712-1798, the father of Capt. Henry Brown, are included. The great bulk of the material, however, relates to Capt. Brown, beginning with a map of a Revolutionary War battle, 1777, in which he was wounded. With his brother, Daniel, he opened a general store in Bedford soon after the conclusion of the war. A partnership agreement of April 1797, which brought James Leftwich into the business, is preserved and the bulk of the material in this box pertains to the business of the store. A good picture of early merchandising is given by the accounts, letters relating to buying and selling trips, and the court actions taken to collect accounts. Beginning with folder 60, there are 39 items relating to the duties of Henry Brown as tax collector in the Bedford area in the years 1800 to 1803. 160 items.

Business records and correspondence of Henry Brown and Samuel P. Clayton. After the death of his brother Daniel in 1818, Brown entered into a partnership with Clayton, his son-in-law. Brown survived Clayton, who died in 1832; this box also includes papers from 1833 to 1839 made out to Henry Brown, surviving partner of Brown and Clayton Company. The accounts of Henry Brown with Hancock and Brown, Lynchburg, 1824-1833, are retained as one group. Also retained as a separate group are the papers relating to the court suits of Brown and Pleasant Murphy. All notes of the period carried a 100 percent penalty clause. This resulted in many law suits being brought to establish what would now be considered exorbitant claims. In one case (see entry for March 10, 1823) for a debt of $42.05, the debtor surrendered 1 sound filly, 2 cows, a calf, 2 feather beds, all household and kitchen furniture, all plantation utensils, and 6 hogs! 159 items.

Captain Henry Brown had many interests in his long life apart from the purely commercial activities upon which his considerable fortune was built. Included in this box are the papers relating to his other interests: Papers of Captain Henry Brown as Sheriff of Bedford County, Treasurer of the New London Academy Meeting House and of the New London Agricultural Society, and as executor of the estates of his brother, Daniel Brown, and father-in-law, John Thompson.

Business papers of Henry Brown, not directly connected with any of his various business enterprises, but concerned principally with court suits involving debts to him. Included is an interesting case of Mark Anthony, who took the oath of an Insolvent Debtor, making out a deed of trust of all his property to his creditors (11 April 1829 and 6 July 1833). Also includes papers concerned with the suit of Henry Brown vs. Nicodemus Leftwich, 1832-1840. Brown pays for the attendance of witnesses at the court and pays the county Jailor "for imprisoning and releasing" Leftwich.

Household, family and personal bills preserved by Henry Brown, an interesting collection of a family illustrating the activities of eight children in the second quarter of the nineteenth century, 1819-1841.

Purchase of a watch in Winchester; requests 30 dollars to repay a debt.

His wife's estate; purchase of a Negro girl.

On his return from the Spring; attack of "bilious Cholic" and his treatment.

Concerning "the purchase of some land at $20 per acre..."

Beats female slave, using a walking stick, his wife using a cowhide whip. The slave's mate attempted to protect her with an axe but he was subdued, beaten and sent to jail the next day. Hopes for peace, unpopularity of the conscription law and the whiskey tax.

On her studies: Blair's lectures, piano playing, drawing, painting and embroidery.

The husband of Nancy Brown writes: "...Bounaparte is on his way to this country. If so I greatly fear we shall go backwards with accelerated velocity in all peaceful, literary and ornamental pursuits..."

Advice on a move to the State of Ohio. "Although I like Slavery as little as you or anyone else, still...I think it probable that we should be as unhappy as we are with them" (Daniel died in 1818. For the next 20 years Henry administered his estate for the benefit of his wife and children.)

Scope and Contents Henry Brown is Clayton's father-in-law. The letters discuss Mary Brown's illness at the Springs (she was to die within a year).

The building of his house and the health of his family.

The daughter of Samuel Brown, writes to console her Uncle on the death of his brothers and his two daughters, Mrs. Anne [Nancy] B. Steptoeand Mrs. Mary [Polly] B. Clayton.

An uncle of Henry Brown writes, "My grandson wishes to get in to Business in a store..." (Henry Brown, Jr. now has a store in Lynchburg.)

His continued bad health. The death of James Leftwich, Captain Brown's business partner.

Requests assistance in obtaining appointment as Clerk of Court at Bedford.

The value of the Deerwood tract.

Begs her father to let her have money to go to the inauguration of President Jackson.

On her visit to Washington: "this is the thickest settled neighborhood that I ever was in--the neighbors are situated all around, some in view and others not more than a quarter of a mile from the house..."

On his visit with his brothers, John Thompson Brown, in "Washington City." Description of crowded Washington, full of pickpockets and of the confusion even in the President's house.

"...the last day I rode more than thirty miles through a dreary wilderness without seeing a single house...I am yet travelling alone and have come six hundred miles without a single man travelling my course..."

His progress in college.

His progress in repaying a debt to the estate of his uncle, Daniel.

Scope and Contents Report of workers on the Chesapeake and Ohio canal dying from Cholera.

On the death of his maternal grandfather, John Thompson.

Henry G. Brown is the son of Samuel Brown.

Leaving for New York to lay in goods.

Scope and Contents Hopes for his store despite illness and some hostile feeling toward his former partner, Ammon Hancock.

On the death of Henry Brown. (Henry Brown, Jr. died while he and his wife were on a shopping trip for the store.)

William Brown is the son of Samuel Brown. On the changing population: "The people still retain the simple manners of the old Scotch-Irish and, I may add, much of the intelligence and piety. But the restless spirit of emigration is taking away our best people and in their place we generally get Germans, who commonly are deplorably ignorant and will do very little toward supporting the Gospel."

Scope and Contents A Quaker associate of Henry Brown, Jr. writes to settle accounts and close the store.

The widow of Henry Brown, Jr., writes of the disposal of her house.

To Frances Brown's husband, on the loss of her two brothers, "and such brothers too, in so short a time." (Henry Brown, Jr. died in June, 1836, and his brother, John Thompson Brown, in December of that same year.)

Henry J. Brown is the son of Samuel Brown.

Scope and Contents 2 letters. On the sale of merchandise and an expected loss.

Agrees to furnish Gould B. Raymond, manager of the Menagerie Co., lodging for 30 men, 65 horses, 1 elephant, 1 camel and 2 ponies.

The inscription on the tomb of her late husband, John Thompson Brown.

The widow of Henry Brown, Jr., writes of the death of her husband a year ago.

The widow of John Thompson Brown writes regarding her three sons.

Scope and Contents The executor of an estate demands payment of a note on which Henry Brown, Jr. was a cosigner.

Scope and Contents The youngest daughter of Henry Brown writes about her marriage and the first meeting with her new relatives.

William Brown is the son of Samuel.

On his marriage to Alice Brown.

Mrs. Alexander (Lockie T. Brown) Irvine is her sister. Her wedding trip to New Orleans.

Her sickness on the way down the river due to fresh paint in the boat.

Daniel Brown is the son of Samuel.

Concerning eventual conversion of Baptists to the Presbyterian Church.

Henry Brown is her father.

Scope and Contents "...I left New Orleans the 28th of March and reach George Town. The 15th of April...Sam (Brown) was in New Orleans the day before I left-he was not married but expected to be the 9th of April."

"Last evening our darling Alice made me the happy father of a fine boy..."

Report to his father of his first grades at the Academy.

To his grandfather regarding his first term marks.

Scope and Contents "The first two years of our course are exclusively devoted to Mathematics and French..." Encloses a work sheet and "Synopsis of the Course of Studies at the Military Academy."

Scope and Contents Letters written from Oklawaka River and St. Augustine, Florida. "The Congress must get rid of its 'sickly sympathy' (with the Indians) or, rely upon it, this is a war of years to come." Gives a vivid description of St. Augustine.

Scope and Contents Letters written from Rose's Landing, Tennessee; Savannah, Georgia; and off Cape Hatteras. Contrasts the Cherokees in Tennessee with the Seminoles of Florida. Describes Savannah in a letter enclosed, dated February 16, 1839.

8 letters. Total of 12 pages. Typescript.

"My eyes appear to have improved gradually." (His ailment seemed to be at its worst at this time, though he continued to suffer from the ailment until his death in 1836 at the age of 39 years.)

A note for $1,000.00. At this time he was getting started in the store, Hancock and Brown Co.

The "most favorable accounts" of John Thompson Brown from the members of the House of Delegates.

Scope and Contents Concerning the business of Col. [Mark] Anthony, in which Henry Brown, Jr. appears to be involved.

Includes autographed document signed.

44 pages

Includes autographed document signed.

Scope and Contents Mentions the marriage of John Thompson Brown.

A letter of introduction for Henry Brown, Jr., for use on his trip to England and the Continent in that year.

56 pages

Scope and Contents Letters written to her husband on his trip. "Oh, my dear husband, why was it that I did not accompany you?" (None of these letters reached Henry Brown, Jr. on the trip, but followed him home).

News from a letter she received from Henry Brown, Jr. in England.

Scope and Contents Payment of his debts in Lynchburg; hiring out of a slave.

"It's really a sad case for me, to be sick from home and away from all that (are) Dear to me..."

This was the store in Lynchburg in which Henry Brown was a partner and with which Henry Brown, Jr. was associated until he opened his own store in 1835. Includes autographed document.

Scope and Contents Brother-in-law, Jack Willcox; his brother, John's speech on the Petersburg Rail Road; and the house that Henry Brown has vacated in Lynchburg.

On a debt of Thomas Williams.

Includes autographed draft. Appear to refer to pictures, and may date from the time of one of the buying trips that Henry Brown, Jr. made with his wife.

After breaking from the partnership of Hancock and Brown, he opened his own store.

Scope and Contents Cover lost. Concerning the care for his horses, Young American Eclipse and Spring Hill, while he is away.

Scope and Contents Written while she and her husband were on a buying trip for the Lynchburg store. In New York, Henry Brown, Jr. was taken desperately ill and died.

Unsigned. Evidently taken down by Mrs. Eleanor C. L. Brown during the final days in New York.

Scope and Contents An associate of Henry Brown, Jr. in the Lynchburg store, was liquidating the stock and selling horses in order to settle the estate.

Profile by Professor William B. Rogers.

A note regarding the settlement of the Henry Brown, Jr. estate.

Mrs. Eleanor C. L. Brown is his mother. Written from school, with endorsement by James Morrison, schoolmaster.

Signed Eleanor C. L. Brown.

H. Guilford Brown is her son.

Charge slips for failing to attend army musters between 1829 and 1839, 1839. 10 items. Printed document signed.

Samuel T. Brown is his his brother-in-law. Letter congratulating S. T. B. on his marriage.

Mrs. Alexander Irvine is her her sister-in-law. She writes of the aged John Vaughan Willcox, her father, with whom she is living and for whom she is caring; Samuel T. Brown and his "youthful bride."

Draft of the statement concerning the estate of Henry Brown, Jr.

His extended wedding trip; description of General Harrison's house.

Court cost voucher recording transfer of 400 acres from Henry Brown to Samuel T. Brown, with tax receipt. 2 items. Printed document signed.

Letter sent care of Judge Crawford at St. Stephens, Alabama. Consolations upon the death of Mrs. Samuel T. Brown.

Scope and Contents Condolences upon the death of Mrs. Samuel T. Brown.

A letter of consolation.

Scope and Contents On the death of W. W. Worthington, brother-in-law of Samuel T. Brown. "Your sister Alice is desirous of your attention to the affairs of Mr. W. in New Orleans prior to your return to Virginia."

Recording certain deeds for his son-in-law, Samuel T. Brown.

Unsigned draft. Written to his overseer with whom he has quarreled.

On the fees paid by Henry Brown in the Leftwich case: "between twenty and twenty-five dollars for my services as an attorney." On the thefts "perpetrated by Thomas H. Benton whilst a student at Chapel Hill."

Agreement for the payment of a debt.

Drafts of a letter to Mark Andrews. 2 items. Concerning the cutting of trees on the property of Samuel T. Brown.

A reply to the above letter, Box-Folder 13:60.

Samuel T. Brown is her brother.

On a charge of Ammon Hancock against the estate of Henry Brown, Jr.

Estimate for the cost of the construction of a bridge.

Receipt for postal expenses, April-June, 1849, signed H. Stevens.

Scope and Contents On the property in Mobile, Alabama, purchased by Samuel T. Brown.

Scope and Contents The sale of a female slave "with her Brood." Samuel T. Brown is Edward Robinson's brother-in-law.

Letter from a schoolboy friend regarding New London Academy.

John Thompson Brown's examinations at the New London Academy.

"I have just been examined by the faculty and am admitted to the Sophomore Class, which is the second in the college." His expenses are estimated at $200.00 for the first term and $90.00 for the second. "I will pledge myself not to spend one cent more than is really necessary."

Scope and Contents News from home; a rumor that some boys were expelled from Chapel Hill for their politics. John Thompson Brown is his brother-in-law.

Scope and Contents Medical advice; a suggested teacher for New London Academy ("Has he energy enough manage southern students?"); the death of Polly [Mrs. Mary Brown Clayton], sister of John Thompson Brown.

The political upheaval at William and Mary College; deputies appointed "...to fix upon the site of the Virginia University."

Scope and Contents "My expenses have far exceeded what was necessary or what you expect. I now see my error and repent..." Three months later he offers to leave school because of his additional debts. Later in Baltimore, he is robbed of $200.00. His father adds up the year's expenses to a total of $670.00. Henry Brown is John Thompson Brown's father.

Behavior, No. 1. distinguished; Industry, No. 1. distinguished; Scholarship, No. 1. distinguished (1) "If under the article scholarship, a student is marked No. 1 distinguished (1), he is considered as ranking among the first in his class." (From printed explanation of the report.) John Thompson Brown is of the sophomore class at Princeton.

Scope and Contents "Once the busy scene of commercial enterprise...now lifeless and inactive." Concerning Lynchburg.

Scope and Contents The University of Virginia is established at Charlottesville with an annual appropriation of $15,000; news of a threat of slave uprisings in Fredericksburg.

John Thompson Brown is of the junior class at Princeton. Two reports. Printed document signed. Similar reports to that of 1818. Warning is added to the September report concerning excessive expenditures by students: "the trustees of the college give this notice to the parents and guardians of the youth, that they ought to pay no debt contracted in this town, which they have not specifically authorized."

Endorsed: "Collegians mei consocui." He knew 162 fellow students.

On the "present session of Congress."

Scope and Contents Rumor of a great rebellion that has taken place at Princeton; the Missouri question.

John Thompson Brown is of the senior class of Princeton.

A Fourth of July oration supporting the idea of colonizing the free Negroes in Africa.

The content is on his trip to the South. 15 pages. Autographed document.

"My father may justly complain of the great sums which he has expended on me, but his kindness shall not be abused much longer, as I hope to be in a situation to support myself." Endorsed: "Brother J.--after his return from Princeton went South--through the Cherokee Nation [Alabama and Georgia] to Pensacola, and on to New Orleans--thence to Cuba and returned to U. States in the U.S. Frigate 'Hornet,' as a guest of the officers. Samuel T. Brown."

A gambling scrape he was involved in; asks his father's forgiveness.

"Chancellor Taylor has been of incalculable service to me in the study of law." (Needham was a law school operated by Judge Creed Taylor in Cumberland County in the years 1821-1836.)

These are the continuous drafts of a multiple of letters, continued July 8, 1831, Petersburg. The first section consists of musings and youthful recollections; the second is a humorous report on a 4th of July oration made in Petersburg after his marriage.

Letter from Alexander M. Jackson, at New London, to John Thompson Brown, regarding the marriage of Dr. Steptoe.

Notes made at Judge Taylor's Law School.

License to practice law in the superior and inferior courts of this Commonwealth (Virginia).

Musings on friendship and the wise behavior of a lawyer if he is to succeed.

A letter introducing John Thompson Brown when he went to Clarksburg to set up practice.

44 pages. Musings written on a trip through Virginia: thoughts on a disappointing love affair; notes on "Crab Orchard" and the "Creek Nation" --the latter were to be incorporated into an Independence Day address delivered in Petersburg in 1831.

Scope and Contents Impressions of Clarksburg; the countryside is beautiful and the land very rich, but "The people have no money and are wretchedly poor and lazy..."

His plans to establish himself.

The following newspaper clippings and pamphlets are included in a bound scrap book, with endorsements and were undoubtedly collected by John Thompson Brown himself.

"...the friends of Old Hickory...hear Adamses success spoken of and the probability of Clay's being made Secretary of State..."

Encloses a legal opinion concerning sheriffs, which his father apparently requested.

A flowery letter to an old friend from Princeton. "I have acquired some little reputation at the bar and a practice that supports me very decently."

Draft of an address to an investigating group (perhaps a grand jury), with endorsement: "1. Act against cutting down trees. 2. Act providing for a good and sufficient jail."

This is part of a printed letter concerning "Mr. Jefferson the disclosure of his poverty..." over the signature Alexander. (See bound scrapbook, the last item in Box 14.)

Desire of John Thompson Brown to run for the U.S. Congress or for a seat in the General Assembly. Suggests that Henry Brown send $1,000.00 to help achieve this.

"I find that there is a serious and, I believe, a somewhat general wish to bring me out for the Legislature."

"I am a candidate for the Legislature at the next election..."

An announcement of the candidacy of John Thompson Brown for the General Assembly. He reviews what he considers to be the most important problems of the day, and discusses (1) the invasion of State sovereignty by the Federal program of "internal development," (2) the harm done to Southern farmers by import duties, (3) the calling of a Constitutional Convention for the state of Virginia, (4) the dangers of the uncontrolled banking system.

Scope and Contents His election to the General Assembly; hope of election to the U.S. Congress, and the purchase of a four acre lot in town. In the first letter which John Thompson Brown wrote from the House of Delegates he said "I have not taken much part in the debates of the House and do not expect to do so..."

The note is "in regard to the question whether Clinton or Calhoun should run as Vice-President on the Jackson ticket"

His ride to Richmond in a coach with other, more experienced law-makers, "having been, as you predicted, greatly edified and instructed by a coach-full of legislators 'big with the cares of state."

Full title: "Report of a Committee Appointed To Enquire Into The Nature And Extent Of The Evils Arising From The Present Unsettled State Of Land Titles On The Western Waters Of Virginia, And To Devise A Remedy Therefor, With Leave To Report A Bill Or Otherwise" 6 pages. 2 copies.

3 copies.

Petition to the General Assembly for a divorce.

Petition to the General Assembly for a divorce.

Autographed document.

Autographed document.

"Resolving that members of the House of Delegates be requested to unite...in advancing the cause of this Society before the General Assembly of Virginia."

On John Thompson Brown's speech: "considered the most able one that had been delivered in the House in 5 years."

"Our Society, in the success of which, you are pleased to express so deep an interest, is I believe, making sure progress."

His legislature activities and speeches. "I am a Jackson man like yourself but not perfectly orthodox, as you would say, on the subject of States Rights. I published my opinions, pamphlet of 30 pages, 12 months ago and will send you a copy..."

Physical Location: Removed from this collection and catalogued in the Rare Books Deptartment F 247 H3B73. The second copy is located in the Rare Books Department - Virginia, under the same call number as above. 17 pages. A report to his constituents on such matters as (1) the state Constitutional Convention, (2) the lottery for the Randolph Academy in Clarksburg, (3) county elections, (4) the bill abolishing the chancery Courts and establishing a Superior Court, (5) a Turnpike to their area (defeated by the "Eastern People"), (6) the proposed Baltimore Railroad and (7) the settling of the question of land titles in Western Virginia. Included in the pamphlet are the full texts of the report of the committee on this subject, which he chaired, and the bill proposed by the committee.

Comment on the land titles, Chancery court bills.

Scope and Contents "Even now I am as comfortably situated as I could desire and shall support myself hereafter without any further drafts on your goodness..."

Scope and Contents Now well situated in his "mansion," he discusses his prospects for Congress and of his plan to "offer 2 years hence."

Order appointing John Thompson Brown Adjutant of the 11th Regiment, Virginia Militia.

5 items. Autographed document.

Notes are initialed "J. T. B.'s".

Endorsed: "McConley's System of Sword Tactics."

Reflections on people met at the Medicinal Springs, as contrasted with those of his constituency.

Scope and Contents In February, he forwards a copy of sheriff's commission to his father. During the year he borrows $400.00 for payments on his house in Clarksburg, and by the end of the year his father has agreed to advance enough capital for him to become a partner in a mercantile business. Upon the conclusion of the 1828-1829 session of the General Assembly, he writes that he will be a candidate once more, then run for Congress. In the letter of March 23rd, he writes that opposition has arisen "on account of some laws we had passed last session authorizing the county court to levy a tax for repairing roads and bridges." On March 23rd he relates his experiences in Washington at the inauguration of Jackson: on December 14th he predicts that the basis of votes for whites will be surrendered in the formation of the new State constitution.

Suggests they ride together to Alexandria, then go to Richmond by boat.

The Virginia Constitutional Convention: "I had an opportunity of hearing the most distinguished members of the body--Mr. Madison and Mr. Marshall among the rest..."

A friend writes regarding "Mr. B.," "a man of boundless pride and diffidence. His attachment was cut down in the bud and You, my sweetest Mary, have hoped whilst he desponded..."

"My friends, Webster, Goffard, and others believed I could certainly be elected to Congress next Spring...I wish to appear at P[etersburg]in a manner which would probably be expected and to avoid the appearance of poverty and destitution. Henry is to get me a sulky, horse, etc., and if you can spare this additional sum you may hand it over to him..."

"Our nuptials took place at the time expected and I cannot say that there was any other allay to my happiness, than that neither you nor any of my near relatives were present."

Scope and Contents On his honeymoon: "Peronneau Finley travels with us, as one of our immediate party. Mr. Willcox, Sr., and three of his friends are going to N. York to the races. They came with us thus far..." There is much discussion about where they will live, but, "I think it probable we shall reside in Petersburg..."

On his Washington visit: "we remained a week, were introduced to the President, etc., heard some interesting debates and saw all the great men of the nation...My situation is in all respects agreeable."

Congratulations on her marriage coupled with much advice.

Scope and Contents After a visit with his father, he writes: "I have nothing to add on the subject of my future arrangements. I shall pursue the course which you seemed to approve when we were together." He writes later that Mr. Willcox has turned over to them his town house "furnished with servants"; in another letter: "He handed me a check for $1,500 and said that I should always have as much as I wanted..."

Sends advice to his younger brother and, and account of his own situation.

Scope and Contents Letters from Harrison County report that "the District needs me badly...but it is too late..."

"I regret that you have temporarily declined public life--for I would not believe you have abondoned it altogether."

Scope and Contents Autographed draft. Advice given to a young man summarizing John Thompson Brown's own philosophy of life.

Scope and Contents On his return to Harrison County, "I found that my position here was to be too dependent..."

"At a meeting of the citizens of Petersburg...'Resolved, that John Thompson Brown, Esq., he appointed Orator of the Day'."

Autographed drafts. The first important public speech of John Thompson Brown, in Petersburg, one which appears to have established his reputation, and which influenced his decision to remain there.

Regarding his Independence Day address; the wisdom of his brother's decision to visit England.

Physical Location: See 25 April 1822, Box-folder 14:21, These are the continuous drafts of multiple letters. This draft concerns the second part which contains a humorous report on a 4th of July oration made in Petersburg after his marriage.

Scope and Contents On July 25, he states that his brother has left on the packet for Baltimore on the way to Liverpool. Concerning his "reasons of my determining not to remove to Harrison." On September 14 he writes that his wife has given birth to a son, who will be named Henry Peronneau, "after you and my friend Peronneau Finley."

Scope and Contents A letter from Mrs. Eleanor C. L. Brown to John Thompson Brown encloses the letter from Henry Brown Jr. Henry Brown, Jr. writes of his journey, as a result of which "I become more and more an American in feeling and principle..."

Scope and Contents "I was elected without opposition after announcing my sentiments freely and boldly." News of an insurrection of Negroes in Southampton (Nat Turner), "they killed 55 persons, mainly women and children."

Gives his opinions on the education of his nephew, Edward. He approves strongly of the emphasis on science to be found at West Point; on going to college among the Yankees: "I partake in some measure of the prejudice against them--but think nevertheless that...southern firewould be none the worse for being somewhat cooled by the northern frost."

A new newspaper is proposed for the city of Richmond.

A request for help in covering a $3,000 debt to "sharpers." Endorsed by Windham Robertson.

Scope and Contents Describes the quarters he has for his wife and son. On the main question of the day he writes: "I think no measure can or ought to be taken now for the abolition of slavery..."

Concerning "the bill now before the Legislature on the subject of our (Rail) Road."

Appointment of John Thompson Brown as judge of the election for directors of the Bank of Virginia in Petersburg.

Scope and Contents Writes of the fortunes of the (Petersburg) Railroad Bill in the House of Delegates and State Senate.

Information regarding Rensselaer School. Samuel T. Brown, younger brother of John Thompson Brown, appears to have been interested in this school.

In this important speech John Thompson Brown took up several proposals for the freeing of slaves, including that of Thomas Jefferson, as submitted to the Legislature by Jefferson Randolph, his grandson, and argued against each.

Scope and Contents "My speech on abolition has had great eclat--a fund has been raised for publishing it in pamphlet form for general distribution... Judges [Henry St. George] Tucker and Brookehave taken active part in puffing the speech." He also reports, "I have carried my Railroad Bill...and shall enjoy the credit of effecting it by my personal influence."

Physical Location: Removed from this collection and catalogued in the Rare Books Department - Virginia, E 449 L45. 47 pages. Includes in a "Postscript" an answer to a statement in The Enquirer over the signature of Jefferson [Randolph]. Reference is made to a remark made in The Wig that his argument "had been far surpassed by the discussion of the subject by a stripling . Mr. Brown of Petersburg." General Assembly. Committee on Federal relations. Official Document Nos. 14, 15, 16.

Concerning a suggested amendment for the Circuit Court Law.

He cannot give his nephew, Edward Steptoe, an appointment to West Point because he has used his appointment for the session. "...the Senate is involved in the Tariff discussion...The farther I have gone into it the more thoroughly have I convinced myself of its tyrannical and oppressive character."

A resolution from the Petersburg Rail Road Company to tender thanks for "the zeal and ability with which our Delegate John T. Brown, Esq. and our Senator, William Old, Esq. have exerted in procuring passage of the said (Rail Road) act."

This is the resolution presented by John Thompson Brown and reported in a newspaper article of this date preserved in the scrapbook to be found in Box 14.

James Murray Mason (1798-1871).

Scope and Contents "I send you 2 copies of John's speech (on Slavery) and a paper with one of Jefferson Randolph's in reply to him."

Declines appointment as a member of the Board of Directors of the Petersburg Railroad.

5 pages. Autographed draft. Notes on the convention of the whole party and of the Virginia Caucus. At the latter the resolution of John Thompson Brown. was adopted, viz. that Virginia's vote should go first to P. P. Barbour for Vice-President, and when there was no longer a reasonable prospect of his selection, to Van Buren.

"...on last evening we went to the President who is in excellent health and fine spirits. Many persons here, including some members of Congress from Virginia, seem to be much dissatisfied with our proceedings at Baltimore..."

Scope and Contents To his youngest brother, attending college, regarding the health of Henry, Jr.

On the death of Finley's brother.

The family has traveled south to escape an epidemic of Cholera.

Scope and Contents In the letter of December 3, he discusses the election of U.S. Senators, stating that Mr. Leigh is out because of his opposition to President Jackson. Among those mentioned for the position are Judge Henry St. George Tucker, John Randolph Rives, and himself, though he feels that he has neither the years nor the experience for the position. President Jackson's message on the U.S. Bank is discussed. On nullification he writes: "It will, I fear, be an exciting subject and one of engrossing interest...South Carolina is unquestionably wrong and as long as she remains in the Union, must obey its laws..."

The possibility of his appointment as Senator to supply the vacancy left by Mr. Tazewell.

Excitement in Washington caused by the President's proclamation on nullification debate.

2 items. Autographed draft.

Regarding the removal of deposits from the U.S. Bank by the Federal Government.

Scope and Contents "I was rather mortified at making a very poor speech [on Federal Relations] in the House today...To avoid misrepresentation I shall have to write out my speech..."

4 pages. Doc. No. 14. Report of the Committee on Federal Relations Doc. No. 15. Mr. Marshall's Substitute to the Report... Doc. No. 16. Mr. M'dowell's Amendment to Mr. Marshall's Substitute,... Opinion on proceedings in South Carolina, the proclamation by Andrew Jackson, and "the communication of the governor of this Commonwealth on the same subject."

Delivered January 5, 1833. Richmond: Thomas W. White, printer. 1833. 42 pages. 3 copies. After stating his opposition to protective tariffs, John Thompson Brown argued that they result from "a perversion of the spirit and intent of the Constitution, rather than a violation of its literal principles." He compliments the Chief Magistrate of the United States on his general policy but disputes the Proclamation of the President on other grounds, basing his argument on The Law of Nationsby E. de Vattel. As to the action of South Carolina, he contends that there is no possibility of nullification under the Constitution, but that the redress of the wrong done in the tariff act must come by recourse to the Supreme Court, to the "Co-states" acting in Congress, and if necessary, by an amendment to the Constitution.

"Substitute Submitted By Mr. Brown, Petersburg, For the Amended Report of the Committee on Federal Relations"

Compliments John Thompson Brown on his resolutions.

Scope and Contents "I was anxious myself that Virginia should maintain an impartial and just attitude toward both S. Carolina and the President, but far the greater part of the Assembly seemed in favour of going into one extreme or other . . . whereas I thought there was error on both sides..." He remarks that Edward [Steptoe]has been successful in getting his appointment to West Point "obtained (by Mr. Archer, the Senator) as a favour to me" but "without...your letter...the application could scarcely have been successful."

2 copies. Printed manuscript.

Appointment of Edward Steptoe to West Point; report of the enforcing bill in the President's proclamation, and the Tariff Bill.

Scope and Contents In July he announces the birth of a son.

Scope and Contents On the Force Bill and the Bank of the U.S.

The two items are signed Julian. "On seeing Miss ____ at Clarksburg," and "Julian Abandoning His Muse." Possibly written by John Thompson Brown about this period.

Written by John Thompson Brown, Petersburg.

News that his brother, Samuel, is ill at Harvard.

Reports on his progress at the college.

Scope and Contents His attempts to defeat the Norfolk rail road in the Assembly; family news.

Scope and Contents "All is lost except our honour. The Portsmouth Bill [Norfolk railroad] has passed...our town [Petersburg] is prostrated...but the ancient spirit of our little town, which Mr. Madison called the 'cockade of the old Dominion' is not dead."

A patent for producing domestic salt.

Election of a U.S. Senator, for which he has been mentioned; Mr. Leigh's election. At the end of February and beginning of March he is kept in bed with an illness.

Gives his views of the political situation, mentioning the message President Jackson sent to Congress with the "Force Bill," the President's plans for the Bank of the U.S., and objections to Van Buren and "the N. York system of tactics which he will bring with him."

Scope and Contents Plans for Samuel, John Thompson Brown's brother, to start his study of law with him.

John J. Allen (1797-1871)

Scope and Contents Sold bank shares to help his brother go into business for himself; gives advice on racing horses.

Draft of a speech delivered in Petersburg on the occasion of the death of Lafayette. 43 pages. Endorsed: "To my sons, should they ever read it."

Report of his progress at the U.S. Military Academy. John Thompson Brown is the uncle of Edward J. Steptoe.

Draft of a letter sending condolences for the death of a sister and congratulations on the birth of a son.

Scope and Contents His resignation from the U.S. Senate.

Scope and Contents "No subject arouses anybody except the senatorial election."

He offers to place all his monetary resources at the service of his brother in his new business venture.

3 letters, 1 draft. On the 17th he prepared a draft of a letter, which he sent on the 20th, giving an account of a fight in the halls of the General Assembly between himself and John Hampden Pleasants.

A letter of apology for the battle fought in the halls of the Virginia Capitol.

An account of his speech which was "better received than anything I have ever made."

A speech "...upon the Election of a Senator in Congress: Delivered in the House of Delegates of Virginia". 28 pages. Printed book. Points out the importance of this election for "future political events and party combinations in the state," and defends the incumbent, Mr. Leigh.

Written by John Thompson Brown. 70 pages. Autographed Manuscript. Prepared for use in the Finance Committee of the House of Deputies.

Notes on taxes, license fees, and the like, prepared by John Thompson Brown for use on the Finance Committee of the House of Delegates. 116 pages.

Announces the birth of a son, John Thompson Brown II, and tells his brother that he had ordered $2800 placed to his account to support the store that he had opened.

Scope and Contents Political activity in Petersburg.

Scope and Contents "The Jackson party has brought out the most popular man in Petersburg against...it is quite likely he will beat me."

Scope and Contents On April 18 he writes, "I was elected by a majority of 37 (13 of which were from Richmond)." There is also a report of a street fight between John Thompson Brown and "a Jackson man."

Concerning the chances of Van Buren to carry Virginia in the election.

Plans to retire from politics and seek a position as Judge of the courts.

He has sent a box of books to help him in his law studies, and describes a visit by his old friend Peronneau Finley and his family.

Writes to his father about plans to visit him.

Scope and Contents Drafts on the subject of the northern resolutions on slavery, particularly those recently passed in Portland and Boston. 3 items.

4 items. Autographed draft.

Scope and Contents Family discussion, especially concerned with the sisters who were yet to find husbands.

Notice of the election of John Thompson Brown as an honorary member of the Jefferson Society.

The content is on the stand of Mr. Van Buren on emancipation. 28 numbered columns. Signed "Mr. Brown."

Notes on this topic.

Notes on this topic. Also includes an additional 2 page insertion.

Notes on this topic. The series of drafts is in opposition to Martin Van Buren, candidate for the President of the United States. 48 pages.

Good reports of the new business venture of his brother, Henry Brown, Jr.

To his brother, on a buying trip to New York; political prospects now look bright, but "the state is lost" to the Anti-Van Buren forces.

Commission as Captain in the Cavalry of the Virginia Militia. Signed by Wyndham Robertson.

Signed Captain John Thompson Brown.

Scope and Contents John Thompson Brown writes five letters from Hobson's Inn, Homes, Otter Hills, and Lynchburg. On the trip to accompany his sister-in-law and the body of Henry Brown, Jr. back to the family home, Otter Hills. Henry Brown, Jr. died while on a shopping trip to New York for supplies for his Lynchburg store.

The body of Henry Brown, Jr. was taken that morning for Virginia.

On the death of her father, Henry Brown Brown, Jr.

Scope and Contents Taking inventory at the store of his late brother; preparing to settle his estate.

Scope and Contents Reports on the stocktaking in the store of Henry Brown, Jr. On July 19 he wrote that he was coming to his father's place on the Sunday next to hear his brother's funeral preached. This is the last letter from John Thompson Brown to his father, for on that visit to Otter Hills he was taken with the illness from which he died.

On the disposal of the store inventory; sends a piano to her.

Mourning his brother's death, he makes arrangements for his own family to join him. (This is the last letter written by John Thompson Brown preserved in this collection.)

The niece of John Thompson Brown writes to her uncle regarding the recent death of her father, Henry Brown, Jr.

A Quaker associate of Henry Brown, Jr. writes regarding the settling of the store business.

Enclosures: "A lock of the hair of John Thompson Brown, 29 years" envelope marked, "For sister Mary from my dear brother John's Grave, Nov. 13th, 1845, Mrs. Alice Brown Worthington," with clover leaves inside.

Signed Robert B. Bolling, Chairman. A resolution in memory of John Thompson Brown.

Signed D. M. Bernard, Clerk. Endorsement by James MacFarland, Jr., to Mrs. John Thompson Brown.

Condolences on the death of her husband.

A resolution that the members wear the usual badge of mourning for thirty days in honor of John Thompson Brown, by William A. Dod.

A copy of the unanimous resolution of the House of Delegates in memory of John Thompson Brown.

A letter of grief written by Mrs. Brown to her father-in-law. Mrs. Mary E. Brown is the widow of John Thompson Brown.

A letter of consolation.

In service as Executors of John Thompson Brown.

Drafts.

A large folded ink drawing of a building "taken from the Colonade of the Temple of Minerva Parthenon at Athens," with notes of construction details.

Lists the courses in school taken by a nine year old boy and his two brothers, Wilicox, 11 years old, and Peronneau, 13 years old.

58 pages. Draft.

Certifies that John Thompson Brown II was elected Second Lieutenant by viva voce vote of the members of his company.

References to Douglas and the threat to slavery.

Concerns the raid on Harper's Ferry by John Brown, October 19, 1859, and the treatment of him as a martyr in the North. 5 pages. Autographed draft.

"I greatly fear that the time has passed when great questions of State equality are to be settled in the Halls of Congress...this settlement requires powder and ball..."

2 copies.

3 items.

Report on ammunition on hand.

3 items.

2 items. Court Martial action taken for refusal to do guard duty, by a trooper under the command of Colonel John Thompson Brown II.

4 items.

Request for transfer, with his command, to the Division of General D. H. Hills, so that he might be more actively engaged.

3 items.

Draft of a suggestion for winter furloughs in order to extend the length of service in the fighting season.

Published by West and Johnson, Richmond.

4 items.

13 items.

Concerning a dispute arising between the two over John Thompson Brown's command.

Signed by W. H. Taylor and Brig. General William Nelson Pendleton. 4 items.

Scope and Contents 4 items.

4 items. Autographed document signed.

Receipt for whitewashing two rooms.

Request the return of his report on the battle of Chancellorsville so that he might submit it to General Stuart.

4 items.

Papers which appear to have been on John Thompson Brown II when he was killed in action.

Papers which appear to have been on the person of John Thompson Brown II when he was killed in action.

Papers which appear to have been on the person of John Thompson Brown II when he was killed in action.

Papers which appear to have been on the person of John Thompson Brown II when he was killed in action.

Papers which appear to have been on the person of John Thompson Brown II when he was killed in action.

Papers which appear to have been on the person of John Thompson Brown II when he was killed in action.

Papers which appear to have been on the person of John Thompson Brown II when he was killed in action.

Papers which appear to have been on the person of John Thompson Brown II when he was killed in action.

5 items. Newspaper clipping.

Autograph poem and newspaper text; "Lines written on seeing 'Rifle' the war-horse of Col. J. T. B...." from the Richmond Dispatch.

The marker titled "Thompson Brown" has blue ribbons attached.

Scope and Contents Letters written to Samuel T. Brown while he was in Charleston, South Carolina and New London, Virginia. The widow of John Thompson Brown writes with concern about her oldest son, Peronneau, who is attending school in South Carolina. He was devoting too much time to outdoor affairs of college life and not enough to his studies.

Scope and Contents Congratulating him on his success at Charleston College; a proposed biography of John Thompson Brown.

Concerning Henry Peronneau Brown, attending the University of Virginia.

Receipt for 65 pounds of ice to Henry Peronneau Brown from Long and Stevens, Petersburg.

Scope and Contents 5 letters. Affectionate letters to her fiance.

Scope and Contents In August she writes to console Mrs. Brown on the death of her mother, Mrs. Judith H. Coalter.

Scope and Contents "We are all as glad, dear Fanny, that your home is so lovely and you are so happy...for its mountain scenery."

Scope and Contents Concerning the failing health of their mother.

Consolations on the death of Mrs. Coalter.

Scope and Contents Covers lacking.

Scope and Contents Cover lacking.

Concerning the loss of an infant.

Letter to his sister, Mrs. Henry Peronneau Brown.

Scope and Contents Eight calling cards in a cover addressed to Mrs. Henry Peronneau Brown

The bachelor brother of Mrs. Brown writes that his loneliness on an out-of-the-way plantation is heading him to the madhouse.

Scope and Contents She writes of the ladies making vests and shirts for the soldiers. News that the Yankees have landed at Hampton; the first of the war casualties in the family.

Making clothes for the army: "1500 yards have just been received which we are to turn our attention to at once."

His house was set afire and cannon are firing all about. Comments on "the tennessee company...the roughest men you ever saw..."

Scope and Contents The wife of John Thompson Brown II, is in "this antiquated spot" because her husband was drilling some new troops and sent for her to join him.

From Stanley, the family home, to Mrs. Henry Peronneau Brown

Their brother, Henry, is at a camp near Williamsburg; the other brother, John, is in Richmond.

"...adjoining the lands of Henry Peronneau Brown and others."

"I am sorry Henry's name is not in the list of exchanged prisoners..."

Scope and Contents Written while Henry was a prisoner at Fort Pulaski, Georgia, to his sister.

Receipt for wheat delivered. Signed A. Wynne and L. Hatchet.

Request for someone to serve the Presbyterian Church at Tappahannock.

A bill brought in Chancery Court by John R. Bryan against H. B. Tomlin, executor of St. George Tucker Coalter. The settlement of the John Randolph estate which was in litigation for many years.

Refuses a request for $500 by his nephew; recommends that he stop drinking.

Receipt for wages.

2 items. Printed document signed.

Accounts with stores. 3 items. Printed document signed.

Note written on an early "penny post card."

Scope and Contents Letters written to his sister as he made a start in farming after the end of the war: "I have not the means to buy me a suit of clothes." Later he added: "I never was as poor in my life before as I am now...I have not spent during the whole year on myself more than $10..."

First mention of Cassie Tucker, who was later to marry John Thompson Brown III.

A request for a purchase of a case of "56 Home Remedies."

2 items.

4 items. Printed document signed.

Writes of Cassie Tucker, wife of John Thompson Brown III. "You have introduced into your home a very sunbeam."

The letter is addressed to "Fanny", his sister-in-law, and concerns the death of John Coalter II.

Statement concerning the trust for Mrs. Fanny B. Brown (Mrs. Henry Peronneau Brown).

2 items. Autographed document.

To her son (John Thompson Brown III) urging him to improve his writing and "to read your Bible and say your prayers every day."

A description of the London Museum and Zoo.

Report cards from University School, some countersigned by Mrs. Henry Peronneau Brown. 6 items. Printed document signed. Some contain letters by John Thompson Brown III, when the reports were sent home.

Paper written on Martin Luther.

Recommends Bible reading as the antidote for "the very corrupt sentiments which are scattered through the classical writers."

Scope and Contents The recent death of her husband, Dr. Coleman; the serious illness of Mrs. Henry Peronneau Brown.

Scope and Contents During her illness, Mrs. Brown's children are in the care of Mrs. Coleman.

A child's letter.

Rejoices that Cassie's health is "entirely restored." Beverly Tucker and Braxton Bryan are mentioned as attending an assembly of the clergy at Jamestown.

The letters are addressed to "Thompson".

Two photographs, one of John Thompson Brown IV and his sister, Frances Bland Coalter Brown, with a servant, Aunt Jane; the other of the house, Ivy Cliff, originally called Otter Hill. Photostat.

Scope and Contents "...make haste and get well enough to come home where you are much missed."

45 items. Printed document signed.

Includes a separate sermon. Autographed draft signed. "Given to my son June 5, 1890. Let him read it carefully and may God have mercy on his soul. Amen." (Mrs. Frances B. Brown died in September 1894.)

15 items.

Endorsed: "Pres. of Const. Convention, 1901-2."

Editorial from the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Candidacy for the position of Lieutenant Governor.

Periodical. Pages 125-139. Printed manuscript.

5 items. Newsclippings regarding William B. Allison, Theodore Roosevelt, and "The Political Situation, 1876-1908".

Newsclippings concerning Judge John Randolph Tucker taken from the Nome Daily Nugget, Nome Democrat and Nome Industrial Worker.

Concerning the Farmer's Winter Institute in Agriculture, 1913-1914, of Virginia Polytechnic Institute.

From "The World", New York.

Scope and Contents Covers lacking. With the "American Commission to Negotiate Peace." There is also mention of John Thompson Brown IV, of Wilmington.

A proclamation by Westmoreland Davis, Governor. Also Includes a song sheet of the Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College and Polytechnic Institute. 2 items.

27 items.

Date unknown.

Revolutionary War service claim, draft on the Bank of Virginia, and article surviving soldier's payments. 3 items. Printed document signed.

"From private who served you on the memorable 8th of Jany, 1815."

2 items. Printed document signed.

Invitation from the Royal Geographical Society.

2 items. Autographed draft.

An alphabetical list of flowers with the characteristics of each expressed symbolically.