Robert E. Lee Family Collection
Eleanor S. Brockenbrough Library
The Museum of the Confederacy
Scope and Content Note: The Robert E. Lee Family Collection contains the
correspondence and ephemera of Robert Edward Lee (1807-1870), as well as that of his
immediate family: wife Mary Custis Lee (1808-1873), daughters Mary (1835-1918), Anne
(1839-1862), Agnes (1841-1873), and Mildred (1846-1904), and sons George Washington
Custis (1832-1913), William Henry Fitzhugh (1837-1891), and Robert, Jr. (1843-1914).
Box No. 1: R. E. Lee correspondence from 1838-1864, inclusive
Box No. 2: R. E. Lee correspondence from 1865-1870, inclusive
Box No. 3: Immediate Lee family correspondence and ephemera; R. E. Lee ephemera
The cornerstone of this collection, and the bulk of the finding aid for it, is devoted to all
of the papers of Robert E. Lee held in the manuscript collection of the Eleanor S.
Brockenbrough Library. The papers consist of letters, telegrams, and documents written
in the hand of or signed by Lee. Also included in this collection are official hand-written
copies of letters, telegrams, and documents created under Lee’s command as well as
those items not created by Lee that are deemed important to his career. In addition,
there is a separate list of ephemera ( defined here as correspondence and articles on--but
not by--Lee and his family) with a cross-reference to those ephemera items that remain
elsewhere in the manuscript collection. Spanning a thirty-two year period (1838-1870),
the papers reflect the personal and official life of Robert E. Lee. By far the largest
portion of the papers relates to Lee’s service in the Confederate Army from 1861-1865.
The finding aid, arranged chronologically, includes a date and brief description of each
item in the collection. Also included are cross-references for those items that appear in
War of the Rebellion: Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies; Southern Historical
Society Papers; Clifford Dowdey and Louis Manarin, eds., The Wartime Papers of Robert E.
Lee; and Douglas Southall Freeman, R. E. Lee: A Biography. (Note: elsewhere in the
library’s collection, printed orders of Robert E. Lee considered Confederate Imprints are
catalogued according to the system of arrangement found in T. Michael Parrish and
Robert M. Willingham, Jr., Confederate Imprints: A Bibliography of Southern Publications
from Secession to Surrender. Also to be consulted are the ESBL pamphlet collection and
print drawer materials with their own finding aids.)
2
Robert E. Lee Family Collection
Eleanor S. Brockenbrough Library
Museum of the Confederacy
Box No. 1
Lee, Robert Edward (1807-1870)
* Materials Voucher, 1838; d.s.
A voucher signed by Capt. Robert E. Lee for certain materials needed for
improvements on the Mississippi River.
* R. E. Lee to Capt. John MacKay, November 7, 1839; typed copy.
Written while on the Mississippi River, this letter offers Lee’s opinions on Florida
and the Indian situation, and reveals his longing for home and family.
* R. E. Lee to Miss Julia Gratiot, November 27, 1845; a.l.s., typed copy.
A typed copy of a letter written while Lee was serving in the army at
Ft. Hamilton, N.Y. to Miss Gratiot in which Lee graciously declines an invitation
to her wedding.
* R. E. Lee to Col. S[amuel] Cooper, March 11, 1845; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter concerning the proper course of action to follow in summoning an
officer to appear before a Court Martial. [remains in single file within the Lee
Collection, the Van Dyke McBride Collection of Lee correspondence, 1854-1868]
* R. E. Lee to Lavinia Heth Deas, April 14, 1854; a.l.s.
While Superintendent of West Point, Lee wrote this letter to his cousin Lavinia
Deas regarding the possible appointment of her son to the military academy.
[remains in the Deas/Lamb Collection, V 4-3]
* R. E. Lee to Capt. J[ames] F. Gilmer, August 5, 1854; a.l.s.
A letter written at West Point to Capt. Gilmer in which Lee discusses family
news and his recent trip to White Sulphur Springs, Va.
* R. E. Lee to Col. S[amuel] Cooper, May 12, 1855; a.l.s., photocopy.
A request for $700 to be sent to Capt. Palmer of the 2nd Cavalry to aid in
further recruiting for the unit. [ Lee Collection, Van Dyke McBride file]
* R. E. Lee to G. W. Custis Lee, March 18, 1859; a.l.s.
A letter to his son in which Lee discusses Custis’ bout with rheumatism, Capt.
Gilmer’s journey to San Francisco, Ca., and other military and social matters
concerning the family.
* R. E. Lee to Col. S. Thomas, March 8, 1860; a.l.s., photocopy.
A request for a new paymaster to be sent to San Antonio, Tx. to replace the
deceased Maj. A. W. Gaines so that the troops in Forts Washington, Cobb,
and Arbuckle (?) can receive their pay. [Lee Collection, Van Dyke McBride file]
3
* R. E. Lee to Mrs. Anna Fitzhugh, [in full and extract], June 6, 1860; copy.
A copy of an extract from a letter written from San Antonio, Tx. in which Lee
mentions his affection for Maj. Robert H. Chilton, his wife, and their daughters.
* R. E. Lee to Mrs. Anne Marshall, April 20, 1861; photocopy.
Lee asks his sister to think kindly of him on his decision to go with the South.
* R. E. Lee to Gen. Winfield Scott, April 20, 1861; photocopy.
Famous letter of Lee’s resignation from the U. S. Army. Same file.
* R. E. Lee to Gen. Winfield Scott, April 20, 1861; a.l.s.
A working draft of Lee’s letter of resignation from the U. S. Army. [remains in
Special Items, V 4-6]
* R. E. Lee to Robert Y. Conrad, James Marshall, Edmund Pendleton,
Hugh Nelson, and Alfred M. Barbour, April 27, 1861; l.s.
A letter, signed by Lee, regarding Col. Thomas J. Jackson’s orders to go to
Harper’s Ferry and muster into service any companies found there.
* R. E. Lee note, May 14, 1861; a.n.s.
A brief note written on the reverse side of a letter written to Gov. John Letcher.
In the note, Lee refers the matter contained in the letter to Col. Richard S. Ewell’s
attention.
* R. E. Lee to Gen. Joseph E. Johnston, May 30, 1861; l.s.
A letter explaining the arrangement of troops near Alexandria, Va. and possible
strategy if the enemy were to advance against the Southern lines. (see O.R. II, 894.)
* R. E. Lee to John W. Ellis, June 2, 1861; l.s., copy.
A copy of a letter to Gov. Ellis of North Carolina in which Lee discusses matters
concerning the Confederate Government’s use of the railroad in North Carolina.
[remains in K.M.R. Collection]
* R. E. Lee to Dinwiddie B. Phillips, June 2, 1861; l.s. (?)
A brief letter concerning two “suspicious persons” in Gen. P.G.T. Beauregard’s
command at Manassas, Va. There is doubt regarding the authenticity of the Lee
signature on this letter.
* R. E. Lee’s appointment as General, C.S.A., August 31, 1861; also envelope.
Photostatic copies.
* R. E. Lee’s appointment as General, C.S.A., August 31, 1861; also envelope, d.s.
Official War Department notification of Lee’s appointment to the rank of general
in the Confederate States Army. The document is signed by Secretary of War,
Leroy Pope Walker. [remains in Special Items, V 4-6]
4
* Special Order No. --, September 14, 1861; d.s.
A Special Order, signed by Lee, commending the troops of Col. William Gilham’s
brigade for “cheerfulness and alacrity” displayed at Cheat Mountain and Valley
River. (see O.R. V, 192-193.)
* R. E. Lee to Gen. John B. Floyd, September 26, 1861; a.l.s.
A letter concerning the arrival of reinforcements lacking provisions and forage.
Also referred to are troops under Gen. William Loring, stationed at nearby
Marlin’s Bottom. (see O.R. LI, pt. 2, 316.)
* R. E. Lee to George B. Stacy, December 16, 1861; l.s.
A letter, signed by Lee, acknowledging the receipt of a mattress.
* R. E. Lee to Gov. F. W. Pickens, January 3, 1862; typed copy.
Lee sends the South Carolina governor an estimate of S.C. troops in the field,
gathered by “returns” through December 1861.
* R. E. Lee to G. W. Custis Lee, February 23, 1862; a.l.s.
A letter to his son in which Lee discusses family matters, the impact of Union
victories in the West on Southern morale, and enemy operations near
Savannah, Ga. [remains in Markham Collection, Vault]
* R. E. Lee to Charles Carter Lee, March 14, 1862; a.l.s., photocopy.
In this letter to his brother, Lee candidly discusses his new duties in Richmond
as military advisor to President Jefferson Davis. [remains in MSS-1, Wa002
Collection: restricted, no photocopying]
* R. E. Lee to Gen. J. R. Anderson, April 9, 1862.
Responding to Anderson’s note of the same day, Lee speculates that the enemy
will move down the Northern Neck (of Va.) for provisions, and try to cross the
Rappahannock River at Port Royal.
* R. E. Lee to Gen. J. R. Anderson, April 11, 1862.
Lee reports the whereabouts of Generals Ewell, Jackson, and J. Johnston, and
confides that a secret agent reports that the enemy force opposite Fredericksburg
“has been much exaggerated.”
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. J. R. Anderson, April 25, 1862; copy of a copy.
Lee sends Anderson and his brigade to Fredericksburg, giving Anderson command
and instructing him to gather intelligence from Gen. Field.
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. J. R. Anderson, April 29, 1862; copy of a copy.
Responding to Anderson’s note of the previous day, Lee dismisses spy/scout
reports of enemy numbers, and repeats suggestion for battery on Rappahannock.
5
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. J. R. Anderson, May 3, 1862; copy of a copy.
Lee informs Anderson that it is “out of my power” to send him more
reinforcements.
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. J. R. Anderson, May 8, 1862; copy of a copy.
Confers with Anderson on information offered by a deserter, and sympathizes
with personnel woes.
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. J. R. Anderson, May 8, 1862; copy of a copy.
Advises that a member of the Spanish diplomatic legation is coming through
the lines with a pass from the U. S. Sec. of War, and that he should be allowed
to proceed to Washington, D. C.
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. J. R. Anderson, May 9, 1862.
Writing at Lee’s direction, Walter Taylor assures Anderson that the cavalry of
Cobb’s Legion should soon join his own men.
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. J. R. Anderson, May 10, 1862.
Writing for Lee, Walter Taylor informs Anderson that Generals Ewell and
Jackson will attempt to keep (Union) Gen. Banks from joining up with (Union)
Gen. McDowell.
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. J. R. Anderson, May 14, 1862.
Writing at Lee’s direction, Walter Taylor relays to Anderson the news that
Gen. Holmes reports his command has received Enfield rifles and they are
on duty at Wilmington, where they must remain.
* R. E. Lee to Gen. Joseph E. Johnston, May 15, 1862; copy.
A brief note requesting the services of Capt. Henry T. Douglas. This note is
not in Lee’s handwriting, nor is it signed by him. It is, however, endorsed by
Gen. Johnston. [remains in D-295, Douglas file]
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. J. R. Anderson, May 17, 1862; copy of a copy.
In this short letter, Lee informs Anderson that (Union) Gen. Shields, with a
force of around six thousand men, is thought to be headed to Fredericksburg
or Culpeper Court House, Va.
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. O.’ B. Branch, June 3, 1862.
Lee commends Branch and his troops for their conduct opposing “superior
force” at Slash Church, Va.
* General Orders No. 75, June 24, 1862; d.s.
General Lee’s battle plans on the eve of the Seven Days’ Battles. This copy,
signed by Lee’s aide, Robert H. Chilton, was sent to Maj. John B. Magruder.
(see O.R. XI, pt. 2, 498-499; Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime Papers of
R. E. Lee, 198-200.)
6
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. Daniel Harvey Hill, July 23, 1862; a.l.s.
A brief letter to D. H. Hill in which Lee explains that he has submitted Hill’s
cartel for the exchange of prisoners to President Davis. (see O.R., Ser. II, IV,
266-268 for Hill’s cartel.)
* R. E. Lee to Gen. Samuel Cooper, August 11, 1862; a.l.s.
Lee expresses his desire to properly fill the South Carolina regiments with
newly arriving recruits in this letter to Cooper. (see O.R. XI, pt. 3, 671-672.)
* General Orders No. [102], September 4, 1862; d.s.
Lee’s orders concerning the reduction of transportation, the conduct of the
army in Maryland, and the problem of stragglers. This hand-written order
is signed by R. H. Pendleton, A. A. G. (see O.R. XIX, pt. 2, 592-593.)
* Proclamation to the People of Maryland, September 8, 1862; printed.
In this proclamation Lee takes a diplomatic stance, assuring the people
of Maryland that his army will respect their rights, while urging them to
considering joining the Confederate cause.
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. Thomas J. Jackson, September 21, 1862; o.c.
An official copy of a note sent to Jackson asking him to send an officer to
take command in Winchester, Va. That officer will then collect the healthy
men from the region and set up a hospital to care for the sick.
* General Orders No. 116, October 2, 1862; print, duplicate.
Recounts Confederate victory at Cedar Mountain and Harper’s Ferry. Reviews
bravery of the troops at Sharpsburg, and urges them onward as “more remains
to be accomplished.”
* Special Order No. 209, October 4, 1862; o.c.
An official copy of Lee’s orders reorganizing the artillery of the Army of
Northern Virginia following the Maryland Campaign. (see O.R. XIX, pt. 2,
652-654.)
* Special Order No. 215, October 9, 1862; d.s.
An order transferring Maj. L. M. Shoemaker, Chief of Artillery, 1st Division
Valley District, from duty in the field to assignment in the Adjutant and
Inspector Generals Office in Richmond. The order is signed by A. P. Mason,
A. A. G.
* General Orders No. 117, October 12, 1862; d.s.
A general order appointing a Court Martial to meet at Maj. Gen. T. J.
Jackson’s camp for the purpose of trying such cases as may arise. The order
is signed by A. P. Mason, A. A. G.
7
* Special Order No. 218, October 13, 1862; d.s.
Lee’s order relieving two soldiers, Pvts. Lucius M. Estis and M. C. Luthell
of the 4th Virginia Cavalry, from duty as guides. The order is signed by
A. P. Mason, A. A. G.
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. Thomas J. Jackson, December 13, 1862; a.l.s.,
A brief letter to Jackson, after the Battle of Fredericksburg, Va., asking him to
see to the replenishing of his ammunition and ordinance. In the postscript
Lee thanks the “giver of all victory” for success on the field that day. (S.H.S.P.
39, 1.)
* R. E. Lee to R. R. Harrison, Esq., December 26, 1862; a.l.s., photocopy.
A note concerning a donation from Lee to the Fredericksburg relief fund.
[Lee Collection, Van Dyke McBride file]
* R. E. Lee to Miss Laura M[ason] Chilton, December 28, 1862; a.l.s.
A letter to Laura Chilton, written from Fredericksburg, Va., thanking her
for sending him a prayer book.
* R. E. Lee to Sec. of War James A. Seddon, December 29, 1862.
In this, Lee makes it clear he wants no misunderstanding, but wishes
Gen. W. E. Jones in charge of all the Valley troops.
* R. E. Lee as executor of George W. P. Custis’ estate--Manumission,
December 29, 1862; typed copy.
A document in which, as executor of his father-in-law’s estate, Lee
emancipates the Arlington slaves.
* R. E. Lee as executor of George W. P. Custis’ estate--Manumission,
December 29, 1862; d.s. [remains in Special Items, V 4-6]
* R. E. Lee to Maj. N. R. Fitzhugh, December 31, 1862; l.s.
A letter to Maj. Fitzhugh asking him to get word to Gen. J. E. B. Stuart-through Col. Wickham--of a “reported movement against him.”
* R. E. Lee to --, January 7, 1863; a.n.s., photocopy.
A brief note commending Maj. Walter H. Taylor for his abilities as
Assistant Adjutant General and recommending him for an unnamed
appointment.
* Special Order No. 11, January 11, 1863.
This appoints several officers to an officer review board for Wilcox’s Brigade.
Signed by Walter H. Taylor, A. A. G.
8
* Extract of Special Order No. 30, January 30, 1863; d.s.
An order disbanding Co. J of the 4th Virginia Cavalry Regiment. The order
is signed by Maj. Walter H. Taylor. (see O.R. XXV, pt. 2, 600 for the second
part of S.O. No. 30.)
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. Henry Heth, February 18, 1863; a.l.s.
A letter to Heth in which Lee states his desire to have him join the Army
of Northern Virginia as soon as possible. (see S.H.S.P. 44, 232.)
* R. E. Lee to Lucy L. Temple, February 20 1863; l.s.
A letter in which Lee regretfully informs Mrs. Temple that he cannot discharge
her son from the army so that he can attend the Military Institute (V.M.I.?).
* R. E. Lee to Maj. M. (?) S. Rives, March 26, 1863; a.l.s., photocopy.
In this letter Lee expresses his grief over the death of Maj. R. K. Meade and
mentions a condolence letter he has sent to Meade’s mother that Maj. Rives
desires permission to publish. [Lee Collection, Van Dyke McBride file]
* Special Order No. 112, April 22, 1863; d.s.
A special order creating a board of examiners for the artillery of the
2nd Corps. The purpose of the board is to determine the fitness for command
of officers in the artillery. The order is signed by Maj. Walter H. Taylor.
* Special Order No. 113, April 23, 1863; d.s.
An order requesting a board, consisting of Colonels J. Thompson Brown,
E. Porter Alexander, R. L[indsay] Walker, Lt. Col. Thomas H. Carter, and
Maj. R. Hardaway, to examine, compare, and offer their opinion on enemy
ordinance versus Confederate 20 lb. Parrott guns. Also to be considered
are the value of the “Boermann” fuze as compared to the “Worden” fuze.
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. R[ichard] H. Anderson, April 29, 1863; l.s.
A letter to Anderson reporting enemy troops crossing the Rapidan River
and Lee’s desire to have Anderson shift his troops to cover the road from
Chancellorsville to Fredericksburg. (see O.R. XXV, pt. 2, 759-760; Dowdey
and Manarin, Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 445.) [remains in Markham
Collection, Vault]
* R. E. Lee to President Jefferson Davis, May 3, 1863; a.l.s., photocopy.
In this letter Lee describes the successful flank attack at the Battle of
Chancellorsville led by Gen. Jackson the day before. Lee also informs Davis of
the wounding of Generals Jackson and A. P. Hill and of the death of Brig. Gen.
Elisha F. Paxton. (In the same folder is a Confederate Veteran article concerning
the letter.)
* R. E. Lee to Col. -- Blount, May 4, 1863; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter to the Provost Marshall at Guinea’s Station, Va. requesting that he
hold the station “at all hazards.”
9
* General Orders No. 61, May 11, 1863; o.c.
An official copy of the order in which Lee announces to the Army of Northern
Virginia the death of Lt. Gen. Thomas J. Jackson. (see O.R. XXV, pt. 2, 792;
Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 485.)
* R. E. Lee to William C. Rives, May 21, 1863; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter in which Lee commends the army for its conduct at the Battle
of Chancellorsville and speaks of the devastating loss of Gen. Jackson.
[Lee Collection, Van Dyke McBride file]
* Special Order No. 144, May 28, 1863; d.s.
An extract of an order placing Brig. Gen. George H. Steuart in command of
Brig. Gen. Raleigh Colston’s old brigade in Maj. Gen. [Edward] Johnson’s
Division of Gen. A. P. Hill’s 2nd Army Corps. (see O.R. XXV, pt. 2, 830.)
[remains in S-776, Steuart file]
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. J. E. B. Stuart, July 30, 1863; l.s.
A letter to Stuart requesting him to send his estimation of the transportation
needs of his troops. The subject of the letter is related to General Orders
No. 77--an order reducing the army’s transportation load. (see O.R. XXVII,
pt. 3, 1015-1016 for General Orders No. 77.)
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. Richard S. Ewell, August 19, 1863; l.s., photocopy.
A brief letter to Ewell asking him to visit Lee’s headquarters to render an
opinion on a medallion bust of Gen. Jackson done by the sculptor Galt.
* Special Order No. 245, September 29, 1863; d.s.
An order stating that Pvt. Thomas W. Calley, being unfit for field duty, has
been assigned to H. Q. Department.
* R. E. Lee to Charles Carter Lee, February 20, 1864; a.l.s., photocopy.
Lee discusses the problems of supply and how his brother can help encourage
farmers to produce “grain, hay, and bacon” for the army. Also in this letter
Lee grieves over the death of Charlotte Wickham Lee, his son Rooney’s wife.
[remains in MSS-1, Wa002 Collection: restricted, no photocopying]
* Extract of General Orders No. 17, March 7, 1864.
Absolves Capt. R. L. Christian of any blame in loss of papers in fire during
train retreat from Gettysburg, Pa. The order is signed by Maj. Walter H. Taylor.
* R. E. Lee to Rev. Moses D. Hoge, March 10, 1864; a.l.s.
A letter acknowledging the receipt of an English Bible.
* General Orders No. 21, March 23, 1864; printed, photostatic copy.
This order modifies several earlier General Orders, beginning with
Gen. Order No. 6 (changing furloughs).
10
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. R[obert] H. Chilton, March 24, 1864; a.l.s.
A letter to Chilton in which Lee expresses his disappointment at the news
of Chilton’s transfer to Richmond to serve under Gen. Samuel Cooper.
* General Orders No. 23, March 29, 1864; d.s.
A General Order forbidding the exportation of cotton, rice, tobacco, sugar,
molasses, and naval and military stores from the Confederacy or into any
part of the Confederacy occupied by the enemy. Signed by Maj. Walter H.
Taylor.
* General Orders No. 50, March 29, 1864; d.s.
Instructions for an examining board on considering promotions for
deserving officers. Signed by Maj. Walter H. Taylor. [remains in B-131,
J. Thompson Brown Papers]
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. J[ubal] A. Early [Telegram], April 26, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram advising Early on cavalry dispositions. (see O.R. XLIII, pt. 2,
879.) [remains in T-809, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to --, April 27, 1864; a.l.s.
An endorsement passed on to Maj. Gen. Jubal A. Early mildly criticizing
him for conduct that resulted in Gen. Richard S. Ewell’s placing him under
arrest. Lee stresses the importance of army morale and accordingly releases
Early from arrest in an effort to quickly resolve the matter. [remains in Markham
Collection, Vault]
* General Orders No. 38, May 4, 1864; d.s.
Orders, signed by Lee, issued to Maj. Gen. J. E. B. Stuart concerning
maintaining security of marches, straggling, and the problem of soldiers
fighting inefficiently.
* R. E. Lee to James A. Seddon [Telegram], May 7, 1864; o.c.
A copy of a telegram Lee sent Secretary of War Seddon reporting Brig. Gen.
John B. Gordon’s attack against the enemy the previous evening. (see Dowdey
and Manarin, Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 723.)
* General Orders No. 44, May 20, 1864; d.s.
Lee’s announcement to the Army of Northern Virginia of Maj. Gen. J. E. B.
Stuart’s death. Signed by Lee. (see O.R. XXXVI, pt. 3, 800.)
* R. E. Lee to Gen. Braxton Bragg, June 9, 1864; l.s.
A letter to Bragg stating that, to his knowledge, Lee did not believe troops
moving south of the James River belonged to Gen. Grant’s army. The letter
is signed in pencil by Lee. (see Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime Papers of
R. E. Lee, 770.)
11
* R. E. Lee to Gen. B[raxton] Bragg [Telegram], June 14, 1864; a.n.s.
Lee announces his arrival at Drewry’s Bluff with Maj. Gen. George E. Pickett’s
Division in this telegram to Bragg. (see O.R. XL, pt. 2, 659; Dowdey and
Manarin, Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 784.) [remains in T-809, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Gen. P. G. T. Beauregard [Telegram], June 16, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram from Lee suggesting to Beauregard the reason for the Union
transports moving on the James River. Lee also asks Beauregard if Grant
has been seen crossing the river. (seeO.R. XL, pt. 2, 659; Dowdey and Manarin,
Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 785.) [remains in T-809, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Gen. P. G. T. Beauregard [Telegram], June 16, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram asking Beauregard to report on the “condition of affairs” in his
front. Lee also states that Gen. Pickett’s Division is in the vicinity of
Beauregard’s lines. (see O.R. XL, pt. 2, 659; Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime
Papers of R. E. Lee, 784.) [remains in T-809, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Gen. P. G. T. Beauregard [Telegram], June 16, 1864; a.n.s.
In this telegram to Beauregard, Lee states that he does not know the exact
position of Grant’s army. He also explains that, at the moment, he cannot
afford to send Beauregard reinforcements from the north side of the James
River. (see O.R. XL, pt. 2, 659; Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime Papers of
R. E. Lee, 784.) [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. A. P. Hill [Telegram], June 16, 1864; a.n.s.
A message to Hill ordering him to send a brigade to the intersection of the
New Market and Kingsland Roads, east of Richmond. (see O.R. XL, pt. 2, 659.)
[remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. Wade Hampton [Telegram], June 16, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram to Hampton reporting on cavalry units along the Chickahominy
River available to assist him against Gen. Phil Sheridan’s cavalry. (see O.R.
XL, pt. 2, 660.) [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Gen. P. G. T. Beauregard [Telegram], June 17, 1864; a.n.s.
A message to Beauregard counseling against the withdrawal of troops from
the north side of the James River. (see O.R. XL, pt. 2, 664; Dowdey and
Manarin, Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 788.) [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Gen. P. G. T. Beauregard [Telegram], June 17, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram from Lee reporting on troop positions along the Bermuda
Hundred line. (see O.R. XL, pt. 2, 664; Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime Papers
of R. E. Lee, 788.) [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
12
* R. E. Lee to E. H. Gill [Telegram], June 17, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram to E. H. Gill, superintendent of the Richmond and Petersburg
Railroad, reporting the destruction of track at Port Walthall Junction the day
before and impressing upon him the need to have the line reopened as soon
as possible. (see O.R. XL, pt. 2, 665.) [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Gen. P. G. T. Beauregard [Telegram], June 17, 1864; o.c.
A copy of a telegram in which Lee congratulates Beauregard on his successful
repulse of the enemy near Petersburg. Also in the message Lee states that
Confederates on the Bermuda Hundred line have recaptured the Howlett’s
house battery. (see O.R. XL, pt. 2, 664; Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime Papers
of R. E. Lee, 787.)
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. Wade Hampton [Telegram], June 18, 1864; a.n.s.
A message to Hampton explaining his responsibilities in relation to Gen. Phil
Sheridan’s movements. (see O.R. XL, pt. 2, 667; Dowdey and Manarin,
Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 792-793.) [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. J[ubal] A. Early [Telegram], June 18, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram to Early advising him that Grant is now in front of Petersburg and
that Early is to proceed with his planned movement on Washington, D. C.
(see O.R. XL, pt. 2, 667; Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee,
791.) [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* Special Order No. 151, June 27, 1864; d.s.
Order placing Maj. R. N. Fitzhugh in charge of all matters pertaining to
the Quartermaster Department of the cavalry of the Army of Northern Virginia.
Signed by Maj. Walter H. Taylor.
* Special Order No. 169, July 20, 1864; d.s.
An order detailing several men to light duty in Richmond. Signed by Maj.
Walter H. Taylor.
* R. E. Lee note on L. B. Northrop letter, August 2, 1864; a.n.s.
This brief note consists of an endorsement by Lee in regard to furnishing the
poor of Petersburg with meal for bread.
* R. E. Lee to President Jefferson Davis [Telegram], August 9, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram to Davis dispelling rumors of Gen. McCausland’s defeat and
requesting someone be sent to relieve Gen. Ransom. (see O.R. XLIII, pt. 1,
990.) [remains in T-809, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. G[eorge] E. Pickett [Telegram], August 9, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram asking for Pickett to harass the Union forces at Dutch Gap with
artillery from Poague’s battery, the Howlett line, and naval gunboats. (see
O.R. XLII, pt. 2, 1168; Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee,
830.) [remains in T-809, Harrison Gift]
13
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. R[ichard] S. Ewell [Telegram], August 10, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram from Lee suggesting the possibility of an artillery and infantry
attack against the Federal marines at Dutch Gap. (see O.R. XLII, pt. 2, 1169;
Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 831.) [remains in T-809,
Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. J[ubal] A. Early [Telegram], August 11, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram relieving Gen. Robert Ransom from command in the cavalry and
replacing him with Gen. L. L. Lomax. (see O.R. XLIII, pt. 1, 996.) [remains in
T-809, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. J[ubal] A. Early [Telegram], August 11, 1864; a.n.s.
A message to Early announcing Gen. Phillip Sheridan’s assumption of command
of Union troops in the Valley. Also includes notification of cavalry reinforcements
under Gen. Anderson. (see O.R. XLIII, pt. 1, 996.) [remains in T-809, Harrison
Loan]
* R. E. Lee to Charles Carter Lee, August 12, 1864; a.l.s., photocopy.
The bulk of this letter concerns the action around Petersburg; included are
descriptions of Grant’s efforts at Dutch Gap and Federal entrenching around
the city. [remains in MSS-1, Wa002 Collection: restricted, no photocopying]
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. R[ichard] S. Ewell [Telegram], August 12, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram describing the nature and purpose of the Union volunteers at
Dutch Gap and Lee’s desire to stop the building of a canal there. (see O.R.
XLII, pt. 2, 1173; Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 833.)
[remains in T-809, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to R[ichard] H. Anderson [Telegram], August 12, 1864; a.n.s.
A message to Anderson advising him on the enemy’s movements in the
Valley and his role in assisting Gen. Early’s force. (see O.R. XLIII, pt. 1, 997.)
[remains in T-809, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. J[ubal] A. Early [Telegram], August 12, 1864; a.n.s.
Notice of a dispatch received and passed along. Lee advises Early to
communicate with Gen. Richard Anderson on the matter. (see O.R. XLIII,
pt. 1, 998.) [remains in T-809, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. C[harles] W. Field [Telegram], August 14, 1864; a.n.s.
A message to Field asking him to help the cavalry push back the enemy, then
threatening east of Richmond. (see O.R. XLII, pt. 2, 1177; Dowdey and
Manarin, Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 835.) [remains in T-809, Harrison Gift]
14
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. C[harles] W. Field [Telegram], August 14, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram to Field regarding the “character” of the enemy force advancing
against his left. (see O.R. XLII, pt. 2, 1176; Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime
Papers of R. E. Lee, 835.) [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. W[ade] Hampton [Telegram], August 14, 1864; a.n.s.
A message to Hampton ordering him to return his troops to Richmond and
advising him that Gen. Gregg’s Federal cavalry division is crossing at Deep
Bottom from Petersburg. (see O.R. XLII, pt. 2, 1177; Dowdey and Manarin,
Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 835.) [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. C[harles] W. Field [Telegram], August 23, 1864; o.c.
A copy of a telegram to Field requesting the services of Col. --.
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. M[artin] W. Gary [Telegram], August 28, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram from Lee asking Gary to watch for Union bridge building and
movements. (see O.R. XLII, pt. 2, 1206.)
* R. E. Lee to President Jefferson Davis [Telegram], September 17, 1864; o.c.
A copy of a telegram from Lee referring to the presumed location of Pvt.
Swittell of the 4th North Carolina Infantry Regiment. (see S.H.S.P. 8, 332.)
[remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. J[ubal] A. Early [Telegram], September 17, 1864; a.n.s.
A message to Gen. Early inquiring into the truth of a report regarding the
arrival in Petersburg of the Union VIII Corps under Gen. Lew Wallace. (see
O.R. XLIII, pt. 2, 873; S.H.S.P. 8, 332. [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to J[ubal] A. Early [Telegram], September 18, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram reporting the arrival near Petersburg of the Federal VIII Corps.
(see O.R. XLIII, pt. 2, 876.) [remains in T-809, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. [Martin W.] Gary, September 20, 1864; a.l.s.
A letter to Gary concerning the “character” of enemy troops near
Williamsburg, Warwick Court House, and Charles City County.
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. Richard H. Anderson [Telegram], September 20, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram asking Anderson to report on “condition of affairs” at Culpeper and
stating that Cutshaw’s Battalion may be needed in the Valley. [remains in T-825,
Telegrams]
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. Richard H. Anderson [Telegram], September 20, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram from Lee reporting that Gen. Early’s troops have been forced back to
Fisher’s Hill. Lee tells Anderson to send Kershaw’s Division along with
Cutshaw’s Battalion if Early requires reinforcements. [remains in T-825, Telegrams]
15
* R. E. Lee to Gen. Samuel Cooper [Telegram], September 20, 1864; o.c.
A copy of a message concerning Pvt. Swittell of Co. E of the 4th North Carolina
Infantry and his pending execution. [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to James A. Seddon [Telegram], September 23, 1864; a.n.s.
Lee’s brief report to the Sec. of War of Gen. Early’s defeat at Fisher’s Hill in
the Valley. (see Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 856.)
[remains in T-825, Telegrams]
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. J[ubal] A. Early [Telegram], September 23, 1864; a.n.s.
In this telegram, Lee notifies Early that Kershaw’s Division is on its way to join
him, via Swift Run Gap. [remains in T-825, Telegrams]
* R. E. Lee to Gov. William Smith, September 24, 1864; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter to Gov. Smith asking him to do what he could to help increase the
strength of Gen. Early’s troops in the Valley. (see Dowdey and Manarin,
Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 857.) [Lee Collection, Van Dyke McBride file]
* R. E. Lee to James A. Seddon [Telegram], September 24, 1864; a.n.s.
A message to the Sec. of War reporting on Brig. Gen. John C. Vaughn’s
successful fighting at Blue Spring, Tn. [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Gen. Braxton Bragg [Telegram], September 27, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram to Bragg requesting that all of Gen. Early’s reserves be returned
to him along with more shoes, arms, and ammunition. (see O.R XLIII, pt. 2,
879.) [remains in T-809, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. R[aleigh] E. Colston [Telegram], September 27, 1864; a.n.s.
A message to Colston telling him to follow the orders of Generals Early and
Breckinridge. (see O.R. XLIII, pt. 2, 881.) [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. Raleigh E. Colston, September 28, 1864; a.n.s.
A brief note to Colston encouraging him to “diligently instruct” the troops
of his command.
* R. E. Lee to Gen. Thomas S. Roper [Telegram], September 28, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram to Roper ordering him to follow Gen. Early’s directions. [remains in
T-825, Telegrams]
* R. E. Lee to Capt. [John K.] Mitchell, September 29, 1864; a.n.s.
A note directing Capt. Mitchell of the C. S. Navy to fire on enemy troops
moving against Signal Hill, east of Chaffin’s Bluff.
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. [George E.] Pickett [Telegram], September 29, 1864; a.n.s.
A message to Pickett instructing him to watch the enemy’s movement against
Signal Hill, north of the James River, and to assist in its defense if necessary. (see
O.R. XLII, pt. 2, 1304.) [remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
16
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. [Laurence S.] Baker [Telegram], September 29, 1864; a.n.s.
A telegram to Gen. Baker urging him to use negro labor to finish the works and
redoubts at Weldon, N. C. as soon as possible. (see O.R. XLII, pt. 2, 1305.)
[remains in T-810, Harrison Gift]
* R. E. Lee to Maj. Gen. Wade Hampton, October 29, 1864; a.l.s.
A letter of condolence to Gen. Hampton on the death of his son Thomas.
* R. E. Lee to Mr. Shippen, November 14, 1864; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter in which Lee politely declines Mr. Shippen’s offer to allow Lee to stay
at “Violet Bank,” a house in Colonial Heights, Va., during the winter of 1864-65.
[Lee Collection, Van Dyke McBride file]
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. J[ames] Longstreet, December 23, 1864; a.n.s.
A brief note to Longstreet declaring that Gen. Lomax reports enemy drawn up
in line at Somerset, Va.
*R. E. Lee to Danville Female College, December 23, 1864; a.l.s., photocopy.
Lee declines an invitation to attend a concert at the college in this brief letter.
[Lee Collection, Van Dyke McBride file]
17
Box No. 2
* R. E. Lee to Honorable Andrew Hunter, January 11, 1865; o.c.
A copy of a five-page letter in which Lee explains his feelings toward emancipation
and the employment of negroes as soldiers in the Confederacy.
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. [William] Terry, January 16, 1865; a.l.s.
Lee discusses the suffering Stonewall Brigade and passes on a $100 donation
to the unit in this letter to Gen. Terry. (see Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime
Paper of R. E. Lee, 883.)
* N. B., January 20, 1865.
An official copy of a letter to Lt. Gen. A. P. Hill. [remains in Ga. Rm./Navy C./Letter
Book/ bound volume titled “Confederate Envelopes”]
* R. E. Lee to Col. [James L.] Corly, February 13, 1865; a.n.s.
A brief note asking Col. Corly to bring Lee a round trip ticket to Richmond
for a trip he intends to take that afternoon.
* R. E. Lee to President Jefferson Davis, February 19, 1865; typed copy.
A letter to Davis reporting on Gen. William T. Sherman’s movements toward
Charlotte, N. C. The bulk of the letter consists of Lee’s views on how Gen.
Beauregard could best delay Sherman’s advance. (see Dowdey and Manarin,
Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 905.)
* R. E. Lee to Gen. P. G. T. Beauregard [Telegram], February 22, 1865; o.c.
A copy of a telegram informing Beauregard that Gen. Joseph E. Johnston has
been directed to assume command of the Southern Army and that Beauregard
is assigned duty with Johnston. (see O.R. XLVII, pt. 2, 1248.)
* R. E. Lee to Capt. -- Anderson, March 11, 1865; o.c.
A copy of an order sending Capt. Anderson’s cavalry company to Hanover
Junction, Va.
* R. E. Lee to Miss Roberta L. Parker, March 18, 1865; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter in which Lee discusses the dangers of living in various parts of
Virginia at this point in the war. [Lee Collection, Van Dyke McBride file]
* Special Order No. --, April 9, 1865; photo.
Directs Generals Longstreet, Gordon, and W. N. Pendleton to carry out the
stipulations in Lee’s surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia to General
U. S. Grant. (see Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee, 934.)
* General Orders No. 9, April 10, 1865; d.s., 8x14 on blue paper.
A hand-written copy of Lee’s farewell address to the Army of Northern
Virginia with additions in pencil. The document is signed by Lee. (see
O.R. XLVI, pt. 3, 744; Dowdey and Manarin, Wartime Papers of R. E. Lee,
934-935; Freeman, R. E. Lee, Vol. 4, 154-155.) [remains in Special Items, V 4-6]
18
* General Orders No. 9, April 10, 1865; d.s.
A faded copy of the farewell address. Signed by Lee “with tears in his eyes,”
according to H. H. Perry. (see above references.) [remains in Special Items,
V 4-6]
* General Orders No. 9, April 10, 1865; d.s., manila paper.
Another signed copy of Lee’s order. (see above references.) [remains in
Special Items, V 4-6]
* General Orders No. 9, April 10, 1865; pencil over ink on lined paper.
Handwritten copy of the famous order, not signed by Lee.
* General Orders No. 9, April 10, 1865; printed souvenir lithograph.
Same source as above. Same file.
* General Orders No. 9, April 10, 1865; ink on stained paper, 8x17.
Accompanied by 1896 newspaper article on supposed origins.
* General Orders No. 9, April 10, 1865; printed lithograph.
Early version of mass-produced Gen. Orders No. 9.
* General Orders No. 9, April 10, 1865; printed, tinted lithograph.
Early version of mass-produced Gen. Orders No. 9, identical to above.
* General Orders No. 9, April 10, 1865; ink on lined paper.
Handwritten copy of the famous order, not signed by Lee.
* General Orders No. 9, April 10, 1865; printed handbill.
Printed copy of order, with printed signature.
* R. E. Lee to Lt. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, April 27, 1865; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter to Gen. Grant politely inquiring into the matter of paroled rebel
soldiers having to swear additional oaths of allegiance.
* R. E. Lee to Miss Maggie Dodson, May 16, 1865; a.l.s.
A short letter regarding a gift of a photograph of Lee to Miss Dodson
of Petersburg, Va.
* R. E. Lee to George S. Palmer, June 6, 1865; a.l.s.
A letter concerning the parole of Col. [John S.] Mosby.
* R. E. Lee to Col. Walter H. Taylor, June 17, 1865; a.l.s.
The topics in this letter include the Grand Jury indictment at Norfolk, Va.
against Lee, and his request that paroled soldiers do what they can for Virginia.
* R. E. Lee to Charles Carter Lee, August 18, 1865; a.l.s., photocopy.
In this letter to his brother, Lee describes his journey to Fluvanna, Va.
and Mr. Richardson’s work on their father, “Light Horse Harry” Lee.
[remains in MSS-1, Wa002 Collection: restricted, no photocopying]
19
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. Robert H. Chilton, October 6, 1865; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter of advice to Chilton regarding possible business prospects. Mentioned
in the letter as examples are Washington College and the Southside Railroad.
* R. E. Lee to James K. Caskie, October 12, 1865; a.l.s.
A letter concerning the house Lee and his family were moving into in
Lexington, Va.
* R. E. Lee to Mrs. Thomas J. Jackson, January 25, 1866; typed copy.
A lengthy letter to Gen. Jackson’s widow offering some corrections to
Dr. Robert L. Dabney’s statements in his life of Jackson.
* R. E. Lee to Mrs. Virginia E. Davidson, January 26, 1866; a.l.s.
A letter expressing appreciation to Mrs. Davidson for her donation to
Washington College.
* R. E. Lee to Longstreet, Owen & Co., January 26, 1866; a.l.s.
A brief letter stating Lee’s “pleasure” at Longstreet’s new business partnership
in New Orleans, La.
* R. E. Lee to Longstreet, Owen & Co., January 26, 1866; a.l.s., copy.
A second copy of Lee’s letter to Longstreet in New Orleans.
* R. E. Lee to Col. Walter H. Taylor, May 25, 1866; a.l.s., typed copy.
A letter in which Lee states his concern for the well-being of Jefferson Davis,
then imprisoned at Fort Monroe. In addition, Lee asks Taylor to send him
any correspondence between himself and President Davis in order to help
in reconstructing events for Lee’s proposed history of the Army of Northern
Virginia.
* R. E. Lee to William J. Folkes, July 7, 1866; a.l.s.
A letter from Lee expressing his gratitude for the bound volumes of battle
reports that Mr. Folkes sent.
* R. E. Lee to Mrs. R[obert] H. Chilton, August 13, 1866; a.l.s.
News of life at Rockbridge Baths and of a fall taken by Mrs. Lee fill this
letter to Mrs. Chilton.
* R. E. Lee to Charles Paine, August 27, 1866; a.l.s.
A letter to Mr. Paine regarding the income from Erie bonds to be collected.
* R. E. Lee to Mrs. Coulter Cabell, October 3, 1866; a.l.s.
A brief letter mentioning a button off a coat Lee wore during the war that he
is sending to her.
20
* R. E. Lee to Mr. E. B. Cook, November 26, 1866; a.l.s.
A short letter regarding a ring thought to belong to the Lee family.
* R. E. Lee to Miss Laura [Mason] Chilton, November 28, 1866; a.l.s.
A short letter to Laura Chilton expressing his joy at receiving photographs
from her. Lee later mentions the photograph he has sent her of him in
“academic garb.”
* R. E. Lee to Brig. Gen. R[obert] H. Chilton, January 10, 1867; a.l.s.
This letter contains news of Lee’s family, as well as his views on how the
South should develop economically in the future.
* R. E. Lee to William P. Munford, Esq., January 21, 1867; a.l.s.
A short letter to Munford thanking him for donating a copy of his father’s
translation of Homer’s Iliad to the Washington College library.
* R. E. Lee to Charles Carter Lee, March 14, 1867; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter to his brother concerning information about their father’s involvement
with George Washington and the Constitutional Convention. [remains in
MSS-1, Wa002 Collection: restricted, no photocopying]
* R. E. Lee to [Gen.] D. H. Maury, May 23, 1867.
The bulk of the letter is devoted to the upcoming state convention and new
state constitution, with Lee hoping that all citizens will do their duty and
elect the best possible candidates.
* R. E. Lee to Charles Carter Lee, October 24, 1867; a.l.s., photocopy.
Family news, Lee’s father’s memoirs, and his history of the Army of Northern
Virginia fill this letter to Lee’s brother. [remains in MSS-1, Wa002 Collection:
restricted, no photocopying]
* R. E. Lee to Habliston & Bro., December 18, 1867; a.l.s.
An order for fourteen single and one double bed for Washington College.
* R. E. Lee to Capt. J. M. Ryals, January 13, 1868; a.l.s.
A letter of encouragement for a veteran of the Army of Northern Virginia.
* R. E. Lee to Robert E. Lee, Jr., January 23, 1868; a.l.s.
A letter to his son in which Lee mentions receiving a letter directed to Robert, Jr.
from a “nice young lady.” Other topics include the rainy weather and family news.
* R. E. Lee to Hon. Reverdy Johnson, February 25, 1868; typed copy.
A typed copy of an excerpt from a letter written to Sen. Johnson in which Lee
discusses his refusal to accept command of the Union Army in 1861.
* R. E. Lee to Samuel Tyler, April 4, 1868; a.l.s.
A note expressing thanks to Mr. Tyler for donating a copy of his book on
philosophy to Washington College. [remains in Kynett Book]
21
* R. E. Lee to Mrs. Julia G. Tyler, April 16, 1868; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter reporting on the satisfactory progress of Mrs. Tyler’s son and nephew
at Washington College.
* R. E. Lee to H. C. Ezekiel, April 24, 1868; a.l.s., photocopy.
A short letter concerning the existence of one cent Confederate postage stamps.
[Lee Collection, Van Dyke McBride file]
* R. E. Lee to Mrs. William C. Rives, April 29, 1868; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter of condolence to Mrs. Rives on the death of her husband. [Lee Collection,
Van Dyke McBride file]
* R. E. Lee to Miss Sadie Napier, September 24, 1868.
In this note to a 10-year-old San Antonio girl, Lee honors her request for one
of his buttons, that she might complete a “charm string.”
* R. E. Lee to Charles Carter Lee, December 22, 1868; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter to Lee’s brother regarding the planned illustrations in the publication
of their father’s memoirs. [remains in MSS-1, Wa002 Collection: restricted, no
photocopying]
* R. E. Lee to E[verett] B. D. Julio, January 15, 1869; a.l.s.
A letter in which Lee offers a brief description of Gen. T. J. Jackson to the artist
Julio and mentions that a friend has included a description of himself with which
he agrees.
* R. E. Lee to Charles Carter Lee, January 15, 1869; a.l.s., photocopy.
Lee reports on the physical condition of Charles Carter Lee’s son Henry in this
letter. [remains in MSS-1, Wa002 Collection: restricted, no photocopying]
* R. E. Lee to Gen. George W. Jones, March 22, 1869; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter expressing his feelings toward the Constitution of the United States and
about the U. S. Government’s refusal to return his wife’s heirlooms confiscated
at Arlington.
* R. E. Lee to Miss Julia R. Balch, April 15, 1869; a.l.s.
A letter stating Lee’s regret at not being able to offer personal information on any
of the former U. S. president’s wives. [remains in Kynett Book]
* R. E. Lee to Edward Leyburn, July 6, 1869; a.n.s.
A brief note requesting a barrel of flour for a professor-friend in Lexington, Va.
* R. E. Lee to Charles Carter Lee, July 8, 1869; a.l.s., photocopy.
Lee discusses a visit to his brother Smith’s house, “Richland,” and the publication
of his father’s memoirs in this letter. [remains in MSS-1, Wa002 Collection:
restricted, no photocopying]
22
* R. E. Lee to Charles Carter Lee, August 18, 1869; a.l.s., photocopy.
A brief letter concerning the illustrations in their father’s memoirs. [remains in
MSS-1, Wa002 Collection: restricted, no photocopying]
* R. E. Lee to Miss Virginia Ritchie, October 23, 1869; a.l.s.
A letter regarding Lee’s interest in the care of two Virginia churches: Grace Church
in Lexington, and St. Peter’s in New Kent. Lee describes in detail the war’s effect
on St. Peter’s.
* R. E. Lee to Miss Laura Mason Chilton, November 22, 1869; a.l.s.
Responding to an invitation to Miss Chilton’s wedding, Lee sadly declines and
extends his best wishes for her future.
* R. E. Lee to Rev. W. T. Brantly, D. D., March 16, 1870; a.l.s.
A letter notifying Brantly that he has been chosen by the faculty to deliver the
Baccalaureate Sermon to the students during Commencement week at Washington
College.
* R. E. Lee to Miss Louise Brantly, April 11, 1870; a.l.s.
In this letter, Lee graciously declines an offer to visit the Brantly family on his
journey south. At the end of the letter he makes reference to the invitation he
extended to her father described in the March 16 letter.
* R. E. Lee to Charles Carter Lee, April 18, 1870; a.l.s., photocopy.
A letter to his brother, written in Savannah, Ga., in which Lee mentions his failing
health (chest pains), their father’s published memoirs, and his visit to their father’s
grave on Cumberland Island. [remains in MSS-1, Wa002 Collection: restricted, no
photocopying]
* R. E. Lee to his son, [n.d.]
A part of an undated letter to one of his sons. The letter is signed by Lee.
* R. E. Lee to Miss Lizzie Rowland, [n.d.]; a.l.s., typed copy.
A letter expressing disappointment at not being able to visit Miss Rowland’s
mother and at not having seen Miss Rowland and her friend when they called
on him. [remains in K.M.R. Collection, V 6-2-1]
23
A note on other R.E. Lee military papers
in the Brockenbrough Library
Located in the MC-1 Series, primarily military papers, are 50 files containing several
hundred copies of letters, circulars, etc., authorized by Lee, from December 1861February 1865.
24
Robert E. Lee Family Collection
Eleanor S. Brockenbrough Library
Museum of the Confederacy
Box No. 3
Lee, Mary Custis (1808-1873): wife
* Lee, Mary Custis to “Abby,” 10 February 1858 and 7 May 1858.
* Lee, Mary Custis to “Kitty,” [Stiles] 22 -- 1869[?] and again, n.d. Same file.
* Lee, Mary Custis: hand-colored photos (cdv portraits) of George & Martha
Washington). Photocopy.
* Lee, Mary Custis to Miss Mary Deas, n.d. Photocopy. [remains in Deas-Lamb
Collection/MS-870408, V 4-3]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Miss Mary Cocke, 10 April 186--.
* Lee, Mary Custis to Miss Mary Cocke, n.d. [postwar]. Same file.
* McDowell, Brig.-Gen. Irwin to Mrs. R. E. Lee, 30 May 1861. Photocopies and
poor paper copy.
* Lee, Mary Custis to Gen. Sanford, 30 May 1861. Photocopies and typed transcript.
* Conrad, Miss J. Emma to Mary Custis Lee, 25 December 1862; 23 March 1863.
* Lee, Mary Custis to Miss Conrad, 17 February 1863; 16 June 1863. Same file.
* Lee, Mary Custis to Mrs. Wood, 12 October 1864.
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, n.d. [1865?], fragment. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Mrs. Jefferson Davis [Varina], 30 June [1865]. [remains in Davis
Collection, Box 28]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 28 August [1865]. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 10 September 1865. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Miss Betty Poulson, 21 September 1865.
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 16 October [1865]. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Miss Em[ily] Mason, 23 November 1865.
25
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 18 February 1866. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, April - July 1866. Typescripts. [remains in
K.M.R. Collection, V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 20 April 1866. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 20 May 1866. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Jefferson Davis, 6 June 1866. Photocopy. [original remains
in Davis Collection, Box 13]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 22 July 1866. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Hon. James W. Custis, 12 November 1866. Also photostats,
and leaflet on Christ Church, Alexandria, VA.
* Lee, Mary Custis: engraving of symbols of Episcopal church, inscribed on back
by M.C. Lee. [remains in K.M.R. Collection, V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 16 January 1867. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 21 January 1867. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Mrs. Jefferson Davis [Varina], 6 February 1867. [remains in
Davis Collection, Box 28]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Mrs. R. H. Chilton, 10 March 1867. Also photostats.
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 15 April 1867. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Mrs. R. H. Chilton, 6 May 1867.
* Lee, Mary Custis to Mrs. Jefferson Davis [Varina], n.d. [1867]. Also photocopies
(original in fragile condition). [remains in Davis Collection, Box 28]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Mrs. C. B. Richardson, April - September 1868. Also
photostats and letter of donation by Gamaliel Bradford, Jr.
26
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 15 September [1867?]. [remains in K.M.R.
Collection, V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 18 March 1869. [remains in K.M.R.
Collection, V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Miss Laura Chilton, 15 November 1869. Also envelope.
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 28 January [ca. 1870]. [remains in K.M.R.
Collection, V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Carter Lee, 21 April -- (prior to fall 1870). [remains in
MSS-Wa001, Wa002 Collection: restricted, no photocopying]
* Tyler, Julia Gardener to Mrs. R. E. Lee, 14 October 1870. Photocopy.
* Lee, Mary Custis to Robert H. Chilton, 12 December 1870.
* Lee, Mary Custis to Mrs. Julia Gardener Tyler, 26 January 1871. Photocopy.
* Lee, Mary Custis to ? [Dodson family member], 15 February 1871. Also copy.
L-840927, Quartermaster Museum.
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 28 May 1871. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 14 August 1871. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis: petition to Congress, 27 January 1872.
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 10 & 20 April --. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 29 April --. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Kate Mason Rowland, 16 April 1873. [remains in K.M.R.
Collection, V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 12 May 1873. Incomplete. [remains in K.M.R.
Collection, V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 16 May --. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Robert H. Chilton, 13 June 1873.
27
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 22 June --. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to ?, n.d. (fragment, incomplete). [remains in K.M.R.
Collection, V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Em[ily] Mason, n.d. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Emily Mason, 9th --. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 15 August --. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to E. Mason, 25 August --. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to “Little Mildred,” -- October --. [remains in MSSWa001, Wa002 Collection: restricted, no photocopying]
* Selection of 19 typescripts of above-listed Mary Custis Lee letters
28
Lee, Mary Custis (1835-1918): daughter
* Lee, Mary Custis to Col. [A.] Anderson, 31 August --.
* Lee, Mary Custis to Miss Levy, 11 May 1901.
* Lee, Mary Custis to Emily V. Mason, 22 May 1903. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Mrs. Taylor Ellyson, 25 Feb. 1913. Also envelope.
* Lee, Mary Custis to Laura --, 1 March 1913. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mary Custis to Mrs. [Norman] Randolph, 13 June 1918.
* Lee, Mary Custis to Mrs. [Norman] Randolph, 17 June 1918.
* Lee, Mary Custis to Mrs. [Lizzie Cary] Daniel, 13 December --.
* Lee, Mary Custis: autograph
* Lee, Mary Custis: C.M.L.S. eulogy/testimonial. All same file.
29
Lee, Anne Carter--”Annie” (1839-1862): daughter
* Lee, Annie: death of, see Lee, Mary Custis to Mrs. Randolph, 13 June 1918.
* Lee, Annie: 1912 postcard of grave; 1918 article and newspaper clipping.
30
Lee, Eleanor Agnes (1841-1873): daughter
* Lee, Agnes to Mr. Florence Minis, n.d. [remains in bound Gilmer Collection
of Letters/Lee Collection]
31
Lee, Mildred Childe (1846-1904): daughter
* Lee, Mildred to “My dear Alice,” n.d. (postwar). MS-911216.
* Lee, Mildred to Mrs. Jefferson Davis [Varina], 29 November 1887. [remains in
Davis Collection, Box 28]
* Lee, Mildred to Col. Archer Anderson, 21 May 1893. Also envelope.
* Lee, Mildred to Col. Archer Anderson, n.d. (postwar).
* Lee, Mildred to Miss Mary Cocke, July 1897. Also copy.
* Lee, Mildred to Miss Emily Mason, n.d. (ca. 1898). [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mildred to Kate Mason Rowland, 2 Feb./8 Feb./25 June/4 July --. [remains in
K.M.R. Collection, V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Mildred to Mrs. J. Taylor Ellyson, 13 Feb. [1898].
* Lee, Mildred: C.S.M.A. “In Memoriam” plaque for Miss Lee, ca. 1904.
* Stuart, Mrs. Virginia to Miss [Susan] Harrison re Mildred Lee,
27 January 1934.
32
Lee, George Washington Custis--”Boo” (1832-1913): son
* Lee, G. W. C.: autographs of
* Lee, G. W. C. to “Mr. President” [Jefferson Davis], wartime. Photocopy. [orig.
remains in Davis Collection, Box 13]
* Lee, G. W. C. (et al) to Brig. Gen. Hugh W. Mercer, 9 May 1862.
* Lee, G. W. C. to Maj. J. J. Reeves, 9 September 1863.
* Lee, G. W. C. to Gen. R. E. Lee and Maj. Gen. Pickett, 21 September 1864.
* Lee, G. W. C. to Generals R. E. Lee and George Pickett, from New Market, VA,
ca. 1864. Telegram. [remains in MC 3, T-825]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Col. W. T. Kinney, from New Market, VA, ca. 1864. Telegram.
[remains in MC 3, T-825]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Mrs. Jefferson Davis [Varina], 22 September 1865. [remains in
Davis Collection, Box 28]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Gen. J. F. Gilmer, 13 Sept. 1872. [remains in Gilmer Letter
Collection}
* Lee, G. W. C. to Mrs. J. F. Gilmer, 12 April 1875. [remains in Gilmer Letter
Collection]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Mrs. J. F. Gilmer, 13 Dec. 1875. [remains in Gilmer Letter
Collection]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Mrs. J. F. Gilmer, 7 June 1876. [remains in Gilmer Letter
Collection]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Mrs. J. F. Gilmer, 26 Feb. 1877. [remains in Gilmer Letter
Collection]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Maj. W. T. Walthall, 28 April 1877. Copy of handwritten copy.
[orig. copy remains in Davis Collection, Box 13]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Mrs. J. F. Gilmer, 3 Aug. 1877. [remains in Gilmer Letter
Collection]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Mrs. J. F. Gilmer, 27 Aug. 1877. [remains in Gilmer Letter
Collection]
33
* Lee, G. W. C. to Jefferson Davis, 15 January 1878. Photocopy. [orig. remains in
Davis Collection, Box 13]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Maj. W. T. Walthall, 11 April 1878. Photocopy. [orig. remains
Davis Collection, Box 13]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Mrs. J. F. Gilmer, 12 Jan. 1880. [remains in Gilmer Letter
Collection]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Mrs. J. F. Gilmer, 27 March 1882. Includes letter from father,
R. E. Lee, to self, 18 March 1859. [remains in Gilmer Letter Collection]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Louisa Gilmer Minis, Dec. 1883. [remains in Gilmer Memorial
* Lee, G. W. C. to Emily Mason, 14 June 1884. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Emily Mason, 1 July 1884. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Hon. L. Q. C. Lamar, 12 March 1885.
* Lee, G. W. C. to Mrs. Laura Chilton Wise, 23 February 1886. Also typescript.
* Lee, G. W. C. to Emily Mason, n.d. Page 5 of a letter, incomplete. [remains in
K.M.R. Collection, V 6-2-1]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Emily Mason, 5 May 1890. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
* Lee, G. W. C. to Kate Mason Rowland, 8 June 1910. [remains in K.M.R. Collection,
V 6-2-1]
34
Lee, William Henry Fitzhugh--”Rooney” (1837-1891): son
* Lee, W. H. F. to Mr. Edmond, 26 June [pre-war?].
* Lee, Gen. W. H. F.: Headquarter Orders, 19 October 1864.
35
Lee, Robert Edward, Jr.--”Rob” (1843-1914): son
* Lee, Robert E., Jr. to Col. Archer Anderson, 18 October 1904.
* Lee, Robert E., Jr. to Kate Mason Rowland, 19 October 1905. [remains in
K.M.R. Collection, V 6-2-1]
* Lee, Robert E., Jr. to Joseph Bryan, 3 February 1906.
* Lee, Robert E., Jr.: U.D.C. inquiry on to War Dept., Feb. - March 1945.
36
Robert E. Lee Collection: Ephemera
Eleanor S. Brockenbrough Library
The Museum of the Confederacy
* Deed of Texas property, 1856. Photocopy.
* Reminiscence of Lee in San Antonio, Mrs. Flora Tunstall Sharpe. Typescript.
* Residences of Robert E. and Mary Custis Lee, 1861-1865. Typed list.
* Reminiscence of Lee visit to Leesburg, September 1862, Alice Harrison.
Typescript.
* Danville Register Extra, April 14, 1865, decribes Lee’s surrender/Gen. Orders
No. 9. [remains in VA Room files]
* Reminiscence of visit with Lee in Richmond, Va., May 10, 1865, Jackson Harsh.
(Bad) copy of handwritten recollections.
* Signature of R. E. Lee on card, [postwar].
* Funeral obsequies, eulogies, extract of will: includes chapel program, repro copy
of Southern Collegian covering Lee’s death.
* Clippings on death of Lee, reminiscences about: includes portion of Staunton
Spectator of October 13, 1870, announcing Lee’s death.
* Appointment of attorney for Lee heirs, 1874. Photostat.
* Address/eulogy delivered December 15, 1875, by Walter Blair. [remains in
B-563]
* Newspaper article of 1876, “Recollection of Christmas [1851] at Arlington,”
reprint of letter by Lee to family member.
* Lee Family genealogy, list of Richmond residences.
* Lee Monument Association stationery.
* Poetry inscribed on Lee’s copy of Iliad, by Philip S. Worsley.
* Lee’s horse Traveller, in pictures and verse. Includes a description of the horse
dictated by Lee, sent to Markie Williams.
37
* Dedication of “Recumbent Lee” statuary, Lee Chapel, Lexington, Va.,
June 1883. Program. [remains in L-568]
* Address, “First Meeting Between Lee and McClellan,” delivered 1896, by
George Savage. [remains in S-750]
* Verse, clippings, stories on Lee. Includes use of Lee image and quote on
Virginia Anti-Saloon League poster.
* Inventory of CMLS images of Lee; index of Lee poems in Confederate
Veteran.
* Address, “Lee and Appomattox,” delivered 1901 in Massachusetts, by Charles
Francis Adams. Copy sent to Isobel Maury/CMLS. [remains in A-2]
* Lee sword: U. S. Engineer’s sword, Mexican War era, owned ca. 1906
by J. S. Bryan. Correspondence between Bryan and R. E. Lee, Jr. confirming
provenance.
* 100th birthday observations, 1907: Washington and Lee Chapel, Lexington, Va.,
and joint celebration of CMLS and Lee Camp, UCV, Richmond, Va. [remains in
L-568]
* Address, “Incident of the Last Campaign,” delivered 1907, part of Lee 100th
birthday observations, by T. C. Thompson. [remains in T-838]
* Gen. Orders No. 9: Correspondence of St. George T. C. Bryan to Miss Isobel
Maury (CMLS), regarding 1910 newspaper article claiming order in the hands
of a North Carolina man. [remains in B-156]
* Lee statue uniform controversy: W. Gordon McCabe to Mrs. N. V. Randolph
(CMLS), December 15, 1915.
* Article, “Five Year’s of Robert E. Lee’s Life,” in The Outlook, n.d., by
Edwin Mims. [remains in M-631]
* List of Lee’s staff officers supplied 1924, by U. S. War Dept. to Miss Susan
Harrison of CMLS.
* Address, “The Glory of Robert E. Lee,” delivered 1924, by author Gamaliel
Bradford. [remains in B-118]
* 118th birthday observations, 1925: celebration by Camp Fire Confederate
Camp, New York, January 19, 1925. [remains in B-113]
* Lee’s status as citizen at time of death: Va. state librarian, H. R. McIlwaine
to Miss Harrison of CMLS, 1929.
38
* “Lee Week,” White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, 1932-1934: invitation to/
information on “Lee Room” murals in President’s Cottage on property.
[remains in L-569]
* Dedication of Lee statue, Virginia House of Delegates, January 19, 1932.
Program. [remains in L-568]
* Address, delivered at St. Paul’s Church, Richmond, Va., 1939, by Rev. Joseph
B. Dunn. [remains in D-309A]
* Recollections of Lee at Appomattox, Saturday Evening Post, April 6, 1940.
* “Children and General Lee,” story and illustration by Helen Ryce Silvette,
ca. 1961.