The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation papers (dated 1777-1991, undated; 64.6 cubic feet; 179 boxes, 9 wrapped items) contain papers and photographs from the Clay, McDowell, and Bullock families as well as a small amount of operating records for the foundation. Organized into series by family, the papers include various forms of documentation such as correspondence, letter books, diaries, checks, receipts, account books, ledgers, stud books, drawings, paintings, printed materials, realia, and newspaper clippings. The material is organized into subseries by creator or recipient. For example, the bulk of letters written by Henry Clay would be found in the papers of his relatives.
Correspondence from and to Henry Clay forms the majority of the Henry Clay family papers series. The series also contains correspondence between his children and other descendants; financial and legal material; diaries; and bibles. The McDowell family papers series consists of the papers of Henry Clay McDowell; several of his siblings; his wife Anne Clay McDowell, the granddaughter of Henry Clay; and their children, including suffragist daughter Madeline McDowell Breckinridge. The Bullock family papers series includes the papers of Nannette McDowell Bullock, Henry Clay and Anne Clay McDowell’s daughter; her family; and her husband Thomas S. Bullock’s family. The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation records document the creation of the foundation and their early activities. The photographs compose their own series and include photographs, sketches and photographic reproductions of paintings of members of the Clay, McDowell, and Bullock families.
The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation papers contain the archives of three prominent Kentucky families who at different times occupied the Ashland estate in Lexington, Kentucky. The Henry Clay family was one of the most prominent families of early Kentucky statehood, due in part to Henry Clay's fame as a politician, statesman, and lawyer. Henry Clay built Ashland, named for its ash trees, in 1809 and made additions to it in 1811. Clay and his wife, Lucretia, lived at Ashland until his death in 1852. Afterwards Lucretia moved in with her youngest son John Morrison Clay. James Brown Clay, another son, rebuilt Ashland using its original plans during the 1850s. In 1862, following the beginning of the Civil War, James, a Confederate supporter, fled to Canada; he died there in 1864. John Bowman purchased Ashland in 1866 and used it first as a residence and then as a museum for Kentucky University. In 1882 the university sold Ashland to Henry Clay McDowell, the husband of Henry Clay's granddaughter Anne Clay McDowell. The McDowells, a prominent family involved in horse breeding, railroads, land development, and Republican politics, lived in the house until Anne's death in 1917. Her daughter, Nannette McDowell Bullock, took possession of the house, but ultimately desired to turn it into a memorial to Henry Clay. Nannette worked with Judge Samuel M. Wilson to create the Henry Clay Memorial Foundation in 1926. The foundation succeeded in purchasing Ashland after Nannette Bullock's death in 1949, and Ashland opened to the public as a memorial and museum in 1950.
Source:
96m2: [identification of item], Henry Clay Memorial Foundation papers, 1777-1991, undated, University of Kentucky Special Collections.
Collection is arranged into four series: the Henry Clay family papers, the McDowell family papers, the Bullock family papers, and the Henry Clay Memorial Foundation records. Within each series, the papers are organized into subseries by creator or owner.
The physical rights to the materials in this collection are held by the University of Kentucky Special Collections.
Collection is open to researchers by appointment.
Gift, 1993
Henry Clay (1777-1852), statesman, orator, and Secretary of State, was born to Baptist minister John Clay and Elizabeth Hudson Clay in Hanover County, Virginia, on April 12, 1777. Clay, with little formal education, entered the Virginia bar in 1797, shortly before relocating to Lexington, Kentucky, to open a law practice. First elected to public office in 1803, Clay's involvement in the politics of the United State lasted until his death in 1852. He served as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives (1811-1814, 1815-1820, 1823-1825), as Secretary of State for John Quincy Adams (1825-1829), and as a senator in the U.S. Senate (1806-1807, 1810-1811, 1831-1842, 1849-1852). Attempting to fulfill his ultimate dream, Clay ran unsuccessfully for president three times: in 1824 as a Democratic Republican, in 1832 as a National Republican, and in 1844 as a Whig. Dubbed the
As well as being a skilled orator and politician, Henry Clay was also a progressive agrarian and stockman, who took great pleasure in managing his own affairs and improvements at his estate, Ashland. He brought donkeys from Spain and Malta to Ashland as well as Hereford cattle and Durham short horn cattle. Clay's stables produced several still prominent horse blood lines, including eleven descendants who won the Kentucky Derby. Furthermore, he regularly submitted articles to agricultural journals and sat on the committee of the Kentucky Society for Promoting Agriculture.
Henry Clay married Lucretia Hart (1781-1864) on April 11, 1799, and had eleven children with her: Henrietta (1800-1801), Theodore Wyeth (1802-1870), Thomas Hart (1803-1871), Susan Hart (1805-1825), Anne Brown (1807-1835), Lucretia Hart (1809-1823), Henry, Jr. (1811-1847), Eliza (1813-1825), Laura (1815-1817), James Brown (1817-1864), and John Morrison (1821-1887).
Of his children, only seven lived to adulthood and two followed him in politics: Henry, Jr. and James Brown. Theodore Wyeth Clay, Henry Clay's oldest son, spent the majority of his life institutionalized at the Eastern Kentucky Lunatic Asylum and never married. Thomas Hart Clay, a farmer who worked his father's land near Terre Haute, Indiana, married Marie Mentelle in 1837 and had five children: Lucretia Hart (1839-1860), Henry Boyle (1840-1919), Thomas Hart (1843-1907), Rose Victoire (1845-1878), and Minnie R. (1848-1892). Susan Hart Clay married Martin Duralde in 1823; they had two children: Martin, III (1823-1846) and Henry Clay (1824-1850). Anne Brown Clay married James Erwin, a lawyer from Kentucky, in 1823, and had seven children: Julia D. (1825-1828); Henry Clay (1827-1859); James, Jr. (1828-1848); Lucretia Hart (1829-1866); Andrew Eugene (1830-1863) who died during the battle of Vicksburg; Mary (1832); and Charles Edward (1835-1860).
Henry Clay, Jr. (1811-1847) followed in his father's footsteps by becoming a lawyer and a politician. He graduated from Transylvania University in 1828 and attended West Point from 1828 to 1831. Upon his graduation in June 1831, he received a commission as an engineer, however, by November Henry, Jr. had resigned this commission to study law. After studying law in Louisiana, Henry, Jr. entered the Kentucky bar in 1833. He married Julia Prather (1814-1840) of Louisville in 1832; they had five children: Henry, III (1833-1862), Matilda (1835), Anne Brown also called Nannette (1837-1917), Martha (1838), and Thomas Julian (1840-1863). Henry, Jr. served in the Kentucky state legislature as a Whig from 1835 until 1837. His wife, Julia, died in 1840 due to complications following the birth of Thomas Julian. In 1845, Henry, Jr. raised a group of volunteers for the Mexican War and accepted a commission as a Lieutenant Colonel of the 2nd Kentucky Volunteer Infantry Regiment. An aide to General Zachary Taylor, Henry, Jr. was killed on February 23, 1847, while leading a charge during the battle of Buena Vista.
James Brown Clay (1817-1864) was also a politician and lawyer. He attended Transylvania University and worked in a Boston countinghouse for two years (1832-1834) before studying law. He practiced law with his father in Lexington, Kentucky. In 1843 he married Susan M. Jacobs, the sister of a Lexington mayor; they had eleven children: Lucy Jacob (1844-1863), James Brown, Jr. (1846-1906), John Cathcoat Johnston (1847-1872), Henry Clay (1849-1884), Lucretia Hart (1851-1923), Thomas Jacob (1853-1939), Susan Maria (1855-1863), Charles Donald (1857-1935), George Hudson (1858-1934), and Nathaniel Hart (1861-1862). After the death of his brother, Henry, Jr. in 1847, James Brown helped raise his brother’s son, Henry Clay III (also called Henry Hart). From 1849 until 1850, James Brown served as Chargé d'Affaires to Portugal. He sat in the United States' Thirty-Fifth Congress as a Democratic member of the House of Representatives from 1857 until 1859; he was not a candidate for reelection. After refusing an appointment on a diplomatic mission to Germany, James Brown attended an 1861 peace convention in Washington, D.C. attempting to forestall secession. Upon the outbreak of the Civil War, he sided with the Confederacy and received permission to raise a regiment, however, due to his ill health he never took up arms. Instead, he traveled to Montreal, Canada, with his family, where he died on January 26, 1864, from tuberculosis.
Henry Clay's youngest son, John Morrison Clay (1821-1887), spent most of his life as a thoroughbred horse breeder and horse racer in Lexington. After Henry Clay's death in 1852, John Morrison inherited a portion of his father's Ashland estate where he raised horses. To distinguish it from James Brown Clay's inheritance, John Morrison called his farm Ashland Stud and sometimes Ashland-on-the-Tate's-Creek-Pike. On July 7, 1866, he married Josephine Russell Erwin (1835-1920), the widow of his nephew, Eugene Erwin, who died at the Battle of Vicksburg in 1863; they had no children. Although he suffered through several periods of mental illness during his life, John Morrison's stud farm became very successful. He traveled the race circuit and Josephine managed the day to day aspects of the farm. Their farm produced many famous race horses such as Skedaddle, Survivor, Star Davis, Sauce Box, and Squeeze ‘em. Following John Morrison's death in 1887, Josephine continued to successfully run Ashland Stud until 1903; she died in 1920.
Source:
Labach, William A.
Clark, Thomas D.
Correspondence, diaries, bibles, speeches, legal documents, newspaper clippings, and artifacts compose the Henry Clay Family Papers series, and document the private and family life of Henry Clay, his wife Lucretia Hart Clay, his children, and many of his grandchildren. The series is divided into subseries based on the owner of the material.
Correspondence from and to Henry Clay forms the bulk of the series. Although a number of letters come from historically significant figures such as the Marquis de LaFayette, John J. Crittenden, and Daniel Webster, most correspondence involves members of the Clay family and provides a wealth of information regarding their familial interactions. The letters to Clay from his sons, their wives, and their children offer rare information concerning Clay’s wife, Lucretia Hart, who after 1835 refused to accompany him to Washington or even to correspond with him. In addition, the correspondence illuminates his relationships with his sons, primarily Henry Clay, Jr., but also his troubled sons Theodore Wyeth, Thomas Hart, and John Morrison. The correspondence between Henry Clay and Henry, Jr. details Henry, Jr.'s experiences as a cadet at West Point, as a lawyer in Louisville, and as a Lieutenant Colonel during the Mexican War. The series also contains letters of condolence and mementos sent to Henry Clay upon the death of Henry, Jr. at the Battle of Buena Vista; letters describing the mental troubles of Theodore Wyeth and later John Morrison; and letters lamenting the deaths of other Clay children, such as Anne Brown Clay Erwin and Susan Hart Clay Duralde. Furthermore, the series includes financial and legal documents concerning Henry Clay, several of his speeches, the family bible, and presidential campaign ribbons.
Beyond Henry Clay, the series contains the correspondence of other Clay family members including letters from and to James Brown Clay and his wife Susan M. Jacobs while they lived in Canada during the Civil War; letters from Henry Clay, Jr. to his children; and Henry Hart Clay’s correspondence while at West Point. Further highlights of the series include Henry Clay, Jr.’s Mexican War diaries, John Morrison Clay’s diary kept during his time as a horse breeder, Julia Prather Clay’s journal from her trip to Europe, James Brown Clay’s eulogy, and a newspaper clipping written by Susan Clay recounting the story of Daniel Boone’s ghostly visit to Ashland. In addition to the material created by the Clay family, the series contains the notebook of Thomas Lewinski, the architect who rebuilt Ashland between 1854 and 1857, and two letters from Walter Kirkpatrick, a tutor to the Clay children, giving an outsider’s perspective of the Clay family.
Correspondence, financial and legal papers, speeches, bibles, realia, and newspaper clippings comprise the Henry Clay papers subseries and document Clay’s interactions with his family. Organized by date, the correspondence mostly consists of letters from Clay’s third son, Henry Clay, Jr., describing life at West Point, his studies in the law, his ambitions concerning the study of literature, the condition of Henry Clay’s estate Ashland, and the Mexican War. Furthermore, Henry Clay, Jr.’s letters document his love affair with his wife Julia Prather and issues concerning his brothers, including Theodore Wythe, Thomas Hart, and John Morrison. Henry Clay’s correspondence also contains letters from various family members and friends as well as political figures like Daniel Webster and the Marquis Lafayette. Additionally, the subseries includes a small amount of financial and legal material; speeches such as a handwritten copy of the Raleigh speech; newspaper clippings concerning family members; and the Clay and Hart family bibles. The realia consists of several Clay presidential ribbons and a medallion showing Henry Clay’s profile.
Additional Henry Clay letters can be found in the correspondence of his family members, including Henry Clay, Jr., Lucretia Hart Clay, Julia Prather Clay, Henry Hart Clay, Thomas Hart Clay, and John Morrison Clay.
Bill for $102.80.
Dispute of land titles to be settled by Clay.
Lafayette has not heard from his friends in the U.S. government for awhile and requests information about the American political scene.
Relates news of the Smiths' visit with him at the Academy and of his decision to remain at the school until he graduates.
Recounts an incident in which he and a postal worker had an argument. The postal worker ordered him to leave the post office. Henry, Jr. left but later returned with his pistols. Some of his fellow cadets intervened preventing him from injuring the postal worker. Upon a complaint made to the postmaster general, Henry, Jr. was suspended from the boot camp where he was preparing to enter West Point Academy. The incident did not prevent his entrance into the Point.
Prepares to leave Washington for West Point and writes fondly of Bradford, a friend and fellow Kentuckian at West Point disliked by his father.
Reports his safe arrival and admission to the Academy.
General news pertaining to her family's health, a visit from Henry, Jr. and about the Washington social scene.
Relieved that his father accepts his decision to enter the law after graduating from West Point instead of staying in the military. Both agree that with Jackson as commander-in-chief, Henry, Jr. has little chance for a successful military career.
Concerning a perceived unfair treatment by his math professor and his overall class standing.
Acknowledges receiving money his father sent him so he could take a summer furlough in Kentucky. He is looking forward to being in Kentucky and visiting Ashland. Comments on Jackson's election to presidency.
Reassures his father that he will keep up his studies to maintain his class standing even though he has decided not to pursue a military career.
Writes that he is happy and relieved to learn his father approves of his choice of a legal career and is looking forward to his Kentucky visit.
Informs his father that he is settling down to study for his second year and he is glad he has returned to the Academy.
Assures his father that he is happy with his decision to continue at West Point. Apologizes for having considered leaving the Academy and is glad his father convinced him to return to his studies.
Acknowledges receipt of letter informing him of aunt Sophia Clay's death. He is doing well in his studies. He likes civil engineering and would not mind working as an engineer for a short time before beginning his studies of the law. Adds that he thought he would use law as a stepping-stone to a political career, but the elections of late had so disappointed him he was no longer certain he wished to be involved in politics. Adds that he would prefer to find work which would permit him to indulge in his love of literature but does not think it a practical way to earn a living.
Informs his father that he delivered a speech which was well received.
Reiterates his pleasure that his address was a success. He will stay at West Point because he thinks it will set a good example for his younger brothers and because quitting might reflect on his character. He asks his father to respond to his reasoning and assures him that, if he wishes, he'll remain at the Academy. Henry, Jr. has been appointed adjutant, the most responsible of positions. It is possible that the forthcoming report from Board of Visitors may be marred by the opinion of the acting President, General Stokes, whose son was dismissed from the Academy.
His July 4th speech before a crowd of about 400 to 500 people went even better than his last address. Mr. Skinner, editor of a sports periodical paid him the ultimate compliment:
Uncle and Aunt Brown visited. Uncle Brown spoke to him about remaining one more year and graduating. Admits he could not have a career in a military where the chief officers were beholden to a commander-in-chief who was his father's avowed enemy. Besides he was dissatisfied with the ambitions and intrigues of his superiors. Refers to the animosity between Superintendent [Sylvanus] Thayer and Secretary of War [John] Eaton. Thinks he was unfairly treated by some of his superiors because they are Jackson men and he is Clay's son.
Writes that he considers only two possible careers for himself: the law or the army. Likes the idea of being a professional soldier because it has job security, good pay, and a chance to study literature in Europe. He requested one or two year leave so he could go to Paris, or some other European city, to study literature. Assures his father that he is aware it would be difficult to earn a living as a man of letters, but he wants to study briefly. Is pleased with his promotion from adjutant to teacher. Asks for advice about what to do with his life after graduation. Closes with a plea for more letters from home.
Pleased his parents are going to winter in New Orleans and wishes he could go with them. Glad his father is making improvements to Ashland. Thought his father's suggestion that he tour the northern states after graduation before returning west to Kentucky is a sound idea since he is already in the area.
Distressed at the news regarding the problems his older brothers Thomas and Theodore are causing with their misbehavior. He is glad to hear his sister Anne might be moving closer to Ashland and to her family. The New York elections were a disappointment. Heard his father is making improvements to Ashland and offers some suggestions. Tells how much he likes his composition and eloquence course. Asks for letters of introduction for a trip to Washington. Still grappling with what to do with his life after graduation. He would consider remaining in the army if he could be General [Winfield] Scott's aide. He does not want to be a lawyer if he could not be a first rate one. Still desirous of going to Europe to study literature.
Informs his father that he will be graduating in about three months and is pleased with his performance. They will discuss future prospects when he gets to Kentucky and he will follow his father's advice about choosing a profession.
Acknowledges receiving the $300 dollars his father sent to him and has decided to return home with his father after graduation rather than touring. Still does not know whether to leave or remain in the military after graduation. When he feels depressed, and does not care if he lives his life in obscurity, he favors a military career. But when his ambition is fired and he thinks of attaining a status equal to his father's, he believes law the best career choice. Asks Clay to relieve him of the responsibility of choice and make the decision for him. Notes his fear that his father thinks too highly of his abilities and expects more of him than he could achieve.
H. Clay Jun. is written on the wrapper in Henry, Sr.'s hand with 1832 written by an unknown person.
Informs his father that he has completed his studies, passed his examinations, graduated second in his class and has been admitted to the Engineer Corps which pleases him very much as it is a high military honor. Attributes his good fortune to General [Winfield] Scott, friend to both Clays, who is president of the board responsible for such decisions. He will be stationed in New York and work on the fortifications in the bay and harbor. Thinks he will be home by July 10th, at which time he hopes to accompany his father to Washington. Will make several stops on the way home and plans to leave the following afternoon for New York City.
Finds it difficult to answer letters from home. Anne, his sister, has not arrived in New Orleans but is expected soon. Has accepted [Martin] Duralde's [his brother-in-law] invitation to live at the Duralde home as soon as it is completed. Likes New Orleans except for the climate which he says makes him ill. Observes that his letter will reach Clay in Washington at one of the most important times in the nation's history. [On December 12th, Clay was nominated as the presidential candidate of the National Republican Party.] He disagrees with his father regarding when he should stand for his examination before the Louisiana High Court. Has developed a reputation for industry and people might think him lazy if he takes to long. Thinks he will do well practicing law in New Orleans. Asks Clay for money.
Still living in a hotel and studying law under Judge Porter's tutelage, but expects to move in with the Duraldes shortly. Disappointed about his prospects at the New Orleans bar. He misjudged the market for lawyers in New Orleans and would not earn as much as quickly as he thought he could. Closes requesting news from Washington.
Informs his father that he has borrowed money from James Erwin [his brother-in-law] as instructed rather than cashing Clay's check. Relates general news about family and friends. Reminds his father that he said he could go to Europe. Wants to go in the spring if Clay can afford it. Judge Porter agrees that Henry, Jr. should wait before presenting himself to the Louisiana High Court for examination.
Acknowledges a copy of one of Clay's Congressional speeches. Again mentions going to Europe. Relates news of James Erwin's success in his business ventures. Makes a plea for money so he might make some investments with Mr. Erwin's help. Knows of his father's financial difficulties but thinks a small amount of money could be spared. Wants to invest in New Orleans city property which has brought high returns for Mr. Erwin and several of his friends.
Assures Clay that he will abide by his wishes and complete his legal studies before going to Europe. Details the reading he has been doing to prepare for the Bar. In addition to law, he must study history, learn Latin and Spanish, and models of oratory. Thinks he can finish his studies by May 1833 when he will go to Europe. Relates general news about the health of family members. Informs Clay that he accompanied Anne on her journey from New Orleans to Ashland. Since it was so late in the season he would not be able to return to New Orleans to continue his studies with Judge Porter. He is happy to be in Lexington and likes being in charge of the household.
Relates his activities at Ashland. He hurt his eyes while pruning the shrubs which prevents him from studying. Is pleased with the job of getting the house and grounds in order for his parents' return from Washington. Asks advice on whether to paint the house or cover it with stucco. Theodore and his attendant visited and his brother is looking well.
Acknowledges receipt of his father's letter and the $2,500 check to be given to Mr. Erwin to invest for Henry, Jr. which he will do when he returns to New Orleans. He is improving the grounds at Ashland and asks for advice on what kind of trees to plant.
Thomas has no corn to plant [in Missouri] and asks for a supply from home. He sent several sacks believing it would meet Clay's approval. Gives account of visit to Theodore at the hospital. The family sent him a horse which he has ridden. Includes general news about his improvements to the farm.
Reports that Anne and her newborn child [Mary] are well. Reports about the cost of painting the house versus putting stucco on it. Says stucco would cost more, but since it would last longer, would be less expensive in the long run. Mentions some outstanding debts owed by Clay and requests advice on how to pay them.
Relates that stucco would cost more than originally thought and decides that painting the house a light color will be best. Anne and her children are well. Theodore visited them at Ashland; he is doing well. Gives general news about the farm and Clay's finances. Expresses concern about returning to New Orleans and practicing law.
Outlines reasons he has decided to have the house painted. Keeping up his law studies, but not as instructed by Judge Porter. Decided to study common law instead of civil law. Reassures Clay that his presence at Ashland and his attention to improving the grounds does not signal a change of life plans. Notes that Mr. Erwin has arrived safely.
He will come to Washington as requested. Says he is considering marrying Julia Prather of Louisville. He has fixed the dining room and the crops are doing well, but a young colt died. Informs Clay of Dr. [Benjamin W.] Dudley's opinion regarding Theodore's condition; he is doing well as the asylum, but Theodore is deranged on two subjects: love and ambition, and probably will not get well. Since confinement seems the best choice, Theodore was returned to the asylum after a brief visit to Ashland. Thomas will be visiting soon from Clay's Prairie, Illinois. Thomas thinks he will be called to fight in the Black Hawk War.
He went to Louisville hoping to propose to Ms. P., but did not have the opportunity as her family was preparing to visit various Kentucky springs. Lack of rainfall is making the crops grow poorly.
Acknowledges receiving Clay's letter and says he has performed the requested errands. Contented now that he has married, he will practice law and seek business ventures. concluding remark:
Has just passed his bar examination before the Louisiana Supreme Court and will immediately begin practicing law. He did not need to go to Mobile and be examined for the Alabama courts after all. Julia will leave New Orleans for Louisville, but he will remain until early July. Little legal business gets conducted after July, so there is no reason for him not to join his wife in Louisville since another lawyer would take care of his clients.
They have received about $10,000 from Mrs. [Matilda] Prather, apparently as a result of a property settlement. Relates other business news regarding his speculations, warehouses and bank loans.
Presents Clay with a copy of the
Says he has been so sick that he was confined to bed for a few days. Relates business news, particularly financial matters. Thomas Hart cannot repay his lown from Clay until the end of May.
Don Manuel, a Spanish ass, is being shipped to James Haggerty in New York who will keep him until further instructions from Clay. Wishes the ass sold as soon as practical. their youngest daughter, Maltilda, is very ill but seems to be getting better. Bordeaux has a
French minister expresses appreciation for his visit to Ashland. Mrs. Clay is a good hostess. His return journey to France was agreeable. Writes about the political climate in France. Written in French.
Reports that he and his family made it safely to London after a difficult journey through continental Europe. A cholera epidemic prevented their going to Italy. Stopped in Ghent as a tribute to Clay to see the hotel where the treaty was signed. The French are unhappy with Jackson's message regarding the spoliation issue and are ready to go to war with the United States over it. Asks Clay about his chances of running for the presidency against Van Buren. The slavery issue weakens the credibility of Americans with the Europeans. Cannot return to the United States until after the winter storm season, but did not want to wait too long as Julia is expecting and the trip might be hazardous for her. Wants to know if the mules he sent to New York had arrived.
Interested in the offer of a diplomatic post at St. Petersburg, but notes he is willing to accept the Secretary of Legation only temporarily. [No record was found that the post was accepted].
Thanks Clay for his Lexington speech in which he criticized the president's abuse of his veto power. The speech served to unite Whigs more solidly than ever. Letter filled with general political news about the Whigs.
After reading the letter Cassius M. Clay sent to his father explains that C. M. Clay misunderstood him. The two had a discussion at Maysville about slavery. He wanted to find out C. M. Clay's views as an abolitionist and so engaged him in a conversation on the subject arguing that slavery could only be abolished in the state by the consent of the people of Kentucky. Slavery is a property issue with the welfare of the white race being the first consideration. He fears emancipation would lead to the extinction of the black race in the United States. C. M. Clay told him that if Clay, Sr. is elected, he would be the last slaveholding president. Henry, Jr. states that abolitionists will tear apart the union and if one is ever elected president it would signal the end of the nation. C. M. Clay misunderstood the younger Clay who claims he spoke only superficially of his position on the matter during the course of their conversation. Closes by reassuring his father that he thinks the abolitionists are wrong and that he is not in league with them.
It has been weeks since he had heard from him. [Thomas] Smith said an unfavorable report about his conduct in the military was being circulated in Kentucky. Henry, Jr. explains to Clay that the negative reports stem from complaints he made regarding the military leadership who were prosecuting the war in Mexico, and also about the way the war was being conducted from Washington. General news about the troops, especially the false alarms they keep receiving, which allege impending attacks by the Mexican army. He is glad that [Major General William O.] Butler has been replaced by [General Zachary] Taylor as he respects Taylor. Says Taylor is unhappy that President [James K. Polk] appointed [Major General Winfield] Scott as his replacement as commander of the forces in Mexico. His comrades sympathize with Taylor. Taylor thinks he lost command because of intrigue. Henry believes Taylor's actions are motivated, to some degree, by his political ambitions; Taylor is considering running for the presidency. Except for his father, Henry, Jr. says he could not think of any other man he would rather see occupy the office.
Waited to send the letter he wrote on February 12th to enclose them together because the mail has miscarried many of his other letters. He did not think the war was going well for the U.S. because military and government leaders were not prosecuting it wisely. There is an unconfirmed rumor that [General Antonio Lopez de] Santa Anna is marching toward them with a force of 20,000 men. He had to dispose of his injured horse and he does not like his new horse as well.
Expresses sympathy on the death of Henry Clay, Jr. and notes that among Henry Clay, Jr.'s last words was a
Expresses sympathy on the death of Henry Clay, Jr. and asks his
According to the The Papers of Henry Clay, vol. 10, p. 325, footnote 6, this letter enclosed a clipping purported to be from the
Cover letter for resolutions from members of the Louisville Bar and other officers of the Courts of Louisville.
Sends a breastpin and a locket made from Henry Clay, Jr.'s hair.
Sgt. Jameson, a soldier in whom Clay is interested, had been appointed color bearer of his regiment. Sends flowers for Mrs. Clay taken from the site where Henry, Jr. died.
Attached to the letter is a newspaper clipping of a poem written by the Reverend Mr. Jones and published in the
Includes her handwritten,
Requests a lock of Clay's hair in a poem.
The note relates to a horse and clothing. On verso:
Poem written in memory of Henry Clay, Jr.
Poem for Clay's April 12th birthday with initial letter of each line spelling out
Thanks his grandfather for the pony and the halter.
Resolution following Henry Clay's death in honor of his service and contributions to his county.
Clay answers Toulmin's letter requesting information about the trial of a man named Cox who was convicted of arson. Clay defended Cox before the examining court but not the trial court and, therefore, could not tell Toulmin what cases or authorities were cited or what testimony had been given against him. Clay did not defend Cox, because Cox could not pay the fee and, apparently, Clay thought the case unwinnable. He heard from several sources, including the late Daniel Weible whose house was destroyed by the fire that Cox was innocent of the crime for which he had been convicted; however, Weible died before he could take the steps necessary to free Cox and have the guilty party convicted. Notes that Cox was known as a man of bad character.
Informs Hart that Mr. Edwards will pay the money he owes by Christmas as promised. Mr. Dufour would like a sample of wine from the Kentucky Vineyard to take when he visits the President [Thomas Jefferson].
Encloses a check for John Hart. Members of Congress were waiting to hear from Europe before closing its session. He will let Mr. Hunt know about their loan as soon as he has some news.
Judge Todds [sic] requests the deed of trust given to him by General Hopkins. Clay has paid all filing fees for three suits: Hughes, Darby, and Taliaferro.
The Tariff bill has passed the Senate and is likely to do the same in the House of Representatives. Concerning the election, his friends are thinking of a New Yorker to be the vice presidential candidate.
Clay and his wife appreciate her letters.
Accepts an invitation to a country dinner in Bourbon County.
Clay received both Webster's letter and the enclosure. He will forward the enclosure [not with letter] to Washington, then to Boston. Clay feels confident the election results will be favorable. His health is improving slowly. He has just received a favorable rumor from Louisiana about the election which gives him even greater confidence.
Thank you note for the worsted socks she made for him. Even Mrs. Clay agrees they are the best pair of socks he ever had. Intelligence and industry are the two most appealing qualities a woman can have.
Clay is sending Durham and Devon cattle along with jackasses to Ashland. In addition, he has purchased a Durham bull and heifer descended from the blood line imported by Stephen Van Rensselaer. They will be sent out in the spring. Instructs Mr. Smith what to do with the calves when they reach the farm; he may have a half interest in them if he wishes.
Although Mrs. Clay is ill, he invites Miss Prather [probably Mrs. Henry Clay, Jr.'s sister], to be their guest, but their accommodations are not large enough to extend the invitation to Misses Oldham and Pope.
Thanks him for the speech he delivered at the Whig Festival on July 4, 1834. Hopes it will unite Pennsylvania Whigs against the present wicked and corrupt presidential administration. Louisiana has opened its campaign with much enthusiasm and Kentucky's is set to open next week. Important that the Whigs deliver a political blow to the Jacksonian Democrats in the fall elections. The injuries suffered in his recent [carriage] accident have now healed.
The land in Ohio was bought and surveyed by a family friend. the Bank brought suit against the family because the legal title to the land is being disputed by a man who owns adjoining property. He expects the dispute to be resolved equitably and does not think Colonel Morrison's estate liable for the troubles.
Appreciates the gift of a cane. Thinks that founding a mechanics institute, as Jackson is attempting, is a worthwhile cause. Mr. Fanconia [sic, Manuel Joachim De Franca] has finished the portrait commissioned by Jackson. Clay is pleased with the final result.
Clay sends memoranda and asks Sargent if he received the other items sent to him. Wishes him well on his work [Sargent was Clay's biographer].
Forwards a letter from Susan Cook who is Nourse's relative. She wants some advice from Clay, but she asks Nourse to address the problem.
Informs the young men of the Whig Party that the Whigs want a sound national currency, a revenue adequate to protect home industry, just restraints on executive power, especially as regards the veto, an equitable distribution of public lands with proceeds of the sales divided among all the states, an honest and economical administration that grants its citizenry freedom of thought and the right of suffrage but with some restraints to insure free, fair elections and an amendment limiting the presidency to one term. If they could achieve these goals, Clay believes that bad administrations could be eliminated.
Thanks Preston for informing him of the successful resolution of a suit he handled along with Henry Clay, Jr. and instructs him on how to divide the money from the settlement.
Letter of introduction for Col. John Brand and his son, William, who are planning a trip to Europe to restore William's health. They are personal friends of Clay's and he attests to their respectability.
Letter of introduction for Col. John Brand and his son, William, similar to the preceding one.
Glad Hoxie made it home safely and found things well there. Encloses a brief note [not found] to Mr. Meade about the desirability of feeding ground Indian corn with the crop to cattle and horses. If Hoxie wins his New York election, he will again have faith in our country. Letter written by son, John, and signed by Henry.
Writes that he would love to come visit the young ladies at the school but his feeble health prevents him from so doing.
Letters of introduction for Dr. E. Guenty attesting to Guenty's abilities as an instructor of classical studies.
Suit brought in Fayette County by Daniel Weible against Peter D. Robert. Suit charges that Robert owes Weible $200 for labor and materials. Clay served as Weible's attorney in the suit.
Receipt of payment to Henry Clay from John W. Stout paid in full on September 17, 1806, in the amount of 2L, 5s., and 6d.
For loan in the amount of $12,750 for the purchase of land in Lexington formerly owned by George Nicholas. Loan to be paid in full by February 15, 1812, half paid by Clay, the other half by Bibb
Fayette County land dispute involving the estate of William Elliott who died in 1792 and heirs John and Milly Henry et al. Donated by Ralph Kessinger.
See Indenture between Clay and Smith, February 15, 1807.
Smith will give Clay twelve cents on the dollar for the remainder of what he owes in exchange for some yams which Smith will sell.
Written by hand:
Manuscript is mostly in the hand of John Morrison Clay, Henry Clay's youngest son who accompanied him on the speaking tour.
Speaker Reverend Robert J. Breckinridge, Published by the Clay Monument Association.
Includes
Hart family Bible. Includes
Inscription: Henry Clay with the sincere respects of the translator. See the Reverend Mr. Dickinson's letter of November 12, 1833 in Box 1, Folder 4,
On flyleaf:
Inscribed on verso:
He has moved into the barracks and has been given an office. He is now a sergeant and his duties are to attend a few parades and do some writing in the adjutant's office. He received several letters from Thomas [his brother].
Had a distressing night and did not get any sleep because of Henry, Jr.'s letter informing him of Julia's death. Clay notes that Julia's death will mean additional burdens and responsibilities for Lucretia, but thinks the Prather family will help. He did not want to go to Richmond [Va.] but would do so anyway thinking the journey might be a distraction from his grief. James sent a letter from Natchez in which he infers that he is involved in a love affair.
Glad to hear his son is contented at West Point. Thinks he will benefit greatly by graduating from the academy. It will afford more opportunities in seeking a profession than if he went to another school. Clay does not want him going to Europe with Mr. Holley but promises him a trip to France after he completes his studies at West Point. Tells him that all his fatherly hopes rest on him as Theodore and Thomas will not live up to their potential. Clay will return to Kentucky soon, but [Lucretia] will remain in Washington.
Happy to hear reports of his son's good work at West Point. Henry Clay Hart arrived from Norfolk [Va]. Clay and Hart are preparing to sail for the Mediterranean. Mr. Erwin, father of James Erwin, who married Anne Brown Clay, is with them. If he needs any money, just ask for it and keep up the good work at school.
Hears more good news of his son's progress at West Point and it makes him very happy. It will not be too late to study law after West Point. He will be at the perfect age to undertake the task. Clay has not heard from Thomas for a long time and admits he is afraid to hear from him. Last he heard Thomas had left Arkansas for parts unknown.
Although he has not seen him since infancy, he is proud of him. Thinks West Point is a fine place for a young man and is glad he is doing well in his studies. Implores Henry, Jr. to stay as it will prove most beneficial in the future. Says it could be detrimental to his career opportunities to quit before finishing.
Has just returned from his trip to the West [Kentucky] and his health is much improved. Keeps hearing how well his son is doing in school and the news makes him happy. Mr. [Alva] Woods has been installed as the president of Transylvania and the college has reopened. All at home are well.
Sorry to hear that Richard's [Shelby] prospects for remaining at West Point are not good. Clay will pass on the letter to Richard's father so that he can decide what to do. Clay concedes Jackson's election to the presidency.
Offers suggestions for Henry, Jr.'s upcoming two month encampment. Suggests the route he should take home to Ashland. Reassures Henry, Jr. that he does not have a low opinion of him, but a very favorable one. By remaining at West Point until his studies are completed, he will be at the prime age to study law, if that is what he wishes to do. Clay will secure a furlough for him once he completes his four years at West Point so he can study law to see if he likes it. If he wishes to continue with the law, he can resign his commission; if not, he can pursue a military career.
Glad to hear Henry, Jr. is reassured about his standing in his father's eyes. Reiterates his belief that any young man who applies himself as faithfully and diligently as Henry, Jr. has will succeed in any profession he chooses to follow. Henry, Jr. will be twenty years old when he completes his course at West Point and that is the best age at which to begin a study of the law. Will give him some money for the trip to Kentucky. He wrote to Richard [Shelby] and hopes that the young man will get another chance to continue his course at school.
he is pleased with his son's class standing after the recent examination and a third in mathematics is acceptable. It is an honorable ranking and he should not complain of it. Richard Shelby arrived in Washington. Clay does not know whether he can get him reappointed to the academy. Clay has been confined to the house for nearly a week with a cold. Mrs. Clay has a cold, too.
Did not mean to tell his son in his last letter that no injustice had been done to him by his math teacher, only that he should guard against anyone trying to manipulate his feelings. Clay and family will return to Ashland in early March and he will think about whether to continue in public life. Richard [Shelby] has left Washington for West Point with the assurance of reappointment. Clay's health is not good.
Arrived home in late March and found the house and grounds in need of work, but it will be in order by the time Henry, Jr. arrives for his visit. Pleased to hear of his son's choice of a law career after West Point. To gain eminence at the bar one has to work incessantly. Clay admits he did not study as much as he should, but relied on
Henry, Jr. is becoming more satisfied with West Point and his father hopes he will decide to remain there for the rest of his courses.
Grandfather [Henry] Watkins [Clay's step-father] has died and his wife [Elizabeth] is quite feeble. Thomas left with Mr. Kerr for Illinois to sell some land owned by Clay near Terre Haute [Ind.] Confesses he has little faith in Thomas's stability. Thinks Henry, Jr.'s suggestion of being an engineer is a good one, especially since he only wants to do it temporarily. Clay continues to advocate a career in law.
Grandmother [Watkins, Clay's mother] and Uncle John [Clay] have died. Clay leaves for New Orleans soon for his health. He delivered an address to the Kentucky colonization Society and will send a copy as soon as it is printed.
Assures Henry, Jr. that the family is thinking of him. Agrees that the country needs an American institute [a national institute of higher learning], but disagrees that West Point is the best place for it. Thinks a large city would be better. Uncle [James] Brown could tell him about the national institute in France. [Brown was appointed by President Monroe as U.S. Minister to France].
Response to request for information regarding France's national institute. Does not know much about it but will inquire and get back to him. Brown discusses feelings of sorrow over the recent deaths of his step-father, sister, and brother. Is pleased to receive reports of Henry, Jr.'s success at West Point.
Has just returned from New Orleans where Henry, Jr.'s success at West Point was frequently mentioned. Mrs. Clay is happy and feeling well. Mr. Martin, the new overseer, is working out well. The farm looks good. Glad to hear he will give the 4th of July oration. Thinks the subject of a national institute of learning a good topic but cautions him to be more concerned with the ideas and arguments he wishes to express than with style. Advises him not to allow anyone to publish his address until he is more mature.
Anxious to know how his examinations will go. Relates general family news. A young Danville man, [Cary] Fry, is on his way to West Point. Asks his son to
His father will abide by his agreement that if after the third year his son wishes to leave West Point, Clay will not make him stay the final year. The decision is up to him. Sends a check for $100. Clay will be in Columbus, Ohio in July.
Glad to hear that the address delivered by Henry, Jr. was well received. Relates news about family members.
Pleased to hear Henry, Jr. will complete his final year at West Point and urges him to be content with that decision. Advises him not to be too quick to decide that the authorities at the school are prejudiced against him and have treated him unfairly. If he truly has been treated unjustly, he should rise above it.
Apologizes for writing so infrequently. Reports that Thomas and Theodore are at Ashland, and he is very unhappy with both of them because of their behavior. Relates news about other family members. He is glad to hear of Henry, Jr.'s promotions at the academy and praises him for his accomplishments. Aunt [Ann Hart] Brown has died. discusses several improvements at Ashland including
The Erwins are preparing to return to New Orleans and the older Clays have decided to join them for the winter. Relates other general news. Has purchased 111 acres of adjoining land from the McNair estate.
Anne [Brown Clay Erwin] returned with them from New Orleans to her new home near Ashland. Time is nearing when Henry, Jr. will graduate. Advises him to accept his commission and then request a furlough. Relates general news about family members.
Sends Henry, Jr. a check for $300. Will discuss his future when he returns home.
Order No. 32 listing of 1831 cadet class, including Henry Clay, Jr.
Pleased with the decisions they made while at home. Glad Henry, Jr. decided to go to New Orleans to study law. Advises him to engage in serious study and research for that is how he will attain eminence at the Bar.
Ann [daughter] has written to him about Mr. [Martin] Duralde's offer to allow Henry, Jr. to reside at the Duralde home while he studies law.
Undecided about resigning from the Senate. [In December, 1831, Clay was nominated for President by the National Republican Convention.] He is feeling despondent. Lengthy discussion of legal ramifications when Henry, Jr. marries. [Henry, Jr., married Julia Prather, October 10, 1832.] As for the country's political situation, Clay thinks the Union will survive whatever course Congress takes.
Happy to hear from Judge Porter that Henry, Jr. is so diligent in pursuing his legal studies. Refers to a recent speech in the Senate and is preparing yet another one to deliver. Since he is putting all his intellectual energies into these labors, he has none left for other pursuits. Both his parents have colds.
Has neglected correspondence to tend to pressing political matters. Received Henry, Jr.'s letter inquiring about a trip to Europe and thinks the trip should wait until after he passes the bar, but before he begins to practice law. If his son decides differently, Clay will abide by the decision. Uncle Brown is visiting the family and is well.
Clay received Henry, Jr.'s letter requesting money to speculate in New Orleans city property. Clay says he will give Henry, Jr. $2,500 if he will postpone his trip to Europe as Clay cannot afford both.
Happy to hear his son is content and to hear from Judge Porter that Henry, Jr. is progressing well in his studies. Approves of the improvements of the grounds at Ashland. Gives general instructions on how to proceed. Tells him to visit his grandmother and Aunt Price, and to go to see Theodore.
Gives more instructions on how to proceed with the improvements at Ashland, including what to do about the house.
Additional suggestions about how to improve the house. Sad to hear that Theodore is not improving, but fears he will never be well again. General news about farm and family. Does not know when Congress will adjourn and cannot say how the issues before it will be resolved.
More ideas about the house at Ashland. Tells him to take care of financial matters for him. Clay's health is not good and he wants to get home but does not know when he'll be able to leave Washington.
Thanks Henry, Jr. for sending the seed corn so promptly. He is busy planting a variety of crops. [Thomas lives on Clay's Prairie, a farm owned by Clay in Illinois near Terre Haute.] The region is in a state of alarm because of the Indian Attacks [Black Hawk War]. Some men have volunteered to fight the Indians. He will do so at the second call to arms. He will be in Lexington soon.
Agrees that painting the house is best. Does not think they will get away from Washington for awhile. If Henry, Jr. wishes, he can visit them. Congress has taken up the bank question and he does not know how long it will take to complete the legislation. Once that issue is settled, they still have to deal with issues of the tariff and public lands.
Presumes that Henry, Jr.'s affair [with Julia Prather] has only been postponed until the weather is less oppressive. From the news Clay has received he believes that Jackson's defeat is certain. If the dog's lameness is cured, he will bring Mr. Caldwell's gift of a little pointer dog to Henry, Jr.
Has to go to Washington this winter, but does not want to leave Kentucky. Agrees that the movement against nullification occurring in Louisville is being directed from Washington. He will be leaving soon and as is his custom has left a will with his wife who will remain at Ashland. He made Henry, Jr. one of the executors.
Accompanied James from Ashland to Philadelphia where they parted. James went on to Boston and Clay will return to Washington. The political situation seems to be approaching a crisis stage but he thinks South Carolina will not implement its Ordinance until the tariff issue is decided. Since Jackson is against this issue, it will be a difficult battle.
Certificate declaring that Henry Clay, Jr. has been successfully examined on the
She is not sure where to reach her husband and wants to know where he is and when he will come home. Hopes he can purchase the land near Ashland as he desires. She is sorry circumstances prevented them from living at Ashland during Clay's absence as he invited them to do. Her condition makes it
Gives his son permission to use his name to secure a loan. Cholera has struck Lexington and killed about 50 people. People are fleeing town to avoid the disease. No one in the Clay family has yet been struck. Two or three slaves may be ill with it but none have died yet. Notes various people known to the family who have died of cholera.
Glad to hear he got home safely. Lexington is almost free of cholera. Afraid the pestilence might hit Louisville, but hopes Henry, Jr. and Julia will be safe from it.
Good that Louisville has not been struck with the cholera epidemic. Time to mow the fields. If Henry, Jr. has no stock to put to the woods to eat the grass there, Clay will provide the stock.
Hay cut, stacked and under cover. Although the price is high recommends that Henry, Jr. buy Billy and his family because Billy is too trustworthy a slave to lose.
Congratulates Henry, Jr. and Julia on the birth of their first child [Henry Hart]. Especially proud that it is a boy and is anxious to see and hold him. Would be glad to have the child named for him. The fruit trees are ready for harvesting.
Admonishes her husband for not writing home more often. Received his letter indicating he is going to Chicago. She is anxious to see him and regrets she did not go with him. Henry [their son] is doing well. He can expect to find several letters waiting at St. Louis when he returns there. Asks him to come home as soon as possible.
Trip to the East went well. Congratulates him that his public talk [at Transylvania University] was so well received.
Happy to hear that his son is so contented with his life. Clay was welcomed back to Washington with celebrations and has been showered with gifts and accolades. Thinks Henry, Jr.'s idea to raise sheep is a good one but cautions him to build a secure pound to protect them from dogs. Did not like the idea at first but having looked into the market for wool, Clay now thinks it is a good idea.
The Jacksonians have control of the House of Representatives. Things are better in the Senate. Theodore's letter indicates that his condition has worsened. Thomas is not writing which suggests he may have lapsed into his old habits. Asks Henry, Jr. to tend to his livestock.
Has been a long time since he received a letter from Henry, Jr. Wishes to be kept abreast of things at Ashland. Sends a check for $1,000 to take care of the farm's finances.
Thanks Henry, Jr. for taking care of things for him. Regarding the deposit question, Clay fears it will fail in the House; however, popular opinion might cause those who are wavering to support it.
Instructs Henry, Jr. to sell Warrior, a donkey, to Mr. Hockaday. The deposit question is still undecided. Popular support has caught the attention of members of the House, but it still may not be enough,
Thanks Henry, Jr. for attending to his financial matters for him and gives him additional instructions. Deposit question still undecided. Mrs. Clay is having stomach problems.
Thanks Henry, Jr. for taking care of his financial affairs. James [Brown Clay] is in Washington and has expressed a wish to leave the mercantile business and continue his education. Clay has reluctantly agreed. Mother's [Lucretia] health is very poor; she has been reduced to a skeleton. Deposit question still not settled, but it is clear that a majority of the House supports it.
Did not respond sooner to Henry, Jr.'s letter because of illness. He supports a convention to draw together the party, an opinion shared by others. The best way to begin might be locally and let the idea catch on through the state, then expand. Agrees that Lexington is the best place for a statewide convention.
Discusses his finances. Left his wife at the Springs [near Warrenton, Virginia, known as Fauquier White Sulphur or Lee's Sulphur Springs] with James who writes that her strength is increasing and they will return to Washington soon. Is concerned about the loss of the Saxon sheep.
[Marquis de Lafayette died May 20th] Signed by Charlton Hunt and other members of the council.
Found his colleagues despondent over the state of public affairs. The more immediate issue is President [Jackson's] stance on French affairs [spoliation controversy about U.S. claims against France during the Napoleonic Wars] Caution is needed, if the President is to avoid war with France.
Received word of the birth of a daughter [Matilda] to Henry, Jr. and Julia. discusses financial matters. Closes admitting that he is
General family news. Land prices are high and continuing to rise but fears that it will not last. Sold some cattle and made a nice profit. Includes a rate of exchange note. Sent in care of Baring Brothers, London. [Henry Clay, Jr. and his family were traveling in Europe].
Two of the three Poitou asses Henry, Jr. purchased in Europe and shipped home died en route to New York while the fate of the third is uncertain. Perhaps they were neglected. Fears insurance will not cover the losses. Harriet, one of Henry, Jr.'s slaves, lost her child. The hemp crop is good and bringing in nice profits. Congress will not adjourn until June and nothing of consequence has been accomplished.
John [Morrison Clay] is very ill with high fever and headache.
Received the letter and check and disposed of them as requested. Sorry to hear Blossom, a cow, is not with calf. Suggests sending the cows to Ashland and Clay will put them to his bull, Lord Althorp.
Reassures Henry, Jr. that he was right not to have placed himself under obligation to others by having them endorse a loan. Clay will always do that for his son. Sorry to hear the Shephard cow dropped a dead calf. Wants to know if the Hector cow has recovered from her lameness. The House post office burned down and there are rumors of arson but so far they are not substantiated. Clay feels less interest than ever in public affairs. If he were not restrained by a sense of duty, he would return home for
Regrets that Henry, Jr. has not heard about the mare he sent to New Orleans. They were detained by ice on the river, but made it safely to port. No news about the asses they shipped. Discusses the pros and cons of Manilla hemp versus Rupia hemp. The fall of the price of Kentucky hemp is related to a decline in the price of the items made from hemp. The high price of bagging led manufacturers to find new and cheaper materials and that further reduced the price of hemp.
Thinks the asses have by now reached New Orleans. Will hurry home as soon as Congress adjourns. Thinks Van Buren will retain Jackson's secretaries. Rumors that War Department has been offered to Poinsett of South Carolina. But these matters are of little interest to Clay. Prays for Julia to have a
The message [by Van Buren to a special session of Congress] disappointed everyone. Congress is aligned with the president so the country can expect no relief from the conservatives. They will get twelve cents for their bale rope. Going to Princeton with John [Morrison Clay]. [In November of 1837 John entered Princeton as a sophomore].
Expects to hear soon from Mr. Beasley indicating the asses shipped from Havre have arrived in New Orleans. The sorrow he has recently felt regarding the country's political situation has worsened since the Expunging Resolution. [Relates to Clay's censure of Jackson for removal of the deposits]. The Jacksonians have perpetuated other acts of degradation to the country as well. The only good news is that there is a schism in the party over the issue of hard money and bank notes.
Anxious to receive a letter from him. Children are well and mother is recovering.
Writing this letter while listening to a
Response to Henry Jr.'s inquiry about the governance, especially the organization and the powers of the Board of Trustees as well as funding of Yale College in New Haven, Connecticut. Also addressed to M. C. Johnson.
Response to Henry, Jr.'s inquiry about the governance, especially the organization and powers of the Board of Trustees as well as the funding of Columbia College in New York.
Unhappy with the choice of Mr. [Robert N.] Wickliffe as the Senator from Fayette. But if he becomes the candidate, Clay hopes party supporters will rally around him since the election of a Loco Foco would be too great a triumph for the opponents.
Some Southern States and New York have pledged to him their support for his presidential candidacy. The New England states are trying to discredit him because he is a slaveholder. Mr. Webster wants to run General Harrison. The antimasonic forces pose no threat. Thinks James T. Morehead could be substituted for [Robert N.] Wickliffe as part of Kentucky's delegation to the Whig's national convention. Only divisiveness in the party will prevent a Whig victory in the upcoming election.
Accepts the decision of the Whig convention delegates [they nominated General Harrison as its presidential candidate]. Hopes Henry, Jr. and other Clay supporters will do the same. To win, the Whigs need a united front. Does not know what the platform will be. The House will elect a speaker soon, probably an administration supporter.
Letter of condolence on the occasion of the death of Julia, Henry, Jr.'s wife.
Letter of condolence on the occasion of the death of Julia, Henry, Jr.'s wife. along with sympathy for his great loss, his father reminds him of his responsibility towards his motherless children.
[Since he ends the letter with
Will vote for the new bank bill, but thinks President [John Tyler] will veto it if it passes the Senate.
Has been ill and confined to his quarters because of a swollen lip and nose. Tyler's currency plan, as proposed, does not have a chance of passing since both parties oppose it. The Treasury is empty. Both parties dislike Tyler and his administration.
Cover letter for a confidential enclosure [not with the letter] and asks Henry, Jr. to check at the bank to see if a deposit has been made in his name.
John left Ashland this morning with Henry, Jr.'s horse. He should be in Louisville by this afternoon. Frankfort is quite lively because of the nearby military encampment.
The Northern bank agreed to discount the note on the condition that it be subject to calls if it is necessary. The settlement was made with the understanding that the note would be paid in one year.
Appears to be asking for an endorsement by Clay of the Whig candidates running for office in Carroll County, Kentucky.
Reassures Henry, Jr. that the provisions he has made for his children are satisfactory. If Henry, Jr. goes to New Orleans, Clay suggests that the situation concerning real estate and the Dubreuil heirs [i.e. Dubreuil Villars's heirs] should be investigated. Disappointed the appellate court ruled against their exception on the grounds the United States cannot be sued, but hopes that the decision will not be upheld. The Louisiana Supreme Court will hear the appeal this spring. He would be pleased if his son ran for Congress from the Louisville District. His friends are helping with their debt. John is showing signs of mental problems and Martin Duralde [III, a grandson] is seriously ill.
Happy to say his friends came to his relief in the amount of $24,750 toward his bank debt. John is growing more deranged and he may have to be hospitalized. All others are well except for Martin Duralde who is still very ill.
Relates the circumstances surrounding John's hospitalization.
Discusses his debt to the Northern Bank of Kentucky. Afraid John's case is hopeless. Seems more deranged than his brother [Theodore] was when they were compelled to confine him. Sent a servant to the hospital to tend to his two sons. He is very distressed about the situation. Clay is not surprised to hear that Henry, Jr. is unhappy with living at a tavern and being unemployed. Suggests that if Henry, Jr. does not go to Congress, he come to live at Ashland. If he finds some business that suits him, Clay will help him with it.
Received the check for Henry, Jr.'s part of the [John J.] Astor debt. Is pleased with his son's letter about the representative from his district printed in the [Louisville?]
Mr. Astor agrees to postpone the loan for another two years provided there would be no more extensions. Clay brought John home from the hospital and so far has had no problems. He is renovating parts of the house. The French minister was unable to locate the order for the occupation of Claude Villars's plantation, but found a January 1760, order for the fortification of New Orleans.
Received his son's letter with the two discounted notes. Thinks he should make a partial payment to the bank as soon as the note matures. This would reassure the bank officials. He has paid $11 toward the discount and the rest of the account amounted to $1.40. He will advance the discount when due from the other bank. All are well at home except for himself.
Received the letter transmitting the discount of the bank notes. His health is not entirely restored and mother is ill, too. Although it is unpleasant, he is sitting daily for his portrait by Mr. [George] Healy who is a talented artist.
He has engaged Mr. [Richard] Wilde in the Dubreuil [Villars's] case. The Lousiana Supreme Court decided the issue of jurisdiction in their favor. Asks him to write to Judge [Thomas] Bishop to prepare for the trial. It is important they acquire the right for the [Gilbert de] St. Maxent's heirs but they are poor. Hopes to get the Dubreuil [Villars's] heirs to give them some money. Wishes they could get rid of [attorney Samuel] Judah who has done nothing on the case. The French minister at Washington has written for a copy of the fortification order.
Was happy to see in the last letter that his son is in better spirits. Think the contract with Mr. Sutton a good one, if he gets the price stipulated. Hopes the prices will rise in the fall. He will be happy to continue to endorse for him. He will be glad to see his son and grandchildren. If the rest of the family cannot visit, hopes that Henry [Hart/Henry III] may come.
Henry [Hart/Henry III] has been with them for one week and is behaving well. Asks if he may stay another week. All are well. The William Claiborne family is staying with them and they would be glad to have their son come and occupy the only spare room left in the house.
Discusses financial concerns. Instructs Henry, Jr. to remind Mr. [Thomas] Smith that Clay is sending a barrel of bourbon to forward to Dr. H[enry] S. Levert of Mobile.
Clay took care of business at the bank. The guests have left and they would be glad if Henry, Jr. and his children came for a visit. Plans to winter in New Orleans. He can take care of the Dubreuil [Villars's] heirs case while there. All are well at home.
Letter of introduction for Mr. [Schureman?], a musician who intends to visit Louisville.
Grants a commission of Colonel of the 2d Regiment of Kentucky Volunteer Infantry.
Offers to write about modes of farming in England. Relates to Scotch beef cattle, particularly, the improved shorthorn Durham. There are two kinds: Argyles and Galloways. They are taken from Scotland to England for grazing. They are usually black, have thick hides, and strong constitutions, which enable them to withstand cold weather. When fattened the Argyles weigh from five to seven hundred pounds, the Galloways a bit more. This makes them highly prized and profitable on the Smithfield market in London. He closes wondering what might result if the Scottish Durham were crossed with the Green River cattle commonly grazed in Kentucky. Signs the letter
Acknowledges receiving a letter and thanks its sender for considering him as a Whig candidate for the Louisville district. Agrees the Whigs are the only party that can rightly govern and the recent defeat in the last election is not good news for the country. While he is both flattered and surprised they would consider him to run for Congress, believes that [James M.] Bullock of Shelby County would be a better choice. If officially nominated he would be duty-bound to accept, but he also thought it wrong to seek the post. He will support the party no matter who is chosen to be the candidate
Discusses four topics: retaliatory measures, discriminating duties, free trade, and moderate protective duties.
Miscellaneous notes and reactions to this 1840 work published in Edinburgh. Notes are in Henry Clay, Jr.'s writing.
When Clay began this journal, he was still at West Point, graduating, July 1, 1831. Entry for September 3, 1831, includes a graphic description of the death of Lexington's Colonel Allen and Dr. McNair at the hands of Indians. In June of 1832, he was in Washington where he attended sessions of the House and Senate to hear discussions relating to the U.S. Bank, the modifications of the tariff and the public land bill which his father introduced. Includes a July entry from Chester [England] where the family was traveling in 1835. The February 20, 1840, entry is a lament for his wife, Julia, who died several days after the birth of their son Thomas [called Julian]. No entries dated 1834, 1836-1838, and 1841. A few pages appear to be missing.
Ashland, November 27, 1840, the first entry begins
Was preparing to respond to Julia's letter when Henry, Jr. arrived and informed them that she was in Louisville. Hopes after visiting her relatives, she will come to Ashland. Henry, Jr. proposes to buy a farm near Ashland and her father-in-law is pleased about their moving in the neighborhood. Had hoped to take her and the Erwins on a summer excursion up east, but has learned that she is not in a traveling condition. Fears Anne might also be expecting and will not be able to go. His health was not good when Congress adjourned, but he has greatly improved since returning home. Asks her to write to Anne at New Orleans to tell her that her sons, who are visiting Ashland, are fine.
Glad Julia left Lexington since a cholera epidemic has broken out.
She can expect Henry [her husband] soon. No one at Ashland or the Woodlands fell ill with the cholera. It has abated considerably in Lexington but is presently ravaging the towns of Lancaster and Paris. Fears Louisville will not escape. If possible, he wishes that they would come to Ashland. Invites her to bring her mother and any other family members who will come.
Pleased to know that they are interested in making improvements at Maplewood since it is one of his favorite places and the changes should make it one of the finest residences around Lexington. Glad to hear that her mother [Matilda Fontaine Prather] is with her. James is unhappy with his mercantile pursuits and wants to return home to complete his education. Sending them some potatoes which he received as a gift from a friend in New Jersey. Mrs. Clay's health is feeble but improving.
He and John met Henry [her husband] at the railroad depot. Sorry Julia was not also there. Was saddened by news of her misfortune at sea, but is relieved that she should recover. John wanted to accompany Henry, Jr. to New York to meet her but has fallen ill and will not be able to make the trip.
Hopes Julia's visit to the doctor has helped. Ep [sister-in-law] had another baby girl and both are doing well; her father was hoping for a boy. Ep is thinking of naming her Emma. Ma sent Julia a basket of peaches and wants to know if she got them. Asks if Henry is selling his stock. Says they should all come down to the races. Asks if Miss Nannie [Anne Clay, daughter of Julia and Henry] misses her aunt Kate. Postscript from Julia's mother says she misses her and wishes to see her as soon as possible.
First part is Kate's reply to Julia's letter. Miss Williams promised to have Julia's black silk dress ready by next Wednesday. As soon as it is done she will send it along with some velvet. She thinks Judge Wilkinson is not to blame for the
Apologizes for not writing sooner. She has had so much company lately there was no time for letter writing. Relates news of the Lexington social scene. Several prominent members of the community died. James loves the Missouri country and Clay is thinking of buying him some land near St. Louis. She hears that Kate [Prather] is marrying Alex Bullitt. Having problems with the hired help. Papa [Henry Clay] has just returned from a spa and is looking and feeling well, but Mama is not so well.
The family [husband, Henry, Jr., and their two children, Henry Hart and Matilda] are sailing tomorrow for Liverpool. The trip to New York was agreeable and she hopes the voyage on board the Columbus will be as pleasant. The children will feel better when they have some fresh air which they cannot get in the city. After writing to her mother, Julia adds a postscript to her sister Kate. They have a packet of letters of introduction, including one from Miss [Harriet] Martineau, who is visiting at Ashland, to some of the most prominent literary writers in England. They also have letters from Washington Irving. Enjoyed visit to Grant Thorburn's nursery. [Thorburn was a Scottish born seed cultivator.] Will write to William [Prather, her brother] when they arrive in Liverpool.
Daughter Matilda died on September 22, 1835, after suffering for several days. Matilda had a
Apologizes for not writing sooner but has been very busy tending to her baby [Anne]. They just returned from the funeral of John Hart who was struck by lightning as he returned from town. Mr. Clay has returned from Washington and is looking well. Looks forward to their visit.
Anne apologizes for not having written sooner but she did not have a good pen. She is taking music lessons and learning French. Father does not want to go to New Orleans. He ate too many oysters the other night and got sick. She wants to know about Nannette Marshall and says she misses her grandma. Everyone has a bad cold. Love to all at Ashland. Thomas [note probably written by his father] writes that he misses his brother and hopes that his grandparents will visit soon so he can read to them and Anne can play music for them. Hopes he will be out of the first reader soon. Henry, Jr. closes the letter noting his anticipation at seeing his son at Christmas.
Arrived safely in New Orleans. Grandpa [Clay] is there with him and is well, but has almost given up trying to get to Cuba since no steamer is running there. He does not know when he will be able to return home. Asks his children to write to him and to behave themselves in his absence.
Acknowledges receiving his son's letter, but admonishes him for not writing more often. Writing as a good habit to develop. Has been detained longer than he wished but hopes to return to Kentucky soon. The variable Louisiana weather may have contributed to Grandpa [Clay's] cold. He received a letter from Anne and she and Tommy are doing well in Louisville. Hopes everything is fine at Ashland.
He has returned home to Louisville. Nannie [Anne] and Tommy were looking fine. He received a report from Mr. Lynch regarding Henry's lessons and conduct. It is not as good as he hoped, but indicates he can do better. Has some pressing business to attend to in Louisville and will get to Ashland as soon as he can. The Smiths [probably Thomas and Nannette Price] will leave in the morning to reside at Mr. Worsley's. Anne and Thomas will go with them. Tell John his slave Pat has not succeeded at any of the places to which he has been hired. Probably best to sell him since, according to Mrs. Smith, he seems to be
Anne and Thomas should be in Lexington by the time he gets this letter. Spent last evening with grandma [Prather] who misses the little ones very much. Hopes to visit his children soon.
She has been wishing for August to arrive so she could see him. Uncle Smith thinks she is a good housekeeper and bought her a pair of birds, but one died and the other got away. Tommy got a pair of squirrels and one died. Grandma Prather was not feeling well the last time she saw her. Grandma wants him to write her.
He has been busy with the regimental affairs. Asks his son to write before he leaves [to fight in the Mexican War]. His outfit will compose part of the central column of the army. Wants his Monarch horse. He will take John with him. He will write again before he leaves.
Prepares to leave for Texas. He will go to Matamoros [Mexico] where his regiment will be under the command of General Taylor. Letters should be directed to [Port] Isabel. H. H. is to live with his uncle James in Lexington.
He is an aide to General Taylor whom he likes and is billetted next to him. Describes landscape and climate. It is difficult to write as he has not regained the full use of his right arm. He can ride but cannot use a sword. Tell James that if he reads his remarks on the battle in the newspapers he has slightly changed his opinion. The army erred, but the bad reconnaissance could not be avoided. Offers his views of the Mexican people. He is anxious for the next battle. The Mexican army has good soldiers but lacks good officers. As for the U.S. army, there is a lack of loyalty to superiors; underlings should obey their superiors. General Marshall [possibly Col. Humphrey Marshall who commanded the 1st Kentucky Cavalry] is a political partisan who doesn't like him, but duty requires him to obey the General's orders unless they are morally wrong.
The lack of mail must be due to poor mail service, not lack of writing letters. The malicious things being said about him in the Kentucky newspapers are slanders being perpetrated by his political enemies. When he returned to his regiment, Col. [William R.] McKee was ill and he took command. The troops are on their way to Saltillo where they expect to confront the Mexican army. Their Christmas presents will have to wait until he returns, but he does send a Mexican coin for Tommy. John is still safe, but several of his black companions have been killed. Includes Jan. 14th postscript: No opportunity to mail letter, but friend will be going to Brazos and will mail his letter. Remarks,
He has not responded to letters from family and friends because he has not yet received any letters. Glad his son spent Christmas in Louisville. Instructs Henry to find happiness in the discharge of duties and in proper restraint. Things were hectic around the camp until General Taylor arrived. Santa Anna withdrew his troops from the area. The U.S. force at Saltillo is about 5,000 men. Taylor is unhappy with the army's movement, with the government and General Scott. John and he are both well. He had to sell his injured Monarch horse and is riding a Mexican horse he likes very much. Saltillo is allegedly the site of a bloody Mexican Revolution battle. Maj. [John P.] Gaines and Capt. [William J.] Heady along with their men were captured. Received Uncle James's letter and leaves the matter discussed therein to be settled by him and William Prather. Wants out of the affair without any more loss. Wants Uncle James to breed his mares. He does not wish to have his colts raced unless they have a good chance of winning. He has not received word from Uncle Thomas.
They have lost their dear father and are now orphans. Uncle Smith wrote Uncle James asking to let him, H. H., come to Louisville because she wants to see him. Hopes she never has to leave Cousin Nannette and Uncle Smith. glad to hear that Grandma and Grandpa are doing well. She has not seen Grandma Prather since learning of their father's death, but Aunt Mary and Aunt Eppy have been by.
Grandmother Prather sends him a watch that belonged to his mother. He should remember that though he has lost his parents he still has a great many friends and relatives who love him and will try to see to his happiness. Sends her love to Nannie and Tommy. Their father made a wise choice in making Cousin Nannette his children's guardian. She hopes their grandfather will let them come often to visit.
Made and sent a bookmark. Mother and Grandmother send their love. Nannie and Tommy are well. She is going to school at Miss Williams' and is learning very fast. Julia is going to make him a bookmark. The flowers are beautiful and it is very hot. Postscript from cousin M. Nicholas says that Grandma [Prather] has something for him that belonged to his father and she will give it to him when he comes to visit. Hopes his Grandpa [Clay] will let him spend his vacation with them this summer.
Apologizes for writing short letters, but thinks he might as well try to jump over the moon as to write a long letter. He cannot do it but will attempt to reach the bottom of the page. Grandma [Prather] returned from the Springs and is better. Only news is the Governor's [William Owsley] call for two more regiments of infantry. Flags are flying all over the city. The doctor is in Springfield tending to his sick sister. Bill [a slave] sends his respects. Priss adds a postscript. She is amazed that Worden wrote a letter of two pages. It has been a long time since she has seen Henry but thinks of him and his siblings often. She is spending a few days with Aunt Mary. It is the first visit she has had since returning from Baltimore. Worden went with them to the Springs. He complained of the amount of money he spent on girls while there. Hopes to visit Louisville soon.
Received Henry's letter telling of his desire to learn music at the Franklin Institute [a military academy near Frankfort]. Pleased to grant his grandson's request and will obtain a master to teach him whatever instrument he wishes to learn.
Received both letters and apologizes for not writing before. All at Ashland are unwell with bad colds. His colts have been sick with distemper but none have died. Went hunting one day and had a concert at Ashland one evening. Aunt Susan has recovered from her accouchement. Her brother Dick [Jacob] married Thomas Benton's daughter in Washington. There is no interesting news from Mexico. Congress is preoccupied with the war. Grandpa presided over a Colonization Society meeting and according to the papers the hall was overflowing. Although a student named Bates has died at school [apparently of typhoid], he did not think that one death out of a hundred boys would cause the school to be closed. Hello to Eugene and Edward [Erwin].
Moses wanted to see Henry when he came home for the holiday but had to accompany his sister to Woodford. Tried several times to get back to Lexington to see him but every attempt was thwarted. By the time he returned Henry had left. There have been three affairs [of honor], but only recounts the one in which Mr. Burns killed Mr. Parks. He is near the top in his class and is especially good in math. A postscript by C.A.M. states that he is glad to hear that Henry is pleased at his school. Asks Henry to write a postscript to him in his next letter to Buck as he would like to hear from his friend. Hopes Buck continues to learn French. disappointed Henry did not call to see them when he was in Lexington. Sends him a bookmark for his Bible.
Wants to see his grandson about an appointment at West Point which has just become available. If they decide he should attend, he could not enter until June or July. In the meantime, he should continue his studies at Georgetown [Washington, D.C.].
General [Winfield] Scott and Major Glover written favorable reports of him. Tells him that he would find a cadet's life hard at first but would eventually get used to it. Clay would leave it up to his grandson whether or not he enters the army upon graduating from the academy. Will be sending a check for $75 for expenses. Accounts from home indicate that all there are well. His Uncle John won at least two races at Lexington. Uncle James and his family are doing well and will return home by November. [James was charge d'affaires in Lisbon].
Sends the promised $75 check and asks him to take $25 for personal expenses, depositing the remaining $50 for credit at the school. If he is unsure of the procedure, he should consult Major Glover.
Visiting in Lexington. Business is slow so he is vacationing before returning to Louisville. Lexington is livelier than it has been in years because of the weddings. Mrs. Smith is in town with Nannie and Tommy. They are all well. Susan and Uncle James are expected home soon. Uncle John is as crazy as ever about racehorses.
Presumes Henry is now in his barracks and is more comfortably situated than when he was camping. Hopes he will apply himself diligently to his studies. All are well in Kentucky. James is expected soon [from Portugal] Already has sent home Aaron Dupuy, house servant. Congress will adjourn at the end of the month. Write back immediately.
Sorry to hear Henry does not like West Point. Admonishes him that he will never distinguish himself or become worthy of his heritage if he does not study and make sacrifices. Tries to assure him that the longer he stays there the more he will like it. That was his father's experience. Disappointed to see so many demerits and hopes he will decrease the number next time. Leaves for home shortly.
Received an official report from West Point and is pleased to see the number of demerits has decreased and urges him to continue until none are reported. Nannie and Tommy stopped by to visit. She is well, and he has recently recovered from a fever. George R. Harrison has been appointed a midshipman and is at Annapolis. Grandma and Uncle John send their love.
Tommy is at Judge [Thomas A.] Marshall's and has had a severe and protracted illness. Thought they might lose him, but he is now recovering. Has received no letter from Henry but the official report indicates he has been given a lot of demerits. Afraid the boy does not appreciate the advantages of having a position at the academy. It would disgrace the family if he were compelled to leave the school for incompetency or negligence. Eugene Erwin would rejoice to be in Henry's situation. Asks him to redouble his efforts and make himself worthy of his father's name. How shameful to dishonor his family in such a fashion. Cousin George R. Harrison is delighted to be at Annapolis. Clay expects to be in Washington in December.
Still has not heard from him, but is glad to see that the number of demerits has diminished. How happy he would be if there were none. Economizing of one's time is how one gets everything done. Wants to know if Henry likes the school better now that he has been there awhile. James and Susan have returned home. Eugene Erwin is in Washington with Clay for the purpose of placing him with a firm to learn the mercantile business. Tommy is now well, but Grandmother Prather has died.
Glad to hear he has a respectable standing in his class but thought it should be better, but hopes he will improve by the next examination. Sorry he does not like being at West Point and asks him what he would do if he were not there, since he must be employed. He will be glad when he completes his course at the school and would be embarrassed if he ruins his chances at the academy. No need to speak of Eugene Erwin's freedom; he is in a counting house where he must rise early, sweep the floor, and perform menial tasks so he would be glad to change places.
Since he will soon complete his first year at the academy, his grandfather wants to know about his class standing. Admonishes Henry for not writing more often. Glad to see from the last report the number of demerits had significantly decreased. Hopes the boy had not earned so many this month as to get him dismissed from the school. Dismissal would humiliate the family. Asks if this is the year when he can return home to visit family and friends.
Relieved to receive letter from him. Wants to know about his demerits and hopes he has not disgraced himself by getting enough to be dismissed from the school. Regrets that he cannot come to visit this summer, but is glad to hear he is feeling fine and doing well. Nannie and Tommy are visiting at Ashland. All at home are well. Cousin George R. Harrison could not stand the midshipman's examination at Annapolis and has returned home much to his and his father's mortification. Tommy and Nannie join their grandfather in complaining of Henry's not writing to them. Perhaps if he rose a little earlier he could find time to write.
She has returned to Louisville after a two week visit to Lexington where she had a good time. Going to Drennon [Spring, Henry County] which should improve Tommy's health. The hot weather makes Grandpa sick so he was ill when they left. Grandma is well but is getting hard of hearing. Received his letter and wishes it had been longer.
Hopes her last letter did not offend him, as he has not written recently. Saw two of his former classmates, Harry McNeill and Robert L. Upshaw at Drennon who attend Wester Military Institute. Tommy is recovered and at Mr. Chapman's school. If possible, would like him to send their mother's journal to her.
Class and conduct reports of the military academy [West Point] Grade report for September. Of 65 class members, Henry stands 34th in mathematics, 11th in French, and 59th in drawing. He has 45 demerits for the month and a total of 88 for the year.
Received his letter and is glad to hear Henry is happier at West Point this year, but is alarmed at the number of demerits. If he keeps going at this rate he will be dismissed shortly. Needs to learn to take pride in being a man and a soldier. Believes
Has not written sooner because of illness. Good to see the number of demerits has decreased, but is not pleased that Henry's class standing has dropped.
Telegram informing him that his grandfather may not live much longer.
His grandfather wants to know when he will be visiting Kentucky and what funds are to come home. Uncle Thomas tells him that his grandfather is
Encloses an application for a leave of absence from West Point. His grandfather is a little better but is still very weak. All in Kentucky are doing well as of the last report.
Admonishes Henry for not letting him know how much money he needs for his trip to Washington. Grandfather's health has changed little since the last correspondence.
Received Henry's letter this morning. Grandfather is doing worse and may not hold out much longer, but he will pay the tailor's bill and send him fare for his trip to Washington. Sorry Henry is detained at West Point.
Sends a check for $50 which he asks Henry to acknowldge.
Says Tommy refuses to write unless Henry promises to answer the letter. She had a delightful visit at Lexington. Grandma did not look well but said she felt fine. Dick Harrison has gone to live in New Orleans and George is going to Texas to farm. George has been steadier since he joined the temperance society. No one from Thomas's [Clay] family came to visit, that did not bother her too much as she was not anxious to see them. She spent a very pleasant evening with some cousins, one of whom had a dance. Uncle John [Clay] stopped by on his way to New Orleans and she sang for him but he did not seem charmed by it. She thinks he likes Lucretia [Clay, daughter of James and Susan] better. She was distressed to hear that her music teacher was going to Harrodsburg but relieved to learn he would only be gone a month. Mother [Nannette Price Smith] has been sick with the flu.
Eugene Erwin is visiting from Missouri and it may be Henry's last chance to visit with his cousin. Grandma [Clay] wishes to see him and fears he has forgotten her.
Thinks he might be seasick after three days at sea. Her sadness at his leaving is tempered by the pleasure the journey will offer him. She hopes he will write regularly until his return in the fall. She opened a letter addressed to him from William Warfield and was shocked to learn that Lucretia Clay [daughter of Thomas and Mary] had died. Lucretia had recently given birth to a son who survives her. Asks if Mrs. Conradd is aboard his ship. Anne is not concerned about his losing his heart to Mrs. Conradd for though he might admire her beauty, her character is another matter. Mr. McDowell [Henry Clay McDowell, her husband] has built a wine cellar. He will write Henry very soon with some good news. She will write again in about two weeks and hopes to receive a letter from him in the meantime.
Commission of Captain Henry [Hart] Clay as Assistant Adjutant General of the Volunteer Army, Nashville, Tennessee.
Provides that the wall built between Clay's property [probably in Louisville. The 1865-1866
Allows him passage from Lisbon to the United States. Signed by James B. Clay who was Charge d'Affaires at Lisbon, 1849-1850. [Henry was living wish James and his family at the time].
Note January 1, 1853:
There is a Louisville entry of October 6, 1855, and a July 5, 1859, statement laid in from F. A. Bartle, a Louisville store, bearing H. Clay's name.
Clay conveyed a lot located near Walnut and Floyd Street in Louisville to Bland Ballard while he was a minor. Now that Clay is of age, he reaffirms the conveyance in this deed.
Clay died in Atlanta on October 12, 1863, of congestive fever while serving as a Confederate soldier. Also included are two undated obituaries written at the time his body was disinterred from the Atlanta cemetery and shipped back to Kentucky. He was incorrectly identified as Major Thomas H. Clay in two of the obituaries and his death was also incorrectly noted as 1864
Few entries, mostly practicing math equations. Also used to press flowers.
Clay is satisfied with the sale of hemp. Sent Delaware [imported jackass] to Kentucky and he should arrive in a couple of weeks. If Don Manuel [an ass] is sold, Major [Thomas] Smith may keep Delaware. If he is not sold, he may keep Don for himself and Delaware should remain at Ashland. Thomas can sell Delaware if he can get $1,500 for him. Six donkeys should be arriving from New Orleans about the time he receives this letter. Clay directs Thomas on what he wants done with them.
John is ill with a fever. The doctors do not think he is in immediate danger but it has developed into typhoid. Many individuals sat up with him all night including his brother, Henry, Jr. His father thinks Thomas does not have a problem having more grass than stock to graze it; if necessary, he will supply him with some steers. He has sent two mares who are in foal to Kentucky and would like Thomas to make sure they were not injured on the journey. They should not be let out to pasture where there is a lot of clover. In addition to the mares, there are eight or ten asses belonging to Mr. White. They will stay at Ashland until he retrieves them. Wants to know how his English cows are faring and how many are in calf. Tells Thomas that none of the heifers who have not had calves should be put to the bull before he returns.
Clay is pleased with Thomas's work at Ashland. He heard that James's overseer was ill and fears he has died. Clay himself has not been well, but he is feeling better. Congress will adjourn soon and he will be home shortly thereafter. He does not think the subtreasury bill will pass Congress this session. He presumes Thomas will be married by the time he receives this letter and wishes him happiness and a long life. Offers his blessing to Mary [Marie Mentelle; Thomas and Mary were married October 5th].
He has no objection to purchasing mules instead of cattle provided he can get them at a fair price. Clay will give security for them. The hogs may be bought with cash. Sends a check for $500 and tells Thomas not to present it to the bank until Maj. Pindell has paid him for the cow and calf. He will write to Downing [Richard W., Josiah, and Samuel Downing were horse traders] about the jacks. Nothing new to report from Washington. The subtreasury bill was reintroduced to the Senate in a more objectionable form than before.
Asks Thomas to send him some papers concerning the Bonneau land claim in Missouri. He thought that he had brought them with him to Washington, but apparently left them on his office table. Clay wrote to his wife and told her what he wants done with the bale rope and forwarded a letter from Dr. [Stephen?] Duncan as to how the ropes should be delivered.
Clay acknowledges receiving a letter informing him of the status of the bale rope production. Asks about the foaling of his jennets and gives Thomas instructions about the breeding schedule.
Received the enclosure [not identified] Thomas sent him and instructs his son to waste no time in giving directions for the shipment. Also forwards a letter to Dr. [Stephen?] Duncan with orders about the rope and twine. He fears some of it has been lost in the hurricane that struck Natchez. Henry, [Jr.] left Washington this morning. Clay is so ill that he is confined to his room for the day.
The Navy granted him leave so he could visit his grandfather [Clay]. His ship, the Brandywine, returned recently from its Mediterranean station due to rumors of war. He is now in Washington and is observing the present Congressional session. Duralde describes the Senate as a dignified body but says the House reminds him of a
Their father's bank bill passed the Senate after he added an amendment making the bill's phraseology more palatal. He thinks the House and the President will concur in the measure. Clay is exhausted from his efforts at getting the bill passed. His correspondence remains on his table, some unread, nearly all of it unanswered. In reference to the reputed dispute between [possibly Kentucky's Thomas F.] Marshall and [Henry A.] Wise, they had words but are friends. Recently, he saw them walking arm in arm leaving the Capitol. John has seen several of Thomas's friends and they spoke highly of him. He wishes Thomas well in his latest investment. They have not heard from Henry, Jr. since his arrival at the Springs [White Sulphur Springs, Virginia, later West Virginia] where John will be going soon.
He has written several letters since his return to New Orleans, but fears that since he has had no reply, they must have been lost in the mail. He would have written more often but has been disheartened by his disappointments in money matters and his inability to get into business. Thomas can understand how disappointment affects the mind as he has experienced failure. Looks forward to the future in the hope that things will improve. He has stopped dissipation and will begin a business as soon as he gets his money. He intends to go to Missouri where he will propose to a woman he met there [H. C. Duralde died unmarried, September 1850]. Since he cannot expect to begin business in New Orleans this late in the season, he would like to spend the summer at Ashland. He tells Thomas to pledge to grandmother that he will be on his best behavior and help Thomas. Martin [Duralde, his brother] wrote from Havana saying that the sojourn rather than benefitting his health has made it worse. Martin fears he has only a year or two more to live. [Martin Duralde died, September 1846.] Grandpa is in New Orleans, has caught a cold, but will return to Ashland soon. The people of New Orleans are irreligious because they celebrated Washington's birthday this past Sunday with both the Whigs and Loco Focos holding political rallies. While he is no moralist, the Sabbath should be respected.
Sends Thomas a full account of the circular saw and Mr. Calvert's letter [enclosures not found]. Thinks Thomas should consult with H[enry] Watkins about it. If he has never seen one in operation, check Mr. Calvert's. He is anxious about his son, John. [John Morrison Clay had several bouts with mental problems during his life.] Clay had just received a short letter from John and wrote a long reply. Asks Thomas to telegraph him immediately as to John's health. He advised him about training his horses and other matters. Clay says he is still struggling for the Compromise. Its fate will be decided next week. He remains hopeful about its passage.
He has been thinking about her and decided to write. Thanks her for the novel she sent. Sends regards to Miss [Nettie] McDowell.
He has not been neglectful or forgetful but simply too busy to write. He was disappointed not to have found Miss Nettie [McDowell] at Judge Bristow's. He has a longing to visit the Bluegrass.
Thanks her for the letter and the notice from
Asks James to consult with William Prather and Dr. Way. The doctor owes him fifteen or sixteen hundred dollars. Curran Pope has the deed to the property in question and William Prather can tell him its value. Doctor has paid some of the interest owed. His regiment leaves for Port Isabel tomorrow afternoon. Agrees that Henry [III] should live with James and Susan. William Prather will pay his board. Tell father and mother [the Clays] that he deems this essential to the welfare of his child. Asks James to write to him at New Orleans and Port Isabel.
Tyler, a patient at Bellevue Hospital, attended a festival celebrating Henry Clay's birthday and is making a copy of the speeches, proceedings, toasts, and resolutions made at the festival. He assumed that James would be leaving from a New York port on his way to Portugal where he will be Charge d'Affaires and asks James to stop by the hospital to pick up a copy even though it probably will not be finished. He will send a copy to Clay upon completion of the project.
He has been in Bellevue Hospital for so long that he is now destitute. Asks Clay for a few dollars to buy some vegetables and other items to make his stay at the hospital more comfortable.
Misses her father and is getting spoiled in her father's absence so he had better hurry home to take her in hand. Charley goes to school every day. Major Jimmy and Colonel Harry and the rest of the children send their love. On verso, a list of things to accomplish.
For travel to Charleston, South Carolina. On verso is an oath of allegiance
Marked confidential. James has a problem with the editor [George D.] Prentice of the
Letter written in another hand and signed by Clay. First part of the letter is missing. James states he will never see his Kentucky friends again as he is ill and not expected to recover from [consumption]. His physician told him that if he had reparations to make he had better make them right away. He is thankful that so far he has not been in a lot of pain and he is feeling cheerful and resigned to his fate. If he is still alive tomorrow [James B. Clay died January 26], he will receive communion from the Dean of Montreal. His greatest regret is having to leave his wife and children in such a time of adversity.
Requests two cans fresh peaches, $1.00 worth of cakes, and two loaves of bread to be charged to his account.
[Probably written by Stuart Robinson who was the owner and editor of the
Acknowledges receiving her letter from Montreal. Glad to hear that she arrived there safely. Tells her to stay at the spa for as long as she needs as he considers her health too important for her to leave before she is well. The children are all well. he told Tom [not identified] if she ran out of money to telegraph him and he would send her some. The only news from home is that Dick Harrison is to marry Mary Hunt early next month and that cousin Betsy Hart will be visiting Lexington in a few days to attend two weddings. He will await word from her with anxious concern hoping that the salt baths help her.
Written in memory of her son Nathaniel Hart Clay [b. April 10, 1861] who died May 17, 1862. Includes pressed flower and stem of leaves.
Returns his book and thanks him for his kind words during her time of grief [the death of her son, Nat]. Kate, her sister, commented once that Nat was too beautiful a child to be of this earth. Although she disregarded the remark at the time, she thinks his unearthly beauty and intelligence may have portended an early death. He was the first of her ten children to die. Remainder of letter missing. Appears to be a draft.
Condolences sent after the death of her husband, James. Relieved to hear James turned to God before he died.
Condolences sent after the death of her husband, James. He planned to go to Lexington for the funeral, but missed his connections and now is sick with a cold. Mary and Lucy will be there. Glad that Jimmy is there with her and believes that her eldest child understands the duties and responsibilities that devolve upon him now that his father has died. He understands from a letter she wrote to Lucy that Susan plans to stay in Canada but to move from Montreal to Toronto. Thomas cautions her to weigh all the advantages and disadvantages before deciding.
Would have written sooner but she went to Lexington to attend James's funeral. Everything was as Susan wished. [Susan Clay stayed in Toronto] The coffin was covered with some beautiful flowers. Lucy sent some of the flowers taken from James's coffin [enclosed flowers seem to refer to flowers Nat handed to Miss Mary Taylor]. Lucy wishes she could be with her sister, but her health is too delicate to allow the trip. Notes that her servants were distressed at their master's death.
Condolences sent after the death of her husband, James. Could not attend the funeral, but read Mr. Robinson's eulogy and liked what he said.
Has been suffering from a toothache all day. Wishes Kate could be in Kentucky to console her after the recent death of her daughter Lucy [b. 1844, d. March 7, 1863]. Lucy's health had been delicate all winter. She contracted diphtheria while already ill with frequent and violent hemorrhaging from her nose and died after a particularly violent attack. Susan did not want to think that her daughter was suffering, but Lucy said she was. Relates general news about her other children.
She has not written sooner as she has been busy unpacking and arranging things in her new home. Now that she is nearly finished, she is beginning to feel at home in Montreal. Just before Susan's daughter (also named Susan but called Susie) died [b. February 12, 1855, d. September 14, 1863] she asked about the inscriptions on her brother's [Nat] and sister's [Lucy] tombstones. Susan thought Susie had a premonition of death when she had that conversation. Susie dictated letters to her father and to her Uncle Sam [Kate's husband]. She apologizes for not acknowledging their offer of money sooner, but they had enough funds in Montreal to live for a year. She did not know how much money they got from the sale of their furniture but thinks is was not much. They had no wines to sell as much of it was carried off by their slaves. Mr. [James] Clay has been very unwell since arriving at Montreal and is confined to his bed, but an excellent physician is attending him. Hopes to have all the children in school soon. Only Geordie [George] will be at home. They are worried that Jimmy was in the latest battle in Georgia. They have not heard from him since last June. She hopes that Kate and her family will come to Canada to visit.
Susan acknowledges receiving Kate's letter and the pictures of Kate's children, Lucy and Sam. In return Susan has sent Kate hair clippings from daughters Lucy and Susie. She does not expect her husband [James Clay] to live much longer. Except when Tom Clay had typhoid fever, she never saw anyone so emaciated. He took communion, much to Susan's relief. She got a letter from Jimmy who is in Richmond, Virginia. He said he would run the blockade and get to Montreal as soon as possible. Susan hopes her son will make it before his father dies. She is enclosing a letter written by her son Tom to his Uncle Sam.
Susan will send weekly reports about James's condition.
Asks her to shop for a mourning ring which James couldn't find in Montreal, but wants to give to a friend. It should be similar to a signet ring costing about $20 or $25 and Susan wants a description of the ring before Kate buys it. James dictated this letter himself.
A mutual friend asked Susan to write Mrs. Green to relate a tale about a mysterious stranger who once took refuge in the library at Ashland. On an August night in 1860 or 61 there was a violent storm when around ten o'clock in the evening she left her daughter in the parlor and went to join her husband in the library. Between the parlor (which the Clay's called the crimson room) and the library was an adjoining drawing room. She entered the library through the drawing room. James was sitting at the reading table located in the middle of the room, and, to her amazement, a man dressed in a buckskin hunting suit was sitting in a large morocco covered chair next to the window with his rifle leaning against the window. She looked to her husband who told her it was someone who had taken shelter from the storm. Her husband tried to question the man who answered only in monosyllables when suddenly the stranger sprang from the chair, took his rifle, walked through the window by which he had entered the room, and disappeared into the darkness. He looked to be about thirty-five years old, tall, and stout with a bronze complexion from exposure. He had dark hair and dark eyes. Even though he had entered the room from a torrential rain storm and sat in the chair, he left no sign of having been in the storm. As soon as Susan recovered from her surprise she exclaimed that it was the ghost of Daniel Boone, and to this day that is how they refer to the mysterious visitor of that night. Such a visitor should have attracted attention in the neighborhood, but no one else saw him. Who the man really was and where he went is unknown.
Letter of introduction attesting the integrity of Lieutenant James B. Clay.
Thanks Clay for showing great kindness to a stranger. Sending his thoroughbreds to him to determine the value of the horses and to sell them. He assures him he will accede to all decisions Clay makes. He wishes to limit his ranch to cattle. Prefers to do all his trading in cash but will settle for cattle if that is all a buyer has to trade.
Envelope reads
Informs her that he received a letter from her brother Lt. T[homas] J[acob] Clay mailed from Arizona stating her wish to sell some stocks or borrow money on them. The stocks are capital stocks owned by Lucretia in the Simi Land and Water Company. Asks how much could be borrowed on the stock or for how much she is willing to sell them. Once bank has offered to loan $600 on the stock. He encloses a note for Lucretia to sign agreeing to the loan. If she prefers to sell, he has found a buyer willing to pay $15 per share, in which case all she needs to do is sign over her stock to him.
As a trustee of their mother, Susan M. Clay's estate, George sold a tract of land in Fayette County to Lucretia for one dollar. The tract, located off Versailles Turnpike Road, consists of 103 acres and 35 poles of land.
Mr. Gilbert was a representative of the publisher of the
Recalls Thomas from their days in the army in Arizona and Los Angeles. Asks to be remembered to Judge Kerr and Desha Breckinridge. The military has had a busy summer training war strength troops. He is sorry the army lost the 89th as they were going over to Europe, but he thought it for the best as those troops represented a losing policy. Asks if Thomas is still interested in good horses. Concludes the letter stating that the affair of which Thomas wrote to him will have to run its course in the hands of friends. No one knows what will happen. Colonel Roosevelt's loss [Theodore Roosevelt died on January 6, 1919] is a national calamity, especially at this time.
Letter addressed to
Charles Clay's father had the military reopen the case involving his son's death. An army board of inquiry had ruled the death a suicide, but a reexamination of the case brought new evidence to light which made suicide unlikely. Charles Donald Clay, Jr. was the grandson of James B. and Susan M. Clay.
Announcing Robert P[epper] Clay's graduation from West Point Academy.
Clay gives John three slaves: Harvey, John, and Bob.
Glad to have received his letter from Mobile. Sent him two letters to New Orleans which he will get when he returns, if he has not already received them. All are well at home. Dr. [William N.] Mercer is going to Havannah [sic] and will not be in New Orleans. John may not be able to use the letter of credit Clay wrote for him to Dr. Mercer. He will write another one to Mr. [Rezin] Shephard. Clay wants John to keep him abreast of all his movements and of his health. Clay is sorry there are problems with John's teeth.
Sorry John displayed so much feeling over Clay's attempt to send Yorkshire [John's horse] to Mansfield. He said he did it because he did not think Mr. Wheeler [the overseer] could take proper care of the horses without neglecting the farm. Thomas [who owns Mansfield] declined to take the horse so he is still at Ashland. Clay is glad John sold another colt and hopes he can sell the remaining two on equally advantageous terms. There is an extra session of Congress so he will be detained in Washington a little longer.
Bill of sale for a negro man called Bill Buster, the son of Tom and Kitty [two slaves owned by John]. Clay sold Bill to John for one dollar. In the same transaction, Clay sold a race horse named Yorkshire to John provided John let Thomas and James use the horse to breed with their mares.
Henry and Tommy arrived in Louisville safely. The trip from New Orleans took more than six days. Uncle Thomas was in Louisville the day they arrived but they did not get to see him. Uncle Thomas reports that all are well except Ed Erwin [Charles Edward Erwin, son of Anne Brown Clay and James Erwin] who is not expected to live much longer. Grandma [Clay] said she is lonesome without John and she wished he would not leave her again for so long a time. He was surprised to find upon returning that he had a six weeks old niece [Nannette McDowell, daughter of Henry's sister Anne and her husband Henry Clay McDowell]. Tommy adds a note to his Uncle John that they are buying the Tennessee filly.
John thanks Josephine for her letter and for forwarding the one from John Cook. It is the first news he has had from home since he left. It does not matter that she has not finished sewing the race horse clothing. She need not make more until he returns after the meet at Saratoga ends. He is surprised to hear that Edgar [not identified] died. Hopes she will not leave before he returns, even if she has retired from the turf since the selling of the horse, Joe Davis. Wants her to think of his home as hers. Will be home when the meets are over. Kentucky, a horse, won all three of its races easily. Someone offered John $15,000 for the race horse Gilroy but his price is $25,000. He is almost turning from Episcopalian to Catholic. He reads the mass book she sent him and does not eat meat on Friday or Saturday. Apologizes for the rambling nature of his letter and sends his love to all at home.
Discussion about her tenents and the death dates of mares.
[Josephine Clay died March 29, 1920]
Written on stationery of Ashland Thoroughbred Stock Farm...Mrs. John M. Clay, proprietor.
Thanks Mrs. Mentelle for her letter. Her husband is away on business and the baby is ill. They will be going to New Orleans in December. She likes the country better than the town and is glad that she and James will be going there when he returns. She has not heard from her mother for several months, except for what she reads in the newspapers, and is worried that something might be wrong with her parents. Asks for some garden seeds. Her daughter Julia has grown to be a large, fat child. The doctors told her that they had misdiagnosed her illness, but had made a new determination and are now satisfied that she should recover.
It has been a long time since she heard from any of her Kentucky friends. She has been in New Orleans for about six weeks but must return to Tennessee on urgent business. She will return to New Orleans with her husband and his younger brother and sister who have been in Mobile. The latest news from Washington reports that Clay is in good health. She is sorry to learn that mama is not going to be in Kentucky for the summer. Anne's only hope now of seeing her mother is in the fall and she can only do that if she remains the winter with her parents. Anne says she is writing to inform Mrs. Mentelle that she can write to her at Shelbyville, Tennessee. Another reason for writing is to ask for some fruit from the Mentelle's pear and plum trees. Mr. Duralde was ill for some time but he has recovered. His family are now all well. He is thinking of sending his oldest son to Ashland in May.
Acknowledges receiving Mrs. Mentelle's letters. The first was forwarded to her at Nashville. Mr. Erwin will conduct the business she requested next winter. If she cannot wait that long, Mr. Erwin suggests she write to Mr. Duralde to see if he could do it. She was glad for Mrs. Mentelle's second letter informing of her father's arrival in Lexington. Anne hears often from Henry [Jr.]. He has always been a favorite of hers. She is in the country sixty miles from Nashville and has no news of the outside world to share. Some friends from Mississippi will be visiting Lexington. Asks Mrs. Mentelle to spread the word that they should be treated kindly. The Erwins owe the women a debt of gratitude for the kindness they showed while the Erwins were in Natchez.
James conveys Louisville real estate, personal property and notes, including one drawn by Henry Clay, Jr. for $3,750.
Gives William power of attorney to handle his business and personal affairs. Clay was preparing to join the 2nd Kentucky Volunteer Regiment to serve in Mexico.
He recently received William's letter dated some time ago. The letter related news of unsatisfactory accounts in his affairs especially as regards Dr. Way. [C. M. and W. H. Way were physicians in Louisville.] James B. Clay is charged with the settlement if it goes to law. Hopes he has not been injured in the matter as he is fond of Dr. Way. He sends William some money and hopes it will be applied toward his debts. The military is supposed to be on the eve of battle. If [General Zachary] Taylor and [Major General William O.] Butler do not arrive from Monterrey, Generals [John E.] Wool and Lane [3rd Indiana regiment] will be in command. [Major General Winfield] Scott has stripped Taylor of nearly all his troops. The force at Saltillo consists of the Kentucky regiment, two regiments from Illinois, two from Indiana, the Arkansas cavalry, and part of the Kentucky cavalry under Lieutenant Colonel [Ezekial H.] Field. They have two companies of dragoons and two artillery batteries with five guns each. The whole force numbers under 4,000 men. They keep receiving word that the Mexican army is approaching but have yet to encounter it. If attacked, his regiment will distinguish itself in battle. The Mexicans captured Majors [John P.] Gaines and [Solon] Borland without a struggle. The Majors went farther than ordered while on reconnaissance. A false alarm of an impending attack by the Mexican Army caused the delay. He is trying to use his engineering skills to improve his troops' defenses. Has learned General Butler will command at Monterrey. General Wool will be his commander. Hopes Taylor will reach them soon so he can take command. The troops do not have confidence in Wool and
[Smith became the legal guardian of Tommy ad his sister Anne (Nannie) when their father, Henry Clay, Jr., died in February, 1847. Julia, his birth mother, died in 1840 when he was an infant.] Things are going fine at school. Supposes that the family is taking a keen interest in the upcoming presidential elections. Asks Mrs. Price to tell Henry to get his books and send them home. Asks that Nannie be told to write him. Adds that he has no news regarding the inspectorship.
Unhappy that he has received no letters from home since his arrival. Hopes that everyone is well. He wishes that Nannie [his sister Anne] would write more regularly. He explains he did not write sooner because he has been busy arranging his lessons. Since he has met no ladies at the school, he fears that if he does not meet any soon he will be a
Sends a check to his niece for $10. Instructs her to endorse the back so she can use it anywhere. He was glad to have received her letters, but sorry to hear that little Nannette is ill. Tells her to write him in Louisville. Mr. Bryant and Nannette have come to see the torchlight procession. He will be alone but is content. She needs her mother to help her tend to her sick cousin. There is nothing new at Woodside to report. He is taking care of the grounds and the stock. He hears that the prospect of fighting tomorrow is not so good as it was last week.
Pleased to know that Mrs. Wilmore is settled at Nicholasville. She wishes Captain Wilmore's battery had been left instead of the one that is here. Since Mrs. Wilmore's visit, Aunt Lucy left with her
Danville, Kentucky. Handwriting difficult to decipher. Appears to be general family news.
Probably one of the various editions of his
Note:
The criminal vendetta waged against him and Dora [Richardson Clay, his wife] has adversely affected his health and has kept him from writing. Clay informs his cousin that he is descended from Charles Clay. If she writes to Major Green Clay Goodloe care of the U.S. Navy in Washington, D.C., he would give her their pedigree.
It is an interview given by Cassius M. Clay at White Hall, Madison County, Kentucky. Berea interview is written on the top of the first page of the leaflet.
Signed by Henry Clay, president.
Extends an invitation to Mr. Bean to be confirmed when the Bishop [Benjamin B. Smith] visits on July 18th. Includes reference to his having baptized Henry Clay on June 22. [Edward F. Berkley was Rector of the Christ Church (Episcopal) Cathedral]. Clay will receive communion shortly and will soon be confirmed.
Kirkpatrick, a tutor to five Clay children, notes the inducements which appealed to him to accept his current position: the Clay library which he is permitted to use and the teaching of Greek and Latin would hone his own skills in those languages, and he has board, a horse to ride, a servant, and $300 per year.
Expresses appreciation for the memento she painted and sent to him. Describes Henry Clay's return home after a long absence [when he was in Europe negotiating the Treaty of Ghent]. Clay returned home with many gifts for the family. Gives a vivid description of Clay's personal appearance. Clay's likeness is to be published in
Witnessed by Lucretia Clay with Thomas H. Clay serving as executor. A copy.
Broadside to the Militia of Kentucky, authorization for 10,000 troops to enlist for six months military service.
Major Lewinski was an architect who designed Mansfield and also worked at Ashland. Handwritten note on the last page of the account book:
Correspondence, letterbooks, diaries, medical records, financial materials, legal documents, copybooks, scrapbooks, compositions, printed materials, newspaper clippings, and realia compose the McDowell family papers series and illuminate the McDowells' personal, business, financial, and social relationships. The series is divided into subseries based on the owner of the material and includes the papers of Henry Clay McDowell; his wife Anne Clay McDowell; and his children Henry Clay McDowell, Jr., William Adair McDowell, Thomas Clay McDowell, Julia Prather McDowell Brock, Madeline McDowell Breckinridge, and Ballard McDowell. Additionally, the series contains the papers of other family members, such as Desha Breckinridge, Maria Hawkins Harvey McDowell, Magdalen Harvey McDowell, and Edward Irvine McDowell.
The Henry Clay McDowell papers subseries makes up a large portion of the McDowell family papers series and is further divided into personal, business, and financial papers. His personal papers consist of family and general correspondence; land records for the family homes; legal records; and papers recording his involvement with political, recreational, and civic organizations. The papers include letters from many prominent men including, Theodore Roosevelt, Benjamin H. Bristow, and W.C.P. Breckinridge. McDowell's business papers are divided into those papers dealing with railroads, land development, real estate, and horses. His railroad business records illuminate his involvement with the Kentucky Union Railway and Land Company as well as his presidency of the renamed, restructured company, the Lexington and Eastern Railway Company. The materials cover the growth of the Kentucky Union Railroad during the late 1880s and early 1890s and its bankruptcy and restructuring in 1895 and 1896. The papers involving land development chronicle his role in the boom and bust of Big Stone Gap, Virginia, and the development of southeastern Kentucky. Additionally, the subseries documents his involvement in various other land development companies including the Southern Appalachian Company, the Goff Land Company, and the Red River Lumber Company. The real estate material deals primarily with McDowell's properties in Louisville, but also includes information concerning his properties in Lexington, Chicago, and Indiana. The horse subseries documents McDowell's long career as a horse breeder and co-founder of the Kentucky Trotting-Horse Breeders' Association. It includes extensive correspondence, materials concerning his horses Dictator and King Rene, Trotting Stock Catalogs, studbooks, and accounts. McDowell's financial papers consist of correspondence, family accounts, ledgers, receipts, stocks, bonds, and contracts.
Correspondence, financial materials, diaries, scrapbooks, keepsakes, recipes, medical records, compositions, notes, printed materials, and realia compose the Anne Clay McDowell papers subseries and reflect her relationship with her husband and children as well as the family's household finances. Her correspondence mainly consists of family letters but also includes letters from her friends. Notable items include her diaries from the 1850s, a scrapbook of letters and telegrams sent upon the death of Henry Clay McDowell in 1899, letters sent to her after the death of Ballard McDowell in 1881, and handwritten recipes.
The Madeline McDowell Breckinridge papers subseries makes up another significant portion of the McDowell family papers and documents Madeline's youth, her fight with tuberculosis of the bone, her courtship with Desha Breckinridge, her interest in social issues, and her involvement in women's suffrage. Correspondence forms the bulk of the subseries and illustrates her relationships with family members; friends like John Fox, Jr., Sophonisba Breckinridge, Marion Houston, and Robert Burns Wilson; and suitors such as W. W. Thum, Harrison Robertson, and Desha Breckinridge. Furthermore, the correspondence illuminates her interest in writing; her struggles with tuberculosis; her interests in public health, children, and suffrage; and her role in the creation of the Irishtown/Lincoln School in Lexington. Additionally, the subseries includes many of her publications such as her article in
Paintings, drawings, house specifications, correspondence, printed materials, financial documents, and scrapbooks compose the Magdalen Harvey McDowell papers subseries and document her life as an artist, architect, and unmarried woman. Her correspondence illuminates the life of an unmarried, unconventional woman in 19th century Kentucky and follows her travels around the Midwest, the Northeast, and Europe. Her collection of printed material, including prints, magazines, and newspapers, provide a look at the inspiration for much of her work. Additionally, her financial materials shed light on her income as an independent woman.
The McDowell family papers series also contains smaller amounts of material from Henry Clay McDowell's mother; his siblings; and other McDowell children, their spouses, and their children. Henry Clay McDowell, Jr.'s papers include letters recommending him for a federal judgeship, several personal letters, and a ledger. William Adair McDowell's papers consist of material from his time at Yale, letters, and mathematical exercises. Desha Breckinridge's papers contain letters from his wife, Madge, while she traveled through Europe in 1920. The papers of Henry Clay McDowell's siblings and mother mainly consist of letters between them during the Civil War. Most notably they include letters from Henry Clay McDowell's brother Edward Irvine McDowell while he served in the union army. He illustrated his letters extensively, depicting camps, forts, battles, officers, soldiers, and daily camp life. They can be found in the Maria Hawkins Harvey letters, the Mary Kyle McDowell letters, the Magdalen Harvey McDowell papers, and the William Preston McDowell letters.
Henry Clay McDowell, horse breeder and businessman, was born on February 9, 1832, in Fincastle, Virginia, to Dr. William Adair McDowell and Maria Hawkins Harvey. His siblings include Sarah Shelby, William Preston, Mary Kyle, Edward Irvine, and Magdalen Harvey. In 1838 the family relocated to Louisville, Kentucky, where McDowell later attended law school at the University of Louisville and entered into a law practice with his brother-in-law Bland Ballard. He married Anne Clay, the granddaughter of Henry Clay, in 1857. At the start of the Civil War, McDowell enlisted in the Union army and became a major under General A. McDowell McCook. President Abraham Lincoln appointed McDowell as a federal marshal for Kentucky in October 1862. Following the war, McDowell and his family relocated to a farm called Woodlake near Frankfort in Franklin County. After the accidental death of his youngest son, Ballard McDowell, in 1881, McDowell purchased Ashland from the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Kentucky; the family moved to the estate in 1883. During these years, McDowell developed into a very successful businessman and horse breeder, helping found the Kentucky Trotting-Horse Breeders’ Association; running the Kentucky Union Land and Railway Companies; becoming the president of the Lexington and Easter Railway Company; and becoming a leading developer in southeastern Kentucky and Big Stone Gap, Virginia. Additionally, he owned extensive real estate holdings in Louisville, Lexington, and Indiana. Deeply interested in Republican politics, McDowell corresponded with many prominent Republicans including Benjamin H. Bristow and Theodore Roosevelt. In 1894, McDowell considered running for W.C.P. Breckinridge’s seat in the House of Representatives, but eventually declined to run after Breckinridge lost the Democratic nomination. McDowell died on November 18, 1899, at Ashland.
Anne Clay McDowell, a granddaughter of Henry Clay, was born on February 14, 1837, to Henry Clay, Jr. and Julia Prather. Her mother died after the birth of her brother, Thomas Julian, in 1840, and her father died in the battle of Buena Vista during the Mexican War in 1847. After being orphaned at a young age, Anne and Thomas Julian lived in Louisville with their cousin Nannette Price Smith and her husband, Thomas Smith. Her older brother, Henry Hart Clay, lived with their uncle James Brown Clay in Lexington. Anne married Henry Clay McDowell in 1857. During the Civil War, her two brothers fought on opposing sides: Henry Hart for the Union and Thomas Julian for the Confederacy. Both Henry Hart and Thomas Julian died of fevers in 1862 and 1863. Following the end of the war, Anne lived at Woodlake farm and later at her grandfather’s estate, Ashland, with her family and her unmarried sister-in-law, Magdalen, who worked as an artist. After Henry Clay McDowell died in 1899, Anne continued to live at Ashland until her death in 1917.
Henry Clay McDowell and Anne Clay McDowell’s children include Nannette (1859-1948); Henry, Jr. (1861-1933); William Adair (1863-1925); Thomas Clay (1866-1935); Julia Prather (1868-1942); Madeline (1872-1920); and Ballard (1877-1881).
Henry Clay McDowell, Jr. (1861-1933) graduated from Yale in 1881 and the University of Virginia’s School of Law in 1887. He practiced law in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, and often took part in his father’s business dealings there. He married Elsie Clay (1866-1939) in 1893; they had one child, Henry (1898). In 1901, Henry, Jr. accepted a federal judgeship from President Theodore Roosevelt. Henry, Jr. served on the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia until 1931.
William Adair McDowell (1863-1925) also attended Yale, graduating in 1885. He married Alice H. Dudley in 1887; they had two children: Henry Clay and William Cochrane (1888-1936). He went into business in Big Stone Gap, but returned to Kentucky after his business failed. Later in life he became an executive at the Louisville and Nashville Railroad and president of the Phoenix National Bank & Trust Company. His wife, Alice, died in 1911; he remarried in 1914 to Katharine Ramsey.
Thomas Clay McDowell (1866-1935) became a noted horse breeder in Lexington. He married Mary Mann Goodloe in 1888. They had two children: Anne Clay (b. 1891) and William Cassius Goodloe (b. 1895). His horse Alan-a-dale won the 1902 Kentucky Derby.
Julia Prather (1868-1942) married William Bass Brock in 1904; they had two children: William, Jr. (1905-1909) and Henry Clay McDowell Brock (1909-1965).
Madeline
Source:
Connelley, William Elsey and Ellis Merton Coulter.
Hay, Melba Porter and Marjorie J. Spruill.
Labach, William A.
All is well at home.
Prang is requesting designs for valentines and birthday cards and has asked to see Aunt Mag's design. He has already sent $50.00. [Louis Prang was a publisher and lithographer].
Describes a fox hunt. Fanny Crittenden and she are going to the [Southern] Exposition.
Staying with the Houstons. Describes a clam bake. Will leave soon for Hingham on the way to New York.
News of family and friends.
Declines to come for a reception, but hopes to come to stay for a visit soon.
Went to a concert with the Athertons.
Dr. Vance believes Madge [McDowell who had tuberculosis of the bone; she had a foot amputed] should select the
Grateful for the monthly check and wishes
Recently, Tom saved a man who took morphine trying to commit suicide.
Tom is not busy and is having a worse time than usual getting people to pay their bills. Also enclosed is a note to Madge.
Sending two pair of socks for him to select which pair he likes.
Although she offered her home to Will [William Adair McDowell, her brother] and Alice [Dudley, his wife] for the summer, she was relieved that they decided to stay elsewhere.
Tom is in Philadelphia wher he took Mrs. Dudley [probably his sister-in-law's mother] for a rest cure. He is planning to stay a few days to observe physicians operate.
Expresses her appreciation to her father about the settlement [Snyder case] and though
Thanks him for the
Discussion of the Snyder case; date of the alleged conversation was not in New York. Could prove his whereabouts by any number of people.
Sending the bill of particulars and a letter from General Bristow [relating to the Snyder case].
Dr. Vance and Dr. Anderson will be able to testify as to his continued presence in Louisville [relating to the Snyder case].
Dr. Bailey suggests that McDowell change from the Buffalo to the Londondem (?) lithia for a urinary problem.
Thanks for what McDowell has done for Dr. Grant and him.
Has had a request from Mr. Forrester for McDowell to use his influence to avoid a scandal regarding the
The prospect of a final settlement is a great relief.
Encloses a letter [not present] that he thinks McDowell should see.
Thanks McDowell for all that he has done [concerning the Snyder affair]. Was
Sends report of examination along with medicine and bills. there is no evidence of Bright's disease.
Copy of a petition sent to [U.S. Representative from Kentucky] J. C. S. Blackburn concerning the reduction of mail routes.
Several letters concern the sale of a cemetery lot. [William Craik was superintendent of the Frankfort Cemetery, 1877-1894].
Thank you note for English hall clock.
Opening line:
Requests that Captain Charles D. Clay be appointed as Lt. Col. in one of the new regiments. Copy.
J. Stoddard Johnston to Judge Bland Ballard, near Chattanooga. Writes to inform him of the October 12th death of Major Thomas J. Clay, Inspector General on the staff of Major General Buckner. Thomas Clay died in Atlanta.
Adele Ballard to Henry Clay McDowell, Louisville. She urges her husband's uncle to not let Bland stay longer than a week on the proposed hunting trip. She is not well and sleeps poorly when Bland is away from home
Mary Kyle McDowell to Henry Clay McDowell, Louisville. She implores her brother to take care of her property to ensure that she has an adequate income. Her letter begins
Mentions that Henry C. McDowell, Jr. has typhoid pneumonia but Will McDowell is well.
Colonel Cannon has returned to Bristow
McDowell has Bristow's permission to show the letter concerning
Requests Goodloe to forward his letter to Henry Clay McDowell. Letter is an invitation to go hunting in the west, traveling by Mr. Hill's Manitoba Railroad.
Follow up letter regarding hunting trip. Sulphur bathing at White Sulphur Springs helped his back pain.
Mentions new carriage with spirited horses. Discusses the upcoming presidential election at length and the disreputable natures of Republican leaders James Blaine and Patrick Ford.
Writes that Cleveland would have won New York and the election if he had not been traded off by [David Bennett] Hill and [Hugh] Grant. It is unfortunate that Hill is governor and won the mayor's race.
Bristow is glad McDowell is coming to New York and wants to know the date.
Invites McDowell to be his dinner guest in New York. Writes that Blaine is going into the cabinet and fears
Writes that he is glad Nettie [Nannette McDowell] is visiting as his wife is ill. Describes an incident involving Mrs. Bristow, Nettie, and a runaway horse. Hopes McDowell will join him in the Rockies in September.
Notifies McDowell that he has been elected to membership in Theodore Roosevelt's club. Reports seeing a crowd of
Urges McDowell to stay with him in New York during the centennial celebration as it will be impossible to find a room. The horses have left New York and are on their way to Brasfield who will sell them.
Sorry to hear that the trip to New York inconvenienced McDowell. Tells him not to bother about the horses but to have Brasfield send him the proceeds of the sale.
Thanks McDowell for selling his horse. His wife is ill and may have malaria.
Discusses arrangements for the hunting trip with President Hill of the Manitoba Railroad Co.
Lists the group of capitalists going on the special hunting trip. Wants to bring them to visit Ashland but does not know if Lexington is on the train route. Mrs. Bristow is in better health after returning from North Carolina.
Press dispatches are colored unfavorable against Goodloe. [William Cassius Goodloe and Armstead M. Swope, both of whom were Republicans, had a political difference of opinion which resulted in a confrontation in Lexington, Kentucky on November 8, 1889 from which both men died] Has checked the accuracy of the [New York Daily?] Tribune interview. Enclosed newspaper clipping concerning Bristow's remarks about the incident.
Has written the President in support of Mr. Goodloe's appointment. Annoyed that the
He expects the McDowells to visit while in New York before the holidays.
He is sending a dozen bottles of
Suffers from a case of grippe but plans a trip to Asheville with his wife for a few weeks of rest. Hopes to see the McDowells there.
A mutual friend is traveling west and will pass through Lexington. Mr. and Mrs. Bristow are going to D.C.
Mrs. Belmont asks for the name of a Lexington lawyer who will take his case. Has just returned with his wife from Hot Springs where he saw A. S. Hewitt whose company had a contract to finish iron work for bridges on the Kentucky River. [Hewitt was mayor of New York City, 1887-1888] Hewitt was concerned about the financial convictions of the company's president.
Thanks McDowell for inviting him to Ashland for a wedding but is too busy to go.
Comments on the Preston wedding festivities. Has a railroad reorganization (of the C & A Railroad) which may prevent him from going on a hunting trip to the Rockies. Heard that game was abundant in the Jackson Lake area and Captain Bontelle told him that bears had invaded
Hoping to finish the railroad reorganization by September 1 so he can go west for the hunting trip. New York Court of Appeals judges are divided over important case (?) which is likely to become a leading case in the N.Y. Reports. Arguing a case before the Interstate Commerce Commission in Washington next Tuesday.
Writes that he is going to Indianapolis to attend a sale.
The press of business may keep him from going west in September.
Wants McDowell to assess a horse for him and report the price. Reports the death of Felton's brother. Believes there will be a general strike on the Vanderbilt railroads that may spread to other lines.
Decided not to buy the horse. He and Mrs. Bristow went to the Adirondacks. It upset him that the people there used dogs to drive deer into the water where they shot them. Reports that the Knights of Labor is a dying organization.
Bristow is sending four cases of champagne for which McDowell can send a check or pay him when they meet.
Distressed to hear of Henry's [Henry Clay McDowell, Jr.] serious illness. Felton is pleased with his new railroad company as there was no future at Erie Railroad. Invites McDowell to the January 17th Corsair Club dinner which Bristow is catering.
Bristow writes to congratulate Nannette McDowell on her engagement to Dr. Thomas Bullock.
Glad that Henry will be in New York next week. Wishes that he were coming earlier or later. Asks if he could come
Mrs. Bristow has shipped two cases of champagne. Both Bristow and Judge G. will probably be too busy to go on the bird hunt.
Has been asked by Stephen H. Olin, counsel for J. Kennedy Todd & Co., to write a note of introduction and recommendation for H. F. Keon to Judge Borr. Mentions Kentucky Union Railroad and the protection of the bondholders. Bristow hopes Smith [Milton Hannibal Smith who was Louisville and Nashville Railroad's chief executive officer for many years] will be the right man in the right place.
Bristow has declined an offer to represent Carley's personal interest in the Kentucky Union Railway and Land Companies in suits at Louisville. Believes Carley wanted him to influence J. Kennedy Todd and Co. or McDowell. Talked with Milton Smith who suggested that he did not want the presidency of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad.
Bristow is feeling ill so he has gone to the country. Plans a trip to Knoxville and Chattanooga and will stop at Ashland. He has read the newspaper story about McDowell and believes a denial of the falsehoods would cause the story to be more generally believed.
Thanks McDowell and family for their hospitality while he and his wife were at Ashland. Plans to go abroad in the summer so he will not be going to the Rockies.
His doctor recommended going to Aix in France for the bathing and massage treatments so he cannot go to the Rockies. Pierpont Morgan has just returned from Europe and praises the curative properties of the water.
Bristow is sending three cases of champagne to McDowell.
The trip across the ocean was fine, and the Bristows have spent ten days touring in Germany.
The return voyage was uncomfortable but they arrived home safely. Europe's one advantage over America is its cities. They are cleaner, have better police, have less crime and lack the governmental corruption of America's greatest cities. Cleaning up municipal government is America's greatest problem. Considers his time in Paris wasted because he dislikes the ways of the French
Business has kept him from reading McDowell's book on diet. He wants to break his cigar habit.
The case of a banking house has kept him busy. When he and his wife go to Europe for the summer they want the McDowells to join them. They also want to know if a date has been set for Nannette's wedding [April 19, 1892].
Sends his regrets that business will keep him from attending Nannette's wedding. Mrs. Bristow will not go without him. Requests McDowell change his mind about going to Europe.
Bristow is glad to hear of McDowell's improved health but sad to hear he can no longer drink champagne. His wife is going to Kentucky to visit relatives and they will not go to Europe until late summer.
Unable to go to Europe this year even though the baths would be beneficial. Bristow is not happy with the nomination of Benjamin Harrison though he will support him. He is especially pleased with Harrison's treatment of James G. Blaine. He believes Cleveland is a good man though he regrets Cleveland's belief in Jeffersonian democracy.
Wants to know about game in Colorado. Believes Felton will not join the hunt. The Chicago tariff plank was adopted to defeat Cleveland. He will spend the fourth of July on Pierpont Morgan's yacht.
Expresses his dismay that exercise at high elevation may prove fatal. He will not go to the Rockies but may go to Aiz [France].
Bristow has inspected his cabin and is happy with it. He wishes the McDowells would reconsider and go to Europe.
Though they had a good sail home on the
Asks about Mrs. McDowell's health and asks McDowell to recommend a good place to go in the south in March. Reports that their friend, [Walter Q.] Gresham, may have been offered a cabinet post by President Cleveland. He believes the offer was declined.
Reports his surprise at Gresham's acceptance of a cabinet post [Secretary of State] under Cleveland. Feels that he accepted out of a sense of duty. Bristow will not let this alter their friendship. May go to Hot Springs in the summer because of the cholera outbreak in Europe. Pierpont Morgan and others plan to build a hotel and baths at the Hot Springs modelled on those at Aix.
His grandson's kidney troubles are better.
Instead of the Rockies or Europe, the Bristows may be going to Hot Springs. They would like the McDowells to join them. Their grandson is recovering slowly.
Discusses the problems the country's financial situation has caused in New York. Blames the silver law and the spirit of speculation for the financial difficulties. He also blames the Treasury Department and the Democratic administration. He fears Cleveland will restore the state banking system.
Instead of going to Hot Springs, the Bristows had time for White Mountains and Saratoga. The heat in Chicago may keep them from going to the fair there. Financial matters are better since the House's passage of the repeal bill though it may not pass the Senate. Financial problems will continue until the Democrats are out of power. A Miss [Madeleine] Pollard attempted to hire him to represent her case against Congressman [William Campbell Preston] Breckinridge.
The Bristows and the Drapers are going to Chicago for the [World's] fair. [In 1883, his daughter, Nannie, married Eben Sumner Draper].
Writes about Donn Piatt's
The election of [New York Governor] David B. Hill and his colleague [probably Senator Edward J.] Murphy breaks the Brooklyn and Buffalo ring. This may mean the end of Tammany. People are dissatisfied with Jeffersonian democracy and are turning to the Republican Party in the north. Enjoyed the Chicago fair. The exhibits from other parts of the world help to expand the vision of the common man.
Sending a book,
He has been busy with a case and Mrs. Bristow has been ill. [Theodore} Roosevelt held his annual Boone and Crockett Club dinner at the Union Club. Believes Cleveland has made a mess of things in Washington. Regrets that [Walter Q.] Gresham joined Cleveland's administration.
Urges McDowell to run. Claims the incumbent [W.C.P. Breckinridge] cannot win. The Bristows recently dined at the White House. [Walter Q.] Gresham is not content in the administration. The Democratic Party is disintegrating. Bristow is involved in a fight for control of the Delaware and Hudson [rail and steamer lines] on behalf of a friend.
Discusses a hunting trip and a trip to Hot Springs. The Democrats will pass a tariff as a face saving measure. Bristow regrets McDowell will not run against Breckinridge whome he could easily defeat.
Theodore Roosevelt has informed Bristow that McDowell intends to run if Bristow is nominated. The election of Breckinridge would help the Republicans as much as the
Dr. Thomas Bullock [Nannette McDowell Bullock's husband] is being blackmailed by a woman. He will try to suppress the shame by paying her to drop the suit. News of the scandal has already appeared in a New York paper.
Attempts to locate Dr. Hagan and the woman have failed. Explains what consitutes a marriage under New York law. The woman's lawyer stated that she will not sign any paper acknowledging the illegitimacy of her child. Money may be able to solve the problem.
Dr. Hagan said there never was a marriage between Dr. Bullock and the woman. Dr. Hagan will not testify against her because he is her friend. Dr. Hagan will help to find her but he believes she is more interested in establishing the legitimacy of her child than in money.
Dr. Hagan has not been heard from for some time and Bristow does not trust him. He is trying to gather information about the woman.
Unless Dr. Bullock can convince Dr. Hagan, he will not testify. The Pinkerton agency is searching for the woman. Advises they get a judge to issue an order to force the woman to disclose particulars of the marriage. Bristow wants McDowell to inform him how to proceed should he fail to settle out of court.
Detective provided information that will help him fight the charges [against Dr. Bullock.] It is important for him to come to New York to see Dr. Hagan.
The Pinkerton detectives discovered information about the woman's history and character. After telling the woman's lawyer what he knew of her, the lawyer was willing to settle out of court. Bristow needs to know how he should proceed.
Met with the woman's
Has a case in Virginia and the Bristows are going to Hot Springs where he hopes the McDowells will join them.
Asks the McDowells to join him and his wife at Hot Springs, Virginia.
Regrets the McDowells will not join them. Mrs. Snyder [Dr. Bullock's accuser] was at the hotel.
Has just returned from talking to Dr. Hagan who says he is frequently visited by Mrs. Snyder who wishes to prosecute the case. Mrs. Snyder claims to have three witnesses to the marriage who will testify in court. Dr. Hagan does not know if she has letters from Dr. Bullock in which he acknowledges the marriage. Bristow wants McDowell to come to Nw York to discuss the case.
Mrs. Snyder and Dr. Hagan are a mystery. McDowell should come to New York to discuss the case.
This is not the proper time to offer a settlement as it would only stiffen Mrs. Snyder's demands. the case can be beaten but they have to be prepared for the lies which will be told in court.
Requests information abour Mr. O'Shea who is writing a book about Mr. Clay. [P. O'Shea of Boston was the publisher of the 1864 edition of Calvin Colton's
He and Mrs. Bristow returned in late September from Europe where the weather was very hot. Hears nothing of the Bullock case and will take no action until Dr. Bullock instructs him.
Discusses [son] Will's bout with typhoid. Cleveland and [Richard] Olney [Secretary of State] have made a mess of the Venezuelan affair, a boundary dispute between Venezuela and British Guiana [Guyana.] Cleveland should be impeached, but the Congress supports his stand. Cleveland offered Bristow a place on his commission which was declined.
Will is improving. Congress will call Cleveland's bluff and pass the Davis resolution. There is a reckless desire to provoke war with Britain over a matter which does not affect America's national interest.
The Bristows enjoyed their time with the McDowells and want them to go to Europe in the summer. They are also invited to visit for a trip to the White Mountains or Saratoga.
Thanks McDowell for sending a copy of his speech made to the Mexican War veterans. In his book, Grant condemns the war against Mexico as unjustified. Pleased by the adoption in St. Louis of a plank supporting the gold standard, but not in the choice of the candidate [William McKinley] who opposed it.
Thanks McDowell for the food and book. Glad to hear the Kentucky Union [Railroad] is a success.
Hopes to talk about Lieutenant Clay with the President and the Secretary of War. Advises McDowell to go to White Sulphur for his health.
Judge Gresham agreed to join them for the trip west. Judge Jackson will join them until mid-September. Note written on the letter dated July 25 from D.W. to Henry Clay McDowell tells him to read Bristow's letter.
First part of letter missing. Discusses hunting and fishing ground. Has a case in the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia.
First page of letter missing. Wishes he could go on the Alabama trip because he is tiring of work.
Form letter of appointment as Assistant Adjutant General of Volunteers with the rank of Captain.
Includes reply from C. H. Gausché, Assistant Adjutant General. McDowell's letter requests the dates that he accepted his appointment. The reply informs him that the official date of his acceptance is November 30, 1861.
Western Union telegram, informing McDowell his leave has been extended.
McDowell's resignation has been accepted by the President.
McDowell's commission as Marshal of the United States for the District of Kentucky has been forwared to the Honorable Bland Ballard. The form details the steps he needs to take.
Calls his
Duplicate receipt o the Office of Surveyor of Customs and Designated Depository of Public Moneys at Louisville.
Has arrived in New York. Sister Mary and she are staying with the Hewitts. Describes what she has seen of the city and will soon go to Philadelphia. Hopes that Nannie is well by the time she arrives home.
Sorry to inform her that Nannette [Marshall, a cousin] is very ill. Thinks she was ill when she returned home from her trip [to New York City] but no one knew it at the time. She is having trouble breathing and has chest pains. She is more comfortable since the doctors have given her medicine.
Has given up hope of Nannie's writing to her and fears she has forgotten her friend altogether. Was surprised to hear that Mary had gone to California. Sister Mary is slowly recovering from her illness. Regrets not being able to hear Thalberg [possibly composer Sigismond Thalberg] in concert as Mr. Hewitt wants to start for New Orleans. Maria is longing to return home.
Apologizes for not being able to attend Anne's Wedding.
Disappointed that Anne changed her mind about marrying Charles Harris.
Writes about silver tumblers belonging to Anne's grandparents. Mentions her reading.
Mentions a flag presentation and Anne moving into her house soon.
Sending the silver belonging to Anne's parents to the Bank of Kentucky. Includes a list of the silver written by Henry Clay, Jr.
From the office of the Breckenridge Coal and Oil Company. Reading the
Reflections on the city. Anne is living at Maplewood in Pewee Valley at this time.
Discusses the societies and an oration at the University of Virginia.
Lists his itinerary. Went to Derby in England. Would like more letters from home. Hears about Lucretia Clay's death.
Just returned the body of Confederate general Felix Kirk Zollicoffer. Describes the ragged, shabby appearance of some Texas Rangers and Confederate destruction in the area.
Pleased with the officers he is serving under.
Describes his feelings about being at the camp and away from home.
Very expressive letter describing conditions at the camp and the well being of her husband, Henry Clay McDowell.
Mentions a flag presentation. Has been over the battleground and seen many interesting places and things.
In good health and humor. His general is absent due to illness. Writes about beautiful music he heard, how he would like more letters, and about their accounts.
Took the town without a fight, but had difficulty reaching it. German regiment from Illinois is currently plundering the town. Heard that Tommy [her brother] is at Russelville and on General Buckner's staff.
Moving toward Fort Donnelson.
Describes being a prisoner of war.
Writes about the possibility of her brother Thomas being released on parole. Enclosed are two pieces of Bank of Tennessee currency.
Writes that if Thomas will not accept a parole, he (Henry) cannot procure his exchange.
Writes about the condition of Thomas Clay.
Had dinner with General William T. Sherman and was greatly impressed by him.
Thanks her for the dress. Writes about Anne's children. Asks her to tell Henry to stay sick just long enough so she can see him before he returns to the army. Mentions a man wounded in battle who looks like Henry Clay McDowell.
Thomas is feeling better and brags about the confederate Army.
Tells of a recent engagement.
Interned in a prison camp, describes camp life.
He and Ike Caldwell discussed politics of the democratic convention and the
Discrepancy in his pay.
Informs her of the death of her brother, Major Thomas Julian Clay.
Describes various weddings and discusses the health of family members.
Birthday Greetings.
Children are doing well.
Writes about her aunt, Kate Wright McDowell, giving birth to a daughter.
Writes about clothing and news of family.
Not going to New York. Ann Massey will not visit after all. Asks her to visit soon.
Making her a dress.
Advice for her trip to the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition.
He and a friend have purchased paintings from several art collections. Plans to visit General McDowell.
Saw her Grandmother Smith. [Note: Anne and her brother Thomas, children of Henry Clay, Jr., were adopted by Nannette Smith, niece of Lucretia Hart Clay].
Discusses racing two of his horses. Dining with Mr. Kilgour, a wealthy resident of Cincinnati.
Writes about illnesses and cures. Sends a recipe for macaroni.
Elected president of an association. Accepted dinner invitation of Edward Askew Sothern, famous for the role of Lord Dundreary in
Bought a handsome clock for Alice. Also bought chairs he thinks she will like.
Thanks her for the clock.
Discusses her socializing in Louisville and the society news.
Plans to go to General [Oliver Otis] Howard's stock farm.
Possible reference to her daughter Mary's marriage to Frederick Daniel Hussey. [Note: Kate Winston calls her daughter by Nannie in this letter].
Describing a wedding, possibly the Winston/Hussey wedding.
Describes the wedding of Mary Winston and Frederick Hussey.
Writes about what she has been doing since her parents have been away in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.
Would like to visit but spends most of the time in bed with an illness.
Sold the horse Trinket for $11,000.
Glad that Will Bristow is Henry, Jr.'s roommate at Yale.
Needs her to send a dictionary and laundry bag.
Aunt Mag is at Bryn Mawr near Philadelphia. Have had several visitors while she (Anne) has been away.
An art dealer offered her $750 for one of her paintings.
Visited her nephew Henry C. McDowell, Jr. at Yale. Decided to stay in New York and paint.
His brother Henry is encouraging him in his studies. Professor Drake invites Henry C. McDowell, his father, to visit.
Doctors cannot cure her illness.
Would like his parents to visit at Thanksgiving.
Finished her shopping. Relates society news. Ends letter with
News from home while she is away.
Business delays his return home. Visited with the Bristows.
Bought for Julia or Madge an
Went to see
Thomas would like letters from home and new pants. William states that his headaches are gone.
Glad to get her letter and sorry Madge hurt herself.
Hopes his brother Will gets better so he can return to school.
Thanks Anne for her sympathy during her [McKenzie's] time of loss.
Invested in Tennessee bonds
Thanks her for the letter on behalf of her husband Lewis Garnett who is an admirer of Henry Clay.
Measles have broken out at school and his brother Tom has symptoms.
Nannette came to see him and Will. They will come home on the afternoon train.
Describes his fishing trip.
Regrets that he did not bring Will on the fishing trip.
Had charming visit at Victor Newcomb's cottage. While there, General Grant, D. Cameron, and Commodore Garrison came.
Setting out to see the city with Mr. Proctor.
Discusses the many people he has met and socialized with.
Discussing business matters with Bristow.
News of family and friends. Mentions Ballard McDowell (1877-1881).
Writes about clothes she made or bought for Anne's children. Mentions Ballard McDowell.
Writes of clothes she made for Anne's children. Mentions Ballard McDowell.
Invites Anne to come down for the Fair and to bring Ballard.
Went to the Historical Society and the Geological Survey.
Writes of how their children have been while she is away.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Ballard McDowell.
Invites her to visit. News of family and friends. Writes about her trip to Boston.
Concerns a memoir of Henry Clay.
Writes how Anne is in her thoughts since she herself has lost four children.
Apologizes for not writing sooner and hopes Nettie will visit.
Writes about some furniture.
Has had no time for visiting because of business with a sale.
Went to New Haven and saw Henry, Jr. who is well. Writes about Henry's professor and boxing coach, Mr. Tighe.
Sorry to hear that she is unhappy and mentions having lost a child too. Invites her to visit.
Family and farm news.
Thanks her for sending the flowers for Ballard McDowell's grave.
Asks if it is true that the McDowells will buy Ashland.
Congratulates family on buying Ashland.
Thanks her for a package and for the comfort she gave in her time of sorrow.
Writes about a $25,000 bet on the horse Trinket.
Writes about his health, meals, and school work while at Yale.
Wants to visit at Woodlake before they move.
Writes about a bicycling accident.
Invitation to visit.
Writes of an upcoming drill and dance at Jackson Hall.
Invitation to dine.
Transferring church membership.
Describes his journey from home to New Haven.
Attended a concert; program enclosed.
Will buy a dress suit with the money his father sent.
Comfortably settled in his dorm.
Needs more money for his bills.
Loves helping Anne take care of Ballard McDowell's grave.
Spent Easter in Morristown with a friend. Would like Aunt Mag to send his drawing instruments.
Will send bill home for new bicycle. Exams over; sends card with recitation schedules.
Describes a bicycle riding party he went on.
Thanks her for invitation.
Writes about the care of Ballard's grave.
Writes about upcoming exams.
Congratulated his brother Henry on his election into
Has enjoyed the Southern Exposition.
Weather has been too hot for any amusements. Writes when he expects to be home.
Explains why he is waiting in Washington.
Discusses upcoming exams.
Passed exam without studying. Mentions death of Professor Norton. May go to Alaska next summer.
Passed his drawing exam. Mentions Professor Norton's death again. Never sees anything reported about the Louisville Exposition.
Invitation to family gathering at her home. Mentions John Morrison Clay is eager to play whist with Henry Clay McDowell.
Writes about studying for his classes.
Describes an accident he nearly had while bicycling.
Working for Todd and Donigan and boarding at the Alexander.
Will not be going to Nannie Bristow's wedding with Henry, Jr.
Prepared his bicycle for winter.
Writing about the presents they received for Christmas.
Discusses a trip he took and the letters awaiting him upon his return to school.
Glad to hear that his father will be coming for a visit. Mentions the upcoming Prom.
Viewed an operation at the medical college of Bellevue, which made him
Writes about why he may not go to Alaska in the summer.
Received a picture from some of his relatives. Had pictures of himself taken.
Enclosed a picture of himself. Writes about a civil engineering project.
Will be traveling back home with Annie Bakewell from Peewee Valley.
Describes a celebration of Yale's victory in a baseball game.
Mentions baseball and lacrosse games. Wonders about a law about bicycle riding on the pike between Georgetown and Lexington.
Mentions exams and the senior promenade.
Writes of his plans for the journey home.
Describes his journey back to New Haven.
Mentions
Writes about the tiring trip to the University of Virginia.
Writes about an engineering project. Found a room for Aunt Mag to stay.
Taking wonderful walks in the area. Likes the university. Mentions their horse King Rene.
Unable to visit Ashland on her and her mother's way home.
Aunt Mag will stay in New York instead of New Haven for the winter. Going to a German dance in Ansonia.
Mentions the
Writes of some shopping she did. Has a bad cold and wants to come home.
Staying with his sister Sarah Ballard and her family. Will go to Reel Foot Lake then to Nashville.
Has almost decided against becoming an engineer.
Luxurious accommodations at Reel Foot Club House for his duck hunting trip.
States when he will be returning home.
Writes about his professors.
Declined invitations to dinner, one with Logan Murray and Governor Crittenden. Saw their son Will who is doing well.
The girls are at their lessons, and he encloses a letter from Henry, Jr. and one from Will.
Description of Deadwood as well as South Dakota in general. Describes mines for different minerals and metals; geological features of South Dakota including Devil's Tower, Chimney Rock, and Bear Butte; the hot springs and the Fall river; the town of Deadwood; cattle ranching; the people; and her acclimation to the new environment.
Preparing for exams. Going to a German dance at Ansonia. Eager to get home soon.
Dined with Eliza Quigley and her friend Miss Smith.
Busy with examinations.
Letter concerning a bequest left to both of them by Wash Anderson who had unaccounted government property.
Thanks her for the newspaper clipping she sent. Will send Julia a bangle. Heard a doctor lecture about converting people.
Discusses his lectures and exams.
Has enjoyed and appreciated evangelist Dwight Moody's good works in the city. Dislikes English evangelist Henry Varley. Mentions the Exposition.
Had a short but enjoyable visit from Pete Atherton. Pink eye is spreading through the college.
Writes about a trap he and his friends set for a young thief.
Fears he is getting pink eye.
Writes about studying and exams. Has a slight case of pink eye.
Asks about a division within the church at home and why another church may be built.
Tells her to direct mail him at Williamsburg, Ky.
Sends a check.
Unable to accept her invitation to visit.
Busy with lectures.
Glad that she will visit soon. Fixing the tennis grounds.
Spent Sunday with Tom Bullock.
Graduating; writes when he will be home.
Unable to accept invitation to visit. She and husband Charles Denby are leaving for China from San Francisco in July.
Writes when he is leaving for home.
Writes about his journey to St. Louis
Writes about settling in and seeing the sights.
Writes about his horses.
Mentions his horse King Rene.
Writes about his studies.
Mentions family's race horses.
Writes about settling into his new home.
News of family and friends.
Writes about her health and the health of family and friends.
Was hoping Nannette would come to Louisville in time to go to
Wishes his letters were more clever; writes about his lessons.
Went to the opera,
Needs a new suit and may drop his astronomy class.
Thanks her for the visit and tells her his paper on Ashland has been accepted by
Taking care of Aunt Patty [Burnley]. Invites her and Magdalen McDowell to visit.
Wants more letters from home. Mentions the conditions of the roads.
Recovering from an illness. His friend Tom Coleman saw his brother Will not long ago.
Regrets that she is unable to visit.
Dr. Bullock prescribed a sugar powder for his pain.
Work may prevent him from visiting.
Has been sick with malaria for a week.
Mentions Louise Craig's wedding and how guests were dressed. Shopped for furniture with her cousin Fanny Ballard.
Writes about trying to have a frame repaired. News of friends.
His address will be at Williamsburg, Ky. Saw their son Will briefly.
Met his father at the depot and had supper with him. Would have liked to have been home when the glee club visited.
Received Belknap's catalog from George Todd. May not be with Todd Donigan Iron Co. much longer
Saw Cousin Mary's gift for Miss Fannie who has received over sixty presents.
Describes her journey from home to New York.
Thanked Cousin Diddie for her kindness on her trip. Describes the Houston's
Asks which route to take on her return home. Describes her visit to Boston.
Will and Upshur Berryman plan to open a retail hardware store.
Writes of his fishing trip with Henry, Jr. who broke his rod and fell out of the boat.
Found a house to board at. Encouraged by the business outlook of his hardware store.
He met Nannette at the depot, and they went to Bay Ridge with Harry Hart.
Writes about his business.
Liked his birthday presents from home. Moved to a cheaper boarding house. Started working for Weis and Ridge.
Still undecided about business matters.
Still working for Weis and Ridge, but looking at working for a saddling company.
Would like to stay until Monday although that is the first day of school. Mentions a euchre party.
Man from Topeka, Kansas, may buy the saddlery, but if he does not, Will will start working for the company.
Has prospect of working in Lexington.
Thinking of working for Merriam and Murry.
Went to Macauley Theatre and a candy pulling.
Had a small fire in his hotel room.
Snow prevented him from inspecting and measuring logs for his lumber company.
Writes about his trip from Memphis to Little Rock.
Mentions horseback riding and the baths at Hot Springs. Saw a story in the Chicago
An annoying roommate is finally gone.
Met Colonel Morrison who was in the Mexican War with her father.
Discusses his health and informs his mother that he is getting married.
Informs her that his soon to be in-laws are coming to Ashland. Lumber mill caught on fire, but there was little damage.
Wedding announcement for William enclosed.
Writes about business matters.
Asks her to have a five gallon jug of 16 year old whiskey sent to him from his father's wine cellar.
Mentions their son Henry liking Big Stone Gap, Va.
Had forgotten his birthday. Spent the evening with the Bristows.
Urges her to write to him because he grows anxious not hearing about herself and Madge.
Explains what has kept him from visiting Lexington.
Thanks her for the raspberries she sent to him and his wife Alice.
Expresses his affection for Ashland and the Bluegrass region. Invites Nannette to visit the next time she is in New York.
Explains his annoyance with a transfer man on the train who did not get his baggage on time.
In a hunting party with Benjamin Bristow and others. Amazed by the courtesies paid them by the railroad companies and by the vastness of the grain fields.
Writes about buying Christmas presents.
Writes about the guests at Ashland. News of family.
Mentions photos and article about the family in a supplement of the
Little Clay has a hip disease and must lie on his back for several weeks. Describes an Episcopal church.
Enjoyed his stay at Ashland.
News of family and friends.
Had a pleasant trip to Big Stone Gap, Va. Alice is sick with typhoid fever.
Alice is better but still has a fever.
Describes his hunting trip.
Alice's health is better after suffering a set back.
Describes Yellowstone and his hunting trip.
Short note about the well-being of her husband, Henry Clay McDowell, while he is on his hunting trip.
News of family while visiting Louisville. Describes her visit to Chicago.
Writes of all the people she has visited and the new people she has met.
First impressions of her new school.
Beginnings of her school lessons and routine.
Took a long walk with a young man for which she could have been expelled but was not. Some of the older girls performed shadow plays for entertainment.
Mentions some new friends she has made.
Would like a tam-o'-shanter cap.
Read an account in the New York
Needs rubbers sent for her shoes.
Needs tape and curtains. Mentions Clara Childs, who came to visit.
Heard concert at school by New York Philharmonic Club.
Received invitation to visit from the Bristows.
Sent a condolence letter following the death of Ballard McDowell, but the family had already moved to Ashland.
Enjoys her letters. Hopes everyone is well.
Describes his hunting trip.
Comments about winters at Farmington. Hopes Will and Alice will not go to Big Stone Gap to live. Her roommate, May Knowlton, will not be returning next term, so Madeline will room with Florence Moore.
Mrs. Phythian and Bonnie would like Madeline's sister Julia to come to Washington right away. Hopes Margaretta's illness has not postponed her (Anne's) trip.
Attended presentation of a tableaux.
Had a very nice tea with Miss Porter and nine of her fellow students.
His bank will open soon.
Would like to be home for her birthday. People of the town
Writes about having sore throats and about having equipment sent to the Gap.
Is almost entirely well again. Collision on the S.A.&O. Railroad
Thanks her for the letter and Kodak pictures. Mentions
Possibly writing about leaving Miss Porter's school.
Dictated letter. His health is improving steadily, but very slowly. He and Alice are going to Washington for shopping and to see a dentist.
Received a letter from Alice and Will who are going to Baltimore. Hopes she and her father are having a good journey.
Visiting dentist in Baltimore. Will meet her and Father in Middleburgh, Va.
Met Thomas Nelson Page for breakfast. Comments that General Ayers is hurrying business too much.
Settled into new home. Asks her to send some table linens. Writes about her (Alice's) son
Went to the train station expecting her to arrive. China for their dinner party did not arrive by express.
His brother Henry has typhoid fever.
Glad to hear that Henry has improved. Alice will get to visit at Ashland.
Writes about some visiting he has done.
Had two directors meetings today.
Asks for information about relatives of Mary Elizabeth Smith, who has a blind husband.
Thanks her for the money she sent to Mary Elizabeth Smith.
Recounts a robbery story. News of family and friends.
Asks about Madeline's foot. Met Thomas Nelson Page.
Thanks her for the money she sent and details some family relationships.
Highlights her stay in the city. Hopes Dr. Dawson tells her father how much longer she has to stay.
Believes her leg is improving.
The doctor does not know what caused her sickness which kept her in bed for a week. Will unfortunately is not feeling better.
Is not having another baby after all. Had an attack of dysentery.
Had a charming visit at Ashland and thanks her for her hospitality.
Writes about shoes the doctor prescribed for her. Sorry she will miss Thomas Nelson Page's reading.
Writes more about the prescribed shoes and asks if she felt the earthquake last night.
Writes about her son, Billy who turns three soon. News of family and friends.
Having a relaxing stay at the St. Nicholas Hotel to alleviate his
Writes about his hunting trip and the men who joined him.
Comments on Gov. Jones of Alabama who joined the hunting party on the railroad car.
Describes the plantation he is visiting.
Reference to Nannette McDowell's recent marriage to Thomas Bullock.
Alice has been sick with a high fever; the baby is well.
Remembers a song about the death of Anne's father, Henry Clay, Jr.
He and Alice are in the city for his business of closing a timber sale.
Timber deal has yet to be closed. Family and business news.
Writes about his hunting and fishing trip.
Family news.
Day to day happenings. News of family and friends.
News of friends and family. Will not get natural gas heating. Mentions brother Henry's upcoming marriage. Clipping enclosed about a breakfast in honor of Thomas Nelson Page.
Alice and the baby had a wonderful visit at Ashland. Brother Henry has not been well.
Mentions her husband Thomas Bullock teaching at the college.
Writes about the shopping she has done.
Mentions an appointment which Nannette's father may help Tom Bullock get in Washington. Taking quinine to ward off typhoid fever. Piece of fabric enclosed.
Asks her to visit with his father when he comes for an annual meeting.
Tom will read a paper before the state medical society, and he recently had a meeting with Colonel W.C.P. Breckinridge.
A friend gave her an account of Miss Speed's wedding.
Writes of consolidation of two banks and of his brother Henry's upcoming wedding.
Asks to borrow the sword and portrait of Henry Clay, Jr., for display in the Kentucky State Building at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago.
Announces his upcoming marriage.
Mentions Colonel Breckinridge.
Charlie Coleman sent a program of the celebration of the 200th anniversary of William and Mary College. Farm and family news.
Has board meetings. Writes about the death of a horse.
Rain interrupted training. Met with a German who came to see the World's Fair.
Discusses preparations for her wedding.
Writes of buying presents for Henry and Elsie's wedding.
Writes about her baby and the holidays. News of family and friends.
Writes about clothes she has bought.
Thanks for the Christmas gifts, especially the watch sent for Billy-boy (Alice's son). Talks of Billy's presents stacked under the tree. Will feeling better. They will not make it to Ashland this winter. Her (Alice's) clothes are too old-fashioned for visiting anyway.
Suffering from grippe. On hunting trip way out in the country. Talk of horses and rainy weather. Today is perfect. Wants to hunt, but cannot as it is raining.
Has intended to write for some time. Glad she and father have recovered from the grippe. Will pay off his note at the Bank of Kentucky, then will turn his attention to his other note. Has passes on a dozen railroads, hopes for one on L&N soon to visit Lexington. Mentions Appalachian Bank and John Fox's
Family news (mostly about her baby, Henry). Hopes to visit next week. Glad Aunt Mag is home safely.
Will come tomorrow afternoon on the C&O.
She is looking for a new white servant. Suspected the last one of robbery. Annie Pope died yesterday. Tom is to be a pall bearer. Sending things to Madge and Aggie (Agnes Holton a black servant for the McDowells).
Tom was called away while they had guests. The next morning at four and six called out again; delivered two babies. Discussion of a carriage for Henry (Bullock) from Mrs. Bullock or borrowing one from Anne.
Family news; will visit Ashland sometime around April 10 or thereafter.
In D.C. on business, will be delayed for two days.
Family and society news.
Family news. Doing errands for Madge while she is recovering.
Family and society news.
Thank you for the present. Sewing clothes for Billy. Family and society news.
Family news. Henry, Jr. in Jonesville on Roger Thruston's business. Hopes the Henry, Jr. will visit home. Wants Anne to visit.
Sends her two ribbons from Henry Clay's presidential campaign of 1844.
Has been visited by friends recently. Problems with the cook.
New company organized that morning. Visited Nettie and the baby.
Hunting trip. No birds, destroyed by a
Thank you for Henry Bullock's birthday presents. Discussion of other birthday presents. Family news.
Thank you for the birthday present; shopped all day yesterday. Mailed Christmas box.
Family and society news. Henry Jr. visited and looked well.
She and the baby send kisses and love for the little nightgowns.
Sending belated Christmas package, had delayed because she was waiting for gifts for Julia and Madge (still haven't arrived). Thanks for the check.
Thanks her for the candlesticks. Apologizes for keeping Henry, Jr. away from his family at Christmas as they visited with her family.
Many thanks for the Christmas presents. Enjoyed by all. Had been very busy with end of year bookkeeping and banking.
Visited Nette. Henry Bullock much better.
Henry and Will visited. Family and society news.
Family and society news. She is feeling better. Comments about taxes being raised on Ashland more than any other property.
Henry, Jr. and Elsie visited; returned home safe. Will and Alice and Will, Jr. visited yesterday. Stites Duvall stayed over Friday night.
She will not be able to visit Ashland anytime soon. She has to take Billy to the eye doctor twice a day. Billy is very near-sighted.
Has been invited to a progressive euchre tomorrow. Was feeling better, but got up too soon and did too much and had to return to bed. Family and society news.
Tom has a bad cold. Cousin Lizzie upset by her (Nette's) remarks about the decision on the Gratz's will.
Family and society news.
Sending package. Enjoyed visit, but glad to be home and back in the country.
Returned home safely from Ashland. Doing some shopping for the family, will send the box tomorrow.
Very warm, Henry (Bullock) is all broke out with heat. Has put paper on the walls. Saw a notice for Madge's article in the
Heard from Nette that she (Anne) did not think that he and Alice love her as much as her other children do because they do not write as often. Writes of his business.
Talks of a Dr. Howard. Enclosed is a newspaper article about a mother who cared more about saving her skin than her child. Used the check to buy needed items.
Family news.
Going to Washington, D.C. to inquire after patents pending for his company. Will spend a day or two with Alice on his return.
Family news.
Enjoying her trip; will return home Thursday.
Family news.
Julia has returned and wants the whole family to go to Beattyville. Family news.
She has been
He is concerned about her malaria. Other news.
Will is there and has been very sick. She wrote to Mr. Pease (owner of the factory where Will works) saying that he was ill and cannot travel. Family news.
He is feeling much better, and believes
Enjoyed visit to Ashland. Baby talking some. Will and Alice visited. The crib came Thursday.
Business and society news.
Decided to postpone travels. Asks her to look for a few things. Family and society news.
She is making a cloak for Henry Bullock with Alice's help. Alice had a bicycle wreck. Will, Jr. (Alice's son) started school. Will starts work at six a.m. and goes to bed by eight. Included is a note to Madge.
Has a note for Henry Clay McDowell to sign. News of the Bishop.
Christmas wishes. Thanks for the check. Alice bought a game for Will, Jr. Hopes that everyone is well or improved. Would like to get everyone together for Christmas 1896.
She had been visited by a Mr. Buchanan. He wanted her to sign a paper stating that her grandfather (Henry Clay, Jr.) had died a widower leaving two sons and one daughter, which she did. Christmas celebration.
Received a telegram at 6:20 that morning about Madge's health (following an operation on her foot).
Snow on the ground. He is pleased to hear Madge's friends have been so attentive. He is going to Louisville.
Visited family while in Louisville; wants to take her there when she returns.
Visited Madge
Terrible storm yesterday. Dined with the Bristows last night. Unable to return until Thursday.
Glad that she is improving. Went to see the
Glad that she (Anne) is improving. Grandpa will stay a little longer. Will is beginning to look for a house for them. Will is trying to get a different position. Nettie seems improved after a visit to Ashland.
To see Dr. Bull today. Hopes to come home soon. Dr. Bull in favor of her returning home, while Dr. Gibney is opposed. Family and society news.
She and Elsie have been sewing a lot. Alice to visit Ashland and then Elsie and Henry. Thinks Will should board during that time as they have not found a house. Wishes Madge would have the foot taken off and be done with it. Had been asked if Julia were marrying a Mr. Ferguson. Nettie thinks they have the wrong McDowell family. The butter and asparagus came yesterday.
His family will no longer be able to keep house with May. They are quietly looking for a place to board.
Dr. Gibney said
He sent Anne a fragment of silk from the flag borne by the 2nd regiment of Kentucky volunteers at the Battle of Buena Vista (Mexican War). This was her father, Henry Clay, Jr.'s regiment, and the battle in which he was killed. Included is the fragment of silk.
She has been unanimously elected an honorary member of the National Association of Mexican War Veterans.
The company wants her to sign a quitclaim concerning a foot of land once owned by her father. Their property is 165 feet south of the southwest corner of Third and Green Streets, whereas the deed describes it as 166 feet south of the southwest corner of Third and Green Streets.
Thank father for the check. Apparently received an offer to stay with Mrs. Dudley for the winter. Family news.
Thanks the family for a lovely visit at Ashland.
He has
She has arrived in Hot Springs and is sharing a room with two other ladies. Asks for several things to be sent to her.
The blue collar arrived this morning. Requests items to be sent to her. Mentions people Anne will visit. Talks of Desha Breckinridge; hopes that Anne and Henry, Sr. think fondly of him despite certain incidents (referring to the scandals surrounding his family).
Has made many acquaintances. Had a visit from Harvey McElmer and his wife. Describes people staying at the hotel.
Oversaw the completion of the ovens at the coal mine. Spent too much time in the sun. Change in diet made him ill. Has very poor board. Visited Henry, Jr. and Elsie and will visit again on Sunday.
Desha and Mrs. Burr arrived Monday. Went to see
Believes that Anne must be feeling better since she wrote. Family and society news.
Invitation to Anne and Henry to be her guests.
There is snow on the ground, and the temperature is forty.
Requests a picture of her father (Henry Clay, Jr.) to put on the badges for the annual meeting of the Kentucky Mexican War Veterans Association.
Has been out visiting. Talks about fixing things up around the house.
Family news.
Sending her mother a cape.
Family news. Mentions various donations to an unidentified committee.
Gave Julia her birthday present. She has been entertaining extensively. Madge wants her mother and father to go to Nassau.
Congratulates Anne on getting away when she did. A very bad hailstorm struck, but did not damage the glass in the greenhouse. Mary and Julia are bowling too much.
Mentions the terrible hailstorm. Tom McDowell visited. A man tried to sell her some paste that would mend broken china. She persisted in saying no and finally the man left.
Family and society news. She is sick. Mentions that Desha is entertaining his newspaper staff; Elsie Clay McDowell has the measles; several people have contracted and died from spinal meningitis in Lexington.
She and Aunt Mag picked out wallpaper for Julia. Trying to use her
Asks her to send him a bottle of medicine and packages of headache tablets.
Feels better today than he has for a month. Went fishing and killed seven copperhead snakes.
Sympathy note on the death of her husband.
She and Henry Bullock arrived home safely after their Thanksgiving visit at Ashland. Describes people on the train. Had a second Thanksgiving with Tom and Mrs. Garrett, and Hurst and Theresa.
Tom's buggy robe was stolen. She bought gloves for Henry Bullock. She has been Christmas shopping.
Concerning the memorial put together by the Eastern Kentucky Asylum for the Insane.
She is taking lessons with Mr. Boho and copying his sketches.
She has been Christmas shopping. She is packing a box to send to Anne. Henry Bullock has asked for only one thing, a locket like his father's to put on his watch chain. They have decided to stay home for Christmas.
Sympathizes over the loss of Henry, Sr. She tells Anne that the love of family will help. Invitation to visit as
Homesick at school.
Needs a new suit. Having a better time at school now.
Likes school and writes of recent activities.
Needs money and wants her to send the
Writes about his studies. Sorry that she (Anne) thinks he is extravagant. Mentions that oatmeal is good for dyspepsia.
Discusses taking Pepsin and laudanum for his pain.
Writes about buying a suit and about his lessons.
Needs money for his washing bill and train fare home.
Thanks his aunt for the letter and the candy she sent. Does not want to stay at his school because he's not getting along well with the others, who tend not to like boys from the South or the West.
Needs $200 to pay up everything at school before he leaves for home on the 24th.
Writes instructions for a tennis court to be made ready when he comes home with a tennis set.
Will be staying in Orange, New Jersey, until the 1st of September.
Describes the lodgings he found in Orange. Explains his schedule for tutoring, studying, and leisure.
Writes about some acquaintances he has made.
Postcard. Going back to New Haven on Wednesday.
Glad to have letters and papers from home. Has decided to come home for Christmas. Taking quinine now.
Will move to his room in West Divinity Hall soon. Taking boxing lessons and wants to try the fishing in the area.
Passed his examinations and is now a member of Yale.
Dined with General Bristow and visited the [Henry] Farnams. Also dined with Mr. Watrous, president of the railroad between New Haven and New York. He and Will Bristow were asked to join a club which includes sons of very prominent men.
He and Will Bristow dined with the Farnams again.
Writes about his lessons. Found out that Basil Duke once occupied the room he is now in.
Delighted that Aunt Mag will visit. Freshman crew for the Fall regatta was successful. Visited the Farnams.
Waiting to see if Nettie will come before he visits with Aunt Mag in New York.
Wishes he was home getting ready for a grand hunt.
Found out that the proprietors of the boarding house in Orange, NJ, were arrested for robbing their boarders. Describes his adventure of testing a new boat with his friends in very strong winds.
Went to hear a speech by Secretary of Treasury John Sherman. Believes the Democrats will be badly beaten.
Sends home Sheffield examination papers for Will. Family news.
Writes about college football.
Writes about football games. Went to see Joseph Jefferson play Bob Acres in
Discusses their preparations for going to Yale's football game in New York.
Visited the Harwoods. George J. was made an editor of the
Wants to see his father if he comes to the East. Yale won the football championship.
Taking his exams next week. Will be home Friday before Christmas.
A large group has assembled now to join him on the trip home. Needs money soon.
Wonders about Will's partial exam. Weather is very cold. Hopes Aunt Mag will win a prize for her painting.
Excited about the Junior Promenade. Describes a freshman tradition.
Heard from Nannette. Describes a Glee Club concert and the Promenade. Professor Henry Farnam visited to check on his health.
Comments on an annual rush. Hopes Aunt Mag will take the prize for her Christmas cards.
Going to visit the Bristows to find out more about the Funding Bill from General Bristow. Taking quinine again for his illness.
Beaten in his debate about the Refunding Bill.
Hopes his brother Tom does not have the measles. Describes a party at the Watrous's. Mentions different sports he's involved in.
Mentions various plays he went to see.
Had a pleasant time in New York at the Bristows'.
Sam Bennett has been very ill possibly with typhoid fever. Mentions books he has read recently.
Hopes to get into sophomore housing at South Middle next year. Yale beat the Harvard Freshmen Nine [baseball].
Watched the varsity nine. Invited to join a secret sophomore society.
Assigned the room he wanted at South Middle.
Busy with preparing his room and exams.
Mentions his exams (conditions). Hopes she visits on her planned trip.
No recitations due to President Garfield's funeral. Boxing as a featherweight.
Writes of the family's horses. Two members of his class expelled for hazing the Freshmen, but he hopes they will be brought back.
Received a letter from Cousin Minnie and glad she is with her.
Delighted by the success of the horses at the Fair. Cold weather makes him want to be home hunting.
Clipping on the horse Trinket enclosed.
Hopes she will visit New Haven with Mrs. Atherton.
Elected captain of his lacrosse club.
Went to the Stock Exchange and to the top of the Equitable building during his stay with the Bristows.
Glad to get her letter and thinking of home.
Describes his arrival back at New Haven.
Discusses his classes and sports.
Discusses his friends and classes.
Writes about football. Was
Preparing for the Promenade.
Pleasantly surprised by his father's visit; writes about boxing.
Discusses the sports he is involved in. Enclosed are clippings about college.
Lost the boxing championship.
Sam Bennett's sister is extremely ill. Discusses various college activities.
Organizing lacrosse matches.
Surprised to hear from Nannette that she (Anne) had been ill. Making plans for Easter holiday.
George took the prize for his essay at the Junior Exhibition. Glad that she is very much better.
Describes a recent trip to New York.
Delighted about the horse sale.
Saw an account of Mr. Brassfield's horse sale in the Frankfort
Excited about the family's move to Ashland.
Describes a recent trip to Washington, D.C.
Busy with exams.
Delighted they sold Woodlake at a good price and asks when the family will move to Ashland. Mentions their horse, King Rene.
Writes of the game between Yale and Princeton. Mentions the family's horses.
Excited about moving to Ashland so soon.
Yale beat Columbia in football. Met Professor Benjamin Silliman.
Describes his visit in the city. Saw Gilbert and Sullivan's new play
Family relieved by the sale of Woodlake. Writes of his stay at the Bristows'.
Beaten in lacrosse by Princeton, but the Kentuckians at Princeton treated him
Discusses his train trip back to New Haven.
Appointed financial editor of
Glad that the fire didn't do too much damage. Asks about the flooding Ohio River. General Bristow passed through on his way home from Governor Jewell's funeral.
Spoke at the annual News Banquet. He and his brother Will were invited to spend Easter with the Bristows.
Will is spending Easter with his friend, Wood. Received a gift from Fanny Crittenden in Frankfort. Describes some duties as financial editor of
Having a dull Easter vacation. Glad to hear how things at Ashland are progressing.
Needs pillowcases and towels.
Mentions classes and the three friends he will bring home to Ashland.
Mentions his brother, Will's, broken bicycle.
Writes of lacrosse and some friends. Bible quotation enclosed.
Writes about lacrosse. Describes his schedule for returning home.
Writes of lacrosse and baseball. Went to a dog show.
His friend Horace Hand is coming home with him for a two week stay.
Will be home in three weeks.
Taking exams; going to the Yale-Harvard boat race, but anxious to be home.
Had a tiring trip back to New Haven. Campus seems improved.
Has had a very busy week.
Glad to be part of the college press. May play lacrosse again.
Writes about lacrosse. Hoax about typhoid circulated the campus recently.
Went to see
Received an invitation to take tea at Mrs. Porter's. Glee Club will sing in Louisville. Does not believe lacrosse will die after his class leaves.
Invited to Nannie Bristow's wedding reception. His brother Will was invited to visit Washington and Alaska with a friend.
Had a great time at Nannie Bristow's wedding. Invited some friends to visit Ashland this summer.
Resigning his position at
Not enthusiastic about going to the University of Virginia.
He and Will won't visit their father while he is in New York. Will was complimented on his dancing at the Prom.
Reconciled about going to the University of Virginia.
Mentions an attempt to ban boxing.
Mentions his exams and attending the theatre.
He and Will are spending Easter holiday together since his plans to visit Horace Hand's family in Scranton fell through.
His lacrosse team will play the All United States team. Heard John L. Stoddard lecture on the Passion Play at Ober Ammergau.
Played the first championship lacrosse game against University of New York and won.
Wishes he was home to attend all the marriages. Preparing for the end of the school year.
Writes of the lacrosse game against Harvard.
Discusses reading. Met a Colonel Hancock who raises throroughbreds.
Glad his father has taken up hunting again. Heard from Julius Doolittle who has been teaching.
Will not be home for Christmas.
His brother Tom hopes to go home for Christmas.
Writes of his courses and examinations. Mentions law professor, John Barbee Minor.
Complimented on the opening chapters of his stories in
Comments on his exams.
Going to the train station to see Congressman W.C.P. Breckinridge and his family when they pass through on their way to Washington.
Hopes she has fully recovered from her illness. Received an invitation to visit from Colonel Taylor of Newport, Ky.
Helping his brother Tom with his spelling. Describes the Taylors.
Participated in a mock trial. Describes a
Wants to live at home next winter. Has memorized the U.S. Constitution for an exam.
Everyone is certain he will get his degree.
States when he and Tom will each be heading for home.
Writes about his journey and his first impressions of the city.
Writes about all the people he has met and how he is looking for a law office.
Found a law office with the help of General Johnson but still looking for a good family with whom to board.
Comments about the Kentuckians he met at dinner at the Magoffin's.
Writes about Mr. Horn, whose law office he is employed at, and his son Alex.
Received his licence to practice law from Judge Duvall. Mr. Horn will take him before the state Supreme Court to be admitted.
Writes about the various families who have entertained him.
Comments on the benefits of being a Yale graduate in terms of his entry into society life.
Recovering from a cold. New library scheme allows one to be a two-year member for a dollar. Many of the books are
Weather has been extremely cold. Invited to a reception at the Ryan Hotel.
Saw an article about Mr. Clason, who was a brakeman then conductor before his present position. Hopes to dine with him and his wife.
Writes of his socializing.
Former Yale classmate, Amos Wilder is coming to town to spend three weeks vacation to work at one of the newspapers.
Describes Christmas at the boarding house.
Wants to retire from his practice and spend his time traveling. Encloses a
Complains of lack of exercise because of the cold weather and his resulting
Warm spell has made him feel better. Jokes sarcastically about how wealthy his practice has made him.
He and Mr. Horn have settled into their new offices. Dined with the Clasons.
Knoxville appears to be a
Writes about getting settled in and about various tracts of land.
Examining land titles.
Writes how much he likes the area.
Short note on how he will write as soon as he gets time.
Has been working very hard.
Has taken a new law partner and is
Very busy examining land titles. Hopes to come home for his brother Will's wedding.
Pleased to receive several letters from home.
Telegraph connection will soon be completed.
Mentions local Republican politics.
Went duck hunting and asks for a recipe for buckwheat cakes for Mrs. Duff.
Preparing a charter for the town and their water company. Mentions Jim Fox.
Local rumors about railroads.
He and Charlie reached town today only to be called back by a telegram saying that Will was sick. A malarial sickness has been going around the area and he thinks that Will might have it.
Glad he did not know of Madge's
Must postpone his journey home because of more work.
Reports how the town is growing. Jim Fox will soon build an office building and Cousin Henry Clay will establish a lumber yard.
A daily hack line and daily mail will soon be in operation.
Comments on his trip to and from Richmond, Va.
Writes about his brother Thomas' upcoming wedding.
Trying to get people to build in the area.
Comments on his trip to High Knob with friends.
Their
Mentions the family's horses and cousin Mary Ballard's libel suit against
Hopes to be home in time for the wedding [Thomas McDowell's].
Josh Bullitt is leaving for Lexington tomorrow. Hopes she will make him stay at Ashland.
Describes a
Lots which sold a half year ago for $400 and $500 are now going for $1000 and $1200.
Congratulates his brother Thomas on going into the horse breeding business with their father.
Hopes Will's venture involving the Kentucky Union will be a success. Wants to know about Carley's
Praises Nannette's last letter to him. On the back of this letter is a letter to Anne Clay McDowell from Nannette McDowell, who reports happenings at home while Anne is away with Henry, Sr.
Delighted to hear she is spending time in Florida.
States that
Has been housecleaning and preparing a report for the annual stockholders' meeting. Was complimented on a court speech.
He and Josh Bullitt were appointed attorneys for the S.A. and O. Railroad which will keep them very busy.
Their mail system is
Hopes that cousin Mittie will soon recover.
Mrs. Bullitt is appreciative of the gifts she sent her and the children.
Explains how the town is thriving.
Hopes his brother Will comes to live in town and go into the building business. There is much interest in the Sullivan-Kilrain fight.
Will is visiting and likes the looks of the town.
Wishes he could come home but is very busy.
Thinks Will is going into the lumber business intown. Has been playing tennis with his friends on a clay court they made.
Will be home about the 10th of next month now that court is over. Tent hotel is closing because of the cold weather.
He and Josh Bullit took Thanksgiving dinner with the County Judge.
Discusses magazine subscription. Expects a great rush of lot buyers next spring. Went hunting for iron ore on Stone Mountain.
Wishes he were home for Christmas. The railroad will not be finished as soon as they hoped.
Christmas mail for the town got thoroughly drenched and was slowly identified.
The county has no more lots for sale. Now preparing the Flanary bottom for lots.
Was above the gap showing the coal to Mr. Strickler, a supposed advance agent for Andrew Carnegie. Went location hunting with Girard Alexander for a brickyard. The railroad is closer to the town but is still
Shocked by Margaretta's death. The stockholders of the Improvement Company are coming to town.
Had a town meeting to nominate a mayor and councilmen. The whole Fox family is in town.
Went to Bristol to attend a sale at the request of General Ayers (president of the Big Stone Gap Improvement Company).
Delighted that she and Father may come to visit.
The doctor there thinks Will contracted malarial fever. The town may soon be bankrupt unless the Inter-State tunnel car can be started.
Hopes Dr. Cochran in Middleburg can break Will's fever. The Inter-State Tunnel survey will begin this week.
Afraid that Will's wife Alice will have a breakdown after Will recovers since she gets very little rest. Business is slow.
News from Will is good. John Fox has jaundice and has gone to White Sulphur to recover. On the back of the letter is a note from Nannette saying she hopes that she (Anne) and Father are enjoying their journey.
The Virginia Baptist Association is meeting in town. Will's bank is doing well. The town has a newspaper,
Very busy raising money for the company. Mr. Duff, the keeper of the hotel, died of fever this morning.
Will and his family have returned. Was appointed administrator of Mr. Duff's estate. Clipping about Colonel Goodloe's stabbing of Colonel Swope enclosed.
Has decided to start a banking law class. The Improvement Company is suffering.
Resigned his secretary position with the Improvement Company.
Sorry to hear of Aunt Mary's death. His association with the Improvement Company ends today.
He and Josh Bullitt have more cases than ever before. The people in the area are financially depressed.
He and Elsie (Clay) dined with the Bullitt's and will do other socializing. She will start for Kentucky next Saturday and will stay at Ashland for two weeks.
Attended an enjoyable German dance.
Smallpox scare at Big Stone Gap. Jim Fox has encouraging news from Mr. DeFriese in New York
The Improvement Company executive committee has been called together to meet. Sends some laundry express.
Hopes that the Scottish surgeon can heal Madge's lameness. Hopes that his father's health continues to improve.
Went to a Halloween party at the Foxes'.
Hoping to come home for Christmas after court is over.
Writes about Nannette's wedding.
Likes the Harrington house that his father wrote of, but the price is too high. Would like Aunt Mag to draw the plans of the house. Spending Thanksgiving with the Bullitts.
Sorry to hear of the doctors' consultation about Madge's foot. Will's proposed timber purchase fell through. Elsie likes the Harrington house plans.
The rush of court week has kept him busy. Chances of getting the Harrington house are remote.
Debating whether to come home for Christmas or not.
Elsie will not be coming to Ashland unless Cousin Nannie cancels her trip to California.
Aunt Mag is again working on plans for his house. Would like to start building in March and have the wedding in May.
Hopes she is in good health. Cut out the editorial in the
Was in Louisville last Tuesday to see Rogers Thruston on business.
Was thinking of coming home but a convenient time never occurred. Bringing a suit for the L&N Railroad against Mr. Simrall's company. Mentions a mad dog scare. Electric light plant has been shut down. May consolidate two banks in town, but cautions her not to mention this in Lexington for fear of a run on the banks
Glad that her health is improving and hopes she
He and Will are going to Cincinnati for a creditors' meeting of Bacon and Cheseldine. He and Elsie decided on a wedding in June.
Sorry to hear she is not feeling strong. She and father are invited to stay with Cousin Harry for his wedding.
After three years, he is out of debt. Had great success at court.
Travel instructions on how to get to his wedding.
Hopes she is not sick since he has not heard from her. Elsie is going to Rogersville.
Spent a day last week briefing a case in Louisville.
Nannie is staying with Elsie while he is in Jonesville.
A favorable decision in a court case results in his brother Will getting twothirds of his money back.
Tough economic times.
Pleased that his father is not running for Congress.
Texas trip has been postponed. Going to Jonesville to take depositions.
Enjoyed her last letter very much and glad to hear of his brother Tom's good fortune. Elsie injured her foot.
Enjoyed hearing about the Crittendens in her last letter. Elsie is coming back from Bristol, Tenn..
Has been too ill to write. He and Elsie are delighted to hear about the successful operation on Madge's foot. Rogers Thruston was in town on coal business. Will has been getting more capital for his bank from Louisville, but he (Henry) is in favor of liquidating the Appalachian Bank. Hopes Breckinridge will be defeated in his race so Henry, Sr. will not run.
Mentions the horse, Kitty Cline. The Bullitts named their last baby after him. Concerned about Madge's foot and Elsie's as well.
His birthday present arrived safely. Not satisfied that Elsie's foot is better.
Someone stole Elsie's pocketbook from her desk at home, but neither of them heard the thief.
Sorry to miss Henry, Sr. while they were both in Louisville. Mentions the horse Impetuous having an accident.
Went bird hunting. The sleeper car has been removed from their railroad, so he advises them not to take a trip down.
Working on a case involving the Virginia Coal and Iron Co. and Rogers Thruston. The opposing lawyer was Mr. Blair, a former Republican attorney general of Va.
Has enjoyed a visit from Aunt Mag.
Saw a notice of Cousin Mattie's death. Enjoyed a dinner and speeches with other lawyers at the Intermont Hotel.
Court is over and he will start for Rogersville where Elsie has been. Lost a stock damage case for the L&N Railroad.
Will stop for a visit at Ashland on his way to a case in Cincinnati.
Hopes Anne Clay and Nannette's baby are well.
Heard that Nannette's baby, Henry Bullock, was worse again.
Had a pleasant visit at Nannette's. The baby is much better, but Tom Bullock does not think he will recover. Saw Lillian Russell in the Grand Duchess.
Glad that she and Henry, Sr. are coming out for a visit. Cousin Nannie and Cousin Harry [Clay] are interested in the Gratz will case and will stay in Lexington until it is over.
Hopes she and his father will visit sometime before court begins April 1st. Spent time in Bristol, Tenn., on the Colliery Company case, where the 50 coke ovens will soon be completed. Pleased with the Gratz will case verdict. Packet of seeds enclosed.
Disappointed that they will not visit. Planted a few early crops.
More people are leaving the town.
Discusses Appalachian Bank matters.
His father was at a dedication banquet. Liquidation of the bank is progressing slowly.
Delighted that Madge's article was accepted.
Will is encouraged by the closing of the bank. Virginia Coal and Iron people are at work at last.
Will starts work at a chair factory in Louisville.
Elsie would like to move back to Kentucky because she misses her friends who have moved back there. Business matters.
Waiting for the Court of Appeals to hear his cases. John Fox heard Madge read her paper at Chautauqua.
Visited with Nannette and Madge while in Louisville for one day. Heard that the horse Kitty Cline broke down.
Asks if Mr. Simrall was elected mayor.
Has a new law partner. Heard that Will left the chair company.
Eleven buildings in town burned.
Anxiously awaiting news of Impetuous' race.
Disappointed that Impetuous did not win the Futurity.
Elsie is sick and taking lithiated Hydrangia for uric acid crystals.
Concerned about his brother Tom. Mentions political race there.
Another big fire in town.
Distressed by news of Madge's foot. Had a cheerful Christmas.
Distressed to hear of Mr. Simrall's troubles.
Little Harry Kenner is very sick with tonsillitis. Business news.
Hopes the heat has not made her sick. Asks what salary his father demanded as president of the Land Company.
Believes the Republicans are too confident.
Made a political speech.
Mentions a whist tournament.
Describes the trip back home after visiting Ashland. News of family and friends. Business matters.
Waiting impatiently to hear from Dr. Wentz.
Will arrived. Glad that she is well again.
News of family and friends. Visited the Wentz family.
Heard a reading by John Fox, Jr.
Sorry to hear Henry, Sr. had another attack of colic. Will is working with the coke-drawers.
Probability that Southern Railroad will bid for the S.A. & O. Railroad.
Tom's horses are sick, except for Rush. Tom's friend Woodford Clay dined with them.
Prosperity may return to Big Stone Gap.
Urges her to take the trip to Florida.
Encloses a check since she may be short of money.
Sends another check.
Encloses another check. Sends a letter from Aunt Mag. Knows that she is enjoying Florida.
Discusses his father's estate.
Discusses selling property on Preston Street. Encloses a check and wants to know how much a month she will need.
Discusses paying off Tom Bullock's note and investing money he has as executor of Henry, Sr.'s estate.
Encloses a letter from Mr. Woolfolk concerning Lee Thomas, a horseman, buying a portion of Ashland for stables. Henry is not in favor of the deal.
Discusses more business concerning his father's estate.
Needs any statements or vouchers from Kliessendorf to prepare for a possible lawsuit.
Received the papers concerning the Simmons lease, but needs the Kliessendorf statements.
Comments on converting the woods into a park.
Awaiting word to build from the Courier-Journal Printing Company.
Courier-Journal Printing Company will sign a contract to build.
Glad to hear Tom Bullock is better. Business matters.
Business keeps him busy.
J. Kenedy Tod and Co. has plans for reorganizing the L&E Railroad.
Discusses the suit of the Louisville Artificial Stone Co.
Encloses agreement for her to sign concerning the lawsuit.
Vacationing on the coast. Mentions Thomas McDowell's horses.
Mentions horse Allan-a-Dale winning a $10,000 stake.
Distressed to hear of Aunt Sarah's death.
Elsie has decided to go to California with her.
Hopes frost will not injure the tobacco. Joined in the mortgage given by Patty and Lucy Burnley to the Fidelity and Safety Vault Co.
Writes of
Distressed to hear of Alice's ill health. Encloses a check.
Submitted his name for the position of United States District Judge of the Western district of Virginia.
Obtained letters of endorsement.
John Fox, Jr. informs Henry that the President wants to appoint him to the judgeship.
Received formal announcement from the Attorney General of his appointment as a federal judge.
Enclosed a clipping on his appointment.
May have to go to work as a judge soon. Her bank account is in good condition.
Meeting in Louisville with the St. Louis people who want her to build on Jefferson Street lots and lease to them for ten years. Calculates costs.
Busy with work. Business matters.
Work and social duties keep him busy.
Discusses the fencing off of lots in Lexington. Land contract enclosed.
Sends a check and wants her to send some money to Nannette.
Mentions Allan-a-Dale winning the Derby.
Surprised no lots have sold yet. Mentions Allan-a-Dale.
Business matters. Family news.
Business matters.
May take a house in Lynchburg.
Family news.
Distressed that she is sick again. Describes the house he will buy in Lynchburg.
Business and work news. Distressed to hear she is still in the infirmary.
Glad she is getting better. Sent Nannette more money. Has been suffering with the grip.
Looking forward to visit from Cousin Nannie and Aunt Mag.
Mentions
Will be in Lexington within the week.
Aunt Mag had a relapse while in Lynchburg, but is improving. The horse arrived in good condition. Chain in the piano player slipped its cog and they missed the music very much.
Mentions his brother Tom's horse racing successes. Aunt Mag still not well.
Clipping on obscenity case decided by Henry enclosed. Mentions Allan-a-Dale.
Cautions brother Will to mind his tongue when referring to Breathitt county people.
Work and business matters.
Mentions Bishop Dudley's death. He and Cousin Nannie are ill with the grippe. Sends money for Nannette and Julia's allowances.
Discusses the building on Jefferson Street in Louisville. Sends her a copy of the letter he wrote to Robinson A. McDowell concerning the building.
Suggests she spend part of the winter in Florida.
Supports Madge's suggestion of going to Arizona to avoid the
Heard that sister Madge
Discusses replacing the lights at Ashland.
Considers investing some of her money
Sends her a letter he received from Robinson A. McDowell, and one Henry sent to Rob concerning her business affairs.
Advises her not to do anything about the fence at Ashland until he visits.
Glad to hear electric lights will soon be installed at Ashland. Discusses giving someone permission to cut grass on the Ashland property.
Encourages her to buy a
Discusses his vacation plans.
Hopes to join Elsie in Rogersville this week. Brother Will wants to borrow money for a house. On the back of this letter which was forwarded to Anne Clay McDowell is a note from Nannette discussing Aunt Mag's health.
Asks her to let him know how much income the wheat produces. Glad that she is going to French Lick, Indiana, with Madge. Attached is a typewritten letter from Rob McDowell addressed to Anne forwarded to French Lick by Nannette, who informs her of Aunt Mag's improved condition.
Describes his stay at Rogersville. Sends checks.
Writes when he and Elsie will arrive in Lexington.
Encloses a check for the Ashland repairs.
Sends another check.
Sends check. Glad that sister Julia is recovering.
Will be coming to Ashland after court convenes.
Encloses check. Writes when he may be in Lexington.
Sold her government bonds at a good price and is looking at the stock market to invest the money.
Anxious to hear about the tobacco being sold, because
Advertisement for Florence Ville, Florida, enclosed.
Invited to read a paper before the Virginia Bar Association next summer.
Urges her to go to Florida since her cough is worse. Rob McDowell is an applicant for Surveyor of the Port of Louisville.
Hard times in Wise Co., Virginia.
Cousin Nannie is
Encourages her to go to New Orleans with Madge and Desha. Cousin Nannie is somewhat better.
Disastrous fire at Big Stone Gap.
Invited Josh Bullitt and John Fox to visit on their way through Lynchburg. Encloses a check.
Took a short holiday in Washington, D.C. where he dined at the White House with President Theodore Roosevelt, Henry Watterson, and Admiral and Mrs. Cowles.
Sends a check. Minnie Fox has been visiting.
Encourages her to buy an automobile.
Tries to persuade her to buy an automobile.
He and Elsie plan to be at Ashland this summer.
Sends a check. Friends visiting.
Commends Desha and Will for backing the street car line running on Hanover Ave. in Lexington.
Will travel
Had
Relieved that he was not needed at Ashland after all.
Elsie is concerned that Harry Kenner has tuberculosis.
Nannette informed him of affairs at Ashland.
Writes when Elsie will arrive in Lexington and states that his stay at Big Stone Gap is indefinite.
Journey home delayed by freight wreck up the line. Back to court on the 15th.
Discusses the
Mrs. Bolling and Elizabeth paid them a visit and played Beethoven for them.
The Kunkels visited as did Irvine McDowell, who is working for a New York firm selling cotton goods.
Sends check. Lucy Lee Hill McGill visited.
Writes about insuring Ashland.
Christmas greetings. Thanks her for his gift.
Family news.
The salary for district judge has been increased to $8,000 a year.
Encloses a check. Big Stone Gap seems to be growing. Judges' salary not yet settled.
Expresses his opinion on the education of blacks. Believes higher education for blacks is unwise. Mentions her subscription to Berea College.
Work and family news.
Elsie's father is in ill health with a heart condition. Invested some of her money in silver mine stock in Ontario.
Has not heard anything from Rob McDowell about the Green Street property. The Whallen notes were paid. Asks if she would like Desha to invest some more of her money.
Asks her to authorize the extension of an offer handled by Rob McDowell.
Glad to hear she is going to Atlantic City. Mr. McLean, the Field Secretary of the Associated Charities, has been a guest for a few days.
Encourages her to buy an automobile built in Lexington.
Sends a check for $1000 that Anne has pledged to the Irishtown school.
Pleased that she has consented to buy an automobile.
Desha's telegram about Aunt Mary's death reached them too late to attend the funeral.
Advises her to buy a Packard (car). Has visited the Vanderbilt place twice.
Encloses a check. Had a pleasant stay in Ashville.
Glad that she has bought a car. Looking forward to meeting John Fox, Jr.'s new bride, Fritzi Scheff, a Viennese opera singer.
Will not be able to go to Ashland after the Big Stone Gap court because of work at home. Hopes she is using and enjoying her auto.
Work and family news. His possible malaria has passed.
Sends a check so she can make her subscription to the Model School.
Family and work news.
Elsie helped raise money for the Associated Charities.
Suggests an allowance of $100 per month for Will Brock.
Must make improvements on the West Main Street property in Louisville in order to lease it.
Hopes the night riders don't burn their tobacco before it can be sold.
Mentions the night riders again.
Sorry to hear about the auto accident.
Sorry to hear she had another attack of bronchitis. Writes about her subscriptions to YMCA and the Model School.
Encloses a check. Hopes Cousin Nannie and Fanny Clay will spend Christmas with them.
Encloses a check to pay for the note to the Model School. Captain and Mrs. Clay are visiting.
Suggests that she and Madge to to Florida. Captain and Mrs. Clay
Tells her to
Tells her not
Petition from Wise County Bar Association recommending Henry for a proposed federal circuit court judge position. Provides some background information on him.
Comments on his chances of getting the Circuit Judge position.
Sale of her L&E bonds net $16,000. Suggests that Desha should continue to make investments for her. Considers his chances for the judgeship.
Sorry she rejects his suggestion that she take a trip south.
Asks again if she approves of Desha investing her money from now on.
Receiving endorsements for the judgeship every day.
Fruit trees, which are a big crop in that part of Virginia, may have been damaged by the cold snap. Asks her to send any letters of endorsement for him. Sent Desha money to invest.
Mentions some who have written letters on his behalf.
Fears the bill to create the new judgeship will not be passed.
Took an auto ride with friends recently. Letter from Nannette written on the back.
Work and family news. Cousin Nannie bought an auto.
Cold, cloudy weather. Expects judgeship bill to be defeated.
Sorry to hear of her car accident. Efforts being made to get Congress to increase judge's salaries.
Mr. Kirby, the leasee of the 4th and Green Street block, wants to talk with him.
Asks her to forward to Mr. Thornton a book on farming which he has sent to her. He wants to improve methods on the Ashland farm to increase the returns.
Mr. Kirby wants his lease assigned to his newly organized corporation, F.M. Kirby and Co. Writes about farming improvements. The judgeship bill was defeated.
Work has prevented him from visiting Ashland to oversee some improvements.
Pleased she approves of his farming plans. Suggests what raise her servant Thomas should have.
Will be in Lexington soon.
Elsie is on her way to Ashland. Hopes they will go on the lake trip.
Heard that a
Aunt Mag is enjoying her visit. Wants to know the status of the bathroom, cow house, natural gas, and road.
Elsie and Aunt Mag are going to Lexington, Virginia, to visit kinfolks there. Will write to Tom McDowell to see if he will help in buying the cattle.
Trying to get Mr. Thornton to undertake the purchase of the cattle.
Wants to know about the natural gas matter. Agrees about abandoning the cow house.
Wants to know when the cattle arrive and what kind they are. Mentions the bathroom again.
Mentions reading a book called
Encouraged by the rising price of Western Maryland stock. Pleased by the sale of twenty hogs.
Asks if she too is surprised by the Democratic landslide. Believes that Roosevelt has tarnished his reputation by taking part in the election.
Met President Roosevelt again. Pleased about the Chautauqua salute to Madeline.
Republicans in the are
Urges her to go to Florida.
Thank you note for the Christmas gift.
Hopes her health continues to improve. Had a pleasant Christmas.
Thinks she should go to Florida soon to escape the worst of winter in Kentucky.
Comments on his trip to Big Stone Gap, which seems to be improving.
Work and family news.
Was in Richmond working hard in the state library. Possibility that the bill creating the additional circuit judgeship may get through Congress now. Josh Bullitt will present Henry's name to the President.
Pleased to hear the doctor's good report of her health. Will go to Roanoke to hold court.
Thinks auto rides would do her good. Has a lingering case of the grip.
Again warns her of
Their Empire Coal bonds are in litigation pending reorganization.
Lynchburg opera house destroyed by fire. Glad the cattle and alfalfa are doing well at Ashland farms.
Minnie Fox is visiting with Elsie. Will hold court in Abingdon. Walter Addison is working on the Senatorial campaign of his employer Carter Glass, the owner of the
Hard work at Abingdon court. Heard from Nannette that she (Anne) was under the weather.
Suggests that she buy an electric fan for relief from the recent hot weather.
Sends check and hopes she is well. Work news.
Mentions Madeline's defeat for the Board of Education.
Sends check. He and Elsie expect to head for Ashland after the Big Stone Gap court.
Work and family news.
Urges her to buy an oscillating electric fan.
Saw from the
Visited family in Rogersville.
Staying with the Foxes at Big Stone Gap. Will be at Ashland after the court term.
Minnie Fox wants to visit Lexington for a few days.
Much work awaited him on his return home. Sent Billy [son of William McDowell] books on farming.
Mrs. Bolling and Elizabeth are visiting. Wishes Billy would write how he is doing with farming.
House is to be painted and wallpapered.
Work and family news.
Interested in the Women's Clubs meeting in Louisville and Madge's address there.
Harry Kenner's illness is worse. Hopes her health is improving.
Taxes in Wise County are three times higher than usual because of the good roads bond issue.
Family and work news.
Work and family news.
Hopes to see her at Christmas. Sorry to hear of Theodore's death. Some sort of pension should be given to his widow Sophie. Lucy Scott advises that she has found Bromo-Seltzer dangerous since it produced terrible headaches in her.
Glad to hear she was able to enjoy Thanksgiving. Will be at Ashland for a short Christmas visit.
Advises her what to do for Sophie, Theodore's widow.
Lease for F.M. Kirby and Company is to be reassigned to just F.M. Kirby. Asks her to sign documents in consent.
Asks her to sign an agreement for a party wall on the McDowell block property in Louisville.
Tells her not to dismiss her nurse because she is feeling better.
He and Elsie will arrive in Lexington on the C&O next Sunday.
Note of their arrival back home.
News of family and friends.
Writes that John Fox, Jr. is taking in from $300-$500 a week in royalties on the play made from his book
Possible reference to Madge's efforts to secure passage of a state tuberculosis bill by the General Assembly.
Glad to hear that Madge has a car of her own. Captain Clay is improving and is enthusiastic about the electric baths.
Distressed to hear of Major Bullock's death.
Local outlaws being hunted.
Wonders if Desha was lucky enough to get in on the newly discovered oil field in Wolfe County.
Enjoying the visit from the Moores who are looking for a farm. Has been suffering from grip.
Read in the
Sorry to hear Rob had been assaulted. Elsie and friends are on a whist-fest.
Expects the new road improves Ashland's appearance.
Discusses road work at Ashland.
Mentions Elsie's trip to California with Madge.
Has many house guests.
Family and work news.
Elsie will be in Lexington tomorrow morning for a day stopover before her trip to California.
Writes about Elsie's trip. Mentions the family's fight with the Kenwicks over some property boundaries.
Tells her not to apologize for spending money as she sees fit. Thanks Nannette for the
Pleased that her health is improving. Elsie is enjoying her trip to California.
Elsie writes to him that Madge is a favorite among those at the convention in California.
Suggests that she go to the seashore or the mountains since the weather has been too hot. Mentions Elsie's trip.
Very glad that Elsie will be home soon. Looking forward to visiting Ashland soon.
Will be at Ashland when the Big Stone Gap court is over. The President refused a pardon in the Salyers case.
Trying cases involving Judge Phlegar, Josh Bullit, and Tate Irvine as counsel.
Travel plan from Big Stone Gap to Lexington.
Received invitation from cousin Mary [Moore] to visit their farm three miles from Bedford City, Virginia, which is one hour by rail.
Lightning struck and damaged their chimney while they were away. Enjoyed their stay with Cousins Ed and Mary Moore.
Sends money for car repairs. Elsie will visit the Bollings in Baltimore while he is at the Abingdon court. Mentions a farmer who dynamited his land.
Encloses a check.
Has invested too much of her funds so that he is short of cash.
May join a golf club. Hopes that she and Madge may visit soon.
Work news. Heard farm news from Billy. Looking forward to seeing her and Madeline in Richmond.
Thanksgiving plans.
Elsie's father is very sick. Work news.
Very glad to hear that her health is improving. New York Times clipping about Henry Clay items being auctioned enclosed
Glad that her bank account is in better condition. Enjoying a visit with Harry and Fanny Clay who are having electric wiring done at the house.
Hopes
Hopes her health continues to improve. The judges in Richmond asked about her.
Good to know that she was well enough to enjoy her birthday party. Billy informs him that the ice houses are full.
Work news. Elsie visited Mary Clay and Elsie Kenner in Staunton. Senior circuit judge was elected to the Senate.
Will have to hold court in Charleston, W.Va. Endorsed Sam Wilson for Solicitor General.
Will be at Lexington after the Charleston court. Elsie is reading
Mentions the fight on the telephone company which he hopes will not devalue the stock.
Tornado hit Big Stone Gap.
Enjoys Madge's editorials.
Rob [McDowell] advises him that part of the newly repaired building on Main Street [Louisville] has been leased. The local suffragists are raising money to bring Madge to town.
Glad that she and Madge will be visiting soon. He is a defendant in a damage suit brought by someone in Louisville who slipped on the grating in the sidewalk in front of the 4th Street building.
Madge spoke in town. Clipping of a train schedule enclosed.
Elsie went off with an auto-party and enjoys the method of transportation.
Paid for the repair of the brick stable. Experiencing a cold spell with frost this morning.
Good reports about the farm from Billy. Glad that their
Mentions her buying a new automobile. Moving office into the new federal building.
Informed that she bought the new car and traded in the old one for $1000. Mentions paying the premium on Tom Bullock's life insurance. Wants to know about the street in front of Mentelle Park.
Invited to visit the Foxes during the Big Stone Gap court. Office nearly ready.
Family and work news.
Short note about the check he sent, Ashland farm, and his new office.
Writes about the cost of a pond for the Ashland farm.
Mentions an auto-party to Frankfort.
Sends a letter for Will about the
Has women delegates to the Suffrage Convention as guests.
Pleased to learn of the birth of her first great-grandchild.
Will have suffragists as guests this week. Disturbed by the prospect of a bad loss on the Empire Company Coal Land bonds.
Suffragist Convention was a success.
Short note. Sent a check. Glad to hear from her.
Glad that Madge will visit on her way to Washington.
Pleased to hear Billy was elected as Supervisor of Tobacco Sales.
Elsie accompanied Madge to Washington.
May be in Lexington soon for the Boulevard suit.
Sale of her tobacco was good.
Thanks her for the check. Elsie is in Rogersville with her family.
Elsie is going to Florida with her parents. The Moores are anxious to sell their Bedford County farm.
Mentions her income tax. Miss Barbour Bruce wants Madge to make a speech in Lexington, Virginia.
Expected Desha to stop by on his way home from New York. Dreads Elsie's long stay in Florida.
Holding court in Big Stone Gap. Suggests that she and Madeline join Elsie and her parents in Florida.
Birthday greetings. Urges her to go to Florida.
Elsie will sail to Havana next Tuesday with others from Rogersville.
Surprised to find out Madge had been in Richmond. Elsie will be in Miami after returning from Havana.
Hopes Madge will be successful with the legislature.
Heard from Madge that the equal suffrage measure failed in the House.
Writes about the Preston Street lot in Louisville which he thinks can be sold to the School Board.
Business matters. Elsie is not yet home.
Mentions Elsie's trip to Cuba and Florida. Business and work matters.
House full of guests.
Enclosed a notice about her income tax for her to sign.
Mentions suffrage question in Virginia.
Hopes she is well. News of work and family.
Note with a check he sent.
Glad that Will
Pleased that his brother Tom was made a member of the Racing Commission. Drought has local farmers in despair.
Tornado destroyed trees and stable at Ashland.
Anxious to hear about the wheat crop at Ashland. Will start for Lexington the 25th. Enthusiastic about golf.
Cousin Nannie left for home in her car. Writes when he and Elsie will be in Lexington.
Has been suffering from the grippe.
Would like news of the dynamiting at Ashland. Selecting new furniture for his office.
Recovered from the grippe and now is working and playing golf.
Heard that the war will depress the price of barley.
Heard from Nannette that she and Aunt Mag are well.
Elsie is at the Suffrage Convention in Roanoke, Virginia.
Elsie brought back from the convention Madge's friend Anne Martin of Nevada.
Harry Clay is ill at John Hopkins Hospital. Work news.
Work may prevent him from being at Ashland for Christmas.
Thanks her for Christmas check. has houseful of guests.
Discusses doctor bills. Assures her that he is not too ill to continue as judge.
Short note accompanying a check.
Everyone is well. Elsie has set out again to lose weight. Envies Madge and Desha's trip to Bermuda.
Snowstorm has broken the spring-like weather. Land company has sued over 1200 defendants in his court.
Writes about playing golf. Elsie is sick with cold or grippe.
Bought an Edison phonograph which doesn't compare to
Cousin Nannie's health improving. Taking lessons with a professional golf instructor.
Ordered a book advertised in
Having a very bad drought. Mentions horse Water Blossom.
Asphalt to be laid on the road at Ashland. They must pay a fourth of other cost.
Drought broken. On the Golf Committee for a new golf course.
Good reports about the Ashland farm.
Captain and Mrs. Clay returned home to Rogersville.
Heard from Nannette and Tom that all is well at Ashland. Will start for Ashland in July.
Describes Tate Spring.
Read in
Elsie busy with suffrage work.
Harry Clay is badly run down. Hope she is well.
Playing golf. Invited Dick Van Derneer to stay when he is in town.
Writes about the success of John Fox, Jr.
Mentions Tom purchasing the Haggin horses. Hopes Madge will start a long period of rest.
Heard from Nannette that her (Anne's) health is improving.
Hopes she is still recovering.
Dislikes the new income tax law.
Billy reports good results from the hog venture. Having a snowstorm.
Pleased to hear she is strong enough to take car rides. Operation on Harry Clay's throat successful.
Work news.
Would like to sell her shares of the Moran Flexible Steam Joint Company stock.
Birthday greetings.
Rob McDowell sold her Moran stock for $625. Hopes she recovers from her setback.
Work and farm news.
Short note accompanying a check.
On the Board of Governors of his country club.
All's well.
Billy sent him good account of the cattle.
Elsie's mother is very ill; work news.
Cousin Nannie died. Billy has started the work on Hanover Avenue which Henry is financing with Anne's money.
Elsie returned from Rogersville. Harry Clay is better. Wants her to sign the paper regarding the sale of a lot to Anne Clay [McDowell, daughter of Thomas].
A case he is trying will determine the freight rates on the region's coal and coke.
Going to Philadelphia to be fitted with eye glasses. Wishes Madge would not over work.
Work news.
Becoming
Elsie and the other ladies of the town are selling food at the city market for the suffrage cause.
Christmas greetings.
On flyleaf: Anne Smith Clay, April 21, 1851. First few pages were used as a scrapbook. [Apparently volume two, because she notes on last page:
On flyleaf: Nannie Clay, Louisville, Ky., March 23d, 1853, volume fourth.
Family and society news, mentions General Bristow.
Business matters.
Concerning the sale of timber on a tract belonging to the Appalachian Land Company.
Business matters.
Business matters.
Response to Henry's inquiry about a note.
Asks his permission to repair the damaged Henry Clay monument in Lexington Cemetery. Letter enclosed.
Thanks him for sending a copy of Madeline Breckinridge's address at Frankfort.
Writes about their securities and investments. Mentions Madge going to Asheville for her health.
Photocopy. Original letter filed with Nannette McDowell Bullock's Papers. Explains why she and Desha are unable to buy Ashland. Mentions their sister Nannette living at the estate.
Congratulates him on his retirement and long career. Discusses familial history.
Concerning the sale of wheat.
By W. Hickey. Inscribed by Lucretia Hart Clay.
Third person note from [Henry Clay] McDowell, [Jr.] inviting her to the opera. [They married in 1892].
Sympathy note after Madge's death.
Informs her of an ivory miniature of Henry Clay for sale.
Concerning the obituary of her husband, Henry Clay McDowell, Jr.
Business matters. Anticipates
Business matters.
Business matters.
Business matters.
Letter of condolence following the death of Henry Clay McDowell.
Business matters.
Family and society news.
Business matters.
Writes about the horse, Rill.
Inquiry about a job.
Inquiry about a job.
Inquires about buying a horse.
Business matters.
Sympathy note on the death of Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Anne Clay McDowell.
Fragment of sympathy note on the death of Anne Clay McDowell.
Family and school news.
School news.
School news.
Invitation.
Sympathy note on the death of Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Anne Clay McDowell.
Preparing a speech for a debate. Cannot get the tutor his father would want.
Teases Madeline about her and their siblings' photographs. Involved in boxing,
News of family and friends. Would like a photograph of Madeline.
Initiated to fraternity. Keeping a lacrosse scrapbook.
Memorizing a German poem for a class. Freshman life at college.
Mentions family's recent move to Ashland.
Will telephone when he arrives in Lexington.
Studying for a geology exam. Will be home Christmas morning.
Helps her with a mathematics problem. Will try to meet Nettie at the train.
Wants letters from home. Written on Prospect Hill Boarding School stationery.
Wishes for
May not be home for Nettie's wedding, because he is
Family news.
Wants letters from home.
Concerns admission to Harvard. Attached pamphlet
Comments on how good her letters are and encourages her to write a magazine article. Optimistic about recent developments in Big Stone Gap.
Remembers the
Describes his camping trip north of Yellowstone Park. Judge Gresham, Mr. Spencer, and General Bristow are with him. Hopes that she will be able to enter Miss Porter's [Farmington school]. Met Mr. Roosevelt a few moments in Helena and
Went to meet her train but missed her. Invites her to visit. [Johnston is a cousin].
Disappointed to have missed her again.
Sending clothes. Went to the oper and saw
Her cousin Margaretta's health is very much worse.
Describes the last hours and death of Margaretta Simrall.
Margaretta's death has caused him to miss Madeline more than ever. Having visitors from Boston and New York. Sends check for Miss Porter's bill.
Feeling
Writes of Margaretta's funeral. A large party of senators out from Washington for Senator Beck's funeral stopped at Ashland. Two newspaper clippings enclosed with poems in memory of Margaretta.
Has sent Madeline some of her clothes. Cousin Ellen has been in bed since Margaretta's funeral. Three newspaper clippings of Margaretta's obituary.
Writes about how much she misses Margaretta.
Wishes her a happy birthday.
Nettie came to visit. Family news.
Wishes her a happy eighteenth birthday. Family and society news.
Hopes she received her birthday present. Family news.
Thanks her for the buttercups which she took to Margaretta's grave. Sara's father recently left with a party of gentlemen for Big Stone Gap.
Cousin Ellen talks and thinks only of Margaretta. News of family and friends.
Madeline's father, along with stockholders and officials from Lexington and Winchester, will take an excursion over the finished Kentucky Union Railroad.
Society news. Amanda [house maid at Ashland?] is getting married soon and has
News of family and friends.
News of family and friends.
Regrets that he is unable to come east and bring her home.
Weather is very hot. Julia is recovering from dysentery, but Henry has been ill. Planning a euchre club meeting [a card game]. Went to a
Travel instructions and directions for her return home.
Further instructions on how to check her baggage from Farmington and what railroads to take.
News of friends. Misses her.
Writes about her trip to Chicago with Fan.
Hopes that Will's condition has continued to improve. Discusses tennis.
Describes the beautiful views atop Mt. Washington. Grace and her party left Chicago, stopped at Niagara Falls, shot the rapids of the St. Lawrence, and stayed at the Maplewood for a few days. Asks if Madeline has thought anymore about returning to Farmington.
Family news.
Writes of two old ladies in Nantucket. Met a young doctor and went to see entertainment on hypnotism.
Describes a recent camping trip.
Taking riding lessons. Went to a matinee to see
Will and Alice are comfortable in their cottage. Henry is expecting
Had a great time at a dancing party. Met someone who knew Madeline's brother, Tom.
Asks her to accompany him to a lecture by Stanley.
Recently visited Libby Prison and while their
Thanks her for a book and describes her holiday.
Thanks her for a gift. Happy to have had her at Farmington.
Comments on the grief caused by Margaretta's death.
News from her time at home. Addressed
Regrets not being able to accept her invitation to visit Ashland.
Regrets not being able to accept her invitation to dinner.
Hopes that her ankle is better. Recounts her Christmas and thanks Madeline for the book she sent. Hopes that her brother Henry is recovering from his illness;
Hopes that she is well again. Invites her to accompany him to the Acherton ball. Writes of his recent trips.
Regrets that she could not attend the Acherton ball and states that it was elegant and well attended.
Describes her family's trip to the South. While in New Orleans, she paid special attention to Henry Clay's statue because of Madeline. Enjoys the way Madeline and other Southerners talk.
Family news. Hopes she and Aunt Mag will return home soon.
Tells her to
Family news. Nannette is going to Louisville to do her shopping. Hopes she will soon return home.
Describes the Gleaner's cake sale. News of family and friends.
Describes wedding invitations the family has received and the Charity Ball. Writes about her (Julia's) clothes.
Madeline's father will visit her on Tuesday, since he is busy with activities at the County Court and the Horse Show day.
Get-well wishes. Had a pleasant day in the country with Thomas Nelson Page.
Surprised that Madeline is living in Cincinnati. Sorry she is having difficulty with her foot.
Misses her and wants Dr. Dawson to hurry up and cure Madeline so she can return home.
Family and society news.
Family news. Tells her to hurry up and get well so she can come home.
Family news. Hopes Dr. Dawson will send her home soon.
Father has been ill. She went to Morrison's Chapel to hear Mr. Hannibal A. Williams' rendition of
Describes the Earl of Dysart's dinner at Ashland. He was almost blind and
Invites her to a reading by Thomas Nelson Page and to the
Family news. Her father is getting better, but still very
Writes that the family went to three trains to meet her and were disappointed when Dr. Bullock returned without her. General and Mrs. Bristow are staying at Ashland.
Wishes Madeline could return home soon. Nannette has been invited to a reception following Thomas Nelson Page's reading.
Hopes that Dr. Dawson will allow Madeline to be treated at home. Thomas Nelson Page will be staying at Ashland when he comes to the Chautauqua.
Delighted that Madeline is finally coming home.
Congratulates her on getting to come home.
Family and society news. Hopes Madeline will be home soon. Describes a dinner she attended at a hotel in Versailles.
Asks if she returned home safely and if she is getting better.
Accepts her invitation and plans to visit her this summer.
Wants to visit her in Lexington but his work as a lawyer prevents him. Describes the view of the city and river from Southern Park.
Unable to visit.
Asks her to write. Enclosed clipping about opera singer, Jennie Blakemore, and her visit with Madeline in Lexington.
Thanks her for the enjoyable visit at Ashland.
Unable to visit again.
Received her telegram, but is unable to visit her.
Family news. Madeline can stay longer but
Family news.
Enjoyed Father's visit. Heard about Judge Duvall's death.
Regrets not being able to meet the
Family news. Played six-handed euchre at Aunt Susan's. While the
Family news. Things are hectic at Ashland. While her father and Aunt Mag are improving, it seems that
Robert Burns Wilson sent seven tea roses last night for Madeline. Aunt Susan is sick with bronchitis.
Family news. Writes about sickness in the family and Christmas shopping.
Sent check for Madeline to do her Christmas shopping because the grip has left her exhausted.
Nannette has been announcing her engagement to Dr. Thomas Bullock.
Thanks her for the book and describes other Christmas presents received.
Thanks her for the gift. Treasures their friendship. Writes about her holidays.
Has been to every theatre in town and enjoyed the opera and concerts very much. Heard
Writes of the Farmington girls she has met on vacation. Describes California.
Describes the buildings going up for the 1893 Columbian Exposition. Possible reference to Nannette McDowell's wedding.
Writes about her trip to Washington, D.C. While there she met Senator Blackburn at the races.
Hopes that Madeline's foot
Surprised that Madeline missed a trip to New York. Describes her enjoyable trip to Cumberland Gap.
Sends itemized list of purchases for Madeline.
Writes about her new house. Knows that Madeline enjoyed the day at Chautauqua and the lecture on Balzac.
Describes her voyage.
News of family and friends.
Julia and Aunt Mag are visiting. Writes of recent guests at their home.
Family news.
Family news.
Disappointed that Father did not visit. Advertising in the German paper for domestic help.
Society and family news.
Describes a black velvet cape. Went with Lucien Harris to the play,
Asks her to join the
Was very pleased to meet her in Louisville and would like her to write if she doesn't find it a burden.
Passes on Dr. Vance's advice to help Madeline
Pleased that she will write to him
Invites her to accompany him to some upcoming plays.
Hopes she will soon visit Louisville.
Thanks her for the book she sent and hopes Madeline can visit soon. Busy with studying, classes, clubs, and meetings.
Recounts a story about a princess and a knight which presumably describes Madeline and himself.
Writes about Henry's engagement to Elsie Clay. Read [George Washington] Cable's book on New Orleans and thought it was stupid.
Describes Mrs. Charles Ballard's dinner party.
She is
Father has the grippe and Mother has malaria. Writes about a magician the family saw. Old man Gratz is marrying a girl forty years younger than himself.
Trying to convince her husband not to get natural gas in their home. Describes her Christmas.
Telegram stating his arrival time in New York.
Writes of a
Writes about drawing the ideal home for the Davidsons. Asks what the Columbian meeting accomplished.
Has been shopping in Cincinnati.
Has been shopping for habits in town.
Valentine's Day poem.
Writes about shopping for women's clothes. Asks for Evansville papers to be sent to her.
Asks if she will be home on Thursday or Friday evening next as he plans to call on her.
Writes about shopping for women's clothes. Mary and the Davidsons want Madeline to visit. The steam cars into town cost fifty cents and are very slow. [Note: part of the letter may be missing].
Describes a suit and encloses a piece of fabric. Telegraph when she will come to visit.
Hopes to visit Ashland soon.
Apologizes for a remark he made to Madeline's cousin Miss Ballard. Assures Madeline that he treasures her letters.
Made many social calls.
Invites her to a meeting of the French and German Club at his home.
The meeting of the French and German Club has been rescheduled.
Has returned from Washington and the inauguration.
Grace wants her to come stay with her for two weeks in June so they can go to the World's Fair in Chicago.
Mentions a love story from a magazine.
Heard from Madeline's cousins
Read in the newspaper that Madeline was going to be in the city and telephoned her sister for verification. Wants to see her while she is in town.
Wishes she could attend Henry and Elsie's wedding. Going
Wants Madeline to visit before she leaves for Chicago and then Dakota.
Describes the Columbian Exposition.
Writes about going to the Fair [Columbian Exposition] and her stay in the city.
Compliments her for her recent article in
Congratulates her on her article in
Family news. Glad she has found a place to stay and is enjoying her trip in Chicago.
Congratulates Madeline on her article. Disappointed that they cannot study law together but hopes they both might be able
Told Dr. Vance that Madeline's foot was none the worse for her visit to the Fair.
Happy that the insurance company paid $225
Has had a good time in New York but is ready to go home. Wants Madeline to visit her.
Congratulates Madeline on her article in
Regrets she cannot accept Madeline's invitation.
Family news. Fears Nannette is doing too much so soon after the birth of her son, Henry McDowell Bullock.
Family news. Leaving Nannette and the baby tomorrow. Describes a few of the thirty-five presents the baby received.
Has
Holiday news. Madeline's father and Milton Smith [president of the L&N] are going to Alabama for a hunt.
Christmas wishes.
Christmas news. Father is leaving for his hunting trip with Milton Smith.
Disappointed that Madeline did not make it home for Christmas. Writes of coming attractions at the opera house.
Would like Madeline's latest address so she can send her
Tries to cheer her up about her foot by saying it will most likely
Something like the grippe cut short his stay in Mississippi. Sending this letter care of Mrs. Houston in New York along with two checks and a letter from Billy Hart.
Hopes to visit with her during her stay in New York. Unable to accept Mrs. Houston's invitation to lunch.
Has left Washington, D.C. and hopes to call on her either tonight or tomorrow.
Madeline's father, Bland [Ballard], and Alice Houston left in Mr. Smith's car to Mississippi again. Glad that Madeline is encouraged about her foot. Family and society news.
Hopes to visit her in Lexington. Invites her to Louisville for a lecture and the Virginia ball.
Appreciates Madeline remembering him and hopes to visit with her while she is in town.
Greatly enjoyed a recent lecture by General [John Brown] Gordon (C.S.A.). It was a treat to hear the
Thanks her for an embroidered sofa cushion. Accepts her invitation to visit in May. Asks how her foot is. News of Farmington girls.
Writes that he treasures her friendship.
Writes that he is on the June Ball committee and wishes that she might attend the ball.
Reports her shopping. Met James Fox at the matinee.
Family news. Taking hot lemonade and quinine capsules for her cold which gets no better.
Thanks her for the flowers and Easter wishes. Writes about her son, Henry.
She and other Chicago residents are sad that the buildings from last year's World's Fair have been torn down. Someone told her that
Madeline's Easter greetings were very much appreciated.
States that they
Asks if she received the copy of
Writes her that Dr. Vance believes she should sleep again in the shoe he repaired.
Writes about her upcoming journey to Lexington.
Thanks her for the invitation. She and Stites will arrive on the Chesapeake and Ohio on May 22.
Would like to see her the next time she is in Louisville.
Enjoyed her visit at Ashland. Writes about photographs. Hopes that Madeline's trip to Louisville is successful and that her foot will get well for good.
Thanks her for the four week visit at Ashland. has just returned from Washington where she went to the new naval observatory and the famous Luray Caverns.
Asks how she is getting along in the infirmary. Inquires as to
A medical report stating that her
Anxious to learn how she is doing. July 17 is the date set for a decision on the women's suffrage question at Albany. She doubts anything will come of it.
Family news. Judge Morton, Judge Hunt, and Mr. Joe Woolford are going with Madeline's father in Mr. [Milton] Smith's private car on a fishing trip on the Cumberland River. Guesses that Madeline now has her new plaster cast.
Enjoying her visits and hopes Madeline is doing well.
Glad to hear about the surgeon's good report on Madeline.
Love letter. Begs her to go driving with him tomorrow.
Love letter.
Apologizes for not being able to meet with her.
Writes about her trip in the British Isles. The English countryside reminds her of Kentucky. Glad that Madeline's foot is healing.
Delighted
Love letter. Wants to know the reason she does not return his affections.
Thanks her for her note and hopes to visit her in Lexington soon.
Is in Lexington and wants to see her.
Writes about her stay in the city. Clipping about Charles Denby, Jr. enclosed.
Wishes that Madeline's father might get Coyle's song published. Writes that she is a
Sends her some samples of his verse.
Discusses some of her reading and encloses a paragraph from Henry Drummond's
Asks if she can imagine Sophonisba as a teacher. Encourages her to devote her energy and talents to
An in depth discussion of questions sparked by her readings. Mentions Herbert Spencer, altruism, socials, and Drummond's
Glad she decided to visit and wants to know the day and the hour she arrives in Jersey City so they can meet her.
Confesses that he has always loved her but is now resigned to the fact that this is his last letter to her since she does not care for him.
Had a nice card party and good time at the Colonial Tea at Tom Clay's. Part of the letter may be missing.
Family news. Amused by her description of her football game. Writes about Christmas gifts.
Regrets not being able to meet Madeline. Invites her and Grace Otis to the Farmington Society next Monday.
Describes a Colonial Tea.
Family news. Congratulates her on her foot. Asks Madeline to buy her a bonnet while she is in New York.
Family and society news.
Note accompanying a book and article on
Glad that she is coming home. News of family and friends. Her brother Henry was elected president of the Bar Association.
Too busy to write, but sends a check.
Her father is leaving for a hunt in Florida with Judge Morton, Mr. Hamilton Scott, and Mr. McChesney.
Aunt Mag has decided to stay in Louisville, send her things down.
Thanks her for the handkerchief, her letter, and Mr. Fox's
Thanks her for remembering her during Christmas.
Treasures their friendship. Asks Madeline to become an honorary member of a Social Science Club which Sophonisba recently organized.
Thanks her for the copy of Carlyle and writes about all of the other books she received. Clipping of a poem enclosed.
Thanks her for the Christmas gift and inquires about Madeline's visit to New York. Asks about her foot.
Dr. Vance wants to know about her foot and Nannette asks if the sore place healed.
Sending her a chart and other things to read as gifts for
Has taken up biking and
Asks her to submit an article, and for her father to advertise in a benefit edition of the
Writes about shopping for her. Sorry to hear that Nannette and her baby have not been well.
Sends a bill for items she bought for Madeline. News of family and friends.
Mr. Fox
Thanks her for the articles but disagrees with her premises. Has
Includes a Henry Clay anecdote.
John Fox is touring the South and hopes he will be in Kentucky when she visits Ashland.
Delighted to be invited again to Ashland.
Looks forward to seeing her at Miss Smith's.
Heard from Dr. Johnston that she wrote an editorial in the woman's number of the
Plans to visit her during his readings in Danville and Lexington.
Congratulates her on her article in the
His visit to Ashland has been delayed. Clipping of poem enclosed.
Birthday greetings.
Sends her
Returns the articles and Winthrop's memoirs she sent to him.
Thank you note.
He is fearful that Northerners are right that certain Southern ideals are slipping away, especially in Kentucky. However, he is thankful that Madeline's father and Ashland are an anchor in troubled times.
Family news. Describes a lawn party and a bicycle party.
Heard from Marion Houston that Madeline will deliver an address on ethics at Chautauqua this summer.
Asks how Madeline's Chautauqua paper is coming and is she is still
Offers congratulations on her [Chautauqua] paper.
Requests a copy of Rozel Wissinger's
Critiques some of the works he has read. Thanks her for the books and is sending her some in return.
Congratulates her on her article
Her son Henry was not well, but after some
Family news. Had a delightful visit at Ashland.
Recounts her experiences aboard the yacht
Copies lines from a poem and writes
Would like a copy of her article on monometalism. Wants sometime to tell her his views on the antagonism of egoism and altruism. Anxious to read [Benjamin] Kidd's
Thanks her for the book and sends her something to read. Will order
Uncertain if he will be able to accept her invitation.
Hopes to visit her at Ashland during his reading tour in October. Disappointed in his summer's work.
Note of congratulations on the article about Henry Clay in the September
Note of congratulations on her article in the
Thanks her for the copy of the
Note of congratulations on the
Discusses a story of John Fox, Jr.'s.
Note of congratulations on her article in the
Thanks her for the books. Sends a story and old letters.
Congratulates her on the
Following publication of Madeline's article on Henry Clay in the
Congratulates her on her article in the
Visited Blue Licks on horseback.
Declines invitation.
Thanks her for the book on the life of Lincoln and sends her some books.
Congratulates her on her article in the
Describes a dream she had about Madeline.
Describes her voyage and stay in London. Was recently defeated in the election for school trustee.
Invitation to visit.
Delighted that Madeline has accepted her invitation.
Dr. Vance wants to look at Madeline's foot. Family news and Christmas shopping.
States his opinion on Kidd's
Concerned about Madeline's foot. Dr. Bullock
Wants her to come to Chicago in time for a certain play and Charity Ball.
Wants to see her before she leaves for Chicago. Thanks her for the book she sent him for Christmas.
Thank you note for Christmas presents.
Writes about someone who had a foot problem much like Madeline's. Dr. Vance insisted that his foot had to be amputated at once, but the patient went to the State Medical Association in Harrodsburg where half of the twelve doctors disagreed with Dr. Vance and, luckily, the man followed their advice and is now doing fine. Wants her to see more doctors.
Writes about the election of a Republican governor [William Bradley] in kentucky.
Family news. Sending some items to her while she is in Chicago with Grace.
Family news.
Invitation to lunch and two lectures.
Asks when Madeline and Grace arrive at the university. Encourages them to attend lectures on jurisprudence and the French Revolution.
Family news.
Has ordered a copy of his book for her. Writes when and where his readings will be. Nine tickets from one of his lectures on May 30, 1895, are enclosed.
Anxious to hear doctor's report about Madeline. Tells her to see the Bristows while she is in New York.
Gives her opinion on Madeline's decision to have a desk made out of trees around Ashland. Anxious to hear Dr. Bull's report on Madeline.
Invitation to the theatre.
Tells her she is
Writes of Madeline's illness.
Note of sympathy and good wishes. Would like to visit her in New York.
Dr. Bullock spent the evening with them and asked about her. Cousin Mary Paine wants him
Delighted by the report their mother brought about Madeline. The governor and his staff were planning a visit to Ashland today.
Hopes to go to New York and bring her home as soon as her mother recovers from typhoid fever.
Delighted that
Family news. Wants her to get well and come home soon.
Hopes she will be able to come home soon. Writes that when he sees Desha
Her mother is recovering from her illness.
Would like to read Curtis's address on Wendell Phillips to her some afternoon this week.
Her mother is recuperating nicely and he will leave soon for New York to bring Madeline and her Aunt Mag home.
Declines an invitation.
Tells her to remain in New York until her surgeons say for sure when she can go home. Her mother continues to improve. Madeline's desk arrived.
Describes her desk. Her mother is doing much better and today
Wishes that the doctors would hurry and cure Madeline's foot so she can come home. Writes about her new clothes and new desk. Regrets that Ms. Moss left,
Dreadfully worried about her foot but has not given up hope for its ultimate recovery. If the doctors would agree to it, Madeline should come home and convalesce.
Apology for not seeing her once more before she left New York.
Hopes she is feeling better. Encloses announcements about the opening of his own law office.
Leaving for Old Point Comfort by steamer tonight. Mentions seeing Mr. [Thomas Nelson] Page and Mr. and Mrs. [Senator J.C.S.] Blackburn. She and Madeline's father
Anxious to hear Dr. Gibney's report on her foot. Society and family news.
Heard that Madeline is to have an operation tomorrow. Sends a prayer book and writes how religion has always been a solace to her.
Hopes her operation will be a great success this time.
Love letter and get well note.
Sends a self-addressed stamped envelope for her to send back telling him when he can visit her. Envelope and name card enclosed.
Get well note. Family and society news.
Happy that she is
Family news. Writes about all the people thinking about Madeline and sending their love. Heard from doctors that she might be able to come home in two weeks.
Writes about the amputation of Madeline's foot and criticizes her doctors.
Glad to hear she is well enough to accept a friend's invitation. Family and society news.
Glad she is in high spirits.
Sorry to hear about her condition.
Received an encouraging note from Dr. Gibney about Madeline. Writes about her readings.
Invitation to come spend time with them in their cottage on the lake.
States that
He believes it would be better for her to stay in the East with the Smiths so as to avoid the hot weather in Kentucky.
Has second thoughts about her staying with the Smiths. Enjoyed reading Elizabeth Stuart Phelps'
Family news. Asks about her foot.
Surprised that she is still having trouble with her foot.
Note of sympathy following the amputation of her foot.
Her father has gone to Jackson to buy at auction the Kentucky Union Land Company. Writes about various families leaving Lexington for the month of August. Surprised that it has taken so long for her leg to heal.
Wants to know her opinion on the local option issue.
Family news.
Society news. Writes about a trip to Woodburn. Misses her.
Unable to accept Mrs. [Milton] Smith's invitation to visit Niagara. Henry Clay McDowell is busy as president of the reorganized Kentucky Union Land Co. Mentions Basil Duke.
Family and society news.
Family and society news. Her father will send train tickets. Thomas C. McDowell's horses were again unfortunate this week. Wants to know if she is going to Niagara.
Tells her not to return because the weather is unsafe considering her health.
Family and society news. Writes of Alice Mulligan's engagement to Dr. Molloy.
Asks how the [Matthew Harris] Jouett article is progressing. [Note: Jouett was one of the most significant portrait painters and miniaturists in the antebellum South].
Note of sympathy in regard to the amputation of Madeline's foot. Seeks to comfort her in the fact that without the operation her life might have been threatened and that she has
Wonders if it's true what they say about her and Mr. Breckinridge. Encourages her to get married.
Accepts invitation to visit with her, her family, and friends. Ribbon with
Writes about his story,
Written just after her marriage, she writes how much she treasures Madeline's friendship.
Unable to visit at Ashland.
Trusts that she arrived safely in Louisville and that Nettie Belle [Smith] met her at the depot. Family and society news.
Family and society news.
Accepts her dinner invitation.
Mentions Charles Denby.
Writes about Kentucky-born author Lucy S. Furman and her work, most notably
Discusses business aspects of his forthcoming novel,
Thanks her for the account of the Filson Club meeting. Eager to see Madeline's review of James Lane Allen's new book.
Birthday greetings. Family and society news.
Writes about Madeline's engagement to Desha Breckinridge. Talks about how she (Anne) hopes to come to love Desha in the future in spite of the fact that she has never liked his father, W.C.P. Breckinridge.
Did not know she was going to Europe and wishes she would come to Big Stone Gap. Has ordered her a copy of
Writes about her trip and the acquaintances they met on the train. Miss Lewis
Writes about recent news of his literary works.
Instructs her on how to address business letters to him.
Madeline's father is still not well, but the doctor believes
Family news.
Family and society news.
Henry Clay McDowell thanks Mr. Houston for Madeline's delightful visit with them and for the
Sympathy note on the death of Madeline's father.
Sympathy note on the death of her father.
Sympathy note on the death of her father.
Sympathy note on the death of her father.
Madge's copy of a letter of recommendation written for her brother Henry Clay McDowell, Jr.
Pleased about her brother Henry's appointment to the federal bench.
Family news. Recipe enclosed.
News of family and friends. Written on mourning stationery.
Wants some time to talk about Madeline's experience in the stockyards. mentions a
Postcard admonishing her for not writing.
Personal accounts by the Settlement House workers of the poverty, isolation, alcoholism, and violence in Appalachian Kentucky. Some of the letters are about funerals, the lives of women and children, the election of school teachers, and the joy of the people as the W.C.T.U. gave them Christmas gifts.
Encloses a proof of Madeline's article on the work of the Civic League which will appear in
Note of congratulations on her address at the Opera House.
Congratulates her on her address on civic betterment at the Opera House.
Writes of attending the opera in Cincinnati with Stites.
Tells about her trip to Atlantic City and Washington, D.C.
On behalf of the Equal Suffrage Party of Georgia, she is happy that Madeline will come and speak in the city.
Thanks Madeline for speaking. Writes about the age of consent law in Georgia.
Appreciates her visit to South Carolina. Clipping from a Charleston paper about Madeline's address is enclosed.
She will attend the upcoming dedication at Cumberland Gap. Her ancestor accompanied Boone on his first trek to Kentucky. Regrets that the suffrage question did not come up in the annual meeting of her State Federation.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy notes on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of her mother, Anne Clay McDowell.
First note is from Mrs. Felder to Miss Breckinridge asking her to join her for a drive and for tea. The second note on the same paper is addressed to Madeline from Curry Breckinridge, Desha's sister. It describes her vacation in Paris.
Sorry to hear that Mr. Breckinridge is having trouble with his eyes. Wonderful to have
Enclosed is a deed he needs her to sign for the sale of property in Lexington.
Postcard telling Madeline that her letter to Virginia made her feel better.
References how nice Paris has been since Madeline left. Describes a wedding.
Writes of books.
Writes about books and pictures.
Writes about books on socialism he has sent.
Wants to know how many subscriptions might be sold of a collection of poems by Robert Burns Wilson called
Wants to get John Burroughs' approval before proceeding with the collection of Robert Burns Wilson's poems.
Invitation.
Will call on her.
Will call on her.
Will call on her. On the back of this letter Madeline has written a draft telling Mr. Thum that she
Note accompanying a book.
Note accompanying a gift.
Will call on her.
Declines an invitation to Shakertown.
Would like to see her before she leaves for New York. Mentions John Fox, Jr.
Apologizes for keeping her up after eleven.
Invitation.
Appreciated her note.
Unable to accept her invitation because of
Enjoyed his stay in Lexington and going to the races. Writes about a mistake in one of his poems.
Note accompanying flowers.
Hopes her father is feeling better. Wants Miss Breckinridge's address. Writes about his paintings.
Writes about his poems.
Writes about his poems.
Happy to stay at Ashland during the sale of his paintings.
Writes about his poems and paintings.
Had a premonition about the death of Margaret Thornton. Has written a few lines of
Will come to Ashland.
Sends her some sketches. Wants to be remembered by Miss Breckinridge.
Invitation.
Writes of an upcoming riding party.
Sends pictures. Wishes her to write.
Harrison Robertson sent her a book of whist rules. Writes about her reading club.
Glad to hear of Nannette's engagement.
Hopes she will visit soon.
Invitation. Might got to Africa.
Not going to New York until horse show time. Was distressed by the accident at the ford.
Has arranged for lodgings for when they visit. Gives directions.
Writes about buying a table. Sends some Kodaks.
Wants her to come for a long visit when she is in Louisville to see Dr. Vance, after Nannette's wedding.
Writes of visiting friends.
Asks when she is going to visit.
Writes of her socializing. Looks forward to visiting Ashland.
Writes of her socializing. [Note: part of the letter is missing].
Writes about the guests she had recently.
Writes about John Fox, Jr. and her friend, Mrs. Livingston.
Invites her to an opera. Mentions how Derby Day has
Writes about her riding club and her reading club.
Will send her crepe soon.
Disappointed that she left without saying goodbye. Feeling lonesome.
Needs a partner for Charlie Clay's German.
Unfinished letter. Met John Fox, Jr. at a party.
Looks forward to visiting her in Lexington.
Sorry that Madeline will not visit.
If Madeline is not going to New York, she should come for a long visit.
Writes of being in an accident.
Invitation.
Hopes she will not cancel her trip. Nettie's father may not be able to go because of rumors of a strike.
Writes how slow doctors are in mending Madeline's foot. Mentions Desha.
Possible reference to Madeline's engagement to Desha Breckinridge.
Possible reference to Madeline's efforts in combatting the McNamara gang in Lexington in 1899, which was the impetus for the formation of the Lexington Civic League in 1900.
Sending items she left behind. Christmas greetings.
Hopes she enjoys her book. Received an invitation to hear Mrs. Roark's paper on the
Sara sends a chamois skin pen holder case she made for Madeline's birthday, at Margaretta's request. Ellen sends a frame for her picture of Margaretta.
Describes her vacation and the baths.
Arrangements are being made for Madeline's address there.
Distressed over the
Writes of a rich widow who is interested in philanthropy, especially in playgrounds.
Writes of getting a hall for Madeline.
Has heard about her contributions to
Writes of her trip to London and Paris.
Writes of clothing samples.
Asks her to look for sewing supplies at two stores.
Asks for Miss Otis' address because Annie is going to Chicago.
Sorry she could not make it to Ashland.
Invitation to visit.
News of family and friends.
Short catch up note.
The Bristow's arrive tomorrow as will
Sends the things she requested. Papa is ill but getting better. Glad Madeline is improving but wants Dr. Dawson to hurry.
Sends her trunk on the two o'clock train. Can arrange to stay with her if Cousin Mary goes to Louisville.
Wants to be posted on Madeline's progress.
Glad that she likes Dr. Dawson and to have Dr. Bullock's theory confirmed, but now they must find a way to cure her foot quickly so she, Madeline, can come home soon. Reminds her to tell them about her cart accident.
News of family and friends.
News of family and friends.
Wishes Madeline could spend her birthday at home. Pap had a piece of steel the size of a needle point taken out of his eye, which is now getting better. Family news.
Papa will spend the day with her and talk to Dr. Dawson on Monday.
Trying to persuade Henry to bring her home if he goes to a class reunion with Will Bristow.
News of family and friends.
Professor Patterson at the State College had nice things to say about Madeline. [Note: part of the letter is missing].
Anxious to now if Henry Clay McDowell will run against W.C.P. Breckinridge in the 1894 race.
Writes of some purchases.
Good to have a letter from her. Thinking of going to Virginia. Family news.
Sending her gloves and cards.
Redecorating rooms at home. Family news.
Describes preparations for a dinner in honor of General Draper.
Writes of buying gloves. Family news.
Fragment of a letter. Family news.
Family news. [Note: part of the letter may be missing].
Hopes to discuss the Negro problem with her soon. Possible reference to Benjamin Kidd's
Declines her invitation.
Invitation to a play.
Accepts invitation.
Note sent with flowers.
Writes that her (Alice's) brother Tom has typhoid fever and comments on how so many in their family have had it, five cases in the last eighteen months.
Delighted that Madeline will visit.
Thanks her for a copy of the article she wrote.
Accepts invitation.
Glad to hear that she is doing well. Family news.
News of family and friends.
Possibly a sympathy note on the death of Madeline's mother.
Wishes she were back at Farmington.
Would like another letter of introduction to Miss Otis.
Thanks her for the copy of Edward Sanford Martin's
First letter he has written on a typewriter. Work has commenced on the railroad.
Thanks her for the note about Cousin Nannie's illness. Family news.
Thanks her for the embroidery.
Equal Suffrage clipping.
Sympathy note. Writes about the books she has read.
Suggestions of books to read.
Get-well wishes for her father.
Describes her experiences as a nurse in World War I.
Postcard describing their trip.
Invites her to a hop.
Part of a letter asking her to attend a dinner with him.
Postcard. Got up at five to go to the train station at six for a seven o'clock train.
Postcard.
She and her party have not experienced the problems others had in getting there. Though they were held up at Bellegarde, no one had told them that they could not leave France with more than a thousand francs or with gold or silver.
Postcard showing the hotel where she is staying. They can sit on their balcony and look over the lake to the mountains.
She wishes that he could be there. Last night's meeting was packed to hear Lady Astor and members of the Parliament speak. She mentions that
Postcard. Had a good day. Having dinner with Lady Astor who is entertaining the Americans and the English. She hates to miss the speeches tonight but is staying home to rest.
Postcards (4). They are back in Paris sight-seeing. She and Mrs. Shatford had to go to the prefect of police and have to go again Tuesday for their passports.
Writing while on a boat trip on Lake Geneva. She wants them to make the trip together sometime. Distressed over the news of Mary and wants Mary to see Dr. Fox in Massachusetts. The American and English delegates have done much together.
Postcards (2). She has been sightseeing. Too late to congratulate him on Lady Madcap's win. They went up Mt. Blanc.
She is still not reconciled to the fact that he is not with her. She hopes that the Phoenix Hotel matter ended with the resignation of the Stoll-Ellis crowd. She met Mr. Hampton Gary who had been at the University of Virginia with Desha. She wants to travel the Rhine with him. Next time she wants to do Europe by automobile. Letter includes forget-me-nots from Mt. Blanc and ivy from the old Roman wall in Geneva.
Photograph of Lady Astor and Mrs. Catt sent as a postcard. Apparently it will be a few weeks before Sara McGarvey gets there.
They are going with Mrs. Barkley on an automobile trip through Brittany. At Bellegarde they offered her 3000 francs minus a fine; they confiscated $45 in American gold.
Postcard. Rose at six and left Paris at 7:30. Attended 4 services in 4 Gothic Cathedrals before 1:00. It was a beautiful trip, and
The automobile trip through Brittany was lovely.
Postcards (4). Spending the night in Trouville. Visited cathedrals and attended services. She wants them to come back together.
Postcards (2). They are staying in
They arranged to add a day to their trip to add Chartres, Orleans, Fontainbleau. A tire blew out on the car. Includes flowers.
Too bad that they are traveling separately. She feels stupid for not cabling Mr. Shatford to be sure what
She is watching with excitement what happens at San Francisco. She has only had one bunch of Heralds. She is glad that he is going to Los Angeles, but wishes both trips were together. She wanted him there when she went to California, but would rather have him here with her. Enclosed are two newspaper clippings.
Postcards (4, possibly one missing). She is following the Chicago Convention. Spent much of yesterday at the prefect of police filling out papers because they would be there more than 15 days.
Describes an event which the Roumanian Queen attended. Includes newspaper article
She talks about July 4th events taking place in Paris. September seems a long way off. Includes newspaper articles,
Postcard. Nominations mentioned in the newspaper.
Postcard (4). Discouraged and feeling homesick. Finally found where Sara McGarvey will be staying. Don't send any more Heralds, they come infrequently and she won't be able to get them once on the
Postcards (6). Sara McGarvey finally arrived. She is homesick. Her foot is troubling her.
Postcards (4). They are driving around Rheims and observing the damage from the war.
Talks about Bastille Day.
Postcards (6). visiting Roman ruins.
Postcards (2). Sightseeing. Had dinner in Monte Carlo.
Postcards (3). Has had no mail. Weather very hot.
Traveling is hot and bothersome. Rested in bed. Sent his birthday present in her trunk to London.
Postcards (11, #2 is missing). Sightseeing.
Postcard (6). Sightseeing in Italy. Sends a gardenia.
Postcards (7). Sightseeing. Postcards 5-7 are written from Cava and speak about her wish to establish model schools for the poor children.
Postcards (8, #1 is missing). More sightseeing. Staying at Nettie Belle's.
Postcards (4). More sightseeing.
Postcards (6). Sightseeing. Became a little worn out yesterday.
Postcard. Lovely morning at Palazzo Vecchio. [Note: dated July 3, 1920, but Madge was in Florence at the beginning of August. Misdated].
Shopping and sightseeing.
Postcards (3). Received letters and Heralds. Worried about his eyes. Sightseeing.
Postcards (6). Will sail out of London 4 days later than planned. She is getting along well because everyone is looking out for her.
Postcards (10). Sightseeing. Mrs. Lipscombe had to have surgery. Metz is a German fortress town,
Postcards (24). Sightseeing.
Postcards (6). Went to the Olympics in Antwerp yesterday. Sightseeing. Extremely cold for August. Included is a newspaper article,
Postcards (5). Sightseeing and shopping.
Postcards (6). Talks about getting their passports ready. Sightseeing in Canterbury.
Shopping. Lending money to others in their group. Received letters. Includes a piece of a Scotch heather branch.
Madeline McDowell to Ballard McDowell. Family news.
Family news. Write about upcoming marriages.
Has decided to study law.
Resolutions of the Evansville Medical College faculty on the death of Dr. William Adair McDowell.
Writes about law school. Mentions some of his classmates, including
Arrived at school this morning.
Writes about school.
Family and society news. Mentions the possibility of William Preston being named minister to Spain. A slave of Preston's recently escaped on the Underground Railroad, the seventh slave of his to escape this way.
Writes about school.
Writes about school.
Fragment of letter. Formation of a debating society at school.
Writes about school. At the debating society, the issue of union vs. disunion came up. He was on the union side but was beaten.
Writes about attending the Henry Male Seminary.
Has just arrived at his new military camp.
Camp conditions. Belongs to the fifteenth regiment and will be brigaded with some Ohio regiments at Elizabethtown next week. He and his brother, Will are going to Camp Nevin to visit their brother, Henry.
Camp conditions. Expects to join General Mitchell's division.
Miserable camp conditions. Mentions his commanding officers. Writes that there is not
Miserable camp conditions.
His brother, Will, has gone down to McCook's division to see their brother Henry.
Family news, Camp conditions. Admires General William Nelson. Sketch.
Camp conditions. Wants her to ask Mr. Ballard about his promotion.
It was rumored that John Hunt Morgan's cavalry would soon attack. Irvine and his fellow soldiers are eager for a fight. Explains why it will take some time to suppress the rebellion. Mentions his pay and promotion. Sketches.
Describes in detail a recent skirmish.
Believes his brother William will be placed on General Rousseau's staff. Describes a humorous incident in camp and a large funeral for a young Confederate soldier. Mentions John Hunt Morgan. Sketch.
Describes an unsuccessful engagement with some Confederates. Prefers volunteer over regular soldiers. Mentions John Hunt Morgan. Sketch.
News about friends and family.
Invitation to the upcoming marriage between she and [Edward] Irvine McDowell.
Busy working as an adjutant. Family news.
Comments on the horror of the battlefield. Asks about his brother William's wound. States that more officers in his regiment are talking about resigning.
Family news and camp conditions. Heard that home folks are expecting an attack from Humphrey Marshall.
Family news. Writes about having to be mustered in as an officer. Asks about his brother William. Disgusted with the idea of black soldiers serving in the Union Army.
Family news and camp conditions. Sketch.
Family and camp news. Glad to hear about the arrest of George D. Prentice's Confederate son, Clarence.
Family and camp news.
Happy about the good news from Vicksburg.
Camp news.
Family and camp news.
Happy about Lee's defeat at Gettysburg. Family and camp news.
Family and camp news.
Family news. Writes about getting settled in his new camp.
Family and camp news.
The Confederate artillery barrage he is under is the
Describes witnessing an engagement on Lookout Mountain. Camp news. Mentions re-enlisting
Family and camp news. A battle is ongoing and
Sad that he won't be home for the holidays. Will soon be post adjutant.
Family and camp news.
Family and camp news. Describes a fire at the Nashville and Chattanooga depot.
Family and camp news. His position as captain is keeping him busy.
Family and camp news. Mentions a Mr. Irvine from Richmond, Ky., wanting him to find three of his runaway slaves, use them until the war is over, and then return them to him. Disgusted with the idea of black soldiers serving in the Union Army.
Mention Charles Denby. Visited Lexington, Virginia, and Natural Bridge.
Rode around Cincinnati in Dr. Daniel Drake's rockaway. Describes the boat trip from Guyandotte to White Sulphur Springs.
Writes of his baby, Mary. Dissatisfied with the style of his church building. At the reopening of the church,
Nothing happening in the city
Family and society news.
Family and society news. Heard a concert violinist.
Family and society news. Encourages her to enter a literary contest.
Family and society news. Mentions Basil Duke. Her brother Henry has been on an
Family and society news. Writes of his job copying the census.
Debating on whether or not to attend college.
Reading law and keeping office for brother-in-law, Bland Ballard.
States that her brother Henry will make a good lawyer.
Attended
Describes attending the speech by Hungarian revolutionary Governor Lajos Kossuth. He was introduced by Joseph Hote. It took place in the Farmer's Tobacco Warehouse behind the Galt House. [Note: Kossuth's speech can be found in the
Writes that he is lonesome and wishes she would come back very soon.
Writes that she is no longer an abolitionist.
Family and society news. Went to
Family and society news.
Describes St. Peter's, the Coliseum, the Vatican, and other sites in the city.
Telegraph noting his safe arrival and the pleasure he had spending time with them.
Describes his journey home to Louisville.
Family and society news.
Family news.
Writes about his law practice, the class he is supervising, and the courses he is taking.
Family news.
Writes of romance and marriages. Comments on the widespread fame of Harriet Beecher Stow. Asks Magdalen what her abolition sentiments are these days. Writes of her religion.
Went to the opera and the horticulture exhibition at Mozart Hall.
Sympathy note on the death of Magdalen's father, Dr. William Adair McDowell. Encourages her to become a Christian.
Writes about trying to find lodging during the opening of the legislature in Frankfort.
Family news.
She is not allowed to express her anti-slavery sentiments in a local newspaper. Rev. William Lewis Breckinridge invited Henry and Bland to a Bible class at his house. Writes of his mother-in-law's debts.
Has read her last contribution to the paper. Writes of his classes and a recent court case.
Disparaging comments about Henry Ward Beecher. Instructions on writing.
Writes of gardening, temperance, and the possibility of coal deposits being on their lands in Evansville, Indiana.
More discussion of the possibility of coal on their lands in Evansville.
Discusses romance and marriage.
Was mortified by her last letter and did not mean to be unkind when he last saw her. Understands her need to be independent.
Writes that Rev. Breckinridge is resigning as pastor of the First Presbyterian Church to accept the presidency of a college in Missouri.
Was thinking of her during the repeal of the Fugitive Slave Law in Congress. Asks if she hears from Charles Sumner or Mr. [John Parker] Hale.
The Hancocks are staying with them until they can move into their new home. Family news.
Distressed over the letter Mag wrote to Bland. Assured him that Mag was under the influence of the
Asks Mag to meet her in St. Louis. Runaway slave refused to return to the South. She detests abolitionists.
Invited to dine with Charles Sumner.
Family news. Attended a Know-Nothings meeting last night where there were about five thousand people present. Doesn't like the party because of its religious intolerance.
Discusses a recent contempt of court case involving councilmen refusing to issue a liquor license.
Long debate on the subject of American slavery and whether or not it is beneficial for Afro-Americans. Condemns slavery. Is surprised at
Describes her stay in the city and the sights she has seen.
Family and society news.
Family and society news.
News of the family's preparation for Christmas.
Family news.
Writes of his school work.
Discusses Mag's trip to Crab Orchard. Mr. Ballard has bought Mr. Carter's place opposite the Fairgrounds.
Writes of troop deployments and camp conditions.
Letter fragment. General [William
Adjusting to his new camp.
Discusses camp conditions. He is quartered in the house previously occupied by Albert Sidney Johnston. Sketch of Buckner's cottage drawn at top of paper which is a page of sheet music.
Written shortly after the Federal capture of the city. Troop deployments. Mentions John Hunt Morgan. Sketches.
Has not received his commission yet.
Camp conditions. Pleased with his company (of Germans). Tired of playing soldier, ready to fight. Requests some personal items. Sketch.
He and a friend were rivals over a
Describes the Springs area. Is losing his hair.
Writes of his expected promotion.
Camp conditions. John Hunt Morgan and Nathan Bedford Forest are advancing.
Tells her not to worry about Braxton Bragg's reinforcements because they themselves received 16,000 men. Thinks his regiment may be consolidated with the Louisville Legion.
Mentions the Louisville Legion.
His brigade has been armed with Enfield rifles.
Sharp skirmishes yesterday, four hundred prisoners and some artillery captured.
Mail has been late and they have no newspapers from Kentucky lately. General Burnside's troops are in Louisville.
Some officers dismissed for insufficient knowledge of tactics and general orders.
Camp conditions; sketch.
Received the clothes she sent. Will should be home by now. Sketch.
Did answer her last letter. Camp activities.
Describes recent Confederate retreat. Some men are smoking coffee due to a shortage of tobacco. Asks if she has heard anything about Jefferson Davis' commissioners being refused admittance into their lines.
Derogatory and bitter opinion of black Federal soldiers.
Went fishing. Local citizens have been hanged for hanging Federal soldiers. Having a photographic muster roll made.
Describes recent battle he fought in. Had his sword and hat shot off as well as five bullet holes in his coat.
Camp conditions.
Describes recent duties.
Would like to attend West Point.
Irvine is now aide-de-camp to General Johnston.
As a member of a legislative committee, Goodloe wants Magdalen to paint a full length portrait of Henry Clay for Kentucky.
Camp conditions.
Very pleased that she painted for him. Has sent an additional $150.00 because $1,000.00 was too little to charge.
Comments on and thanks her for letting him borrow the poem,
Their father is sick with a
Has deposited money for her at Lyons and Co. Bankers.
Describes having dinner with Ralph Waldo Emerson at Belknap's. Impressed with his modesty and knowledge.
Wants to know more of Mag's new friends and acquaintances.
Encourages her in her artistic pursuits and describes his house to her.
Discusses her artwork.
Wants her to take instruction in painting from a first-rate artist.
Describes the building he will erect during the summer in downtown Louisville and which the architect has dubbed
He saw two portraits of Henry Clay while in Frankfort and thought they were both flawed. Encourages her to undertake such a task. Wants her to go to Europe with him and his wife this summer.
Encourages her to keep learning about painting and not worry about making money all at once. Wants her to write the [Courier] Journal extolling the benefits of a park in Louisville.
Wants specific plans from her for studios in his building.
Have just returned from Crab Orchard Springs [Lincoln County, Ky.] Construction of his buildings is progressing slowly. Both want Magdalen to come live with them in their house.
Encourages her to continue painting in New York.
Excoriates President Andrew Johnson who will be in town tomorrow. Disgusted with the fact that Johnson considers acts of respect for the Office as endorsement of his policy.
Both want her to stay in New York and paint. Anne hopes to see the President today.
Has enclosed a check for her. Nannette is just starting school at Mr. Butler's.
Family and political news.
Detailed discussion of ladies fashion. Writes about her readings.
Wants her to come vacation in Pennsylvania.
Family news.
When someone accused Henry Clay McDowell of being a copperhead, his daughter Nannette denied it and said
Appreciates a book she sent but finds fault with it.
Writes of her business affairs and the growth of Evansville.
Has come to argue a case before the Supreme Court. Wants to meet her in Harrisburg, Penn.
Went to Louisville with Papa and Mama to hear Nilsson. Family news. Note from Henry Clay McDowell dated February 5th encouraging her to enter the Academy.
Writes about relatives selling some property.
Writes about Charles Dudley Warner's
Discusses art and artists.
Regrets missing her invitation. Insists that she let him know when she is coming back to Lexington so he can arrange to be there as well. Wants to hear about the cotillian.
Asks her to send a piece of artwork to the National Academy of Design.
Inquires if there are portraits of their great-grandparents, Judge Samuel and Mary McDowell. Provides a personal recollection of the couple.
Writes of her business affairs. Sold his horse, Trinket, for $11,000.
Writes about her business affairs.
Writes about her business affairs.
Concerns rent money owed to her by John Ingle Coal Mining Company.
More of the rent owed to her by the John Ingle Coal Co..
Encourages her to do all her painting at his house.
Attended a baseball game and an initiation supper.
Inquires about the truth of Ballard McDowell's death.
Family news. Discusses the death of an acquaintance.
Writes about living in Germany.
Thanks her for a painting and discusses business affairs.
Attended a large celebration in honor of James C. Harrison, one of the founders of the city schools in Lexington. W.C.P. Breckinridge spoke at the occasion. Family news.
Family news and business affairs. Mentions an upcoming dinner at Ashland for several dignitaries including Governor J. Proctor Knott.
Discusses Magdalen's trip.
Asks about Magdalen's ocean voyage. mentions the Thomas concerts. Appreciates her painting.
Writes about Magdalen's trip. Mentions her painting. Informs her of the death of General Irvine McDowell.
Family and society news.
Life in Germany.
Making preparations for her visit.
Making preparations for her visit.
Mentions possible assault of self-defense trial involving Thomas Crittenden.
Family news. Tells her about Charles Denby's prospects of being named minister to either Spain or China.
Family and society news. Charles Denby was appointed minister to China. Went to a boating party, a baseball party, the Thomas concerts, and the new reservoir at Crescent Hill.
Family news.
Life in Germany.
Family news and her business affairs.
Family and society news.
Addressed to
Writes about her trip to London and Paris.
Family and society news.
Received Magdalen's letter from Paris. Hopes she will go again next spring and take her and Nettie. Family and society news.
Will be in London until the middle of next week and hopes Magdalen can visit.
Previous engagements prevent time to visit, but will call on Magdalen before she leaves London.
Family and society news. Madeline won the prize of John Ruskin's
Sending her a letter of introduction to meet Ambassador Edward John Phelps.
Family and society news.
Amazed at the preparations for President Grant's funeral.
Family and society news.
Wishes her a safe passage home.
Encloses a letter from Nettie. Her present to them was highly regarded.
Went to the doctor with Hoyt to check a lump in his jaw. Misses her awfully. News of friends and acquaintances.
Family news. Writes of her father's horses.
Family news. Thanks her for the portrait of Mr. Heapy.
Wants to know how she is doing. Her sister is now in New York on her first visit there. News of friends.
Writes about school.
Thanks her for the Christmas present. Sorry to hear of her illness.
Attended a reception for Ambassador Edward John Phelps.
Hopes that John Speed was a success at the Exhibition. News of friends.
Enclosed something which she thought Magdalen would like to have.
Only excitement is reading of Mr. Gladstone, the Irish and the Anarchists. Has been ill.
News of family and friends.
Contemplative letter about life and death. Someone close to them (Anne) has died recently.
Describes her trip through Europe and Turkey.
Thanks her for a book she sent to him.
Writes about school. Enjoyed reading Isaacs Jorge's
Apologizes for his
Business matters.
Business matters.
Handwritten copy of Minnie R. Clay's obituary.
Madeline is free of tuberculosis. One bone was diseased and was removed. A thorough cure is expected. Writes of his horses.
Discusses her business affairs.
Business matters.
Discusses her business affairs.
News of family and friends.
Family news.
Business matters.
Had an enjoyable trip to Baltimore. Enclosed check.
Business matters.
Concerning coal being mined on her Evansville property.
Concerning coal mining on her Evansville property.
Concerning the John Ingle Coal Mining Co..
Concerning her Evansville property. Drawing attached.
Business matters.
Business matters.
Business matters.
Business matters.
Concerning coal mining on her Evansville property.
Business matters. Mentions
Letter from Charles Hendrie attached. Concerning coal being mined on her Evansville property.
Concerning the coal mining on her property.
Business matters.
Sympathy note on the death of Henry Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Henry Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Henry Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Henry Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Henry Clay McDowell.
Sympathy note on the death of Henry Clay McDowell.
Family news. Mentions a political meeting in town tonight.
Concerning her Evansville property.
Family news.
Sympathy note on the death of Sarah McDowell Ballard.
Glad to have written a letter of recommendation to President Roosevelt on behalf of Henry Clay McDowell, Jr.'s appointment to the federal bench.
Concerning a question of Gothic architecture.
Thank you note written shortly after Marion's marriage.
Postcard concerning travel plans for home.
Does not know how to contact Mrs. Albert Harrison. Will be in the U.S. in the autumn.
News of family and friends. Survived the San Francisco earthquake and fire.
Asks about Ashland. Postcard of his military school. Asks for letters.
Postcard relating how she met a distant relative who is the daughter of Dr. Ephraim McDowell.
Staying with her friend, Marion Houston Smith.
Writes about her suffrage work.
Clipping about her suffrage work enclosed.
Postcards with no note.
Writes about her vacation.
Describes attending a speech by militant British suffragist, Emmaline Pankhurst. After listening to Pankhurts,
Postcard indicating that she is staying at Cousin Charley's.
Writes about her vacation.
Postcard about her vacation.
Sympathy note on the death of Anne Clay McDowell.
Enjoying the Falls. The view is spectacular. Leaving that afternoon for home.
Postcard. Post Office not delivering mail on Sundays because of the war.
Postcard wishing that she is well.
Invitation to attend the opera.
Writes about someone receiving their commission. Reference to Major General Irvin McDowell.
Family news. Mentions Bob and Mollie Breckinridge.
Reference to Major General Irvin McDowell.
Attended an opera.
Writes about the Sadie Ward divorce case.
The Justices of the Supreme Court paid his daughter, Mary, a great deal of attention. She liked Justices William Strong and David Davis best.
Nervous about proposed trip to Europe.
Mention an upcoming eclipse.
Society news. Attended a costume party.
Sightseeing.
Invites her to dinner.
Sending her art gallery tickets.
Family news.
Invitation to dine.
Reference to her visiting her son Will at Yale.
Compliments her on writing an article concerning the Gothic style called
Invites her to the opera.
Thanks her for a gift and wishes she could attend her wedding.
Sends flower seed. Will answer her letter soon.
Thankful for Magdalen and the family's kindness.
News of family and friends.
Family news.
Possible reference to Magdalen's 1885 European vacation.
Writes about an appointment to West Point.
Family News.
Child writing to her aunt.
Describes her trip through Utah and California. Mentions Salt Lake City trying hard
Genealogical questions.
Poem and note. Poem is entitled,
Christmas greetings.
Christmas wishes.
Everything is going fine. Everyone is well.
Compliments of the photographer and with love.
God's in his heaven.
Discussing Christmas presents.
Writes about General Rousseau's division and how desolate Chattanooga is.
Writes about school.
Concerns her real estate.
Writes about several Civil War personalities and events. Mentions the recessionists in town and hopes the war will be over soon.
Writes about the war and items she is sending him.
Family and camp news.
Camp conditions. Sketch.
Love poem.
Concerning court business.
Correspondence, diaries, medical records, financial materials, legal documents, copybooks, scrapbooks, compositions, printed materials, newspaper clippings, and realia compose the Bullock family papers series and document the personal lives and familial interactions of the Bullocks. The series is divided into subseries based on the owner of the material.
Nannette McDowell Bullock's papers form the bulk of the series and contain her extensive correspondence with family members and friends, spanning and documenting almost eighty years. Events and subjects covered by the correspondence include her young adulthood, marriage, the birth of her son, her sister's fight with tuberculosis of the bone, Thomas Bullock's medical practice, the family's move to New Mexico, life at Ashland, and the fight to preserve Ashland as a memorial to Henry Clay. The financial materials include receipts, checkbooks, and account books, which document the family's income from 1889 to 1949. Additionally, the papers contain Nannette's compositions, recipes, and keepsakes and illuminate her interest in history, charity, and women's clubs. The papers include a copy of the poem
The remainder of the Bullock family papers include the papers of Thomas S. Bullock; the papers of Henry McDowell Bullock; scrapbooks and copybooks from Thomas Bullock's mother, Mary Franklin Bullock, and sister, Sarah Sidney Bullock Moore; and a larger group of papers relating to Thomas Bullock's cousin Waller Overton Bullock and his family.
Thomas Bullock's subseries contains a small amount of correspondence, compositions, receipts, printed materials, a brass calling card engraving plate, and records for the the court case Snyder v. Bullock. The case records include two letters from Alice Snyder to Thomas Bullock, concerning her paternity suit against him. Included in Henry McDowell Bullock's subseries are his World War One military exemption papers and his medical diaries that span twenty years and document his lifelong battle with epilepsy.
The group of papers from Waller Overton Bullock and his family include materials from him; his wife, Sallie Overton Bullock; his daughter, Sally Overton Bullock Cave; and his sons Waller, Jr., Samuel A., Frederick D., Joseph H., and Barry. Composed mainly of correspondence, the papers document their familial interactions; Waller, Jr.'s medical career; and Samuel's work as an engineer. Notable items include Waller, Sr.'s medical school thesis and Civil War pardon; Sally Bullock Cave's book of poetry,
Nannette
Waller Overton Bullock (1842-1904), Thomas Bullock's cousin, was born in Fayette County, Kentucky, to Samuel Redd Bullock and Eliza Overton Whitney. After serving in the Confederate Army, Bullock attended Bellevue Hospital Medical College of New York City. Bullock briefly practiced medicine in Mississippi before returning to Kentucky where he served for three years as the superintendent of the Eastern Kentucky Hospital for the Insane. He spent the rest of his career practicing medicine in Lexington. He and his wife, Sallie Overton Bullock, had six children: Waller Overton, Jr.; Sally Overton; Samuel A.; Frederick D.; Joseph H.; and Barry. His son, Waller Overton Bullock, Jr. (b. 1875) also became a doctor, specifically a surgeon, after attending the University of Virginia. Samuel A. Bullock became an engineer. Sally Overton Bullock married Robert Lord Cave.
Source:
Connelley, William Elsey and Ellis Merton Coulter.
Hay, Melba Porter and Marjorie J. Spruill.
Labach, William A.
Correspondence, printed materials, historical documents, sound recordings, and newspaper clippings compose the Henry Clay Memorial Foundation records and illuminate the foundation’s origins and early activities. The records consist of the correspondence of Raymond F. McLain, president of the foundation; Lorraine Seay, the first curator; and Maude Ward Lafferty, a Henry Clay scholar. Additionally, the papers contain printed material such as invitations, brochures, posters, postcards, and programs created by the foundation to publicize Ashland. Notable items include a 1950 page from the Ashland guestbook, wallpaper samples, and inventories of the contents of Ashland. Furthermore, the series contains a small collection of historical documents acquired by the foundation which do not relate to the Clays, McDowells, or Bullocks. These documents include the Webb family papers, the Curtis L. Lavin papers, assorted correspondence, and John J. Davis' checkbook.
The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation owns and operates Henry Clay’s estate, Ashland, as an educational center, a public park, and a National Historic Landmark. After the death of Anne Clay McDowell, none of her children could afford the upkeep required by the estate. Her daughter, Nannette McDowell Bullock and Judge Samuel M. Wilson, out of a desire to protect Ashland from the encroaching city, founded the foundation in 1926. After several defeated efforts, the foundation purchased Ashland in 1949 following the death of Nannette McDowell Bullock, who provided for the purchase in her will. Raymond F. McLain was the president of the foundation at this time and the foundation’s secretary, Lorraine Seay, became Ashland’s first curator.
Source:
The series comprises photographs, sketches, and photographic reproductions of paintings of members of the Clay, McDowell, Bullock, Brock families; their friends and acquaintances; and the Ashland estate. The series also includes a number of photographs of the McDowell and Bullock time out in the American West. The series comprises tin-types, ambrotype, daguerreotype, albumen, gelatin developing out, platinotype, collodion, and matte collodion images. The series includes daguerreotype and ambrotype images of Henry Clay, Lucretia Hart Clay, and Henry Clay, Jr. In addition, the series includes photograph copies of portraits by Oliver Frazer, Matthew Jouett, and Sophonisba Breckinridge. The series illustrates images of Aaron Dupuy, Henry Clay’s slave and long time manservant; Joseph Kobert, a notable Shakespearean actor of the time; Editha Clay, Charles Clay, Daniel Clay, Harriet Clay, Nannie Clay, Julia Prather Clay, Eugene Erwin, and Anne Clay McDowell, the wife of Major Henry Clay McDowell.
In addition, the series also displays images of Major Henry Clay McDowell, Anne Clay McDowell (Henry Clay’s granddaughter), and Henry Clay McDowell, Jr. The McDowell family photographs include images of the Ashland estate in Lexington, Kentucky; the Woodlake estate in Frankfurt, Kentucky; family gatherings at Ashland, as well as photographs of Madeline McDowell Breckinridge as a child and during her tenure as president of the Kentucky Equal Rights Association. Images of Madeline McDowell Breckinridge’s husband, Desha Breckinridge, the editor of the Lexington Herald are also in the series. The series contains images of the Kentucky Tuberculosis Sanatorium and the Abraham Lincoln School project, both of which the McDowell family helped fund.
The series also includes pictures of Dr. Thomas Bullock, his mother Mary Franklin Bullock, his wife Nannette McDowell Bullock, and their son Henry Bullock during their time in Raton, New Mexico and as the owners of the Ashland estate. The series includes photographs of the Bullocks and the McDowells during their travels through the American West as well as the photographs of Edward McDowell, Edward McDowell, Jr., and Edward McDowell Jr.’s wet nurse Scarlet, and the McDowell house in Ontario, Canada.
Note attached to image 52: Henry Clay and his wife -- This is the first picture taken west of the Allegany Mountains. The artist went to Lexington Ky from Phila. Pa. for the purpose -- Given to my father, Rev.
Daughter of Henry Clay, Jr. and Julia Prather Clay, wife of Henry Clay McDowell.
First brick house built in Missouri by Nathaniel Boone son of Daniel Boone.
Note and obituary for Annie J. Bert attached.
Note attached to image 277: A Christmas letter to Mrs. Bullock from Nellie Thorpe attached to the image
A note to Grace from Lucille discussing her time at the beach is on verso.
Envelope addressed to Mr. and Mrs. Henry Clay McDowell of Lexington, Kentucky, in envelope.
Two envelopes categorizing images previously held therein is attached to this image in an envelope labeled 346c.
The two unidentified women in this image are found in image 351.
Envelope attached addressed to Mrs. Desha Breckinridge.
The crayon portrait in the image was sketched by Magdalen McDowell.
Attached to the image is a newspaper clipping ot the tree, a summary note on the tree, and an envelope addressed to Nannette McDowell Bullock.
Description of the house on verso.
Description of the house on verso.
Attached is a letter from Buffalo, New York.
Attached is a letter concerning Nannette McDowell Bullock and Henry Bullock's support of Joseph Van Bauwel, a poor Belgian child.
Attached is a letter from Marion Strossman.
Attached is a letter from Theresa Garrett in Chicago.
Attached is a letter from Desha Breckenridge.
Attached is a letter from Julie Koch in St. Louis.
Attached is a letter from Phoebe Worth of the Lincoln School to Nannette McDowell Bullock, a donor.
Attached is a letter from Dolly S.
A note on verso from Margaret Colston Nash wishing Nannette McDowell Bullock and Henry Bullock a happy new year; attached is a letter to Nannette McDowell Bullock from Dolly (last name unknown) describing Margaret Nash's condition and recalling their mutual time at Ashland..
Attached is a letter from Margaret Colston Nash to Nannette McDowell Bullock with a receipt from the Cave Hill Cemetery Company for the sum of $19 for a grave lot. The letter also thanks Nannette for the money she had given Margaret and her mother to buy dresses.
Enclosed with letter; Florence to Henry Anderson in Collected Historical Papers.
Enclosed with letter; Florence to Henry Anderson in Collected Historical Papers.