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James C. Nagle Photograph Album

  • US TxAM-C 704
  • Collection
  • circa 1900

The James C. Nagle Photographic Album is a Kodak album containing photographs of Texas A&M College campus, circa 1900.

Nagle, J. C. (James C.), 1865-1927

Cavitt Family Papers

  • US TxAM-C 805
  • Collection
  • circa 1870s-post 1900s

The collection consists of personal correspondence and documents of J. F. Cavitt and other documents of significant importance. Included is the correspondence of and articles about Ann Cavitt Armstrong, that sheds a light on the early settlement period of Texas. Financial documents also shed a light on the early history of Texas, including court documents and receipts of slave purchases.

Cavitt, Joseph Franklin

R. B. Boettcher Scrapbook

  • US TxAM-C 697
  • Collection
  • 1898-1900

This scrapbook titled "Souvenirs of College Days" by Boetcher contains newspaper clippings mainly concerning Texas A&M College football and commencement. R. B. Boetcher was a graduate of A&M College, Class of 1900, from East Bernard, TX.

Early History

1/1
Deed from Sherman Arnold Henry Runge of Funchal, Madeira, Portugal to Henry Runge, references a land transfer of many thousands of acres of land in Concho and Matagorda Counties, a substantial portion of which was formerly owned by the German Emigration Co. March 9, 1869 [handwritten copy of original]

Letter from Emil Reiffert to C. A. Goeth referencing an inheritance affair. Written on letterhead of H. Runge & Co. Banking & Exchange Office, Cuero, Texas. January 15, 1891.[handwritten]

Court appointment of Executors appointing Emil Reiffert, Henry J. Runge, and Louis Runge executors of the estate of the late Julia Runge. March 23, 1896

Will of Henry Runge. June 2, 1894 [handwritten]

1/2
Letter from Julius Runge to C. A. Goeth referencing a meeting to be arranged. November 16, 1900

Revocation and Assignment of Power of Attorney from Hans Eyl and his wife, Meta Runge Eyl, Dr. Gustav Stromeyer and his wife, Anna Stromeyer, all of Hannover, Germany to C. A. Goeth. Filed subsequently in 12 counties. December 10, 1900

Letter from Julius Runge to C. A. Goeth confirming an appointment. January 21, 1901

Letter from Henry J. Runge to A. C. (C. A.) Goeth that accompanied a deed for land in Mason County. January 30, 1901

Letter from Henry J. Runge to C. A. Goeth authorizing cancellation of revenue stamps on deeds of land attached from six counties. February 1, 1901

Partition Deed from Henry J. Runge to heirs of Henry Runge. February 1, 1901

Partition Deed from Julie Runge to heirs of Henry Runge. February 1, 1901 [2 copies]

Letter from Henry J. Runge to Mr. A. C. Goeth (C.A.) requesting signed deeds returned from Mrs. Julius Runge. February 4, 1901

Letter from Henry J. Runge to Mr. A. C. Goeth (C.A.) describing disputed wording in a deed. February 7, 1901

Letter from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth discussing matters relating to Goeth's handling of a settlement for his clients dealing with Julius and Henry Runge in Galveston. The letter alludes to personal characteristics. February 10, 1901

Letter from Henry Runge to C. A. Goeth discussing a delay in signing a deed. February 11, 1901

Letter from Julius Runge to C. A. Goeth discussing ranch transactions and financial difficulties resulting from the disastrous Galveston storm. March 24, 1901

Letter from C. F. Carsner to C. A. Goeth discussing several lots in Victoria, Texas. March 21, 1901

Partition Deed between Johanna Runge, Julius Runge, Louis N. Runge, Meta Eyl nee Runge, Hans Eyl, Anna Rosa Stromeyer nee Runge. Filed in eight counties. October 12, 1901

Surveyor's field notes written by S. D. Williams, County Surveyor for Runnels County, references German Emigration Co. property. November 14, 1901

1/3
Memorandum of Agreement between Lange & Doose (Max Lange and C. A. Doose) and C. A. Goeth denoting an agreement on certain terms in a land transaction. The document is signed with strikethroughs and annotations. February 20, 1902

Letter from F. Cronk to H. J. Runge discussing a proposition involving land in Tom Green and Concho Counties. August 4, 1902 [handwritten copy]

Letter from Henry to C. A. Goeth discussing an enclosure of patents and deeds to certain tracts of land. August 8, 1902

Letter from Federick C. von Rosenberg to Henry J. Runge questioning the status of a lease controversy. August 11, 1902 [copy]

Letter from Julius Runge to C. A. Goeth regarding short clarification. August 13, 1902

Letter from Frederick C. von Rosenberg to C.A. Goeth discussing lack of communication from the Runges. August 14, 1902

Letter from Henry J. Runge to C. A. Goeth, attachment to an accompanying document. August 16, 1902

Letter from Frederick C. von Rosenberg to C. A. Goeth discussing the Runges' wish to cancel a lease; indicates disagreement. August 18, 1902

Letter from Henry J. Runge to C. A. Goeth discussing a deed. August 23, 1902

Letter from John Seiders, County Judge of San Saba County to C. A. Goeth discussing title problem and is attached to an accompanying letter from G. A. Walters, an attorney in San Saba, Texas. August 23, 1902

Letter from Henry J. Runge to C. A. Goeth discusses the legal difference between a partition and a sale. August 26, 1902

Letter from Henry J. Runge to C.A. Goeth seeking information as to court date. August 28, 1902

Telegram from Julius Runge to C. A. Goeth advising of a delay in travel. August 29, 1902

Letter from Emil Reiffert to C.A. Goeth discusses the absence of a woman's will or an affidavit of death. September 5, 1902

Letter from Emil Reiffert to C. A. Goeth, was attached to an affidavit. September 9, 1902

Letter from Henry J. Runge to C. A. Goeth, was attached to a deed. September 18, 1902

Letter from Henry J. Runge to C. A. Goeth was attached to a set of letters concerning the lease of certain lands to the Hume Bros. September 19, 1902

Certified Judgement of an 1850 judgment in the case of Henry J. Runge vs. The German Emigration Co. September 26, 1902 [handwritten copy]

Letter from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth discussing an offer to buy land by George T. Hume of the Hume Bros. September 27, 1902

Judgment in 1850 case of Henry J. Runge vs. The German Emigration Co. Includes name in German as well as a listing of all principals in the company which includes many princes, counts, and dukes. September 29, 1902 [copy]

Letter from Henry J. Runge to C. A. Goeth discussing filing a release against the Hume Bros. October 2, 1902

Letter from Julius Runge to C. A. Goeth discussing settlement with the Hume Bros. October 15, 1902

Letter from Frederick C. von Rosenberg to C. A. Goeth discussing a final settlement in the case of J. L. Hume et al vs. Henry J. Runge. October 16, 1902

Letter from Henry J. Runge to C. A. Goeth requesting certain documents. October 28, 1902

Memorandum from Frederick C. von Rosenberg to C. A. Goeth acknowledging receipt of monies on behalf of Hume Bros. October 30, 1902

Letter from Frederick C. von Rosenberg to C. A. Goeth discussing other money matters in the case. October 30, 1902

Memorandum from Frederick C. von Rosenberg to C. A. Goeth discussing money matters in the case. November 3, 1902

Ledger list prepared by Walter Tips, provides a listing of V/L Land Notes of Las Moris [sic] Ranch. November 7, 1902

Letter from J. W. Hancock, Deputy in Department of Justice, Western District of Texas, to Messrs. Webb and Goeth denies any deeds being on file as the originals were removed. November 13, 1902

Letter from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth congratulating3 the latter on a legal victory and mentions that he would prefer someone else other than Adolf Runge being made receiver of the ranch property. November 15, 1902

Transfer of land from German Emigration Co. to Meta Eyl and Anna Strohmeyer. November 18, 1902 [copy]

Letter from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth discussing someone who would like to sell their lots. December 11, 1902

Letter from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth discussing travel plans and whereabouts of Julius Runge and Johanne Runge. December 11, 1902

Letter from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth discussing the Runges and their financial dealings with Sullivan bankers in San Antonio as well as the possibility of putting the ranch in receivership. December 24, 1902

Power of Attorney from Johanna Runge, Julius Runge, Louis Runge, Charles Fowler, Anita Runge to Walter Tips to liquidate all lands and livestock of Las Moras Ranch. December 27, 1902

Legal Agreement stating Julius and Henry Runge to turn overall management and give a complete accounting of ranch affairs to Walter Tips. December 27, 1902

Letter from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth accompanied in a letter of transmittal from Julius Runge. December 30, 1902

Tax Assessment listing of lands owned by Eyl and Strohmeyer in Concho County. December 31, 1902

Notes tallying land sold. February 1902 - December 1902 [handwritten]

Financial and Legal Documents

This series contains documents relating to Texas and East Coast real estate transactions, much definitive information on the "Sibley Tent" and the lawsuit resulting from a disagreement concerning patent royalties. Includes two House Bills to force the government to pay Burns as well as the final statement of judgment. Also various other financial correspondence, largely contentious in nature, including documents concerning a bad debt owed to General Burns. Some of the later correspondence was directed to General Burns' sister and concerned selling some real estate.

Miscellaneous Documents

S5-1/10: This folder contains the following documents,

A - Magazine tear-sheet. From The Field Glass, this is a printed copy of a letter to the Editor written by William Wallace Burns titled, "Oligarchy - Aristocracy - Democracy." December 1880.

B - Invitation. "Re-Union of the National Association of the Veterans of the Mexican War." 22 February 1881.

C - Letter to the Editor. Mimeograph copy of "Man Ignoring a Natural Law" written by William Wallace Burns. 26 April 1887.

D - Speech. Printed hand-out copy of "Address delivered by Gen. W. W. Burns, U. S. A., at the Alumni Reunion of the Graduates of the United States Military Academy, West Point, N.Y. June 1888". Possibly the graduation address. Pasted inside is another piece of paper similar in nature that explains and illustrates the buttons designed by Bailey, Banks, and Biddle Jewelers. June 1888 and 1 November 1888.

E - Note from Daniel T. Van Buren to "Dear Pitts." The letter alludes to having seen the list of U. S. Military Academy graduates from 1888 with a form asking for Name, Class, Motto, and Address. 1 leaf, 2 pages, 1 October 1888.

F - Poem or Song. "Our fabled 'Fille de Regiment'" in William Wallace Burns' handwriting. Handwritten, 1 leaf, 2 pages, Undated.

G - Fable. "Battle of Fair Oaks Fable." In William Wallace Burn's handwriting, this seems to be a parody. On the reverse side, in pencil, a discussion concerning a battle. 1 leaf, 2 pages, Undated.

H - Calling cards. Two cards of different styles. One is inscribed on reverse by someone presenting the General to the Hon. W. R. Grace, Undated.

I - Biographical data. Written by William Wallace Burns, two chronologies of his career listed with dates no later than 1884.

J - Essay. In what appears to be William Wallace Burns' later handwriting, this is a long, rather rambling essay heavily steeped in God titled, "Faith, Truth = Understanding - Good, Free Will = Love - Understanding, Love = Heaven." 3 leaves, 6 pages, Undated.

K - Prayer. Unsigned lengthy prayer in a handwriting different from the rest of all documents. The envelope reads: "Mrs. Magruder, Nuremberg." Undated.

Henri Dron's United States of Earth Imaginary Utopia

  • US TxAM-C C000503
  • Collection
  • 1876 - 1903

This collection contains the maps of The United States of Earth dated 1876-1903, by Henri Dron, who was a geographer that envisioned a utopia of the world united into several states.

Dron's utopia consists of six maps of each continental confederation with annotations of his utopia visions. The goal of unity is depicted in three maps of Europe with connective highways along the Danube river and with Dron's Universal Renovating Academy. The world map shows all twelve states under the United States of Earth to end international strife.

The collection also includes three newsletters, the Ideograph, where Dron shared his utopia ideas by giving examples of his maps and explaining them in detail. Lastly, there are two documents where Dron is attempting to recruit and register subscribers to his newsletters and ideals. Dron's archive displays map development and how it ties to political ideologies at the turn of the century.

Dron, Henri

Sbisa Scrapbooks and Yearbook

Box 1

  • S2-1/1: Small photographic Sbisa family scrapbook. Undated (5.5 x 8 inches)
  • S2-1/2: Medium photographic Sbisa family scrapbook. Undated (7 x 11.5 inches)

Box 2

  • S2-2/1: Longhorn (A&M College Yearbook), 1903
  • S2-2/2: Scrapbook. Undated (11.5 x 7 inches)
  • S2-2/3: Scrapbook. Undated (11.5 x 7 inches)

Miscellaneous Documents

This set of documents is a widely varied mix. Included is a speech delivered by General William Wallace Burns at the U. S. Military Academy at West Point, a poem and a fable it is believed he authored, calling cards, invitations, autobiographical narrative, a prayer, news clippings related to family members, an editorial written by General William Wallace Burns, a single old photo of an unidentified couple, a note from a West Point classmate, Daniel T. Van Buren, and miscellaneous empty envelopes.

Miscellaneous Documents

S2-2/1
A - Various news clippings. Death notice of Magruder (father of young Lloyd Burns Magruder and Pauline Magruder), articles on Edwin Stanton and George McClellan, an opera in Paris, mortgage lien note advertisement from one of the real estate people the General dealt with, an article on investing, and, an article on Mr. B. L. Prince (suitor of Mabelle Burns) who had intestinal hemorrhages. 1901-1903.

S2-2/2
A - Fragments. Various empty envelopes, small postcards to Burns, a photograph of an unknown couple, a partial letter from a real estate company. 13 items in total. 1892-1903.

Correspondence, and Legal Documents

  • Pleading and Assignments of Error. From F. Groos and Company. Apparently F. Groos and Company had taken a lien on rents from Fant's Santa Rosa pasture which were already pledged to D. Sullivan and Company. Chittim & Parr were lessees and have apparently defaulted on rents to D. R. Fant. (typed) February 24, 1904.
  • Foreclosure Document. Legal document of foreclosure from D. Sullivan and Company on all D. R. Fant's properties to satisfy the $260,000. debt owed. Foreclosure sale of $00.50 per acre with deficiency being prayed for. (typed) Undated.
  • Warranty Deed. From William R. Elliott to C. A. Goeth for 640 acres on the Rio Grande river. land having been "fully described in Judgment rendered in #1752 styled W. R. Elliott et al vs. J. N. Groesbeck et al . . . about Feb. 22 1896…" (typed) March 23, 1903.
  • Chattel Mortgage. From D. R. Fant to D. Sullivan and Company for approximately 4600 head of cattle located on the Santa Rosa Ranch, approximately 55,000 acres as collateral for a $48,000. loan. (handwritten) May 13, 1903.
  • Ledger Sheet. "D. R. Fant account with F. Groos & Co." bankers in San Antonio, Texas. (handwritten) May - June 1903.
  • Partial Satisfaction of Judgment. From a judgment (formerly Chris Kiel vs. G. G. Clifford) rendered by Mary F. Drake against G.G. Clifford, Eleanor E. Clifford, and Dan Lewis, October 30, 1897. Includes release of lien by C. A. Goeth and settled by I. B. Henyan, attorney of record for Mary R. Drake. (typed) November 2, 1903.
  • Permission to Relocate Chattel. Permission for D. Sullivan and Company to J. M. Chittim to move 401 head of cattle from the Santa Rosa Ranch in Hidalgo county to the Gray Ranch in Duval county (Parr's ranch). (handwritten) November 28, 1903.
  • Letter (copy). From the law firm of Webb & Goeth to County Clerk, Hidalgo county. Requests certified copies of unreleased chattel mortgages given by J. M Chittim from D. Sullivan since as well as any other unreleased chattel mortgages by Chittim on any cattle in "the Santa Rosa Pasture owned by D. R. Fant." (typed) certified copies May 18, 1899, letter May 4, 1904.
  • Telegram. From A. Chavez, County Clerk Hidalgo county to the law firm of Webb & Goeth. Expresses work in progress on requested papers and date to be sent. (typed) May 17, 1904.
  • Telegram. From the law firm of Webb & Goeth to the County Clerk of Hidalgo county. Requests rush service on papers requested. (handwritten) May 17, 1904.
  • Letter. From A.E. Chavez, County Clerk, Hidalgo county to Messrs. Webb & Goeth. Apparently accompanied documents requested and informs of the trust sale of Santa Rosa lands, etc. to D. Sullivan and Company. (typed) May 18, 1904.
  • Invoice. From A. E. Chavez to Webb & Goeth for $14.65 for certified copies of four chattel notes from J. M. Chittim. (handwritten) May 19, 1904.
  • Telegram. To Webb & Goeth from A. E. Chavez advising of documents having been sent on the 19th. (typed) Undated. Telegram. From Webb & Goeth to A. E. Chavez inquiring of papers' whereabouts. (handwritten) May 24, 1904.
  • Notice to Creditors of Receivership. F. A. McGown appointed as receiver for the estate of J. M. Chittim, files, and an inventory of assets and liabilities apparently pursuant to bankruptcy. (typed) July 25, 1904.

H. Rider and Ella Haggard Collection

  • US TxAM-C 655
  • Collection
  • 1897-1904

This collection contains three handwritten letters from H. Rider Haggard to Charles (1-page ALS), Larry (1-page ALS), and "Sir" (1 folio), and a handwritten page by Ella Haggard, "From the West to the East". All of the letters and the handwritten page from Ella each have a 1-page typed transcription.

Colonel C. J. Crane Collection

  • US TxAM-C 1158
  • Collection
  • 1900-1905; Undated

This collection contains many photographs and other items pertaining to Crane's military service in the Spanish-American War. The collection also contains his personal items and a biography.

Crane, Charles Judson, 1852-1928

Personal Correspondence with Family and Friends

This correspondence is chiefly between immediate family members and a few close friends. Some of the correspondence is to or from General Burns, but most are to or from his unmarried sister "Mab" who apparently lived with the family and corresponded with her niece, Pauline Magruder, and nephew, L. Burns Magruder, frequently as they grew up. There are numerous letters and notes from Burns that range in styles and dates from his very early child-like script through his West Point graduation. Several of the letters from Pauline Magruder are in French and written while she was studying in Paris. There are also several letters from a B. L. Prince who was, it seems, intent on marrying the General's sister, "Mab" Burns.

Crane Materials

1/1: Summary of each folder; Mini biography of Crane; Newspaper article of Crane's retirement

1/2: 14 photographs from the Philippines
Lt. Col. Crane in the Philippines
A typical better class of home in the Philippines
A scene in the Philippines
Group of men (names on the back)
Preparing to leave camp
Water buffalo
Army waiting arrival of Americans
Market Manilla
Officers and men of the insurgent army prior to the arrival of Americans
Batangas near the mouth of a river
Department Headquarters
Often seen in Luzon
A typical view
Sen Delgado of Panay

1/3: Photographs from Puerto Rico
Crane in San Juan (August 24, 1905)
Col Crane Military Secretary for Puerto Rico heading a parade

1/4: Photographs from Cuba
Snapshot of Col. Crane in the quarters in Cuba (April 1902)
Spanish hospital
Cook shed
9th USV officers and their positions

1/5: 3 photographs of "Watching Mexican prisoners return to Mexico"

1/6: Photograph of C. J. Crane at West Point

1/7: Letters between R. C. Crane and M.T. Harrington

1/8: Information on W. C. Crane, the son of C. J. Crane, sent by R. C. Crane

1/9: Literature, The Philippines

1/10: Letters from C. J. Crane to his brother, R. C. Crane, and his mother, and letters pertaining to the subject of his letters

1/11: Newspaper, The Manila Freedom (July 24, 1900)

1/12: Magazine, The Manila Critic (December 25, 1901)

1/13: Official Program, George Washington's Birthday Celebration

Santa Rosa Ranch Minutes Book

Santa Rosa Ranch Minutes Book. Hard-bound ledger book detailing articles of Incorporation, by-laws, and minutes of the first stockholders' meeting of the Santa Rosa Ranch Company.

Incorporated by J. A. Gallagher, W. M. Sanford, and Fred Kelly. Notarized by Peter O'Brien and filed with Secretary of State, J. R. Curl. The corporate seal is embossed and described.

The first meeting was held in the offices of J. C. Sullivan in San Antonio, the minutes of this meeting show a stockholder receiving a proposal from Mr. D. Sullivan "offering to transfer and assign to the company certain property as set forth in said proposal in exchange for the entire capital stock of the company to be issued to his order, fully-paid and non-assessable." The stockholder agreed to accept 220,000 acres in exchange for the stock with a said value of $50,000.

After this, the initial board of directors of Gallagher, Sanford, and Kelly resigned.

In another meeting, D. Sullivan then leases the land to the corporation for 10 cents per acre. John Cotter Sullivan appears to have been the attorney of record.

Enclosed within the ledger book are also various other handwritten notes and a typed letter declining an offer of $100,000 for the "iron properties of the Grand Republica Mines of Mexico."

Also included is a typed version of the minutes of the "special meeting." (handwritten)

July 7, 1904; September 30, 1904; September 30, 1905

Personal Correspondence with Family and Friends

S3-1/7: This folder contains the following documents,

  • A - Letter from [A.?] Johnstone to "Miss Burns." Social letter with references to Arizona and Westward ho! Movement; awareness of world events; advocates "outdoor exercise." [light copy; difficult to read] Handwritten, 1 leaf, 4 pages, 10 July 1880.
  • B - Letter from "Ben" to "Mousey." Personal letter between an uncle and niece (possibly Burns' daughter?)-notation in another's handwriting that it was written by Ben Atkinson. Handwritten, 1 sheet, 2 leaves, 4 pages, 13 July 1880.
  • C - Letter from A. Johnstone to "Miss Burns." The letter is of a general nature and discusses the weather in Washington and the area of Wilmington at the time. Handwritten, 1 sheet, 2 leaves, 4 pages, 10 September 1881.
  • D - Letter (possibly from Burns' daughter or daughter-in-law) to their children. This letter is written in an unusual printed case probably intended for reading ease by children and is a farewell note in advance of a trip she and her husband were about to take. Handwritten, 1 leaf, 2 pages, 23 July 1890.
  • E - Letter from "Grand Papa" to "Burns & Sweet Pau-line." The letter apparently from General Burns to his (grand?) children, written in the printed case that his wife used (possibly she wrote it for him) from a hotel in New York. Letter thanks them for a letter and sends best wishes. Handwritten, 1 leaf, 2 pages, 9 November 1890.
  • F - Letter from "Grand Papa" to "My Dear Grand Boy." A get well note to his grandson and message to the mother of the child also. Handwritten, 1 leaf, 2 pages, 2 May 1891.
  • G - Message from A. B. Hancock to Burns. Difficult to read the message on a black-bordered calling card. Handwritten (3 in X 3 in card), 1 leaf, 2 sides, 12 July 1889.
  • H - Message (fragment) to Burns. This is the same type of stationery as in item 4/7 but it is unsigned. The message is incomplete. Handwritten, 1 leaf (4 in X 6 in card), 2 sides, 5 September 1887.
  • I - Message from [Ellen? Nellie?] M. McClellan to Burns. The message is written on black-bordered cards like items 4/7 and 4/8. Handwritten, 1 sheet, 2 leaves, 4 pages, 23 March [1887?].
  • J - Note from Burns to "Grand Boy." Small block-print note sympathizing with the child having the measles. Handwritten, 1 sheet, 2 leaves, 3 pages, 1 May 1891.
  • K - Letter from young Burns to "My dear grand-pa." The letter expresses that it is his first day out of bed in a week. Reverse side has a note from "Mama" discusses a gift for her son and mentions that perhaps Burns could find a "Sibley Tent" where he was. Handwritten, 1 leaf, 2 pages, 5 May 1891.
  • L - Letter from Burns to "Grand-Boy." Script letter from Burns acknowledging receipt of two letters and complimenting the child's improving reading ability. Apparently the child asks about getting a Sibley Tent and Burns says it is an "impossibility" as none has been made for "twenty-five years" other than one for the World's Fair at Philadelphia. Handwritten, 1 leaf, 2 pages, 7 May 1891.
  • M - Letter from Burns to "My Darling Mab." This letter, it seems, is written to his daughter (or sister?) and concerns her suitor who is pushing for marriage. Handwritten, 2 leaves, 4 pages, 22 November 1891.
  • N - Letter from L. Burns Magruder to "Grand-Pa." Short letter from the grandchild about rain, but with a sentence asking for a picture of the tent. Handwritten, 1 leaf, 1 page, 7 December 1891.
  • O - Letter from L. Burns Magruder to "My dear Grand-pa." The child's note describes illnesses in the family. Mentions his mother having the "grippe" and "Frawline" then goes on to mention that "Nana keeps well and sends her love." Is it possible that Burns' wife lived with her daughter separate from Burns? The letter also mentions that the child is sad "we didn't have a war with Chili." Handwritten, 2 leaves, 2 pages, 14 February 1892.
  • P - Letter from Burns to "Grand-Boy." The letter mentions that he is glad the child did not have whooping cough and then stresses the importance of reading and education. Handwritten, 1 leaf, 1 page, 10 March 1892.
  • Q - Letter from [T?] W. Willett to "Miss Burns." This is a very ambiguous letter that expresses sympathy for her loss and the writer mentions attending a funeral but the deceased is not named. The letter is two-part and the second part refers to some real estate in South Carolina but it is hard to discern whether she is wishing to sell or buy and has sought his advice in the potential transaction. Handwritten, 2 leaves, 3 pages, 30 April 1892.
  • R - Letter from Burns to "Dear Grand-Boy." Block-print note about the measles. Perhaps the date is written in error? One might refer to the letter item 4/10 and compare the context and writing in later letters. Handwritten, 1 leaf, 2 pages, 5 May 1892 (1891?).

S3-1/8: This folder contains the following documents,

  • A - Letter from B. L. Prince to "Miss Mab. Burns." Love letter. Handwritten, 3 leaves, 3 pages, 19 October 1892.
  • B - Letters from F. Montgomery to Mrs. Burns. The first of two letters mailed together expresses sympathy for the death of General Burns then immediately goes into a lengthy discussion on a person beginning to develop a cotton gin. One might infer that there is an investment opportunity available. The second letter refers to a cotton gin on her island… which seems to be for sale. Handwritten, 6 leaves, 12 pages, 5 November 1892-12 November 1892.
  • C - Note from Pauline Magruder to "my dearest Brother." A personal note telling of her having a bad cold and that her mother and that she had a long letter from "mother and Mrs. Tracy." Concludes with "I have to go to chapel now." Handwritten, 2 leaves, 3 pages, 18 November 1895.
  • D - Letter from Pauline Magruder to "My dearest Auntie." A social letter from Pauline Magruder on her 13th birthday written, apparently, from the seaside. Handwritten, 2 sheets, 4 leaves, 4 pages, 24 July 1899.
    E* E - Letter from B. L. Prince to "My dear Friend." Letter discussing cattle affairs and friendship. See item 3/19 of this series. Handwritten, 3 leaves, 3 pages, September 1899.
  • F - Letter from B. L. Prince to "My dear Friend." Letter very pragmatically discusses an optimum time to marry "that is if we ever intend to marry," then discusses cattle prices. Handwritten, 3 leaves, 3 pages, 1 October 1900.
  • G - Letter from Pauline Magruder to "Taunte" (Aunt). The first half of the letter is in French; she is in France studying French. Handwritten, 2 sheets, 4 leaves, 8 pages, 25 January 1902.
  • H - Letter from B. L. Prince to "My dear Friend." Letter sounds as though this man is losing patience with the indecision on the part of the young woman. This letter gives full financial disclosure that he can "afford" to marry. Handwritten, 7 leaves, 7 pages, 13 February 1902.
  • I - Letter from L. Burns Magruder to "Dear Auntie Mab." Letter from West Point is social and tells of his fun with the other cadets in the snow. Handwritten, 1 sheet, 2 leaves, 4 pages, 18 February 1902.
  • J - Letter from Pauline Magruder to "Ma Chere Taute." The entire letter was written in French except for closure. Handwritten, 3 leaves, 6 pages, 22 June 1902.
  • K - Letter from "L. Burns Burns" to "My dear Auntie Mab." Note from West Point refers indirectly to a mishap and to the possibility of lending "the sword" to the West Point library for display. Handwritten, 1 sheet, 2 leaves, 4 pages. 29 October 1902.
  • L - Letter from "L. Burns Magruder" to "My dear Auntie Mab." Note from West Point refers to the Christmas gift she sent and asks why "Nana" doesn't write. Handwritten, 1 sheet, 2 leaves, 4 pages. 29 December 1902.
  • M - Letter from B. L. Prince to "My dear friend." Suitor still in pursuit of Auntie Mab; ups his financial status by saying in the letter, "I thought that $50,000. And yourself for a wife would be more than any man could wish for." Handwritten, 5 leaves, 5 pages, 18 January 1903.
  • N - Letter from L. Burns Magruder to Mabelle Burns. Note from West Point refers to a "precious burden" his mother had been carrying, the secret that Auntie Mab was getting married? He extends his congratulations saying that he "did not think [she] would take the step." Other mentions of "the sword" being lent to the West Point library for display. Handwritten, 1 sheet, 2 leaves, 4 pages. 29 October 1902.
  • O - Letter from "Belle" to Mabelle Burns. Letter from Paris reprimands Mab for not writing and implies there is outside influence. The writer expresses much stress about living in France and worries about Burns' illness. Handwritten, 1 leaf, 2 pages, 24 April 1903.
  • P - Note from Lloyd Burns Magruder to "My dear Auntie Mab." A short note expressing that he is busy in school at West Point. Handwritten, 1 sheet, 2 leaves, 4 pages, 8 April 1904.
  • Q - Letter from [Virge?] to Mab. This is apparently from a friend who is very interested in the members of the Burns family-expresses concern over young Burns having Typhoid and very ill. Handwritten, 2 sheets, 3 leaves, 6 pages, 25 May 1904.
  • R - Letter from [Virge?] to Mab. The letter mentions family members and a desire to see all of them. Handwritten, 1 sheet, 2 leaves, 4 pages, 13 March 1905.
  • S - Letter from Burns to Mab. The letter discusses impending graduation and mentions his studying Gettysburg and recollections of going there with his grandfather as a child. Handwritten, 2 sheets, 4 leaves, 8 pages, 2 May 1905.
  • T - Letter from Burns to "My dear Grandpa". This is an undated letter from Burns when he was apparently just learning to write in cursive. The letter thanks his grandfather for the gift of a bicycle. Handwritten, 1 sheet, 2 leaves, 2 pages, No date, but judging from previous letters, circa 1892.
  • U - Letter from Charles Beatty Moore to "Cousin Mab." This letter seems to be from a relative who attended West Point with young Burns. The letter references several other family members. Handwritten, 1 sheet, 2 leaves, 4 pages, 11 May 1902.
  • V - Letter from Pauline to "Auntie Mab." An undated letter that must have been written shortly after she arrived in Paris because she mentions that she is not yet proficient enough in French to write a letter. Handwritten, 2 sheets, 4 leaves, 8 pages, circa 1901.
  • W - Letter from "Papa" to "Auntie Mab." A small, undated letter (only "Dec 5th") appears to be from the General and was written on a trip to New York. The letter is ambiguous but states that Burns has just come in on his tricycle so it must have been written in the early 1890s. Handwritten, 1 sheet, 2 leaves, 4 pages, circa 1890.

Formation of Santa Rosa Ranch

From a hand-drawn plat map of the Santa Rosa Ranch to a Sheriff's foreclosure notice, this series yields valuable information on the transition of the property from its original owners as well as its lessees and sets-up the scenario for the later problems to be resolved in the courts. This series is comprised of Chattel mortgages, Warranty Deeds, Promissory notes, Deeds, and a Dissolution of Partnership document.

Correspondence, Memorandum, and Legal Documents

  • Answer to suit brought by F. Groos & Company. D. Sullivan and W. C. Sullivan address and counter-accusations brought by F. Groos & Company concerning the indebtedness of D. R. Fant. (typed) August 13, 1904.
  • Letter from Floyd McGown (from the law firm of Denman, Franklin, and McGown of San Antonio) to Messrs. Webb and Goeth in reference to Sullivan vs. Chittim, giving notification that he is withholding $15,000.00 pending a judge's opinion or indemnification of Chittim,. September 14, 1904.
  • Memorandum from A.E. Chavez, County and District Clerk of Hidalgo County. Apparently was attached to a certified copy of Trustee's Deed from J. C. Sullivan Trustee to D. Sullivan and Co., (typed) October 7, 1904.
  • Summons to D. Sullivan & Company to answer petition brought by F. Groos & Company as well as J. M. Chittim, A. Parr, and D. R. Fant. Form filled out by hand, 3 October 1904.
  • Waiver of service. Floyd McGown, receiver of J. M. Chittim, notifies court he will appear in F. Groos hearing, October 1904.
  • First Amended Original Answer of Defendants: D. Sullivan & Company. An amended answer file to the court. (typed) November 28, 1904.
  • Letter from J. B. Wenmohs to "Dear Conrad" accompanied by a check. (brief, handwritten) December 6, 1904.
  • Memorandum from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth, expressing an interest in buying 3,188 acres owned by Goeth. (typed with handwritten annotations) December 12, 1904.
  • Show Cause Legal Notice from Floyd McGown to "Dear Sir" advising of an immediate hearing authorizing acceptance of a monetary offer from D. Sullivan for 12,300 acres of land. (typed) December 12, 1904.
  • Telegram from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth requesting a 30-day option on all land for $2.50 per acre pending examination. (typed with handwritten annotations) December 23, 1904.
  • Letter from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth questioning title and abstract availability. (typed) December 29, 1904.
  • Letter from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth in which Wood reveals himself as an agent for someone and addresses the undesirability of some of the land, thus a lower offer. (typed) December 30, 1904
  • Complaint made by A. Parr against J. M. Chittim, F. Groos & Company, D. R. Fant, and D. Sullivan & Company, in which a former partner of Chittim brings suit against all concerned with the Santa Rosa Ranch, December 1904.
  • Interrogatories to D. R. Fant concerning the Santa Rosa Ranch submitted to the court by Webb & Goeth, attorneys for F. Groos & Company. 4 copies of the document. (typed) December 28, 1904.
  • Answer to Interrogatories/Deposition Transcript from H. Brendel, a former cashier in the bank of D. Sullivan & Company, answers to the court concerning the bank's business relationship and real estate transactions with D. R. Fant. (typed) 1905[?]
  • Appeal from F. Groos & Company including a lengthy explanation of the situation from the viewpoint of F. Groos & Company. The judge reverses the previous decision. (typed) December 1904.
  • Telegram from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth requesting return wire regarding the price of land. (typed) January 9, 1905.
  • Telegram from C. A. Goeth to H. R. Wood, declining offer for the land. (typed) January 10, 1905
  • Memorandum from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth, replying that he has a contract of sale prepared for the portion of the land to be purchased by Henry Pfaff for $3.00 per acre, contract attached. (typed) January 16, 1905.
  • Memorandum from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth, questioning aspects of land title. (typed) February 8, 1905.
  • Title Clearance for 3188 acres of land in El Paso County. Prepared by Edwards & Edwards, (Peyton F. Edwards and Peyton J. Edwards) Attorneys at law, February 7, 1905.
  • Title transfer from W. H. Maverick, executor of the estate of Mary A. Maverick, to Mary A. Howard and C. A. Goeth. Form filled in by hand, December 13, 1905.
  • Letter from Edwards & Edwards (on H. R. Wood Real Estate letterhead) to Henry Pfaff, clarification of title opinion expressed previously. (typed) February 22, 1905.

Operations

This series of documents is sparse but lends a general idea of the running of the ranch as well as additional land acquisition. There is only one document representing each of the years of 1905 and 1906

1/4
Memorandum from Julius Runge to Messers, Webb, and Goeth. A handwritten list of indebtedness by owners with a letter of submission attached. January 16, 1903

1/5
Receipt acknowledging the commission of payment made by C. A. Goeth to Lange Doose who apparently acted as agent in a land sale. March 20, 1903 [handwritten]

Letter from Walter Tips to Max Martin giving formal notification of management change and verification of livestock inventory. May 4, 1903

Lease contract. May 6, 1903

Lease contract. May 23, 1903

Letter from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth informing of payment for surveying. June 21, 1903

Letter from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth concerning sales of animals from the ranch. July 17, 1903

Letter from Henry J. Runge to Walter Tips concerning some title issues. July 24, 1903

Letter from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth reporting sales of cattle and prices received. July 25, 1903

Letter from L. W. Ainsworth to Walter Tips referencing some land titles. July 27, 1903

Letter from W. F. Brandes to C. A. Goeth discussing the need to move some fences that are encroaching on property lines. August 18, 1903

Letter from H. Runge & Co. to C. A. Goeth discussing lots in Victoria, Texas. August 26, 1903

Letter from Henry J. Runge to Walter Tips that accompanied enclosures of letters that supported a claim. September 2, 1903

Letter from W. F. Brandes to C. A. Goeth discussing trade for 640 acres. September 2, 1903

Letters largely between Walter Tips and C. A. Goeth indicating the accompanying attachments, questions of title, and in one instance, squatters' rights to ranch lands.

Letter and list of lands from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth. The list of lands total over 24,000 acres of lands not owned or leased by the family; asks comparison to a list sent previously to complete the total list. December 23, 1903

Tax Assessments in Concho and Tom Green counties. December 1903

Cattle accounting including a tally of cattle on hand and that expected. 1903; Undated [handwritten]

1/6
Letter from Walter Tips to Max Martin thanking him for a venison ham; apparently a contraband item. January 19, 1904

Vendor's Lien note from Meta Eyl and Anna Strohmeyer of Hannover, Germany using C. A. Goeth's power of attorney for 160 acres of land. February 29, 1904

Letter from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth advising of a citation served upon him for an undisclosed lawsuit. March 23, 1904

Letter from Henry J. Runge to C. A. Goeth discussing delinquent taxes and purchase of land in a tax sale. April 1, 1904

Letter from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth expressing confidence in the outcome of a lawsuit for 5,000 acres. April 6, 1904

Letter from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth giving a statement of condition for Las Moras Ranch for the year, ending on May 1, 1904. May 5, 1904

Letters from Walter Tips to C. A. Goeth that accompanied enclosures of various sorts to do with operations and land sales and acquisitions. May-June 1904

1/7
Inventory of Lands. September 4, 1905

Letter from F. M. Newman to Walter Tips giving a lengthy opinion on a lawsuit concerning a land title. April 28, 1906

Ranch Map and Legal Documents

  • Manuscript Map of 1905 Maria Rodriguez Survey by Parker and Owen (Surveyors).
    • This map is labeled that it is Survey #35 cutting off 18/25 on the north side of the survey. Hand drawn on light blue, shiny linen sheet, approximately 30 x 48 inches. ITEM SEPARATED, encapsulated and housed separately in Map Case. March 1905.
  • Quit Claim Deed - Joint Acknowledgment for 219.78 acres in El Paso County originally granted to Maria Rodriguez, sold in tax sale for unpaid taxes owed by W. D. Wright. Sold to Mary E. Howard for $40.00. (handwritten) January 29, 1890.
  • Chattel Mortgage. From Chittim and Parr to R. Driscoll on approximately 2,000 head of cattle located on the Santa Rosa Ranch. (handwritten) November 18, 1898.
  • Chattel Mortgage. Assigns 2803 head of cattle as collateral for a loan from John C. Sullivan of D. Sullivan and Co. (Bankers) to D. R. Fant. Cattle are located "in pastures known as 'Santa Rosa Ranch.'" Note to be paid ($30,000.) in gold. (typed) November 2, 1900.
  • Warranty Deed. From William R. Elliott to James V. Upson conveys a 1/3 undivided interest in a large tract of land in El Paso county. (handwritten) November 23, 1901.
  • Warranty Deed. From James V. Upson to C. A. Goeth conveys an undivided 1/3 interest in a large tract of land received previously from William R. Elliott. (typed and handwritten) November 23, 1901.
  • Chattel Mortgage. From Chittim & Parr (J. M. Chittim and A. Parr) to D. Sullivan and W. C. Sullivan. Over 12,500 head of cattle and over 1,000 head of horses and mules as collateral for a loan of $194,837.30 in gold. All stock located on "Fant's Santa Rosa pasture" and other locations. (typed) June 5, 1902.
  • Chattel Mortgage. Chittim & Parr use 3810 head of cattle a collateral for a loan of $64,000.00 in gold from D. Sullivan & Company bankers. (handwritten) July 24, 1902.
  • Warranty Deed. From Kate (Elliott) Adams, daughter of William Elliott, to C. A. Goeth an undivided 1/3 interest in large tract of land on Rio Grande River, August 11, 1902.
  • Dissolution of Partnership. Between J. M. Chittim and A. Parr, a dissolving of business relations with inventory of assets, November 8, 1902.
  • Sheriff's Deed and Foreclosure Notice. Notice of seizure of large tract of land (3188 acres) on Rio Grande belonging to the heirs of the estate of William Elliott (Eleanor E. Clifford, Kate V. Elliott, and G. G. Clifford) due to "a certain judgment on 16 May 1899." C. A. Goeth was the successful bidder at $200.00, November 10, 1902.
  • Note Payable. $260,000.00 promissory note made by D. R. Fant to D. Sullivan and Company, appears to be secured by three life insurance policies, (listed, typed) February 9, 1903.

Defaults and Transfers Regarding Santa Rosa Ranch

This series of documents paint a picture of the series of events that lead to the succeeding legal conflict. This series is comprised of Pleadings, Foreclosure documents, Chattel documents, letters, telegrams, and, of special interest, a Minute Book documenting a "Special Meeting of the Santa Rosa Ranch Company" in which important stock transfers occurred.

Telegram - Alclair Mays Pleasant Birth Announcement

Item 47 - Envelope with Western Union Telegraph Co. printed on the front. The addressee is listed as Mrs. Sallie Garcer, Kingsville. Dated May 1, 1906

Item 48 - Telegram to Mrs. Sallie May Garcer from James Mifflin Mays, dated May 1, 1906

Item 49 - Envelope with Gulf Oil Corporation letterhead. Handwritten note on the front of envelope reads - “Telegram to my grandmother Sallie Carcia, who was working as a cook in the Horan Hotel in Kingsville, from my father announcing my birth, May 1, 1906. Alclair.” (Undated)

Correspondence, Memorandum, and Legal Documents

  • Letter from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth, indicating a need for an abstract for the land to be furnished by the seller. (typed) February 22, 1905.
  • Memorandum from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth accompanying a copy of the Edwards & Edwards title opinion. (typed) February 23, 1905.
  • Telegram from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth, stating that land measurement is 920 acres. Handwritten annotations, apparently by Goeth, indicating this is not acceptable. (handwritten) March 4, 1905.
  • Memorandum from J. C. Sullivan (on Webb & Goeth letterhead), stating that "Deed of Confirmation" has been received from D. R. Fant. (handwritten) March 8, 1905.
  • Telegram from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth, indicating a need for communication on the land deal. (typed) March 9, 1905.
  • Letter from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth, indicating difficulty with buying the entire 3188 acres because of "squatter claims" on the land and offers a proposition from the potential buyer. (typed) March 10, 1905.
  • Letter from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth, indicating the buyer is resistant to a counteroffer made, apparently, by Goeth. (typed) March 21, 1905.
  • Memorandum from H. R. Wood to C. A. Goeth confirming a draft on Goeth's account for $194. for Surveyors and Abstract fees. (typed) March 21, 1905
  • Letter from L. C. Chittim to "Mr. Webb," asking for legal representation in an immediate divorce from his wife from whom he has been separated since 1891. Accuses her of having "an ungovernable temper…grabbing a butcher knife and trying to kill me…a morphine fiend…chewed tobacco making her breath bad . . . and jealous." (handwritten) 30 April 1905.
  • Telegram from J. E. Webb to L. C. Chittim, indicating the impossibility of divorce before September. (handwritten) May 3, 1905.
  • Telegram System message from Tecumseh, OK that a message from Webb to Chittim was "undelivered, party not known." (typed) May 6, 1905.
  • Telegram System message from Tecumseh, OK that a message from Webb to Chittim was "still undelivered, no cattleman in town that name." (typed) May 7, 1905.
  • Quit Claim Deed from Kate Adams "formerly wife of E. F. Adams, and formerly Elliott" to C. A. Goeth. (form filled in by hand) May 12, 1905.
  • Letter from F. W. Church (on letterhead for "J.M. Chittim, Stock Raiser and Dealer") to L. C. Chittim, Esq., explaining why divorce was stalled because of Webb being unable to contact him in Tecumseh, OK. Says that the divorce will take until at least December but that Webb "can get it as quick as anyone." Postscript describes the good condition of land, cattle, and crops. (typed) May 31, 1905.
  • Letter from L. C. Chittim to "Mr. Webb", clarifying mailing address and expresses alarm in the delay of divorce. Apparently the divorce would impact the outcome of a suit "they" are bringing forth for September. Handwritten with envelope, June 3, 1905.
  • Letter from L. C. Chittim to "Mr. Webb", asking if the firm has received money sent previously. (handwritten with envelope) June 15, 1905.
  • Letter from L. C. Chittim to "Mr. Webb" in response to having received a letter and notifies of when he will be in San Antonio. (handwritten) June 19, 1905.
  • Memorandum from F. W. Church to J. E. Webb expressing that L. C. Chittim has a new address of Normanna, TX. (typed with envelope) August 25, 1905.
  • Petition to Dissolve Marriage between L.C. Chittim and Mary Ann Chittim ("a non-resident of Texas") filed by L. C. Chittim. (typed) August 31, 1905.
  • Letter from L. C. Chittim to Webb & Goeth (written on letterhead from "Bokchito Commercial Club") indicating that the wife got the divorce done by Albany, MO attorneys, and that nothing more need be done by Webb & Goeth. (handwritten with envelope) September 25, 1905.
  • Receipt from the newspaper, Commercial Recorder of San Antonio, showing $6.00 paid for "citation in case of Chittim vs. Chittim." (form filled in by hand) October 11, 1905.
  • Letter from Floyd McGown to J. E. Webb, including an amendment to D. Sullivan and Company answer. (typed) March 3, 1906.
  • Inventory signed by J. E. Webb which includes a list of J. C. Sullivan Deed of Trust instruments in order by date executed. (typed) March 19, 1906.
  • Court Transcript of interrogatories in the case of F. Groos & Company vs. Chittim and Parr et al. (33 pages typed) March 20, 1906.
  • Court Transcript of lengthy testimony and history of Santa Rosa Ranch in the case of F. Groos & Company vs. Chittim and Parr et al. (387 pages typed) March 20, 1906.
  • Court Transcript of Judgment with Damages in the case of F. Groos & Company vs. Chittim and Par et al. (typed) March 20, 1906.
  • Copy of previous 3 Court Transcripts. (typed) March 20, 1906
  • Receipt acknowledging the delivery of 6 documents from Webb & Goeth concerning D. R. Fant's land. L. Reynolds Lewis, stenographer for 37th Judicial District signed. (handwritten) April 2, 1906.

Illustrated European Periodicals of African Military Expeditions

  • US TxAM-C C000564
  • Collection
  • 1821-1906

This collection includes over 11 different groupings of approximately 1 to 10 issues in each grouping. The latter half of the collection includes illustrations of African and African Americans in European periodicals.

Edward Everett Papers

  • US TxAM-C C000024
  • Collection
  • 1846-1906

This collection dating from 1846 to 1906 (bulk: 1846-1847) consists chiefly of handwritten letters, journal entries, a memoir, a proof copy of a report from the U. S. Secretary of War on Army operations in Texas and on the Rio Grande during the Mexican War (1846-1848), as well as plans, maps and nine hand-colored copies of lithographic engravings drawn by Everett, which vividly chronicle southwest Texas cultural as well as military history during the late1840s.

Series 1, Letters (1847-1863), mainly handwritten in ink by Edward Everett to his brother, Samuel W. Everett, from 1846-1847, while Everett was serving in San Antonio de Bexar with the U. S. Army during the Mexican War. A few letters from other correspondents pertain to Everett's disability and eventual official discharge from the Army. Three letters written in the period 1852-1863 are about business or from family members.

Series 2, Journal and Memoir (1846-1899) contains three sets of journal entries for Sept. 1846-Jan. 1847. All are handwritten in ink on loose sheets of paper. The memoir, also handwritten in ink, on machine-ruled paper measuring about 8 x 5 inches, covers the years 1846-1848, with additional material added and dated, on at least one page, with 1899. This memoir is edited in pencil by Everett, evidently for publication, since one note suggests that the memoir was donated in 1899 to the Quincy Historical Society, later known as The Illinois Historical Society. The memoir was actually published, at least part, or possibly all of it, under the title "Military Experience," in Transactions of the Illinois Historical Society for 1905.

Series 3, Engravings, Maps, and Plans (ca. 1846-1849) includes nine copies of lithographed illustrations drawn by Edward Everett and engraved by C. B Graham Lithographers in Washington, D.C. The engravings were to be published in a report on U.S. Army operations in Texas during the Mexican War. A proof copy of this 67-page report, titled Report of the Secretary of War, communicating ... the Operations of the Army of the United States in Texas and the Adjacent Mexican states on the Rio Grande (31st Congress, 1st Session, Senate. Executive Document 32), published in 1850, is annotated throughout by Everett in pencil. For this publication Everett was at least responsible for eight illustrations: seven engravings of the San Antonio de Bexar area, including the Alamo church, as well as locations in Mexico; a plan of the ruined Alamo as it was in 1846, before being renovated according to Everett's direction, as a U. S. Army supply depot and workshops.

Engravings include nine copies of the lithographed prints. Notations made in ink on the separate prints, and on p. [4] of the proof copy of the published government report, indicate that: illustrations numbered for publication 2, 3-6 were engraved from original drawings made by Everett; those numbered 1, 7-8 were engraved from drawings made by Everett based on pencil sketches by other individuals, particularly no. 1 titled "Watch Tower Near Monclova," which was drawn by Everett from a sketch by Lieutenant McDowell of the U.S. Army.

Everett's proofs of the lithographic prints have all been exquisitely hand-tinted, in contrast to the severe black-and-white reproductions in the printed report. Of the nine hand-colored prints, two are duplicates of two illustrations, one titled "Church Near Monclova," and the other "Watch Tower Near Monclova." These identical prints are each hand-colored in two versions, apparently to represent the depicted buildings' appearances during the daytime, as well as at dusk or sunset.

Maps include one copy of a published map, possibly also by Everett, though it has been attributed to Josiah Gregg, which also appeared in the 1850 Army Operations report, titled "Map Showing the Route of the Arkansas Regiment from Shreveport La. to San Antonio de Bexar Texas," which is annotated with a penciled in route drawn from San Antonio to Austin, and a town location labeled "New Braunsfels." Also included are two manuscript versions of a map by Edward Everett, one copy titled "Plan of the Vicinity of Austin and San Antonio, Texas."

Plans are represented by two copies of an illustration drawn by Everett for the 1849 Army operations report showing plans of the Alamo before the renovation, titled "Plans of the Ruins of the Alamo near San Antonio De Bexar, 1846." Also present is one manuscript plan, titled "Plan of San Antonio de Bexar, Texas, 1848," which is labeled as "Drawn from recollection by E. E." The legend states that locations number 1-5 on the plan show, for instance, the spot near the Plaza in town where Everett received his disabling gunshot wound in the leg, the Hospital where he convalesced, and the Quartermaster's Office, to which he was assigned to work after being declared disabled from active service in the field.

A handwritten loose-leaf page kept with the proof copy of the report is titled "Index to Col. Hughes Report," and lists subject divisions and page numbers, though these divisions are not present in the published report by Hughes.

Thus Everett's accounts of frontline actions in the Mexican War mainly rely on reports from occasional volunteer soldiers or scouts, or Mexican nationals, returning back to Texas from the front lines of battle in Mexico. As much as he is able, however, Everett produces very detailed accounts of the various battles and skirmishes in and around the Texas-Mexico border, including battles at Monterrey, Saltillo, San Luis, Camargo, Buena Vista, Vera Cruz, and Tampico, recording a large number of casualties on both sides.

Of particular interest is Everett's extensive first-hand description of the ruins of the Alamo, and how it was converted for U.S. Army use as a military headquarters, according to plans drawn up by Everett. He deplores the vandalism already wreaked by relic seekers and stressed the respect shown to the mission church by the U. S. Army restorers, who refused to plunder it for building stone but instead merely cleaned away the debris. In the process, skeletons were uncovered, which Everett assumes to be from the time of the siege and Battle of the Alamo in 1836. Everett's accounts of frontier life in the rather rambunctious confines of San Antonio, complete with ambushes, shootouts, rough and ready court trials, and various local characters are often riveting.

Everett also pictures the moods and attitudes of the soldiers toward a variety of issues. Everett describes their arduous marches, unsavory living conditions, often dire medical care, and the cruel climate tormenting them. Having been left behind in San Antonio with all the stores rejected by the army, which had proceeded on into Mexico, Everett's men were faced with nursing broken down mules and horses back to usefulness, salvaging wagon parts from several damaged ones to make a serviceable one, and generally, trying to make do with what could be had in the vicinity, or easily transported from the Quartermaster at New Orleans.

According to Everett, communications on the Texas frontier often proceeded through "solitary express riders." He describes Mexican culture co-existing with "the Indians" and their horse-stealing. He also gives an excellent but pejorative account of the Texas Rangers and their activities, calling them desperados. Everett describes Mexican Generals Santa Anna, Torrejón, and Woll, the exceedingly unpopular U. S. Army Colonel Churchill, officers George W. Hughes, 1st Lieutenant W. B. Franklin, 2nd Lieutenant F. T. Bryan, General Zachary Taylor ("Old Rough and Ready"), General Winfield Scott, and General James Morgan, Captain J. H. Prentiss, Brigadier General John E. Wool, Major General Worth, Captain James Harvey Ralston, Captain L. Sitgreaves, as well as Edward Everett's own two brothers Charles Everett and Samuel W. Everett (Sam).

Full of absorbing narrative and elusive details often lost in larger historical works, the content of Everett's narratives and letters may be summed up in his own words from the handwritten memoir: "Mine is not a tale of battles, or of the movements of great armies, but the details will show some of the hardships and vicissitudes of a soldier's life, the exposure to which causes a greater sacrifice of life than that ensuing from wounds of death received from the enemy."

Everett, Edward

Ranch History

Testimony of D. R. Fant giving the history of the Santa Rosa Ranch, (300+ page transcript) May 25, 1906.

Abstracts of Judgment

Abstracts of Judgment in the case of F. Groos vs. Chittim and Parr et al. filed in seven counties, September 19, 1906 - October 22, 1906.

Miscellaneous Letters, Memos, and Clippings

This series includes newspaper clippings, including three items thought to be from circa 1906 concerning the Alamo, its survivors, and its history, and a copy of Edward Everett's obituary. Miscellaneous documents include a copy of a House Bill for financial relief due to Everett's disability incurred while serving in the U.S. Army during the Mexican War, and other miscellaneous printed pieces referring to him.

Appeals and Summons

  • Appeal. J. M. Chittim et al vs. F. Groos & Company. (typed) March 6, 1907.
  • Summons. Webb & Goeth from Denman, Franklin & McGown, March 20, 1907.
  • Formal Appeal from J. M. Chittim et al vs. F. Groos & Company for rehearing of the case, Justice's handwritten opinion on the reverse side of the document. (typed, handwritten) March 11, 1907.
  • Formal Appeal Copy of item in Box 2-3/12, 20 March 20, 1907.
  • Judgment containing an extensive inventory of assets, including land in the case of D. R. Fant & Lucie A. Fant vs. D. Sullivan et al. (typed) March 9, 1907.

Robson Correspondence and Photographs

This box contains the following:

  • Photograph of Robson outside of a military tent. Handwritten note on the back: "grey in Honda Spanish American War Quarter Master Sgt.".
  • Photograph portrait of Robson at A&M College.
  • Photograph of Bill (unknown) at A&M College in front of a pillar of an unknown building.
  • Correspondence, "Dear Father" from "Son" C. Guy Robson. October 24, 1897 (3 pages)
  • The Battalion Stationary envelope addressed to Judge W. S. Robson in La Grange, Texas. May 28, 1898
  • Headquarters Corps of Cadets, College Station, TX. Commandant approved by the President, the Corps of Cadets appointments made belonging to any class during the class upon the opening of the next session. June 10, 1896 (3 pages)
  • Invitation letter from the Corps of Cadets of the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas to the "Thanksgiving Hop" complimentary to the Football Team on November 29, 1907, in College Station, TX
  • Correspondence dating "Gentleman" from "The Claim Prwarder" A. J. Moorhead. July 2, 1901 (1 page)
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