James Carmichael to Robert E. Lee, 1865-10-23

Item — Box: 7, Folder: 12

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

From the Collection:

This collection contains primary and secondary resources pertaining to Robert E. Lee and the Lee family. Included are correspondences from, to, and about Lee and various family members; memorabilia, pamphlets, photographs, reminiscences, miscellaneous personal papers, family history and genealogy. The collection includes materials acquired from the Lee family and items donated to and purchased and compiled by W&L University since Lee's tenure as president of Washington College from 1865 - 1870. Adminstrative papers, such as President's Reports, etc..., from Robert E. Lee's presidency of the school may be found within the W&L University Archives. Please contact W&L Special Collections for information regarding the University Archives.

Dates

Creation: 1865-10-23

Creator

From the Collection: Lee, Robert E. (Robert Edward), 1807-1870 (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

The collection is open for research use.

Extent

From the Collection: 24 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

James Carmichael was a former chaplain for the Confederate Army who later became the rector of the Episcopal St. James’ Parish near Louisville, Kentucky. The ladies of his new church wanted to hold a fair to raise money for “the benefit of our church in Virginia.” Carmichael was chosen to ask Lee to sign 250 photographs for sale at the fair. Carmichael writes “Should this request not meet your approval, you may rest assured that your refusal will not be construed into any lukewarmness in the welfare of the church, but only as a feature of that unassailed modesty, which [has gained you] the admiration of the world.”