Washington College Information Request from John H. Findley, 1865-11-5

Item — Box: 7, Folder: 15

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: 1865-11-5

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

Finley was a Confederate veteran, who lost his right arm at Vicksburg before being taken prisoner. He remained in prison until February of 1865. After his release, he rejoined the army as a courier, and finished his time after the surrender at Appomattox Court House. Finley was 20 years old and parentless. His grandmother offered to give him a good education. At the time of the letter he was still awaiting trial for treason. The letter is written with his left hand and is littered with spelling errors. He wanted to know what the cost of tuition and board would be for 12 months.