C.B. Richardson to Robert E. Lee, 1865-11-10
Scope and Contents
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: 1865-11-10
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
Abstract
In 1865, shortly after the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia, Robert E. Lee was approached in Richmond by C.B. Richardson of the University Publishing Company of New York. No contract was signed, but the two came to an informal agreement whereby University Publishing Company would have publication privileges if Lee completed a manuscript. For the next five years the two kept up correspondence, with Lee often requesting materials that Richardson would then search out and furnish for him. In this letter C.B. Richardson writes “I was a little fearful after I had sent my letter, that you might possibly, prefer to delay the announcement for a time, but was anxious to give your volume the benefit of the wide circulation the vols I am now issuing will have.” Richardson also mentions that he is still trying to get Lee’s letters and reports that are in the hands of the government.
General
On the back in Lee's handwriting is written: C.B. Richardson sends vol. of Lees Memoirs
Repository Details
Part of the Washington and Lee University, University Library Special Collections and Archives Repository