This collection consists largely of constituent correspondence relating to Shenandoah Valley local politics, land transactions, and railroads. Included are letters from Congressman John Letcher and his assessments of the contemporary political scene, including congressional elections, Kansas migration, and railroads.

This is a letter written by Washington College student James O. Hensley to an unidentified friend. It is largely about his finances and text book expenses. He mentions the election of John Letcher to the office of Governor for the Commonwealth of Virginia, and expresses a favorable opinion of him. He also writes about an outbreak of smallpox in the area.

This collection includes a letter, December 12, 1845, to Virginia Congressman William Taylor concerning a federal appointment; a letter from Alexander H.H. Stuart, August 13, 1861; document, September 26, 1863, signed by Letcher exempting a slave from public works for the Confederate government; 3 letters to J. Hinholzer, November 3, 1864, December 3, 1864, and May 15, 1865; subscription list of a testimonial to Charles A. Davidson for service on behalf of the Conservative ticket.

This file consists of Elizabeth Paxton's obituary and many articles about the death of General Paxton. It also includes sympathy notes to Mrs. Paxton at the time of his death. There is notification of Paxton's death by d R. E. Lee.