Laval instructs Drayton to send duplicate drafts requesting the disbursement of the appropriation for Soldiers' Families. The initial drafts were signed by Drayton. The duplicates are instead to be signed by the Parish Chairman. Copy.
Frean cannot communicate with Major J.A. Leland regarding what Drayton is owed; he relates his good wishes regarding Drayton's forthcoming marriage to Louisa Elford.
Slaves at Drayton Hall and slaves working in town ("Town List"). Slaves are listed along with clothing allocation (in yards). Divided into "Men, Women & Children" categories. Plantation slaves also divided by field and "House servants".
Frean offers his condolences concerning the death of Charles Drayton, James' father; discusses his work as a surveyor and James' prospects for employment
Drayton's attorneys reveal a new lease for Drayton Hall has been agreed with a mining company from the North. They hope to remove the current lessee, F.H. Trenholm, as soon as possible. Fees are due for ejecting Moulton Emery and John Prentice (the first lesses).
Military charge against Victor "Neely" from the Palmetto Battalion of Light Artillery for obtaining leave from the military for one day, but not returning until a few days later.
Note from Stohenthal accompanying an enclosure of $12.500 (in Confederate Depository Certificate), for Drayton's 108 cotton bales. Enclosure not found.
Handwritten poem by James Drayton about a conversation held in a prison between a father and his daughter during the reign of the English King Richard III
Kanapaux certifies that Isaac Norwood's wife, Mary and her two sons are "entitled to bounty of the Soldiers Relief Association". Calculations for relief on back.
Correspondence from Charles Drayton III., to Mr. Carlisle describing "an slight altercation" between Charles Drayton I., and Banastre Tarleton during the Revolutionary War
Writing to Drayton in Texas, Wienges discusses a storm in Charleston, General Daniel Edgar Sickles, the display of the national flag, and the will of "Uncle Jacob"
This document is a tax return for J.H.M. and John Drayton in St. Andrews Parish. Makes notation of "Negros List" naming the enslaved men, women, and children by first name as well as their age. The names of the male slaves are listed as Frank, Dick, "Lummere," Moses, K Joe, Joe, Caesar, Harry, Hector, Charles, Solomon, Senor, Pompy and Skye. The names of the female slaves are listed as Nancy, Cloei, Jeney, Nany, Amelea, Linda, Deana, Judy, Peggy, Perida, "Christan," "Baby," Harriet, Tena, "B. Mulery," "Mury" and Celia.
A conveyance of property to James Drayton from his brothers Thomas and John Drayton following the death of their mother Mary. Included in the conveyance are the following "negroes": Beck and her infant, Dick, Tyrah, Kate, Isaac, Charlie, Isaac the house servant, Tom, Phoeby, Joe, Nelly and her infant, Dianna, William, Lizzy, Miley, Mary, Jerry, Hannah, Bess, and Moses.
A document discussing the discharge of a patient named "Marton Starling." Makes notation regarding two slaves, referenced as "negroes" named Elick and Humphrey.
John writes to James in Charleston about his desire to come to town to raise money but his unwillingness to take the required Federal oath of allegiance. He inquires if James or someone else who has taken the oath may conduct business on his behalf so that he can avoid the oath. Drayton requests information about the "guards on the [Charleston] wharves and river" and notes his intention of leaving the country. He believes it is best for the "[Federal administration] to pile on the agony". Also mentions witnessing Union troops chasing Governor Magrath to Columbia.
A lengthy and searching "sketch of my life", by James Drayton. Written in the form a of confessional, Drayton reflects on his childhood, education, the death of his first wife (Louisa Elford), the purpose of his existence and his strong feelings for the recipient.
