A handwritten, eight-page letter from Susan Pringle Alston to her aunt, Rebecca Hayne, in which she describes Union troops and newly freed people raiding and robbing houses while her family was in Plantersville at the end of Civil War. She expresses concern for similar things occurring in Columbia and Darlington, South Carolina.
Letter from Stephen Elliott Barnwell, Valdosta, GA, to mother, Catherine Osborn Barnwell, detailing his escape from the Union troops who captured Jefferson Davis, in whose entourage he was traveling. Barnwell describes pretending to take a bucket to fetch water for his horse before fleeing into a swamp and leaving his horse and possessions behind. Before fleeing, Barnwell "took the liberty of bidding the Pres goodbye -- and expressing as briefly as I could my admiration for the firmness and pertinacity with which he stuck to the good cause -- with which he seemed well pleased." June 11, 1865.
Letter from William McBurney to Thomas B. Ferguson repeating the contractual terms for the hired hands McBurney is sending to Dean Hall Plantation. 4p. December 13, 1865.
List of property identified by Thomas Ferguson from two homes on East Bay and Broad Street in Charleston, SC. The note gives Ferguson the right to reclaim the named items. 2p. July 13, 1865.
A handwritten, four-page letter from Joseph Alston to his father, Charles Alston, in which he describes his efforts to manage the newly freed people at their plantations and rent out the Alstons' store following the Civil War.
A handwritten, eight-page letter from Harriott Ravenel to Susan Alston in which she discusses the difficulties of life after the Civil War. In particular, she writes about the difficulty of keeping newly freed people working for their family and the status of various relatives.
Letter from Robert Lynch to Bishop Patrick Lynch concerning employment Robert has found with a tanner in Rennes, France. Robert has heard of the fall of Columbia in the war and fears his parents are "in the hands of the yankees." March 14, 1865. 3p.
Letter from Anna Lynch in Cheraw to Madame Antonia Lynch in Baltimore with news from the family. She writes of the losses suffered by their brother, Francis, the relocation of the Ursulines and their sister, Madame Baptiste, to the Methodist College in Columbia and the return of their nephew Conlaw to Cheraw as a "paroled prisoner." June 15, 1865. 2p.
Receipt of note for $400 from Thomas B. Ferguson to his lawyer, Theodore Barker, to be held as security in a claim for back wages brought by his former overseer, William Dowdey. 1p. August 16, 1865.
A handwritten, eight-page letter from Sallie Lowndes to Susan Alston in which she laments the financial status of their families following the Civil War and worries for their futures.
Diary of Magdalen Elizabeth Wilkinson Keith for the years 1865-1868. Concerns mostly life at home, and activities of family and friends. Mention of Charleston railroad stretching downtown.
Madame Baptiste writes to Bishop Patrick Lynch in Rome about the ongoing recovery effort after the war and the destruction of the Ursuline Convent. She is soliciting funds to rebuild and has written Washington with their case demanding reparations. The Ursulines have accepted the offer of General Preston to reside in his house while he is abroad and are using the Methodist College for additional space. July 17, 1865. 4p.
Robert Lynch writes to his uncle, Bishop Patrick Lynch, of his success in learning the tanning trade during his employment in Rennes, France. He hopes to return to America when the Bishop does "for seven years have now passed since I saw [my parents]." April 17, 1865. 4p.
Letter from Robert Lynch in Angers, France, to Bishop Patrick Lynch in Rome informing him that he has arranged passage on a steamer to New York. July 18, 1865. 3p.
Written request to T.B. Ferguson from John J. Darcy for payment to James Soughen, with confirmation from Soughen of payment received. 2p. September 18, 1865.
Letter to James Heyward from J.H. Trapier concerning ideas about crops and livestock for their various properties. Trapier suggests giving the newly freed laborers a stake in the crops grown, noting that he got the idea from a book on "European Agriculture" and that the practice had worked well in Germany. He mentions the difference in labor required for field crops versus the "special cultivation" skills needed for rice propagation. Finally, he asks James for a copy of a blank "Petition for pardon" claiming the hand crafted one he had sent earlier might be rejected because of his refusal "to surrender my ideas in reference to State Sovereignty." 4p. August 18, 1865.
Madame Antonia writes to Bishop Patrick Lynch in Rome asking him to contact the general superior of the Order of the Carmelites concerning matters at her convent in Baltimore. February 21, 1865. 2p.
Letter from Robert Lynch to Bishop Patrick Lynch asking his advice concerning an offer of employment in Le Havre, France. Robert hopes to learn the tanning trade in Europe so that he can find gainful employment when he returns to America when the war ends. February 2, 1865. 2p.
Madame Antonia writes to Bishop Patrick Lynch in Rome imploring him again to speak to the general superior of her order concerning issues at the Carmelite Convent in Baltimore. She mentions the evacuation of Richmond, General Sherman's stay in their hometown of Cheraw and the Ursulines' move from their burned out convent in Columbia to the Bishop's plantation two miles away. April 9, 1865. 8p.
Letter from Madame Antonia in Baltimore to Bishop Patrick Lynch in Rome describing the events surrounding the destruction of the Ursuline Convent in Columbia by Sherman's troops. She also mentions the recent assassination of President Lincoln and writes "what the consequences may be no one can imagine." April 20, 1865. 4p.
Madame Baptiste writes to Bishop Patrick Lynch in Rome from Valle Crucis, the Bishop's property outside of Columbia, having moved the convent and academy from temporary housing at Methodist college and Gen. Preston's mansion. Since Valle Crucis is too remote for day schoolers and too small for large numbers of boarders, she writes of setting up a satellite institute in Macon, Ga., until their convent can be rebuilt in Columbia. She mentions the pardon granted the Bishop and hopes that he will soon return to America. September 25, 1865. 2p.
Madame Baptiste writes to Reverend J. W. Cummings describing the current status of the Ursulines in Columbia and encloses a letter for her brother, Bishop Patrick Lynch, who is expected soon in New York. October 28, 1865. 3p.
Letter from Madame Baptiste to Bishop Patrick Lynch eagerly wishing his return to America. One of two similar letters sent from Madame Baptiste on this date. October 28, 1865. 3p.
Letter from Madame Baptiste to Bishop Patrick Lynch eagerly wishing his return to America. One of two similar letters sent from Madame Baptiste on this date. October 28, 1865. 3p.
Robert Lynch in Rennes, France, writes to Bishop Patrick Lynch in Rome about his continued education in the tanning business and his hope that the end of the war in America will finally allow him to return home. June 4, 1865. 4p.
Madame Antonia writes to Bishop Patrick Lynch in Rome about an offer the Bishop has had to return to America. She fears that he will "endanger his life" if he returns and prefers that he wait "until after the season of Tedious Times is past." June 23, 1865. 1p.
Two plats of lands along the Savannah River belonging to Stobo and Bullock. Names associated with this plat are Archibald Stobo, James Stobo, James Bullock, W. Hugh Bryan, Clawton [?], Cranford, J. Southerland, and Patrick Mikas. Notable geographic locations include the Savannah River, St. Peter's Parish and Purrysburgh Township.
Receipt for impressment for six enslaved persons owned by Robert F.W. Allston sent to perform labor for the Confederacy's military. The enslaved persons are listed as "Ravelny," Albert, June, Sandy, Janus and Jonas. The document also notes the valuation for each enslaved person and their term of service.
Receipt for impressment for two enslaved persons owned by Robert F.W. Allston sent to perform labor for the Confederacy's military. The enslaved persons are listed as Toby and Quash. The document also notes the valuation for each enslaved person and their term of service.
This book contains records of yearly and weekly renters, comprehensive inventories of movable items and cattle, as well as increases in the stock of horses and mules. The Day Book section records the daily recordings of some activities on the plantation. This book was used as somewhat of a multi purpose book as it also gives an account of the standings of accounts and transactions with some listed companies such as G.W. McClean & Co., Michael Greaves as well as Nightengale & Co. It then goes on to detail deliveries of rum, sugar and molasses produced on the plantation and sold to customers.
A letter from a committee from Shearith Israel (here spelled "Sherath") congregation asking the KKBE Board of Trustees to use their synagogue for the "approaching holidays."
Meeting minutes not included in the minutes book discussing the amalgamation of Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim and Shearith Israel, and finances related to synagogue repairs.
Document noting a pledge of allegiance to the United States government under the Union of the States signed by Emily Minis following the end of the Civil War.
1865 Petition of Thomas B. Ferguson to General John Hatch, commander of the Northern District, Department of the South, for the return of a large quantity of rice which was confiscated from his father, James. Of an approximate 7000 bushels of rice, Ferguson has been able to locate only 1185 bushels which were transported by the sloop "Julia" to Bennett's rice mill in Charleston. Ferguson's petition makes the plea that the rice "is the only means his father has for supporting and subsisting a large family. 3p.
1865 Petition of Thomas B. Ferguson to General John Hatch, commander of the Northern District, Department of the South, for the return of goods confiscated at the plantations of his father, James. 3p.
A handwritten, three-page letter from Rosa M. Pringle to Susan Alston in which she updates her on the travel of her family and other acquaintances to and from South Carolina.
A handwritten, four-page letter from Margaretta Hayne to Susan Alston in which she discusses her family's situation following the Civil War, including the effects of Union forces plundering their house, the misfortune of having their money tied up in Confederate bonds, and their perspective on emancipation.
General orders letter signed by General Joseph E. Johnston regarding the Military Convention between General William Sherman and General Johnston which resulted in Johnston's surrender.
Confederate Medical Examiner's note regarding an examination of Edgar M. Lazarus. The note states Lazarus suffers from myopia. The surgeon recommends Lazarus be on "permanent detail" and states he is unfit for field duty. The note is signed by Dr. Robert Lebby.
Confederate Medical Examiner's note regarding an examination of Edgar M. Lazarus. The note states Lazarus suffers from myopia. The surgeon recommends Lazarus be on "permanent detail" and states he is unfit for field duty. The note is signed by Dr. Robert Lebby.
Note to the Army Medical Examining Board from two surgeons regarding an examination of Edgar M. Lazarus and suggesting him "unfit for field service" due to his myopia, also referred to as nearsightedness.
A letter to Woodward Manning from the headquarters of the provost marshal's office discussing complaints made against Woodward Manning and his treatment of his "servants."
Offer from Williams Middleton to rent his Charleston house to James B. Heyward. Middleton writes that "although still in the hands of the Yankee officials I am in daily expectation of having it restored to me." 1p. October 28, 1865.
Letter from Gabriel Edward Manigault to James B. Heyward describing the enormous changes that have occurred in Charleston "since the new regime" took over. He laments the loss of his servants and writes that, given the economic stagnation of the times, "I see nothing but starvation staring the negroes in the face." 4p. May 22, 1865.
Record of transactions at Bennett's Mill, Charleston, concerning the sale of 1185 bushels of rice. The miller's receipt was apparently used in support of Thomas Ferguson's petition to be remunerated for the seizure of his father's rice. 5p. May 30, 1865.
Letter from William Whaley to William McBurney instructing him that "the negroes planting at Dean Hall" should repair a broken floodgate and permitting the manager (Thomas Ferguson) to use his former slaves, "such of mine as are [still] on the plantation," to assist. 2p. October 25, 1865.
Copy of memorandum of agreement between Ellen, Catherine, Marianne and Elizabeth Porcher, Catherine White, Elizabeth Lucas, their agent Charles Lucas, and former enslaved persons, now freedmen and women. The agreement outlines Charles Lucas's and the freed persons duties at White Hall Plantation. The signatures of the freed persons are an "x."
Memorandum of agreement between Ellen, Catherine, Marianne and Elizabeth Porcher, Catherine White, Elizabeth Lucas, their agent Charles Lucas, and former enslaved persons, now freedmen and women. The agreement outlines Charles Lucas's and the freed persons duties at White Hall Plantation. The signatures of the freed persons are an "x."
Memorandum of agreement between Catherine Porcher, her agent Charles Lucas, and former enslaved persons, now freedmen and women. The agreement outlines Charles Lucas's and the freed persons duties. The signatures of the freed persons are an "x."
A list of enslaved persons and cattle currently on the farm when John Short took over leadership. The reverse side of the document contains the remaining list of stock and states the terms of agreement for John Short's employment.
Third certified statement from the former overseer concerning rice taken from James Ferguson's Dockon Plantation. The note was apparently used in defense of Thomas Ferguson's petition to reclaim or be remunerated for the confiscated rice. 1p. June 26, 1865.
Certified statement from a miller at Bennett's Mill concerning the purchase of rice taken from James Ferguson's Dockon Plantation. The note was apparently used in defense of Thomas Ferguson's petition to reclaim or be remunerated for the confiscated rice. 2p. June 26, 1865.
Certified statement from the former overseer concerning rice taken from James Ferguson's Dockon Plantation. The note was apparently used in defense of Thomas Ferguson's petition to reclaim or be remunerated for the confiscated rice. 2p. June 20, 1865.
Second certified statement from the former overseer concerning rice taken from James Ferguson's Dockon Plantation. The note was apparently used in defense of Thomas Ferguson's petition to reclaim or be remunerated for the confiscated rice. 2p. June 23, 1865.
Letter from William McBurney to Thomas B. Ferguson acknowledging that he is granted authority to act in the stead of McBurney and William Whaley on all matters pertaining to Dean Hall Plantation and mentions a controversy over logging that was occurring there. He also mentions that Whaley has had his Edisto property restored to him and wants all his "people to be ready to move." 2p. October 21, 1865.
Letter from William McBurney affirming Thomas B. Ferguson's authority to manage Dean Hall Plantation. He encourages Ferguson to show patience "in dealing with the negroes" and fears that any other treatment "may cause the buildings to be laid in ashes, as was the case in my late brothers place." He informs Ferguson that "Mr. Whaleys negroes have the right to remain on the place until January if he does not remove them before, or they do not remove of their own accord." 2p. October 23, 1865.
Written agreement between Dr. S. H. Sanders and James B. Heyward for Sanders to hire Heyward's "prime negro labourers" for "thirty bushels of corn per head." The agreement further stipulates that it will be voided if Sanders "should be disturbed by the enemy." 2p. April 29, 1865.
Memorandum of agreement between Charles B. Lucas and former enslaved persons, now freedmen and women. The agreement outlines Charles Lucas's and the freed persons duties on Wappahoola Plantation. The signatures of the freed persons are an "x", and the last page includes a note about the foreman and the freed persons receiving bushels of rice and corn.
Copy of memorandum of agreement between Charles B. Lucas and former enslaved persons, now freedmen and women. The agreement outlines Charles Lucas's and the freed persons duties on Wappahoola Plantation. The signatures of the freed persons are an "x."
Certified list from Thomas Ferguson of articles belonging to James Ferguson at two Charleston, SC, residences. The list is signed by the Provost Marshall, Levi Stuber, head of the U.S. military police controlling Charleston. 1p. August 3, 1865.
Letter from Freedmen's Bureau agent F.M. Montell to Lt. James Hann concerning the former slaves still residing at Dean Hall Plantation. Montell writes that Thomas Ferguson wants the freedmen removed "as they have no rights to reside on the plantation after the division of their crops" and that he doesn't want "to have the bad example of idle men" influencing his future hires. Montell also writes of several cases of small pox on the plantation and asks the lieutenant for military help to resolve the situation and provide the "care and attention which the Freedmens Bureau have not the means of affording them." 2p. November 21, 1865.
Letter from William McBurney to Thomas B. Ferguson informing him that he is sending "8 Irishmen" to Dean Hall Plantation "with six spades and three long handled shovels." 4p. November 19, 1865.
Update from F.M. Montell of the Freedmen's Bureau to Capt. Hodges concerning the removal of former slaves still residing at Dean Hall Plantation. 2p. December 19, 1865.
Memorandum between Thomas B. Ferguson, William McBurney, John J. Darcy, Michael Darcy, and John O'Mara to repair the engine and boiler of the rice mill at Dean Hall Plantation. 5p. August 23, 1865.
Printed circular from the War Department, Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned lands, concerning the confiscation of property in the "insurrectionary States" with detailed instructions on how said lands can be restored to the previous owner. 3p. September 28, 1865.
1865 Letter, exact date unknown, from R. Felker to Mr. Heyward giving him a list of cotton weights and an update on the search for Mr. Heyward's lost hogs. 2p.
A letter to Woodward Manning from Samuel E. Hunt ordering him to "divide your crops with the freedmen and women on your plantation according to the conditions of the "Freedmen's Contract."
A handwritten, four-page letter from Catherine Ravenel to Susan Alston in which she discusses life in Columbia, South Carolina, after the Civil War and shares various pieces of news from families such as the Middletons, Winthrops, Lowndes, and Rutledges.
Stephen Elliott Barnwell, James Island, writes to brother, Joseph Walker Barnwell, informing him that he can obtain forage at the arsenal in Columbia. February 8, 1865.
Letter from Stephen Elliott Barnwell, James Island, to brother, Edward Barnwell, referring to talk of the fall of the Confederacy and the morale of the troops. Barnwell reports on the intelligence of 4 deserters who arrived in their camp who claim the Union is confident that the Confederacy is "on its last legs." February 4, 1865.
A contract between Adele Allston and six freedmen and women named George, Billy, William, Susanna, Sally and Murphy. The contract states that these men and women agree to work on Adele Allston's plantation and to devote their labor to cultivation. The contract also states that these men and women are not allowed to carry any types of pistols, leave the plantation without permission from their employer and are to be treated "in a manner consistent with their freedom." The bottom of the contract displays the names and marks of the freedmen and women.
A list of enslaved men given blankets who are identified as needing them the most. The reverse side of the document refers to clothes, jackets and pants made in the house.
Letter from Eliza Fludd to Catherine Osborn Barnwell describing the conditions in Charleston and her belief that God is punishing the Confederacy for its sins. January 4, 1865.
![244. Receipt from T.B. Ferguson to [first name?] Gaillard -- July 8, 1865](https://iiif.library.cofc.edu/iiif/2/25167/full/200,/0/default.jpg)
![232. Receipt of payment by Thomas B. Ferguson to E. F. Benedikt [Benedict?] -- 1865](https://iiif.library.cofc.edu/iiif/2/26567/full/200,/0/default.jpg)
