Our Collection

At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Ward, Edward K. (1837-1864) to his sister

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02232.03 Author/Creator: Ward, Edward K. (1837-1864) Place Written: Randolph, Tennessee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 20 June 1861 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 20 x 25 cm. Order a Copy

Written on Shelby Greys stationery. Writes that due to his health, he will not be able to visit Memphis until September. Will be leaving Randolph due to the lack of Yankees. Mentions that putting on a white shirt is a serious offense, as it signifies that you're in good health and you're therefore put on extra duty. Adds that he never takes off his socks until the bottoms are worn out.

Edward K. Ward was a commissioned officer in Company A of the 4th Tennessee Infantry.

Ward, Edward K., 1837-1864
Ward, S. Elmira, fl. 1861

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