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.

Maitland, Joseph M. (1839-1918) to Bell Wharton

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC03523.10.173 Author/Creator: Maitland, Joseph M. (1839-1918) Place Written: Memphis, Tennessee Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 24 March 1865 Pagination: 4 p. : envelope ; 21.4 x 26.3 cm. Order a Copy

Joseph writes to Bell expressing his belief that she thinks it a task to write to him. Claims "...when surrounded with all kinds of the "Fair Sex" here, I remain true to one at home..." Reports he received a copy of the Urbana Union through the mail. Says the weather is clear and cool, but the streets are very dusty. Mentions there will be a "Ball" next week and asks her if "... there is any harm in dancing?"

Joseph Maitland enlisted on 8 August 1862 as a Private. He was mustered into "G" Co. OH 95th Infantry. He was mustered out 31 May 1865 at Memphis, Tennessee.

Maitland, Joseph M., 1839-1918
Wharton, Bell, b. 1843

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