William H. Brooks Family Papers (Ms.Brooks)

The William H. Brooks Family Papers date from the period 1861-1865, and include 41 autographed letters, 33 envelopes (15 with patriotic graphics), 1 express company receipt, and 1 pocket copy of the New Testament. Of the 41 letters, 30 deal almost exclusively with personal and familial affairs, and are chiefly from William H. Brooks, Jesse S. Comac and other soldiers to members of the Brooks family. The rest devote a substantial part of their contents to events and places that have historical significance with regard to the Civil War. Some letters describe the camp routines of Union forces. The correspondence also depicts scenes of the campaigns and battles leading up to the Battle of the Wilderness in Virginia.

The highlight of this collection is the set of envelopes with patriotic emblems and designs, some of which are in very good condition with original colors preserved.