Modern Manuscripts & Archives at the Newberry

Abstract Handmade pocket diary in which Enos S. Vail recorded his trip from his uncle John Randall’s home near Akron, New York, to Michigan, 23 September-14 October 1839.

Abstract An 1844 letter from James F. Trott, Galena, Illinois to his sister Miss C.S. Trott of Boston, Massachusetts. In his letter, Mr. Trott describes daily happenings in and around Galena, including lectures, local crime, conversations with various people in town, and the condition of the Mississippi River.

Abstract Manuscript letter written by Rienzi Hopkins, a lawyer, and former California senator, to Stueben Jenkins, a lawyer, historian, and former Pennsylvania state representative. Letter discusses some California highlights, including local elections, treasury notes, weather, visiting California, practicing law, and mining practices and regulations. He comments that the miners may begin to move towards Brigham Young's territory. Rienzi responds to Jenkins' request for "Indian relics" and will try to...

Abstract Black-and-white photographs mounted in album with handwritten captions documenting a series of automobile trips taken by an unidentified couple. Featured areas include Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Canada.

Abstract Twenty-five letters written by William M. Doughty, an agent for the Methodist Book Depository in Chicago. Fifteen of the letters were written to Doughty's brother-in-law, James P. Kilbreth of Cincinnati. As Doughty was acting as James Kilbreth's real estate agent, these letters contain information regarding various real estate transactions, deeds, lot prices, etc. in Chicago. The ten remaining letters were written to various individuals, including family members and business associates.