Below are select examples of primary sources, presented with transcriptions, that were used in the writing of our project’s biographies and essays. In order to filter the documents, unclick the checkmark next to the types of documents (letters, pension records, medical records, newspaper articles, and other) that you do not want to see. Some documents may be listed under multiple categories (i.e. a letter printed in a newspaper). Document transcriptions can be searched for keywords by using the search bar in the site's header.
Partial Affidavit of Henry Kettell
Henry Kettell described his enlistment and subsequent service in an undated, incomplete affidavit.
James T. S. Taylor wrote to the editor of the Anglo-African describing life in the camp and questioning military policy not allowing black soldiers to be commissioned officers.
William and Marilda Jones gave testimony about running away from their master while still enslaved in hopes of obtaining some money stolen by the men who caught them.
James T. S. Taylor at Virginia's 1868 Constitutional Convention
December 18, 1867
James T. S. Taylor served in Virginia's 1868 Constitutional Convention and introduced this resolution in favor of African American suffrage and secret ballots.
An exasperated letter from Wilson M. Evans's attorney to the pension office, arguing that more than enough evidence had been submitted to decide Evans's case.
Jesse S. Cowles Raises Money for Grant Monument Association
August 5, 1885
In this letter, Jesse S. Cowles provides the Grant Monument Association with $15, which his congregation had raised to help build President Ulysses S. Grant's mausoleum.
In this letter, Jesse S. Cowles accepts an appointment on the Grant Monument Committee, which was tasked with constructing President Ulysses S. Grant's mausoleum.
Testimony of George W. Lewis on Behalf of James H. Garland
December 26, 1888
Fellow soldier George W. Lewis testified on behalf of James H. Garland as regards his wartime service and inability to work due to illness contracted during that time.
In this funeral notice, The York Daily paid tribute to Nancy Cowles, celebrating her "christian courtesy" and her "ceaseless work in the cause of Christ."
An article published in the Chillicothe Gazette described the return of Jeremiah Walker's remains home to his family after he died suddenly at a train station.
While applying for his pension, Alexander Caine had to complete this questionnaire revealing details about his life before the war, his service in the navy, and his occupation and residence after he left the service.
The special examiner for the Pension Bureau reported to the Commissioner of Pensions on whether William and Hannah Spears were married and whether her claim is valid.