Project Ayer
The Ayer and James Families and the Civil War

Pre Civil War

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Letter

From: Lucretia L. Page Bradley
Where: Haverhill, MA
To: Children of James and Sarah Ayer

Letter of condolences to the children of James and Sarah Ayer on the death of her sister-in-law Sarah Bradley Ayer and their brother Low Bradley Ayer who died a few month before.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: Sister

Ira just arrived at school again. I think the year is 1853.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: Vinnie

Ira talks about being elected to a position in a society he belongs to.  It seems to be a forensic society where members debate topics and recite speeches.  Ira asks Vinnie for the best speech she can find from Buffalo.  Ira talks of his studies and asks about friends and relatives.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: My most darling loveliness (Vinnie)

Ira writes to Vinnie thanking her for sending written material that he used in a presentation before the school.  He then says he will come home soon and would like in introduce Vinnie to a friend.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: Vinnie

Ira talks about his deceased brother Lowe.  At the end he talks of going home to visit the family.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: Vinnie

Ira tells Vinnie about his trip from home back to school.  He also asks her advise on his writing to a girl he fancies named Nancy.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: Vinnie

Ira is angry Vinnie has not written in a long time.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: Vinnie

Ira writes the second letter of the day to Lavinia.  His first letter asked her why she hadn’t written and her letter was angry about him not responding to a letter she wrote that he never received.  Ira talks at length of how he has just found God.  He also tells Lavinia of news he has from home.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: Vinnie

Ira talks of his trip from home to school.  His stage was able to make better than seven miles an hour from Erie to Meadville.  Ira also talks of his studies.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: Vinnie

Ira continues to try to get Vinnie to share his views on religion.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: Vinnie

Ira opens with Spanish or Latin I think and tell how he is doing and about graduation ceremonies that he attended.  He did well in school and his roommate will visit during summer vacation.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Lima
To: Vinnie

Ira is just settled in at a new school.  He is very happy and says it is much better than Alleghany (however, he ends up back at Alleghany in a year and very happy there).

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Lima
To: Brother George

Ira congratulates George on the birth of his baby Iris and asks George if he can pay back the money that he lent Vinnie.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: Sister and Brother (Vinnie and George)

Ira is happy to be back at Allegheny.  He is very impressed with the new headmaster (Loomis).

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: Brother and Sister

Ira says all is well, does his lecture on religion, and begs Vinnie to write more.

Civil War 1861

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Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: Brother (George)

Ira thanks his brother-in-law George for offering him a commission saying that he had formed a company of his own.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Meadville
To: S. P. Bates

Ira asks Samuel Bates to get the Governor to personally assure that his Allegheny Company will be accepted.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp Wright
To: Mother

Ira writes to his mother knowing that she does not have long to live.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where:
To: Mother

Ira writes a poem saying good bye to his mother.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp Wright
To: Vinnie

Ira writing his sister that he is comfortable and enjoying Camp Wright.  He observed a comet (Tebbutt) for a couple of nights.  Ira also talks about their dying mother.  He included the poem in AyerIraII036 with the letter.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp Wright
To: Brother

A short letter to George saying that Ira may have to move out soon for MD.  He said he included a newspaper clipping on his regiment.  He is enjoying camp life better than he expected.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Washington, DC
To: Brother

Ira writes about hoping to see George in camp (he has not enlisted yet).  It is very hot in camp and they are waiting for orders to move.  He really enjoyed Baltimore.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Big Falls
To: Vinnie

Ira writes about protecting the Washington area from invasion and talks of demoralized troops from the first Bull Run.  He has not heard from his family for a while and wants to know the fate of his mother.  She had died six days before the writing of this letter.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp Tenally
To: Sister Sadie

Getting used to camp life, remembering his mother and giving Sarah encouragement. Ira thinks he is about to move out but will still be there for a while..

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp Tenally
To: Brother George

Apparently George has just enlisted as an officer.  Ira asks if George will bring Vinnie to Washington.  Ira’s dad and two younger sisters went to Allegheny to pick up Ira’s things.  They got to see the school and meet some of his friends.  He is still enjoying camp life.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp Pierpont, VA
To: Vinnie

Ira speaks eloquently about the weather and the war.

Civil War 1862

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Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp Pierpont
To: Brother George

Ira writes to George telling him of life in camp and about the family back home.  Ira, Sr. bought a piano for the young girls.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp Pierpont
To: Vinnie

Ira tells Vinnie how blessed he is and remembers the death of their mother.  Ira is sitting on a General Court Martial.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp at ?? Station
To: Vinnie

Ira congratulates Vinnie on the birth of her son.  Then he talks of where he is and of Uncle Joseph and hopes for an early peace.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp at Union Landing
To: Vinnie

Ira had just marched 7 miles in the pouring rain from Fredericksburg and was about to break camp again.  He heard from Uncle Joseph and asked how Vinnie’s family were doing.

Letter

From: William James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Wm B. Pier Esqr

Copy of a letter about the death of Mr. Pier's son Edwin.  This is the letter that led Ira Ayer, Jr. to meet Jennie by visiting the James to thank them for taking such good care of Edwin .

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: 403 13th St, Washington, DC
To: Mrs. Lincoln

Jane writes a letter thanking the President for helping her husband get a job at the Treasury Department, offering her condolences for the death of Willie Lincoln, talks of her son who was drowned, her husband’s poem written for Willie Lincoln, her work with the dying in a military hospital, and asks for help finding a job in the Agriculture Department.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Washington, DC
To: Vinnie

He just traveled from Fortress Monroe to Fredericksburg and on to Washington.  He is on leave and spending time with his Uncle J (James).  He asks about their other sister's education.  Also, he had sent $200 dollars home and has not heard if it arrived.

Letter

From: ?? White
Where: Lower Salem, Washington Co., OH
To: Capt. Ayer

The father of Samuel White tells Ira that his son was not able to make it home alive.  He talks of his son’s love for Ira.

Letter

From: Dr. John Crouyn, MD
Where: Buffalo
To: To whom it may concern

Ira has a note from his doctor saying his arm needs at least 20 more days to heal

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Sr
Where: Head Quarters 116th Reg Camp Chapin
To: Secretary of the Erie County Savings Bank

Ira gives his daughter Lavinia authorization to withdraw money from his savings account.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Baltimore
To: Vinnie

Ira has stopped on Baltimore on his way back to his Regiment after spending four months recovering from his wound in the arm.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp of 10th Regt PRC
To: Vinnie

Ira returns to his regiment four months after receiving a wound in his arm.  He is surprised to find that a couple weeks earlier he had been elected major by the other officers (records show this happened two months earlier).  Ira discusses the politics of the election, how badly his regiment had been devastated in the last battle (probably Antietam) and other matters.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp of 10 Regt PRC
To: Vinnie

Ira speaks eloquently about the reasons for fighting and about “the Flag”.  He discusses a few other topics including the condition of his arm.

Civil War 1863

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Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Head Quarters 10th Regt PRC
To: Sister

Ira writes about being put in charge of the Regt while the colonel is on leave.  He also writes of returning from home a few weeks ago and Washington. (the letter says 1862, but it is 1863)

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp of 10th Regt PRC Miners Hill, VA
To: Vinnie

Ira talks of meeting George, his father’s thoughts of resignation, and his grandmother’s illness.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Head Quarters 10th Regt PRC
To: Vinnie

Ira says he is about to break camp and cross the Rappahannock.  He is in charge of the Regt and they will be held in reserve.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Head Quarters 10th Regt PRC
To: Vinnie

This letter is hard to read, but seem just to reprimand Vinnie for not writing.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Head Qurs 10th Regt PRC
To: Vinnie

Ira thanks Vinnie for a very nice, long letter, asks about some sickness that the kids (especially the boy) have had.  Ira asks if he had been too severe with the family when home last (recovering from a wound).  He also worries friends felt snubbed because he didn’t meet with them.  He talks a little of aunt Sarah and begs Vinnie to hire a girl to help around the house.  Ira offers to pay.  He also talks of sending money to the younger sisters and will send extra to cover the cost of going to their grandmother’s funeral. Ira talks of Amanda's poetry, Emma (not sure who she is because it's too early for Emma James, and being stationed in DC to regroup.  He also talks of his promotion to command the regiment.  He talks of meeting the doctor.
Letter is spread over AyerIraII019, 20 and 22

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Head Quarters 10th Regt PRC at Miner’s Hill, Va
To: Vinnie

Ira talks of how nice is tent is.  It is only a few miles from Camp Pierpont where his company had trained only a year before, a year and four campaigns.  He talks of how different things are now..

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp of 10th Regt PRC
To: Sisters

Ira talks to his younger sisters of their father’s resignation and how Ira will meet him in Washington.  Ira talks of their health and how they don’t write enough.  Ira says he may not be able to send money for a while.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp of 10th Regt PRC Miners Hill, VA
To: Brother George

George is taking a leave of absence to take care of his family.  Ira is still waiting for his father to come through DC.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp of 10th Regt PRC, Miners Hill, VA
To: George

Ira talks of little George’s illness, his meeting with his father and a mass meeting in the chambers of the House and Senate.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp of 10th Regt PRC, Miners Hill, VA
To: Sister Sady (Sarah)

Ira says he is happy that Sarah sent a nice letter to Cousin Sarah.  He refers to Sarah’s course of study and tries to address some issues concerning Sarah without mentioning the issues.  He is glad she is seeing Simon Tifft, her future husband.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Capital Hill Barracks
To: Brother George

Ira’s Regiment is stationed in Washington.  Their duties are to escort prisoners from the docks to a place for them to be held.  It is an easy duty.  Ira talks of family, a doctor, and a joke and says Cousin Gorham will visit.  Ira is studying Math in his spare time.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Capital Hill Barracks
To: Sister Sady (Sarah)

Ira counsels Sarah on opening up to accept her intuition to allow Simon Tifft to date her.
Letter is spread over AyerIraII079 and 78.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Capital Hill Barracks
To: Julia

Ira apologizes in his way for not writing, talks of Julia’s desire to leave school and his discussions with a friend doctor who has a daughter of an age appropriate for marriage.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Camp of 10th Regt PRC Near Uptons Hill VA
To: Vinnie

Ira asks to keep the their father and sisters from hearing about “a certain young lady in Washington” (Jennie James) but does not say why.  He also talks of his visit with cousin Gorham and letters he has received.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: In Camp near Berlin (now Brunswick), MD
To: Mrs. James

Ira either thanks Jane for introducing him to her daughter or thanks her for approving their intension of getting married.

Letter

From: Juo. F. McLaren
Where: Washington, DC
To: Major

McLaren is in Washington and had some very good visits with the James family.  He was not able to get a satisfactory appointment to a hospital.  He needs Ira to tell him where he is so he can return to the regiment.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: In Camp at Rappahannock Station VA
To: George

Ira tells his brother-in-law about his camp and the hopes for finishing the campaign soon.  They are riding high after the great victory at Gettysburg.  Ira was sickened by the ceremony to present General Meade with a ceremonial sword.  He was denied a leave to visit his sister and brother-in-law.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Rappahannock Station, VA
To: Sadie (Sarah Ayer)

Ira tells Sadie about Jennie and talks about Sarah’s marriage.  He also hopes that Julia will soon get married.

Letter

From: Jane F James
Where: 403 13th Street, Washington, DC
To: Major Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jane thanks Ira for his letter, discussed how people are doing and invites Ira to visit Washington.

Letter

From: William James
Where: 403 13th St, Washington, DC
To: Major Ira Ayer

This letter is 3 1/2 pages of a sermon followed by a note.  William said that he talked to the War Department.  They said that when Ira is ready to come to Washington to get married, he should make fill out a request for a leave and have General Meade sign it and send it to William.  William would deliver it to the Secretary of War and make sure that everything is taken care of.  Then he said that Jennie and her mother and fine and he is sick.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Warrenton Junction, Va
To: Major Robert A McCoy

Ira requests a three day pass to go to Alexandria to transact important private business (get married).

Special Order

From: E. D. Townsend, Assistant Adjunct General, War Department

Ira his three day pass to get married gets extended to 18 days.

Announcement

Wedding announcement for Ira and Jennie

Ira and Jennie are married!

Letter

From: William James
Where: 403 13th St, Washington, DC
To: Major & Jennie Ayer

William writes to Ira and Jennie on their honeymoon.

Letter

From: John. F. McLaren
Where: Manassas Junction, VA
To: Major Ira Ayer, Jr

Sergeant Major McLaren is reporting the status of the regiment to Ira while Ira is on his honeymoon.  He also says that he had tried to visit with Ira.

Letter

From: William James
Where: 403 13th St, Washington, DC
To: Major & Jennie Ayer

William tells Ira and Jennie while on their honeymoon to say that Jane is very sick and is afraid of dying.  Jane wants them to come home right away.

Civil War 1864-5

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Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Love letter, no news

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Love letter, not much news

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Love letter.  Mother is improving and Jennie is hoping for a boy.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Love letter.  Jennie is beginning to see signs of her pregnancy.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Love letter

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Love letter and talks about Ira’s dad and hopes for children.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie asks Ira not to continue in the army after the war.  She talks of raising little Ira (it turns out to be Jane) in Evergreen Cottage after big Ira can rest after years of toil.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

A short letter to accompany a package of food and other items for Ira.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Sam suggests that it would be a good time for Jennie to visit Ira since he is comfortably situated.  She will bring her guitar.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie heard that no passes were to be given to wives.  Jennie bought more music. 

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Head Qu 10th Regt PRC, Manassas Junction, VA
To: Vinnie

This is the 1st letter to Vinnie since getting back from NY after visiting after the marriage.  Ira talks of Guerilla fighting, someone named Amanda and Jennie.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie remembers last summer when they were falling in love and says she hopes she will not be able to ware the same dresses (she is pregnant).  She kept a diary when they were in NY for their honeymoon.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie does not want to raise the family in Washington or any city.  She wants to live in the country, I think Evans.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Went for a walk with Bessie and Mrs. Pierpont lives nearby. 

Oath of Office

Who: Ira Ayer, Jr, Lieut. Colonel

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie suggests sending seeds to Ira Sr. from the Agricultural Dept suggesting that Jane got a job there.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie received money and valuable papers from Ira.  The papers may have to do with his promotion.  She said their children will prize them highly.  She hopes he will stay at Manassas and she will send a photo of herself in the next letter.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie talks of missing Ira, saving money, and the she is not showing with the baby yet.

Letter

From: Jane James
Where: 403 13th St, Washington, DC
To: Dearest Children (Ira and Jennie)

This is the first part of a letter.  I haven't found the end yet.  Jane sent a trunk of cloths and kegs of Oysters.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: 403 13th St, Washington, DC
To: Children

Jane writes to Jennie and Ira in camp.  William has had pneumonia.  She talks of Hannah, Emma, Samuel, Clements, John, and Bessie.  She asks of Ira’s father.  She asks if they need anything and asks them to write to Jennie’s siblings.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Manassas Junction, VA
To: Parents, sisters & brothers

While in camp with Ira, they are awoken two nights in a row with orders, the second time the regiment left in the morning to protect the railroad.  No confederate troops were seen.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Children

Jane writes to Jennie and Ira in camp.  She worries about them and wants Jennie to write to Jennie’s siblings and friends.  Jane also tells them of all the people who wish them well.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: 403 13th St, Washington, DC
To: Children

The family tried to get passes to visit Ira and Jennie in Manassas but were denied.  William is trying to talk to the Secretary of War.  They believe that the Army is about to move and that Jennie should come home.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie is back from Manassas and this is at least the second letter she has sent.  She talks of gardening and missing missing being together in the tent.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Hugh visits Jennie after recently being with Ira.  Jennie talks about how she is satisfied with the Ira's sleeping arrangements now that he is sleeping alone.  Ira sends Jennie dried flowers from the garden.  Jennie's appetite is good and she is not suffering from Morning Sickness.  Jennie’s mother Jane if feeling better and looking better than Jennie has seen her in years.  Emma is also better and Mr. Laub and Jennie are sick.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Nice love letter.  Jane and Emma were sick but glad to hear nice words from Ira.  Ira's sister Julia is very sick.  I get the feeling that Jennie thinks Julia will die.  Julia lives another 7 years to age 26.    Jennie had a talk with Samuel telling him he should look to Ira as an example.  Samuel agreed.  The flowers Jennie brought home from camp are doing will.  "Burnside's Army passed through the city creating much excitement.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie asks Ira if she should send him a copy of the letter she wrote to his father.  She is glad to hear the camp is getting well defended and sorry to hear about the uprising in the 6th Regiment.  She hopes Ira will not have to move because of it.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie was in pain, similar to pain she had felt when she was with Ira in Manassas.  In a letter from the 26th Ira had implied he might have to move out and go further away.  In a letter from the 27th it seemed he would not.  Jennie talks of Ira cultivating flowers in camp five days before he almost dies in battle.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie writes very well about how worried she is about Ira.  Ira must have written that he was breaking camp to fight the impending battle.  She is still having pain, but not as bad.  The pregnancy is going well. A friend has noticed that Jennie is pregnant.  She will start telling people.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

 Love letter

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Ira is in Culpeper, VA on the eve of battle.  Washington is about to empty out for the summer.  Ira had invited Jane to go to Evans for the summer but she didn't want to go further than Baltimore.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie is worried about Ira and doesn't know he has been wounded. 

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie is worried because she has not heard from Ira since the start of the Battle of the Wilderness.

Note

Ira arrives in a hospital in Alexandria, VA and was transferred to one in DC the next day

Check

From: William James
Where: Washington, DC
To: C Cainniack, Junior

Check for $50.00.  The back says "Aug 3rd Satisfied in full by Maj Ira Ayer, Jr, C Caunniack, Jr

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: 403 13th St, Washington, DC
To: Children

Jane talks of an accident that William had when he took Jennie and Ira to the station for their trip to NY.

Letter

From: Wm M Slater
Where: ?
To: Col Ira Ayer

A former subordinate of Ira's tells him of news of other former subordinates in battle and asks for Ira's recommendation for a promotion.
Letter is spread over AyerIraII057 and 61.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Washington, DC
To: George and Vinnie

Ira apologizes for taking so long to write and brings them up to date on the family.  Ira is waiting for his commission but will likely be only a Captain due to a lack of openings.  Ira talks of listening to some famous people speak.

Letter

From: William James
Where: 403 13th St, Washington, DC
To: Abraham Lincoln

Letter requesting an appointment as tax collector of Virginia.  He doesn't get it for a year.  He talks of his dedication to the Union and his hatred of slavery.

Letter

From: E. J. Hill
Where: Lincoln U.S. Gen. Hospital, Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer

Letter from a wounded member of Ira's Regt who was wounded after Ira's Wilderness wound. 

Letter

From: Wm M Slater
Where:
To: Col Ayer

More news from the front

Post Civil War

Item

Date

Type

Description

Summary

Transcribed

Pass

From the War Dept, DC, to Jane F James

Pass to travel to Richmond issued only 5 days after the end of the war.

Letter

From: Juo. F. McLaren
Where: Allegheny, PA
To: Col. Ayer

McLaren asks Ira how he has been doing. He asks about Ira’s family.  He also talks about reading he has been doing about the war.  He is now a reporter for a local paper.  It would be good to find info on the paper because he said he writes stories about a soldier’s life.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Washington, DC
To: George Barr

Ira agrees with George that Mr. Austin is not good for Julia.  Julia, Sarah, and Simon, Sarah’s husband are visiting.

Letter

From: Jane F James
Where: Richmond, VA
To: Clemm & ?

Jane, William, Samuel, and John arrive in Richmond for the fist time since the war.  Jane tells the story of Mr. Pollard.  Jane says Richmond is in ruins. 

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: Richmond, VA
To: Jenny

About Pollard 

Letter

From: Jane F James
Where: Richmond, Linden Row, M 2nd
To: Jennie

In 1865 July 31 fell on a Sunday:  Jane talks of Mr. Pollard (husband to Annie) being sick.  She also mentions that the city is very different.  She wishes that Jennie and Ira could visit.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Lindon Row, Richmond, VA
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Unfinished and undated (Sept 1865).

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Lindon Row, Richmond, VA
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie writes of her first trip back to Richmond since the end of the war.  She talks of the destruction and the bitterness of the residents.
Letter is spread over AyerJennieJames029 and 38.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Lindon Row, Richmond, VA
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie talks more of the problems in Richmond.  Her Mother, Father and sister Emma are also in Richmond.  Hannah and Clements are in Washington.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Washington, DC
To: Brother

Ira is sad to hear of the death of Geogie.  Ira talks of Mr. Pollard, Annie, and the general state of Richmond. 

Picture

Tintern Abbey

Envelope says, "Picture of Tintern Abby -1865, Fanny Spencer, our grandmother Jane Frances James' cousin"  Also says, "? "Ancestral home of James family"”

Letter

From: Ira and Jennie
Where: 403 13th Street, Washington, DC
To: Brother

Ira talks of the Little fellow who is sick.  He also says that the package Jennie is putting together for them isn't ready yet.  Ira's father will build a new saw mill and Ira is not sure if he will re-enlist. 

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Ira is in Ashland helping William James (Jennie’s father) “during these trying time”.  The rest of Jennie’s family (other than Samuel) are in Washington with Jennie.  Jennie will soon leave to be with Ira.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: Ashland, VA
To: ?

More problems with Mr. Pollard   He wants a divorce and Jane wants him arrested for adultery.  Jane wants Ira to be transferred to Ashland.  She also wants Jennie and Ira to go to Macon, GA to get Annie's baby.  Annie would only go if Jane goes and Jane is too tired.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: Ashland, VA
To: Children

Jane still want Ira to transfer to VA.  She is helping her other three daughters make clothes for school.  More problems with Mr. Pollard  He has shown up in Richmond with his girlfriend and signed the hotel register under a false name.  William is in DC and will soon be making the rounds doing tax collection.  Jane wants Ira and Jennie to get baby Eddie (Annie's son) from Macon, GA.
Letter is spread over JamesJaneF018 and 25.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: Probably Ashland
To: Ira and Jennie

Talks of Uncle John, Rev. John Francis.  Talks of the girls going to Genesee College.  Talks of Samuel in New York, tells Jennie to write aunt S. F. Spencer, Jane's only sister lives at 28 Hill Street Newport Monmouthshire in Wales.  Eddie must be brought from Mr. Pollard's sister.
Letter is spread over JamesJaneF019 and 21.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Ashland, VA
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie talks of missing Ira and the possibility of Ira working for her father.  Also, she talks of Ira getting a promotion.  The promotion didn’t come for over a year.

Transcript

President Johnson nominates William James

President Johnson nominates William James - "to be collector of internal revenue for the third collection district State of Virginia"

Letter

From: Father and Mother
Where: 403 13th Street, Washington, DC
To: My Dr, Dr Son

Jane talks of how she, with much difficulty was able to get her husband’s nomination to tax collector for Richmond approved by the Senate.  She also suggests she could help get Ira promoted to General if he forwards the necessary documents.  That didn’t happen.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Macon, GA
To: Vinnie

Ira is sorry to hear of the loss of Vinnie's son (Charlie?).  Ira is thinking of leaving the army around 1 July and then staying with William until he decides what to do next. 

Letter

From: Hannah James
Where: Ashland
To: Clem

She talks of her relationship with Clem, Christian, and another man, and general news.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Ashland, VA
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Love letter.  Talks of being pregnant.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Ashland, VA
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Little Jennie is sick. 

Patent

By: William James

Patent for "Improved Attachment for Stills to Test the Proof of Spirits"

Letter

From: Jos. Segar
Where: Richmond, VA
To: Hon. Hugh McColloch, Secretary of the Treasury U. S

He accuses William James of steeling powers of attorneys and other thinks

Letter

From: H. [Ithnson] Mare
Where: Richmond, VA
To: Hon. Hugh McColloch, Secretary of the Treasury U. S.

He accuses William James of making purchases at a store and demanding two receipts, one lower for him to pay and another higher one for billing the government.  He also accuses him of whipping a US Senator.

Letter

From: C. F. Smith, Dept Shff, Nelson Co. Va
Where: The Honorable Secretary of the Treasury of the United States
To:

He had investigated the same issues mentioned buy Segar

Letter

From: N. Davidson
Where: Richmond, VA
To: A. B. Johnson Esq.

Davidson has arrived in Richmond and begun his investigation

Letter

From: N. Davidson
Where: Richmond, VA
To: Hon. E. A. Rollins

Davidson continues his investigation

Patent

By: William James

Patent for an improvement for suspension bridge supports

Letter

From: N. Davidson
Where: Richmond, VA
To: Hon. E. A. Rollins

Davidson continues his investigation

Letter

From: N. Davidson
Where: Richmond, VA
To: Hon. E. A. Rollins

Davidson has finished his investigation but the results are not included

List

Treasury Department

Summary of Charges against William

Transcript

Transcript from the trial against Williams

Letter

From: L. D. Harmon
Where: Washington, DC
To: President Johnson

Asking the President to remove William from office based on evidence at the Treasury Department

Letter

From: Jeremiah S. Black
Where: Washington, DC
To: President Johnson

Asking the President to remove William from office based on evidence at the Treasury Department

Election

William Elected to Virginia Constitutional Convention for Hanover Co.

William received 7 votes from whites and 1460 votes from blacks.  His two opponents received 1063 votes from whites and 3 votes from blacks

Transcript

In a recess appointment the President removes William James from office due to misconduct

"in place of William James, suspended for misconduct in office."

Letter

From: Judge John C. Underwood
Where: Richmond, VA
To: General J. P. C.  Shanks

Letter vouching for William.  Judge Underwood says the evidence against William was false.

Ticket

Richmond, Fredericksburg, & Potomac Rail Road, Richmond, VA for William James

Pass Free for one year

Transcript

The Senate Finance Committee received papers regarding the removal of William James - "Mr. Fessenden presented papers relating to the suspension of William James, collector of internal revenue for the third district of Virginia, which were referred to the Committee on Finance."

Transcript

The Senate agrees with the removal of William James for misconduct

Ticket

Ticket for Impeachment Trial of President Johnson

This was probably William's.  He was probably rooting against the President because this was shortly after the President had removed him from office.

Transcript

The Senate reviews the case of William James

Transcript

The Senate does not review the case of William James

Transcript

The Senate voted on William James' removal - "Resolved, That the Senate do not concur in the suspension of William James, collector of internal revenue for the 3d district of Virginia, and do not advise and consent to his removal from office.
Ordered, That the Secretary lay the said resolution before the President of the United States."
There is no record of his service after this point.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Richmond
To: Sarah and Simon

Sarah and Simon are about to move to Titusville to live with George (Vinnie died a year ago).  Ira reminisces about growing up.

Letter

From: Hannah
Where: Kansas City, MO
To: Jennie and Ira

Hannah just got married.  4 pages of sermon.

Transcript

William petitions the Senate for recover of lost income from when he was removed from office

Transcript

Senate - Ordered that the papers in relation t the claim of William James, on the files of the Senate, be referred to the Committee on Claims

Poem

By: William James
About: Susanna James Byers (his sister)

Poem about William’s deceased sister.
Letter is spread over JamesWilliam008 and 9.

Letter

From: Uncle Joseph (Joseph Davenport, Ira’s great uncle)
Where: Titusville, PA
To: Ira

Joseph updates Ira on the happenings in Titusville

Transcript

Senate - Ordered that William James have leave to withdraw is papers from the executive files of the Senate

Transcript

Senate - Ordered the Committee on Claims be discharged from the further consideration of the petition of William James

Letter

From: Annie James
Where: Ashland
To: Jennie

About the death of John and Mary's son

Poem

Samuel R. James

"A Descriptive Poem" religious in nature published in Washington.

Transcript

Samuel R James petitions congress - He is looking for reimbursement of his expenses while volunteering from October '61 to February '62

Obituary

William Ayer Dies

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: Ashland, VA
To: Ira Ayer Jr

Jane thanks Ira for the help has has given and before William died.  Jane misses William.  She would like to visit Jennie and Ira (I think in Norfolk) but can't.  She talks of Clem and John. 

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Richmond
To: Jennie

Ira talks of a new case in Savannah, some political problems in the department, the death of his brother-in-law Clem, a possible meeting with the president (Grant), the elections issues with Hayes, a suicide, and Clem being stung by bees,

Letter

From: Julia Ayer
Where: Ashland
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

She misses her dad and Mamma is still frail

Pamphlet

Samuel R James

Holiday Journal - New Years Readings, Story by Samuel called "Disentangled Threads - To be Wound at Your Leisure"  My guess is that the pamphlet was a vehicle to get people to buy "Pond's Extract".  The story had nothing to do with Pond's but a significant chunk of the pamphlet is an ad.

Letter

From: Julia Ayer
Where: Ashland
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Letter

From: Julia Ayer
Where: Ashland
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Transcript

Jane is confirmed as postmaster for Ashland, VA

The nomination is made on 29 Oct 77 and withdrawn a couple times.  She is finally confirmed on 19 Mar 78.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Ashland, VA
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie talked about how bad her nephew Eddie is, about buying cloths, needing money, she is feeling a little down, and the fire risk in Ashland is very high.

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where: Ashland, VA
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie received two letters, a box of clothes, and a barrel of apples from Ira.  The family and cows are well.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: 123 Willoughby Ave, Brooklyn, NY
To: Jennie and Ira

Jennie was in Baltimore last week.  Jane watched a Grand Parade in NY.  Grant was there.  Talks of a candidate (Haneock?).  Jane will get to Baltimore.  "Favorable accounts from Eddie"

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: 123 Willoughby Ave, Brooklyn, NY
To: Jennie J Ayer

Jane’s daughter Emma lived on Willoughby Ave from before 1880 until at least 1910.
Jane seems heavily involved in the campaign.  Clementine was already born.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where:
To: Ira

This is probably right after Jennie and Ira moved to NJ.  Jane is having work done.  Jennie is sick and Annie is there to help.  Jane is trying to get someone to go to help Jennie.  After Clementine is born.  Samuel is about to go to Europe.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where:
To: Annie

Annie is in NJ helping Jennie.  Jane talks of a Mr. Smithson and a Mr. James.  Jane is still trying to find someone for Jennie to hire.  Jane has been writing letters to Eddie.  He seems to be with someone named Mr. Avery and Jane wants him back.  There is something about Emma that depresses Annie.  There is some suit against Ira that has been dropped and would have embarrassed him.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: Ashland, VA
To: Children

There was just a funeral.  It reminded her of Clemens' funeral.  Jane will send Nancy's trunk.  Mr. James says hi.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: Ashland, VA
To: Jennie J Ayer

Jennie is in Morristown and Jane implies they are there for Jennie's health.  Mentions cousin May.  Jane has a dog named Fido that Annie takes care of.   Jane thanks Ira for the check and says she will try to get out of debt.  Sent Nancy's trunk to Jennie.  Jane has a deed that the husbands of her daughters must sign.  Sam has some kind of trouble.  Jane says Ira made the move for the welfare of his family.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: Ashland, VA
To: Ira and all

Jane asks Ira’s help in getting a neighbor to pay back rent.  The neighbor is in Bon Air on business.  Jane is also suffering with her neck and blood poisoning.

Letter

From: Jane James
Where: Morristown, NJ
To: Hannah France

About being sick and how Jennie and Ira are helping.   Ira leaves every morning on the 7:15 for NY and suffers with the wounded leg.  A doctor recommends an operation that would lay him up for several weeks.  Eddie is with Samuel. Annie is with Mr. James.  It's been 4 months since Jane was with Hannah and family.
Looks like a note at the top of the letter from Ira to Sady talking about the death of Jane.
Letter is spread over AyerIraII031 and JamesJaneF022-4.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where: Ashland, VA
To: Miss Jennie J Ayer

Written on Ashland Post Office stationary.  The letter is very hard to read.  It is to her granddaughter.  Jane is not doing to well.  Annie is getting married.  It is nine years to the day since her husband died.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Titusville, PA
To: Jennie

Ira and his son Ira are on the second stop of a big trip.  The first stop was to a reunion at Allegheny.  The second stop was to see family at Titusville, PA (Sarah, Simon, George, and Uncle Joseph (great uncle Joseph Davenport).  Ira and Ira were about to leave to visit Ira I.

Lawsuit

Ira goes to court to protect the assets of Jane's estate

When she died she was in debt

Lawsuit

Jane F. James vs. Samuel Hicks

It seems that Hicks was suing William James for unfairly collecting taxes in 1866

Article

About: Ira Ayer, Jr.
Paper: The Jerseyman
Where: Morristown, NJ

Article about Ira being transferred to San Francisco

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: San Francisco
To: Jennie

Ira talks about a patriotic parade that he was in.  He said he included a newspaper account of it.

Obituary

G. P. Beal

Gorham was Ira Ayer, Jr.’s cousin by his aunt Mary Low Ayer.  It seems that Gorham went west in 1854 to mine, possibly for the gold rush.

Transcript

Dedication of the monument to Pennsylvania 10th Reserves at Gettysburg

Letter

From: U S Grant GAR Post
Where: Brooklyn, NY
To: The President

Endorsement of Ira by the entire post and many prominent people and companies from Brooklyn and New York.

Letter

From: Ira Ayer, Jr
Where: Washington, DC
To: Jennie

Ira is staying a couple of blocks from where Jennie lived during the Civil War.  He reminisces about their wedding and talks of the reasons they should be thankful.  He has a short part about his business purposes.

Letter

From: Records and Pensions
Where: Washington, DC
To: Ira Ayer

Ira's military record for pension purposes

Poem

Samuel R. James

A poem called "Morning"

Undated

Item

Date

Type

Description

Summary

Transcribed

Letter

From: Jennie James
Where:
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Jennie is going to price Back Silk as a gift from Ira.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where:
To: My Dear Dear Children

Jane talks of traveling through Rockets and Ft. Monroe.   Ask for several things.

Letter

From: Jane Frances James
Where:
To: Jennie, Ira, Hannah, Baby, and all

Hard to read.  Talks of father and cousin Sam, parades, marching into Richmond, Stars and Stripes.

Letter

From: Julia Ayer
Where: Ashland
To: Ira Ayer, Jr.

Note

Ira Ayer, Jr

Improvement of Time

Note

Ira Ayer, Jr

Letter

From: William James
Where: 403 13th St, Washington, DC
To: Hon G M Robeson, Secretary of the Navy

William asks if he and his wife can call for a few minutes at 7:30pm.

Card

GAR card for Ira Ayer, Jr.

It's from New Jersey so it must be from around 1883-5

Card

Card of Matias Ramero

He is a minister from Mexico

Ticket

"For the Review"

Major General Augur (Christopher C. Augur) was promoted to Major General in 1862 and retired in 1885.

Card

Card for General Badeau

Likely General Adam Badeau

Invitation

Invitation to the home of Postmaster General Creswell and his wife

John Creswell was Postmaster General from March 5, 1869 to June 22, 1874.  During that time, January 31st fell on a Monday in 1870.  It could have been for Ira.  He was just about to be appointed Special Agent for the Treasury Department, had been stationed in Richmond and would soon be stationed in Norfolk.

Money

Confederate $5 bill

Money

Confederate $10 bill