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Letter transcriptions

 File — Box: W.0123

Scope and Contents

From the Collection: This collection contains typescript transcriptions of twenty-one letters written by Confederate soldier Joseph Zebulon Hearst. The typescript, addressed to Hearst's daughter Annie Hearst Alison, is dated 1931 and includes a brief introductory statement description of Hearst's military service. The included biographical sketch incorrectly lists Hearst as a resident of Mississippi; the family resided in Richmond, Alabama.

The letters, dated from May 24, 1862, to December 4, 1864, are addressed to Hearst's wife and young daughters. Hearst typically describes camp life in a lighthearted manner, filling his letters with reports of practical jokes and social events. While he briefly discusses war related news, describing events such as the capture of Union soldiers, his letters provide few direct descriptions of battle. In addition to descriptions of military life, Hearst also discusses family news, instructing his wife on how to manage the family plantation in his absence and suggesting names for the couple's newborn daughter.

Dates

  • 1931

Conditions Governing Access

None

Extent

From the Collection: 0.15 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

From the Collection: English

Creator

Repository Details

Part of the The University of Alabama Libraries Special Collections Repository

Contact:
Box 870266
Tuscaloosa AL 35487-0266
205.348.0513