James Lockhart Goodloe letterbook

This collection consists of one letterbook, containing handwritten copies of James Lockhart Goodloe's memoir and a small collection of letters, all dated 1876. Although the diary is written on copying paper, making some of the pages difficult to read, most of the entries (written in ink, with some penciled edits) are legible.

Goodloe's memoir begins on page 29 and ends on page 443. Divided into 113 chapters, the detailed narrative describes his childhood on his father's plantation, his experiences as a college student at the University of Mississippi and his travels in Andalusia. The narrative ends abruptly, concluding with a description of a duel fought in Andalusia. Although Goodloe notes in several locations that he intends to publish his memoir, there is no evidence of publication.

The memoir contains a number of notable passages, including particularly interesting observations on slavery, religion, morality, and honor. In a passage beginning on page 81, Goodloe describes a religious revival where Kizzy, a slave owned by the Goodloe family, testified. "Her final appeal brought down the house, stirring up the sinners, young and old, as if a nest of hornets had oozed up through the floor!," he recalled, and noted that Kizzy became a respected religious leader, leading both male and female congregants.

In addition to his discussion of slave life on his parent's plantation, Goodloe also writes several interesting passages discussing courtship and his observations on religion and honor.