Alexander and John L. Mitchell Papers, 1859-1906

Appendix I: Calendar of Alexander Mitchell General Correspondence

1862 Oct. 15
John Johnston, [Mil.] to [Mrs. A. Mitchell, care of Gov. Seymour, Utica, N.Y.]. Has heard indirectly that John and Robert are well. Relays some gossip about the recent battle in Kentucky. A.L.S. 4pp.
1862 Dec. 1
C[has.] H. Larrabee, Nashville, Tenn., to [A. Mitchell, Mil.]. Saw John (Mitchell] yesterday. Regrets his (John's) position. Might have been placed on Gen. Rosecrans' staff, but he is now among inferiors. Wishes A. Mitchell would write Gov. Seymour and tell him to call a convention of the state of New York. Thinks that if New York took the lead others would be apt to follow and then the administration would consider an Armistice. Believes it impossible to hold South by force of arms. A.L.S. 2pp.
1862 Dec. 8
C[has.] H. Larrabee, Nashville (Tenn.], to [Mrs. A. Mitchell, Mil.]. Regrets he had to select chaplain distasteful to her. Feels his selectee is right, however. Saw Bob and John yesterday, both of whom were very well. Thinking of leaving army because of personal financial troubles. All were delighted with Mr. Mitchell's visit. A.L.S. 4 pp.
1863 Jan. 1
Chas. H. Larrabee, Nashville, Tenn., to A. Mitchell [Mil.]. Has gathered all of the information within reach from the battlefield at Murfreesboro. John was seen with Gen. Gill the previous morning, and consequently believes that John is still alive. Describes recent engagement and remarks on Gen. Rosecrans and other officers. Believes Nashville can be held if the impending defeat does not become a rout, but in that event the army will have to fall back toward Louisville. Grants permission to give letter to the press. A.L.S. 4pp.
1863 Jan. 7
Julia F. Hamilton [care of James Judd, Esq.], Albany, N.Y., to Mrs. [A.] Mitchell, [Mil.]. Expresses sympathy for Mrs. Mitchell “in this time of great trouble.” Asks for news concerning John. Saw Mrs. Seymour “in her executive state.” Gives assurance that Mrs. Seymour is well and that she inquired about Mrs. Mitchell. Brother, Ruff, is still detained in Washington on the Porter Court Martial. Husband refused leave of absence despite wounds which prevent him from either riding or walking without great pain. A.L.S. 4pp.
1863 Jan. 9
Nicholas] Greusel, Murfreesboro, Tenn., to [A. Mitchell, Mil.]. Assures Mitchell that his son is well and praises son for bravery. Blames recent losses on poor leadership--especially by Generals Johnson and Woodruff of Kentucky. “Would not trust a Kentuckian anymore than a South Carolinian. Take the nigger from them and they are the biggest Rebels in the land. The nigger is their Union and Constitution.” Urges everybody with sons in the 24th Wis. to use their influence to get “good and efficient and sober men at the head.” A.L.S. 3pp.
1863 Jan. 16
Gen. Clark Skinner, Chicago Sanitary Commission Rooms, Chicago, to Mrs. [A.] Mitchell, [Mil.]. Will take her letter with him to Washington and, if possible, lay it before “those who control such matters.” Agrees with her views on officers--disasters are chargeable to “the incompetency, the blundering stupidity or worse of officers in command.” Congratulates her on good news from her son and nephew. His son, Richard, has gone with General Hunter to Beaufort. A.L.S. 2pp.
1863 Feb. 7
N[icholas] Greusel, [Murfreesboro, Tenn.] to A. Mitchell, [Mil.]. Encloses recommendations of John [Mitchell] to any brigade commander. If Mitchell can not help him in Washington and if the Conscript Bill should pass, wishes that he would secure an appointment as Provost Marshall for him (Greusel) of Tennessee. A.L.S. 1p.
1863 Feb. 7
Nicholas] Greusel, Head Quarters lst Brigade, Sheridan's Division, Murfreesboro, Tenn., “to whom it may concern”. Recommends Lieut. John Mitchell to any brigade commander as a very courageous and efficient officer. A.L.S. 1p.
[1863] Feb. 16
Mary Miller, [Utica, N.Y.], to Mrs. [A.] Mitchell, [Mil.]. “Milwaukee seems truly very gay in these war times, tho my aunt writes me that Washington is in the full tide of gaiety and dissipation. Even Utica has aroused itself somewhat and there have been three small parties this week.” Discusses local occurrences and mutual friends. A.L.S. 8pp.
1863 Feb. 19
[A. Renard?], Montreal, to Mrs. (A.] Mitchell, [Mil.]. Writes of death of [her?] mother and invites the Mitchells to visit her in Montreal in the summer. A.L.S. 7pp.
[1863] Feb. 21
N[icholas] Greusel, Aurora, Ill., to A. Mitchell, Mil. Reviews his war service and asks Mitchell to help get him a promotion. Will do anything for John with the greatest pleasure. A.L.S. 3pp.
1863 Feb. 23
James S. Brown, M[ember] of C[ongress] elect for the 1st Dist. of Wis., Mil., to E. M. Stanton, Sec. of War. Recommends Lt. John L. Mitchell for a staff commission with the rank of Captain. L.S. 3pp
1863 Mar. 2
A. Mitchell, N.Y.C., to Mrs. Mitchell, [Mil.]. “My dear wife.” Griswold advises against going to Washington until after the adjournment. Telegraphed Senator Howe asking length of time Howe and Doolittle will remain at Washington after the 4th. Gen. King not yet installed at Norfolk, but is expecting to be every day. A.L.S. 3pp.
1863 Mar, 3
Rufus King, Norfolk, Va., to Mrs. [A.] Mitchell, [Mil.]. Is not sure that the War Department will allow him to take an officer from the Army of the West and put him on his staff. Hopes that Mr. Mitchell will find time to visit him at Norfolk before he returns to Milwaukee. A.L.S. 2pp.
1863 Mar. 6
Rufus King, Norfolk, [Va.] to (A.] Mitchell, [N.Y.C.]. Cannot meet Mitchell in Washington, but urges Mitchell to pay him a visit at Norfolk. Shall apply for son, John, as soon as he gets his orders. Has a vacancy on his staff which he will be very glad to offer John. Advises asking Doolittle to speak to the Secretary of War on John's behalf. A.L.S. 2pp.
1863 Mar. 8
A. Mitchell, N.Y.C., to Mrs. Mitchell, [Mil.]. Stayed to await letters mentioned in Mrs. Mitchell's recent telegram. Will start for Washington tonight and will visit Gen. [Rufus] King at Norfolk. King has a vacancy for John, or will have as soon as he is appointed Governor of Norfolk. The situation must remain as it is. Has learned that nothing beyond this can be done. John will simply be transferred to the Sec. of War. “Lt. Col. Hamilton is here and I shall see him this p.m....P.S. Keep perfectly calm and say nothing about Larrabee till we see--You make him worse than he is.” A.L.S. 2pp.
1863 Mar. 8
Charles A. Hamilton, N.Y.C., to [A. Mitchell, N.Y.C.]. Encloses letter to Col. Townsend which he hopes will serve the purpose. Brother says that there will be no difficulty in arranging [John's] transfer. Wishes success and asks to be remembered to Gen. King. A.L.S. 1p.
1863 Mar. 9
Schuyler Hamilton, N.Y.C., to Col. E. D. Townsend, [Washington]. Letter of introduction for A. Mitchell asking for aid in getting Lt. John Mitchell transferred to the staff of Gen. [Rufus] King. A.L.S. lp.
1863 Mar. 14
A. Mitchell, N.Y.C., to Mrs. Mitchell, [Mil.]. Returned from Washington yesterday. Has accomplished nothing certain in regard to John. Gen. [Charles S.] Hamilton has been confirmed as a Major General. John is trying to get on his staff. “Nothing must be said about this.” Mentions mutual friends in New York--Mr. and Mrs. Gurnee and Barney. A.L.S. 3pp.
1863 Mar. 14
J[ames] R. Doolittle, Washington, to A. Mitchell, [N.Y.C.]. Gen. Hamilton's staff full and the law allowing appointments of additional aides has been repealed. Gen. Rousseau is a splendid officer. Encloses letter to Rousseau which Mitchell can send on to him. Thinks he (Doolittle) will visit Fortress Monroe before coming to New York. A.L.S. 2pp.
Mar. 23
Maj. Gen. C[harles] S. Hamilton, Memphis, [Tenn.], to A. Mitchell, [Mil.], [1863?] Will try to see what he can do for Mitchell's son after he has considered those who are entitled to a share in his promotions. Refuses to command a division of troops under such men as McClermand or [Hiulbut?]. Has tendered his resignation and may go to his home in Fond du Lac in a few days. “I cannot conscientiously lead men into action at the behest and under the governance of generals who know nothing of military matters--and whose chief merits are that they can make a political speech and consume whiskey ad libitum.” A.L.S. 2pp.
1863 Apr. 21
Rufus King, Yorktown, [Va.], to [A.] Mitchell, [Mil.]. Will not make a permanent appointment of an aide until he hears from Mitchell's son, John. Things are quiet after the exciting episode of the 11th and 12th. Hard fighting going on around Norfolk, but believes advantage is with the Union side. A.L.S. 2pp.
1863 May 1
Mary Seymour, Albany, N.Y, to Mrs. [A.] Mitchell, [Mil.]. Discusses family matters and mutual friends. Husband is in good health despite onerous duties. Legislature had adjourned. Husband thinks the legislators were the most corrupt and unmannerly that have ever been in session. A.L.S. 4pp.
1863 May 2
[Mrs.] A. R. Judd, [U.S. Legation], Berlin, to Mrs. [A.] Mitchell, [Mil.]. Sympathizes with Mrs. Mitchell's anxiety for John's safety in the war. Likes Lady Buchanan, wife of the English Ambassador. Dined at Baron Talleyrand's, French Ambassador, and nephew of the “great Talleyrand.” Goes on to describe affair and guests. Discusses children, family plans, and mutual friends. A.L.S. Lipp.
1863 May 28
E.F. Skinner, Treasury of the United States, Washington, to Elbert Slingerlund, Sun Prairie. Has handed his letter of the 19th to Mr. John Nicolay, secretary to the President. Reports that Nicolay said that there are no vacancies at present. A.L.S. 1p.
[1863] May 30
[Mrs.] E. A. [Ballard?], Chicago, to Mrs. [A.] Mitchell, [Mil.]. Sends photograph of son and would like one of [John] in return. “Very precious to me is the remembrance of Seymour's friends and associates of his army life.” Asks to be remembered to [John] and prays that his life may be spared. A.L.S. 2pp.
1863 June 2
Elbert Slingerland, Sun Prairie, Wis. to Mrs. A. Mitchell, [Mil.]. Encloses letter (May 28, 1963) from F. E. Skinner [U.S. Treasurer]. As Skinner did not put his request in the President's hands, gives up all hope of an appointment. A.L.S. 2pp.
1863 June 16
[Mrs.] A. R. J[udd, U.S. Legation], Berlin, to [Mrs. A. Mitchell, Mil.]. “My dear friend.” Discusses mutual friends, American tourists, European--especially German--political situation. A.L.S. 8pp.
1863 July 5
M. Castleman, Murfreesboro, [Tenn.], to Mrs. [A.] Mitchell, [Mil.]. Tells of maneuvers and skirmishes in the Murfreesboro area and relates some army gossip. A.L.S. 3pp.
1863 July 9
Mary Seymour(?), [N.J.], to Mrs. [A.] Mitchell, Mil. Is vacationing in New Jersey. Had a fright the night they left for the news of the invasion of Pennsylvania came. “We are all rejoicing in our recent victories.” Saw Mrs. King at Albany, but she did not return visit. Happy that John is spared. A.L.S. 4pp.
1863 July 23
Chas. H. Larrabee, Hd. Qts. 24th Wis. Vols., Camp at Cowan, Tenn., to [Mrs. A. Mitchell], [Mil.]. Thanks her on behalf of the regiment for the “little flags” she sent by Capt. Root. Saw Lt. Mitchell yesterday. He seems pleased with his position. A.L.S. lp.
[1863] July 29
[Mrs.] A. R. Judd, Hubertesbad, [Saxony, Germany, to Mrs. A. Mitchell, Mil.]. “My dear friend.” Dissatisfied with compromise emancipation policy. “Lincoln's message recommending to the border states a system of Emancipation met with fervent sympathy on this side of the water.” Describes some of the legends and interesting sites in the vicinity. A.L.S. 8pp.
1869 May 28
Fanny King, Staten Island, to Mr. [A.] Mitchell, [N.Y.C.]. “My Dear kind Mr. Mitchell.” Extends thanks for the present Mitchell sent her, and reminisces on former associations with the Mitchell family. A.L.S. 4pp.
1869 Sept, 1
John Mitchell, Seymour East [Menie, Ont., Canada] to [Mr. and Mrs. A. Mitchell, Mil.]. “My Dear Brother and Sister.” Family matters and personal affairs. A.L.S. 3pp.
1871 Aug. 11
N. S. Gurnee, Greystone, [?], to Mr. A. Mitchell, Mil. Extends thanks for offer of half interest in northern railroads and accepts offer. Has heard nothing more of Sage's negotiations with Tracy. “We have only to prosecute our work and particularly the Chicago and Milwaukee Road, and we shall come out all right whether we come to an arrangement or not. Two lines to Chicago would not be very bad. Even if owned by one Company.” A.L.S. 4pp.
1872 Mar. 14
S[almon] P. Chase, Washington, to [A.] Mitchell, [Jacksonville, Fla.]. “It is not my purpose to take any action in the case of [Mr. Mc.] Clem until I have the benefit of your advice after your return to Milwaukee. My impression is that the recommendation was improvidently made...[illegible].” A.L.S. lp.
1872 Dec. 24
[signature illegible], Aberdeen, [Scotland], to A. Mitchell, Washington. Is grateful for 50 pound check for support of school; also for expression of regard and the reference to the “days of auld lang syne.” Tells of plans for the school and its current activities. A.L.S. 3pp.
[1873]
Angus Smith, [Mil.], to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. Will lease St. Paul elevators as of Dec. 1, 1873; offers rental terms. A.L.S. p.
[1873]
[Angus Smith, Mil.]. Figures and notes concerning Smith's proposition for undertaking warehousing of produce for the Mil. & St. Paul R.R. A.D. 2pp.
1874 Mar. 31
H. G. Freeman, Cashier, Kellogg National Bank, Green Bay, to A. Mitchell. Washington Mitchell's speech is highly spoken of. Requests copy. Is glad to see that Mr. [Philetus] Sawyer votes right on finances. A.L.S. lp.
1874 Mar. 31
Charles] S. Hamilton, Office of U.S. Marshall, Eastern District of Wisconsin, Mil., to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. “Will you do me a favor and send me a copy of your speech on the finances.” A.L.S. 1p.
1874 Apr. 1
M. Hirsh (Banking House of), West Bend, Wisconsin, to Mr. A. Mitchell, Washington. Requests copies of Mitchell's speeches en the currency question--especially the one delivered a few days ago. Praises Mitchell's position on currency. L.S. lp.
1874 Apr. 1
S. Lester Taylor, Cinn., 0H, to A. Mitchell, Washington. Mitchell's speech on banking and currency gives him “unalloyed pleasure.” Wants a few copies. “Man who advocates inflation now is already at heart a repudiator. Grant will have a chance to judiciously use the veto, but he will not use it.” A.L.S. 2pp.
1874 Apr. 2
Geo. [?] Hickman, Hampton, Va., to [A. Mitchell], [Washington]. Requests two copies of Mitchell's “recent admirable speech on the currency and financial affairs.” A.L.S. 1p.
1874 Apr. 2
Edward D. Holton, [Vice Pres., Northwestern National Insurance Co. of which Mitchell is president], Mil., to A. Mitchell, Washington. Has just finished reading Mitchell's “admirable speech...against the criminal conduct of Congress in stepping forward and inflating an already rotten currency thereby threatening a darker future for the country than would be foreboded by either famine or war.” A.L.S. 2pp.
1874 Apr. 3
A. Chandler, Sun Prairie, Wis., to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. Requests copy of speech on “financial question.” A.L.S. 1p.
1874 Apr. 3
A. Gray, National Democrat, Mineral Point, to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. “Will you please send me a copy of your speech on inflation. It has been read here with great interest as published in the Chicago Times.” A.L.S. 1p.
[1874] Apr. 3
Geo. P. Smith, N.Y., to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. Requests copy of speech on the “Financial question.” A.L.S. 1p.
1874 Apr. 3
Ingulls, B. Brockway, and C. R. Skinner, editors of the Reformer and Times, Watertown, N.Y., to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. Requests copy of Mitchell's speech on “finance.” [L.H.S.?] 1p.
1874 Apr. 4
S. Cadwallader, Madison, to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. Congratulates Mitchell on recent speech concerning the “currency question.” Milwaukee News has abandoned all its past teachings, the traditions of its party and says Mitchell has gone over to the enemy “body and breeches.” A.L.S. 2pp.
1874 Apr. 4
I. A. Chrystie, National Park Bank, N.Y., to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. Requests copy of his speech “delivered on the 27th day of March.” A.L.S. 1p.
1874 Apr. 4
Angus Smith, Mil., to A. Mitchell, N.Y.C. Does not believe for several reasons, including inexperience, legislative animosity to railroad companies, etc., that Mitchell's company should take over building and operation of warehouses and elevators. Offers proposition to undertake the enterprise himself. A.L.S. 4pp.
1874 Apr. 5
Rufus Parks, Waterville, Wis., to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. Agrees with and praises speech on the finances and political economy in general. A.L.S. 3pp.
1874 Apr. 6
Joseph C. [Crubb], Wilmington, Delaware, to [A.] Mitchell, [Washington]. Asks for copy of “speech on the finances.” Agrees with Mitchell's position and praises speech. Gives personal views on origin of money--“true money comes only by lineal descent from the 'sweat of the brow.'” A.L.S. 2pp.
1874 Apr. 7
D. E. [Cameron?) Mil. to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. Praises speech on the “financial question” highly. A.L.S. 2pp.
1874 Apr. 7
G. I. Seney, Cashier, Metropolitan National Bank, N.Y.C., to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. Asked by one of the directors to request 5 or 6 copies of “your speech.” A.L.S. 1p.
1874 Apr. 8
A[ndrew] G. Miller, Mil., to A. Mitchell, Washington. Congratulates Mitchell upon his “distinguished speech.” Sends Mr. [?] Williams' congratulations also. A.L.S. 1p.
1874 Apr. 8
[Gilman Saith?], Banking House of Gilman, Son & Co., N.Y.C. to D [avid] Ferguson [Cashier of Marine and Fire Ins. Co. Bank], Mil. Mr. Mitchell's views [on finance] exactly agrees with theirs and they are glad to notice that the speech [of Mar. 27] has attracted so wide attention. L.S. 1p.
1874 Apr. 9
Frank H. Carleton, St. Paul, Minn., to A. Mitchell, Washington. Requests copies of speech “against the inflation theory.” A.L.S. lp.
1874 Apr. 9
B. V. French, Cashier, National City Bank, Lynn, Mass., to Alexander Mitchell, Washington. Received documents but has not examined them. Heartily approves Mitchell's position on currency. A.L.S. 2pp.
1874 Apr. 9
William Hempstead, Galena, Ill., to A. Mitchell, Washington. Requests copy of speech on “Inflation delivered on the 27th inst.” A.L.S. 1p.
1874 Apr. 11
Robert W. Hale, Chicago, to A. Mitchell, Washington. Would like copy of recent speech on “financial affairs.” A.L.S. 1p.
1874 Apr. 11
J. M. North, Jacksonville, Ill., to Mr. A. Mitchell, Washington. Asks for copy of Mitchell's speech of Mar. 27th in Congress on the finances. Is making a study of finances and would like to read some of the best speeches in Congress. A.L.S. lp.
1874 Apr. 16
Angus Smith, Mil. to A. Mitchell, N.Y.C. Objects to Mitchell's terms in building elevators and hints that plans are underway to erect warehouses and elevators by the Northwestern R.R. Co. which would give severe competition to Milwaukee. A.L.S. 3pp.
1874 Apr. 21
[C. E. Stowe?], Mandarin, Fla., to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. Praises highly recent speech on the “inflation bill.” A.L.S. 2pp.
1874 Apr. 25
Horatio Seymour, Utica, [N.Y.], to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. Thanks him for copy of speech and gives support to sentiments expressed therein. Is glad the President vetoed the “inflation act” because in so doing “he has saved the Western states from great calamities. The people of the West are debtors and they will be borrowers for a long time to come. It is hard for them now to pay good dollars for those which they borrowed which were only worth ninety cents. It will be much harder if they borrow dollars which are now down to seventy-five cents in value and which in the end must be paid by dollars of full price in gold or silver.” Hopes for a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell in the course of the summer. A.L.S. 2pp.
1874 Apr. 28
C. [E?] Backus, Boston, to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. Telegraphed Senator Schurz to send 2,000 copies of Mitchell's “admirable speech upon the currency question.” Seems that the speech is not obtainable. Asks that Mitchell request publishers to forward copies to W. H. Forbes, Boston, or send a copy from which reprints can be made. Intends to circulate speeches of Congressman and asks Mitchell to provide a suitable Wisconsin mailing list. A.L.S. 2pp.
[1874 Apr.?]
W. Rogers, Philadelphia, to [A.] Mitchell, [Washington]. Requests copy of speech “against expansion.” A.L.S. 1p.
1874 June 23
Congress of U.S., House of Representatives, 43rd Cong., lst Session. Alexander Mitchell and Ebenezer Rockwood Hoar appointed by Speaker to the joint Committee for the Government of the District of Columbia and other purposes. D.S. 1p.
1875 Mar, 9
Robert Armour, Washington, to A. Mitchell, [Mil.]. Encloses communication requiring Mitchell's personal attention. Retains those that he can handle. A.L.S. 2pp.
1875 Apr. 22
C. S. Kerische, City of Glasgow Bank, [Glasgow, Scotland], to A. Mitchell, Mil. Pleased to know that Mitchell is satisfied with what the Western Union has done in the past year. “Has the time come for the St. Paul Co. to take over our road entirely?” Would be glad to give up “our two billions of Stock for S. Paul Stock.” Asks for Mitchell's help in this matter. Is ready for terms on the “Elevator” matter, and would like payment in St. Paul stock. Would be glad to do what Mitchell desires concerning the “Proxy.” A.L.S. 3pp.
1875 May 1
S. S. Merrill, General Manager, Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway, Mil., to [A. Mitchell, N.Y.C.]. Glad to know matters are looking well. Hopes he will make no compromise but fight it out. Will arrange to ship the wheat in a few days. “Business is improving a little if prices remain hope the wheat will come forward.” A.L.S. 1p.
1875 May 3
David [Ames] Wells, Norwich, Conn., to [A. Mitchell, Washington]. Extends thanks for pass on the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul R.R., and feels indebted for the compliments. Hopes some day to make personal acquaintance which now seems to be impersonal. Forwards copy of article he wrote for the N.Y. Herald on the specie payment question and will be glad to send any other things that he may publish. “In an address which I am making at Detroit next week as President of the American Social Science Association I at first thought of discussing the relation of the whole granger movement to capital and development, but [it] seems I might give offence at a time when no disagreeable things ought to be said. I have concluded to say nothing directly--but a good deal indirectly on the accumulation and distribution of capital in this country--but I am [ready?] to take up arms whenever fighting is in order.” A.L.S. 3pp.
1875 May 3
[Unsigned], Cleveland, to A. Mitchell, [Washington]. “Private.” Received a letter from Mr. Sage urging him to join in a circular to the stockholders asking them for their proxies. Gives names of others on circular. Quotes his reply to Sage in which he refuses to sign circular. Suggests that Mitchell see the leading papers of the city and secure their influence. They can be of great service to Mitchell and the property. Thinks Mitchell wise in getting Mr. Williams' help in soliciting proxies. Shall be in the city before the books close, and shall see that the stock is placed in his name. A.L. 3pp.
1875 May 14
S. S. Merrill, Mil., to A. Mitchell, N.Y.C. Is delighted to hear of his victory. “I believe if you carry out in full the program and make a clean sweep it will have a good effect all through the State and hereafter we shall have less trouble in getting fair legislation. Your friends will be disappointed with any other management.” Sent $50,000 yesterday and will send $50,000 more tomorrow. H.L.S. 2pp.
1875 May 15
S. S. Merrill [General Manager, Chicago, Milwaukee St. Paul Railway], Mil. to A. Mitchell, N.Y.C. Describes locomotives and flat cars built by several companies and gives prices. Advises purchase of 5 locomotives and 100 flat cars at the price named “title being perfect.” A.L.S. 2pp.
1875 May 18
S. S. Merrill, Mil., to A. Mitchell, N.Y.C. Received letter of 14th with Elmore's enclosed. Believes Mr. Munn was properly treated and every facility was given him to examine the books. Introduced him to Mr. Whaling and Mr. Cary. Called on him at the Newhull House and gave him a pass on our road. “Conklin, who is Burpee's successor, may have prejudiced him--if so Matt Carpenter is at the bottom of it. The Sentinel had something to say about the matter before suit was commenced.” Business matters. L.S. 2pp.
1877 July 1
G[eorge] Mitchell, St. John's Wells, Auvie, [Scotland], to [A. Mitchell]. “My Dear Brother.” Went to Aberdeen yesterday and was pleased to find Mitchell's columns nearly complete. Has been considerable difficulty in getting the proper stones from the quarry. Also strike among stone masons is given as cause of delay. Aleck and [Bella?] will set sail soon. Hopes they will find him well. Shall write to Martha [Mrs. A. Mitchell] as soon as he returns from Liverpool. Weather bad. Crops average. A.L.S. 3pp.
1877 July 18
Grace Greenwood (Mrs. L. K. Lippincott), Chicago, to Mrs. [A] Mitchell, [Mil.]. Is not sure that she can “delay” at [Milwaukee] on her trip to Colorado for so long as Mrs. Mitchell would like. Does not want to see people outside of Mrs. Mitchell's family. Her brother, Major Clarke, was stationed at Milwaukee the previous winter and speaks most enthusiastically of the place. Trying to persuade him to accompany her to Colorado but he thinks Mackinac cool enough. A.L.S. 4pp.
1880 Feb. 16
Christian [Mitchell, Aberdeen Scotland], to A. Mitchell, Mil. “My dear Brother.” Reports death of “Sister Elisa,” and discusses family matters. A.L.S. 4pp.
1881 Feb. 15
W. G. Deshler, President of National Exchange Bank of Columbus, Ohio, to A. Mitchell, [Mil.]. Must drop the “Capital” question for this Congress at least. Encloses letter of introduction to his representative, Geo. L. Converse, “who can help you much if he will. He is a bourbon Democrat--first class parliamentarian--good [wise?] worker among the members--and up to all the tricks required to get things out of the regular order. Before presenting the letter, you must post yourself thoroughly as to his status in regard to our bill. He promised me vote for it (the deposits) and as he is a personal friend I think he is all right. But I have seen so much political trickery here at Columbus for so many years that I am afraid of all politicians....S. S. Cox of N.Y. is another first class member to help you. He should be reached through our New York City folks....I wrote [Coe?] that as Genl. Grant was going into Banking in N.Y....that Grant's name and influence should be gotten. Gt. could be, I am sure, if gone to work at properly. A pool of Banks, Matches, Perfumery, and Patent Medicine interests, if held well in hand together, should gather support sufficient to put things through. You should not hesitate to call on our Eastern folks to help by personal presence or otherwise. They are more largely interested than the West....” A.L.S. 2pp.
1881 Feb. 19
[Jas.?] Coe, The American Exchange National Bank, N.Y.C., to [A. Mitchell, Mil.]. Believes “3 per ct. funding bill” will cause depression and explains why. Got General Grant to telegraph Garfield denouncing bill and encloses copy of Grant's telegram. A.L.S. 2pp.
[1881 Feb. 19]
U. S. Grant, [N.Y.C.], to [President-elect James A. Garfield, Cleveland(?)]. Telegram quoted in Coe to Mitchell, 1881, Feb. 19. Warns that present prosperity will end if “funding bill” is approved. Believes every effort should be made to prevent the bill from becoming a law. Copy, 1p.
Dec. 14
Mary Miller, Utica, [N.Y.], to Mrs. [A.] Mitchell, [Mil.], 1882 [Postmarked] Discusses mutual friends and other matters. Mentions a visit from Uncle Horatio [Seymour]. A.L.S. 8pp.
1883 Jan. 4
P. M. Meyers, Secretary, Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway Co., Mil., to A. Mitchell, President, [Mil.]. “I have the honor to enclose an extract from the minutes of a meeting of the Board of Directors, held in New York, on Wednesday, December 27th, 1882.” L.S. 1p.
1883 Sept. 28
David Ferguson, Cashier, Wisconsin Marine and Fire Insurance Co. Bank, [Mil.], to A. Mitchell, President, London. Encloses bank statements (4 pages) and explains some of the items in the statements. A.L.S. 2pp.