Manuscripts
Moore family papers, (bulk 1850-1930)
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- Description
- Boxes 1-3 contain correspondence, organized alphabetically by the last name of the sender. The correspondence contains letters sent to Rebecca Lash Miller by J. A. Heagy, her longtime suitor. The correspondence, dated between 1861 and 1865, describes the couples courtship, secret engagement, and break up. Heagy was studying to be a minister, and Miller's parents actively discouraged their relationship, possibly on the grounds that Miller possessed little wealth. The letters could be of use to a scholar interested in the culture of 19th-century courtship, perhaps particularly the interesting literary genre of the love-letter. Heagy's demonstrative and lengthy missives negotiate a fine balance between making love with paper and pen and confronting the practical, business side of marriage. The correspondence also includes letters from Maria N. James to Dr. John P. Moore, dated between 1869 and 1871. The correspondence between James and Moore is that of friends, though perhaps not strictly. James' letters betray her jealousy over Moore's time spent with mutual female friends in company, and James' laments that the two of them will never be more than friends. James works in secretarial positions, and often wishes she had more time to be sociable and be seen. Again, these letters might be of use to scholars interested in the history of 19th century courtship and love (though this was strictly flirtation, it is clear that James feels deeply for Moore).
