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Letter from a teacher at a freedman's school, possibly under the auspices of the Friends Freedmen's Association. Wishes she could visit home, "but suppose the traveling expenses will be too much for a contraband teacher." Sorry to hear of Isaac's poor health and wonders if he is interested in hiring one of her African American students. "Would he like me to take a smart colored boy home to work for him a year or two? There is one that has been to school considerable, who wants very much to go north, is more fond of farming than anything else; is bright, intelligent, full of good natured fun and seems determined to do what he can to help himself along in the world." Notes her comfort having him associate with the children and dismisses neighbors' hesitations. "I presume that some of the neighbors will turn up their noses if Isaac should have a colored boy live with him, but who cares for that? perhaps they would have to respect him upon acquaintance whether they wish to or not." Notes the superintendent visiting, illness of a teachers at Williamsburg and Slabtown, heavy work loads, and her appreciation for Dr. [James Evans] Rhoads (1828-1895). "The people here say that they do not want us to go for they fear we shall not come back; but I would not be willing to stay through the hot weather for considerable." Briefly comments on the death of Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865). "The people sincerely mourn the death of the president; they feel that he has done much for them and are grateful for it."

Comments on his friendship with Chase and his appreciation for photography. Grateful for Chase's approval of his anti-slavery work, especially because Chase labored so long for the cause under equally difficult circumstances. Notes the reversal of opinion on abolition, attributing it to God. Acknowledges continuing prejudice and expects "insults and outrages" to continue to be perpetrated against African Americans. Believes America is moving towards justice. His wife, Helen Eliza Garrison, is receiving electrical treatments for paralysis.

Comments on Abraham Lincoln, President Andrew Johnson, and behaving graciously in political defeat. Believes Johnson needs to take "a Firmer tone with the South" to prevent difficult times for African Americans. Mentions citizenship rights for African Americans, social equality, and the poor logic of colonization. Touches on Irish independence.

Circulars and letters of receipt pertaining to the New England Freedman’s Aid Society (N. E. F. A. Society). Confirmation of the receipt of “valuable articles for Freedmen,” and socks which were forwarded to other teachers. Circulars include information about their organization and their goals as well as requests for money and supplies. “This Society was called into being by the exigency of the country in February, 1862. Its object is to help the Colored People of the South to live as Freemen, and in their destitute condition to alleviate the suffering consequent upon the sudden transition from slavery to freedom.” Announcing that the NEFAS has become an auxiliary of the Freedman and Union Commission.

Contracts for labor with a former slave, Reyton McCalley, "a comon…field hand upon a plantation," for the entire year of 1866. He will work "in the production of cotton and other agriculture."

Blank articles of agreement between Wilson, a former Confederate officer and slaveowner, and freedmen and women laboring on the plantation. The 1865 contract includes stipulations about days and times worked, behavior, having company, use of tools, etc. in exchange for dwellings, provisions, a share in the crops, and a set of shoes "in addition to the clothing which has already been furnished including the yarn already spun which the weaver on the plantation is to weave into cloth..." "... to be polite and respectful to the said J. S. Wilson and all the members of his white family..." The 1866 contract notes expectations for conduct, care of livestock and utensils, work hours, abiding by rules such as having no firearms, alcohol, and liquor, etc.. Further stipulations require following orders of Wilson or his foreman and allowing inspection of quarters at any time. Notes cause for deduction of wages and being discharged and what Wilson is to provide.

As a member of the School Committee of Newport, answering questions posed by Janes about African American students. 13 African American students enrolled, "and it gradually increases. It was advised by members of the committee that the introduction should be gradual." School attendance generally diminishing, but only "about a dozen" white children left directly due to African American attendance. No conflicts have been reported and believes integration beneficial to all. Believes existing laws, if properly followed, are sufficient to secure equal access to schools, and community opinion seems to be in favor. Integration first raised to the School Committee by "a colored citizen named Mitchell S. Haynes, who claimed the right to have his child admitted to the school nearest his residence." Accompanied by a ca. 1871 CDV portrait of Higginson.

Request from Wheeler, General Agent, to Reverend Briggs to have him speak at the freedmen’s meeting the following night in Maryville. Handwritten on printed United States Pacific Telegraph Company form that lists the terms and conditions of receiving, transmitting, and delivering messages.

Discusses tensions between slaves and former owners, and slaves traveling to Liberia; "I think any of those would be wise to go to a country where the mild and equable climate..."

Democrats as rebels; "There is Music in the old Name Democrat but here Democrat means Rebel." Mentions issues concerning the use of the terms 'white' and 'male' in the Michigan and Nevada Constitution. On "State of Nevada--Senate Chamber" printed stationery.