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Anecdote by William Bosson (1806-1887) about seeking refuge with Major General G. H. Thomas in McMinnville, Tennessee, when he was "escaping beyond the reach of arrest by the rebel authorities." Major General D. C. Buell led the Army Corps with General Thomas as his second in command. They oversaw the left wing and first Division of the Army of Ohio. The right wing was at Deckard. General D.C. Buell's military decisions leading to the Battle of Perryville, October 8, 1862. Conversation with General Thomas asking him why he declined to accept an assignment as commander of the Army of Ohio on September 29, 1862. General Thomas told him he declined to lead the army because the army was "somewhat demoralized" after its long journey from Tennessee to Kentucky and a change in leadership would not have a bearing on the outcome of the army's work "protecting Louisville & Cincinnati & driving the Confederates from Kentucky." Bosson describes this act as "characteristic of the true Patriot who would risque nothing to gratify his personal ambition as a soldier." [Note: Transcription on page 45].

Typed transcriptions of two letters on page 42. The second letter is not completely transcribed and continues on page 43.

Typed transcription of the end of letter 2 and the entirety of letter 3 on page 42. Typed note by Robert Newland Bosson: Thomas was wrong about Andrew Johnson's impeachment.

Typed transcription of William Bosson's anecdote on page 42.

Letter with an enclosed "circular calling a meeting" in Nashville commemorating Thomas. Letter conveys that William Bosson (1806-1887) as well as friends in Tennessee are invited to honor him in the capital. The committee also invites Bosson to deliver an address.

Letter 3 of 3, page 46: William Bosson (1806-1887) presumably wrote George Henry Thomas a letter about a Murfreesboro riot and the spread of the "the Secret Society of the Ku Klux." Thomas is not authorized to aid civil authorities with troops. He assures Bosson that Bosson's letters and those of others in Tennessee about the conduct of the Ku Klux have been sent to the "General Command of the Army." Thomas writes that he will act if he is instructed to by the General.

Letter 2 of 3, page 46: Writes to William Bosson (1806-1887) that he has enclosed a certificate of claim for Miss McElvaine regarding "occupation of her property, as well as to her loyalty." Thomas expresses hope that Unionism and the laws of Congress that follow the "reconstruction of the Southern States" will "prevail" and take hold in Tennessee. Closes, noting to Bosson that he looks forward to having him visit.

Letter 1 of 3, page 46: Writes William Bosson (1806-1887) in Tennessee, answering Bosson's questions about the coal mine Thomas acquired in Nashville. Thomas expresses satisfaction with the quality and proximity of the Nashville coal over coal produced in Sewanee. Thomas explains that building a railroad track to the nearest Nashville and Chattanooga R.R. track (a few miles) or to Stevenson, Alabama (10 miles) will be the next step to allowing the coal to reach the market. Thomas expresses preference for building to Stevenson as it will allow for independence from Nashville and Chattanooga R.R. and M & C. [NB: Appears to be either requesting aid from the state or from Bosson on behalf of the state to build a railroad route and to be placed on the "same footing" as other mines in the state, which would mean being able to ship coal on any state railroad with "the terms that are granted the most favored mines." He argues that this will allow for future benefits as his company will be able to quickly accumulate the money they borrow from the State to build the railroads.] Tells Bosson he doesn't have any aspirations for Presidency, as he considers himself underqualified given his lack of experience with State "affairs," but he appreciates the high regard for his army experience that led to the suggestion. Mentions that this is the first time he has been asked about the situation and asks that Bosson convey his feelings on his behalf to Tennessee citizens: "As you have afforded me the first opportunity, that I have received from any source, to express my sentiments on the subject, I avail myself of it, and not only authorize, but desire you to make them knows to the Citizens of Tennessee at least."

Typed transcription of letters 1 and 2 on page 46.

Typed transcriptions of letters on page 46.