Washington, Eleanor Love Selden, 1824-1860

A.L.S. Expresses her desire to see Mount Vernon perserved and is willing to try and raise money to accomplish this. She sees this as a duty for American women. Draft and transcription of the letter in separate folders.

The Historical Photograph Collection is largely comprised of materials created by or for the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association. Photographers primarily include staff members and contract photographers. The collection spans the 1930s to the 2000s and includes analog material made up of a variety of sizes of film negatives providing a visual history of the Mansion, outbuildings, tombs, grounds, events, visitors, collection objects, personnel, restoration, and changes throughout the estate.

This collection includes correspondence between John Augustine Washington III and his mother and wife, as well as other family members, mostly dealing with family matters and running Mount Vernon.

Draft in writing of John Augustine Washington III. Addressed to "Miss Cunningham" but could also be a response to Louisa Cunningham's letter instead of Ann Pamela Cunningham. Praises the women of the south for their affection for Washington. Does not wish to dispose of the property except to the government of the United States or Virginia and so declines the proposition from the “Ladies of the South.”

Draft thought to be in the writing of Jane C.B. Washington. Identical text to previous letter (draft in the hand of John Augustine Washington III).

Baltimore to Mount Vernon. Lloyd tells Nelly to take a train when she visits, as she and the children will be more comfortable. Gives news of various family members.

Baltimore to Mount Vernon. Lloyd writes that she will send Louisa’s bonnet. Shares news about Fanny Lee and Hannah Stuart. Has made a beautiful purse for Augustine.

To Mount Vernon. She will delay her visit to Mount Vernon until they return from Jefferson. Hopes the children and Clara can stay with her until their return.

Lloyd writes that she wants to visit, but Nelly need not trouble herself about her. “I am entirely ready with my little things.” The new stove is giving them nicer bread than before.

Very crowded there – many children; many family greetings.

Sorry to hear of his illness; wants him to come up.

Disappointed in trip to Walnut Farm. Supposes Augustine has arrived at Mount Vernon. Death of Mrs. Mason.

After receiving her father’s permission to respond to Augustine’s letter, she writes that she has never before attempted such a letter. Expresses her feelings for him.

Aunt Eliza doing well. Nelly went to hear Hertz play: He is “one of the most celebrated performers on the piano.” Does not understand Anne’s letter.

Short letter. Chastises Augustine for not writing. Asks “is it because your wife is not of sufficient importance to you to write to her.”

“I shall be ready to go any day that you can come for me.” Asks for mutton suet and cat mint.

“Our dear child is quite well again [Louisa].” Hopes to hear from Augustine soon. Postscript, “Dear little Molly [Mary Selden Page] continues I think to improve.”

Short letter. Aunt Eliza gave birth to a girl yesterday, about three o’clock.

Family news. Asks Augustine set a date for her to return to Mount Vernon.

Arrived Thursday evening. Requests more money to buy things for the winter. Mentions Aunt Maria, Rebecca and Dr. Tabb, and Aunt Eliza.

Daughter Eliza sick past ten days. “Louisa and Jenny talk incessantly about you.” Nelly has been walking a good deal.

If Augustine is detained, their separation will be nearly three weeks. Delivered messages to Dick. Recent storm caused flooding and destroyed fencing.

Bridal party arrived [for wedding of Christian Maria and Richard Washington]. Asks Augustine to get a new pair of boots or have his mended.

Augustine’s last letter dated the 10th. Pleased he employed a white overseer.

No time fixed for Dick’s [Richard Washington] marriage. Will Augustine get the baby a pair of shoes? Penciled note by Augustine possibly noting property lines.

Discusses weather. Mr. Stuart arrived. “Louisa has completely retrieved her character since you left.” Letter continues September 2nd. Nelly “left Blakeley yesterday morning to spend this week with Aunt Maria and Anne.

Delivery and payment of wheat. Louisa is well. Christian Washington already named her daughter Elizabeth. Old Mr. [John] Sinclair died and his slaves are to be sold.

Daughter Jenny [Jane Charlotte Washington] sick with fever and welts.

Daughter Jenny and other family members illl. Cousin Thomas and Noblet returned last week. Postscript asking for money for children’s dresses.

Discusses harvest and rain. Jack and Anne drove up this morning. “If there are any damsons, I wish you would have some preserved.”