Cunningham, Ann Pamela, 1816-1875

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A.L.S. 4 p. Charleston. Thanks him for his opinion of Mr. Ritchie's criticism of the Charter, requests from him a clear statement of the terms on which he is willing to dispose of Mount Vernon. Warns him of the prejudice and ignorance of the "Masses of the Community" and assures him that she will spare no effort to protect his reputation from such prejudice. RM-523, ER-4229

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A.L.S. 4 p. Charleston. Alludes to her efforts with Mr. Everett and Mr. and Mrs. Ritchie and their earnest desire for his cooperation in the cause. ER-4230, RM-523

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A.L.S. Charleston. Apologizes for confusion corrected by her correspondence with many other parties concerning the Association and negotiations for acquisition of Mount Vernon. Suggests some minor revisions in the draft of the contract or terms of sale. Expresses surprise at the offer of the Agriculture Society to buy the estate. ER-4232, RM-523

Scope and Contents A.L.S. 10 p. Charleston. Writes to reassure him about rumors and published accounts questioning his motives in the matter of the sale of Mount Vernon; accusations that he has neglected the estate and that he is attempting to "speculate in the bones of his ancestors." She assures him that she has been active in his defense and points out the malice and ignorance of his detractors. Mentions the private offer of $300,000. The Virginia Bill and the proposal of the Agricultural Society. RM-523,...

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A.L.S. Mount Vernon. Requests his cooperation in certain financial transactions, mentions the new insight she has gained during her residence at Mount Vernon. RM-523, ER-4271, 4 p.

Scope and Contents A.L.S. Marked "Private." Thanks him for the papers he previously forwarded. Discusses the importance of protecting the Mansion from fire and mentions a suggestion from a Vice Regent to photograph each room to ensure they could be properly reconstructed if necessary. Discusses the best time to take possession of the property. Speaks of the politics between the North and South, and certain "warlike intentions on the future on an Asso'n of women!!" She goes on "As if man ever came off conqueror...

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A.L.S. Philadelphia. In order to make final settlement without jeopardizing the opportunity to raise further funds for maintenance of property, she proposes that the terms be consummated privately and the contract placed in the hands of a third party. RM-523, ER-4270

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A.L.S. Describes plans to approach John Augustine Washington concerning their efforts to raise money for Mount Vernon. Says "a lady could do what would be denied a gentleman - especially if it be to speak for her sex on such a subject too!" ER-1, p. 13. Undated 007.

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A.L.S. Discusses efforts on behalf of the Mount Vernon cause and in the Virginia legislature. ERL-31. Undated 008.

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A.L.S. Discusses the publication of her letter to John Augustine Washington and comments by Mrs. Hale on the subject. ER-1, p. 23. Undated 005

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Draft letter signed. Not addressed to Gilmer but thought to be written to him. Discusses the worries and efforts she has experienced in creating the Ladies Association. Mentions her mother wanting the Association to be only for southern ladies. ER-1, p. 11. Undated 006

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A.L.S. 4 pp. The publication of John A. Washington's decision is depressing. Reports activities by Mrs. Harrison and others. ER-1-11

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A.L.S. 4 pp. Miss Cunningham regrets the delay in publications as she fears it may lose help and support. The Mausoleum project is secondary. ER-1-13

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A.L.S. 4 pp. Miss Cunningham hopes for notice in the January number of Lady's Book. She relies on Mr. Gilmer's advice and efforts in securing Mount Vernon. For her own information she asks for copies of letters sent out regarding Mount Vernon. ER-1-17

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A.L.S. 4 pp. Expresses appreciation of his devotion to the cause. Miss Hale of Lady's Book called and approved "my letter." Some Washington cousins offer their influence with John A. Washington. Mrs. McFarland offers piece of first coffin in which George Washington was buried. ER-1-15

Scope and Contents A.L.S. 4 pp. Discusses Virgini'as place in the Association. Gives directions to Vice Regents in Pennsylvania and Georgia. Savannah's response is favorable. Official publications are now needed also February 22nd celebrations. Severe illnesses are alwasy delaying her plans. South Carolina and Alabama are inactive; Mrs. Harrison gives reason for Virginia's apathy. Is weighed down by responsibility of undertaking and worker's dependence on her. She regrets the publication of John A....

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A.L.S. 4 pp. She sends a letter to Mrs. Ritchie through Mr. Gilmer; thinks that her abilities will be a great asset to the Association. Richmond committee inactive - a new one may bring better results - one thousand publications are ready for the north - Only personal appeals bring results. ER-1-27

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A.L.S. 4 pp. Reports that Mrs. Dickinson, Vice Regent for North Carolina raised twelve dollars. Expresses despair over Mr. John A. Washington's letter. She wishes to enlist Mrs. Ritchie's talents. One thousand Mount Vernon pamphlets printed for distribution - were donated by a gentleman. ER-1-25

Scope and Contents A.L.S. 7 pp. Impatient over the delay in distributing the one thousand publications - Richmond committee's inactivity and delay in sending material to Lady's Book - Discusses published answer to John A. Washington - Insists Virginia must lead as "Mother State" - Declares that a "full purse" not merits count now - Central Committee includes "Richmond Committee" and Virginia Ladies - She commends Mrs. Ritchie's energy and practical ideas; urges wider publicity through newspapers, especially in...

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A.L.S. 6 pp. John A. Washington insists on the publication of her original letter - Gives causes of and remedies for Gilmer's substitute letter which she had not seen before publication - Declares time has come for more formal organization, for corresponding and recording secretaries and adequate publicity. ER-1-31

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14 pp. Replies to his desire to have a more organized Association. ER-1-37

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A.L.S. Acknowledgement of his gift to MVLA Endowment Fund of $500 bond of Portland and Rochester Railroad. ER-19, p. 129

Scope and Contents A.L. Draft, not complete. Appeal through Mr. Fourney. Cites how Assn. met terms of purchase contract signed April 1858, when $18,000 was paid. 1st installment due Dec.2, 1858, paid Jan.1., 1859, $57,000; 2nd installment due Feb.22, 1860 already paid $25,000. $15,000 now invested a 6%; large sums collected in various states. Expects $150,000 to be paid J.A.W. on Feb 22, 1859, leaving balance on purchase price $50,000 to be raised. Lists various types of people contributing. ER-11, p....

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Wishes her to become Vice Regent for Pennsylvania and to ensure that Mount Vernon and the goals of the Association become known there.

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Sending papers pertaining to her appointment as Vice Regent for Pennsylvania. “The object of the Association is to secure perpetual guardianship for Mt. Vernon, that it may be kept national property sacred for all time, to the memory of the Father of our Country.” The most important duty is to collect money from her state to pay for the estate. Names of each contributor is to be sent to the regent and published in a newspaper. Discusses the Mount Vernon Record publication.

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Thanks her for agreeing to be Vice Regent for Pennsylvania and wishes her much success in her endeavors.

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Sends her a slip from a New York newspaper about a reception there. Wants it returned as she’s saving it for future generations. Also tells her that another payment was made on Mount Vernon. Reminds her that the contents of the letter are private.

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Letter is about the construction of a new wharf at Mount Vernon, due to the unsafe condition of the present one. Mr. Washington had said that all money from the steam boat company should go to the Association from the signing of the contract. General Meigs was consulted and chose the $2800 contract. Needs the approval of the Vice Regent.

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Says she has been ill and treated maliciously. Wants her remarks added to official records. Can’t understand her treatment by others.

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A.L.S. Philadelphia. Resignation of Mrs. P.H. Dickinson as the North Carolina Vice-Regent. Purchase of Mt. Vernon lacks only $41,666.66. Asks Mrs. Morehead Walker to become N.C. Vice-Regent, that North Carolina might be spurred to participate in the final phases of purchasing Mt. Vernon. A-761