Ritchie, Anna Cora Mowatt, 1819-1870

Scope and Contents From the Collection: The nucleus of this collection was created from papers given to the Association by Ann Pamela Cunningham around the time of her retirement as Regent. Several other Vice Regents followed her example and later donated their papers as well. These records were referred to as the “Early Records” since the time they were first established as an archival collection. A large portion of this collection is correspondence concerning the founding of the MVLA and the operation of Mount Vernon as a...

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A.L.S. In the writing of a secretary, signed by Ann Pamela Cunningham. Philadelphia. Letter saying that the Mount Vernon Ladies Association had funds to make the final installment for the purchase of the estate which was not due until 22 Feb. 1862; however, they would use those funds to make needed restoration and maintenance. Miss Cunningham feared donation would not continue if the sale was finalized so far ahead of schedule. RM-977, MS-5585. 4 pp.

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Draft. Discusses how to best approach John Augustine Washington concerning Mount Vernon, his dislike of the publication of stories and letters about Mount Vernon so far, and his desire to sell to Virginia. ER-11, p. 9. Undated 012.

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Draft letter in writing of a secretary, dictated from Miss Cunningham's "sick bed." Discusses Miss Cunningham's ill health and the efforts of Edward Everett for Mount Vernon. ER-1, p. 45. Undated 035.

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A.L.S. Marked "Private." Postmarked December 3, 1858 on envelope. MSS-630a

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A.L. 4 pp. retained copy. Miss Cunningham appeals to Mrs. Ritchie to enlist her aid in the "cause." She cites the fine work of North Carolina and Georgia. of Mrs. Mead and Mrs. Randolph Harrison; Virginia's inactivity; the "chilling" effects of John A. Washington's published letter. She requests that her "incognito" be preserved. ER-1-27

Scope and Contents From the Collection: The Historical Photograph Collection is largely comprised of materials created by or for the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association. Some of the earliest photographs of the estate were created and sold to visitors by the Association as a means of income. Those efforts helped to establish an important collection of 19th century views. The collection spans the 1850s to 2000s and includes over 140 linear feet of analog material providing a visual history of the Mansion, outbuildings, tombs, grounds,...

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A.L.S. with typed transcript. Richmond. Receives Appeals. Mrs. Eve's "sublime letter" enclosed proving first assn. was started in Ga. which Mrs. R. did not know, regrets deeply her published statement that Virginia was first state to act. ER-3, p. 197

Scope and Contents A.L.S. Richmond. Re VR- Ill, Mrs. Dodson's work. Mr. Hite (?), a Virginia application for superintendent; Mrs. Fogg (VR-Tenn) writes re Record; Mrs. Hoffman, Davenport writes of interest in Iowa; Miss Hamilton (NY) asks about tableaux "The Innocent Child" and reports difficulties with Academy of Music benefit performance; "Panorama of China and Australia" in Richmond not successful financially; have 60 subscription books distributed, sends Record to each worker; sends Regent newspaper...

Scope and Contents A.L.S. and typed transcript. Richmond. Sends Mr. Riggs $650 collected in state; wishes information about VR for Pennsylvania for publication; Dr. Dove wants VR-Ga to reach Grand Master of Masonic Lodge; suggestion for furthering work with other Masonic Lodges; suggestion for VR in Oregon; expresses admiration for Mrs. Eve; first Grand Council called after taking possession of MV; urges Regent to consider carefully the future and seek counsel wisely; difficulties with Savannah group. ER-3, p....

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A.L.S. Astoria, Long Island. Two letters, one a continuation of the other upon receiving a letter from Mary McMakin. Regarding the death of her father. Sends lists to be printed in Record. ER-3, p. 205

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A.L. Astoria. Reports grand success of Astoria entertainment, repeated twice. ER-3, p. 171

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A.L.S. 8 pp. General discussion and criticism of the new State Association of Virginia. Requests the Regent to send a few lines of report to the Messenger and to Godeys, until the Richmond matter is settled. ER-3 p. 16

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A.L.S. 4 pp. She reports attending two meetings of State Commitee; disapproves of reorganization; She will continue to work but not as an officer; State Committee plans to publish proceedings and constitution in a pamphlet for national distribution. Publicity continues in Messenger and also through Miss Hale. The Regent's official letter was received by the Committee. Has given the Post Office orders for delivery of mail for the defunct Central Committee of the Union. ER-3-14ER-3-14

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A.L.S. Re: passage of Bill in spite of Mr. Taylor's opposition. Delay dangerous as Virginia legislature may adjourn in 2 days. Plans to stir up apathetic workers when Bill passes. Mr. Everett may speak in Philadelphia en route to Richmond. Urges Regent to have personal interview with Everett. ER-3, p. 47

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A.L.S. Encloses letter of introduction to Mr. Everett from Mr. Ritchie. Enlists editor J.A. Thompson's efforts to reach Mr. Everett. Mrs. Pellet of Central Committee, Richmond, extends Mr. Everett invitation to lecture. Mrs. R's musicale ends with efforts to enlist Gov. Floyd and others in Bill. Legislature remains in session till March 19, Mrs. Ritchie will go to Capitol when Bill comes up. ER-3, p. 49

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A.L.S. Mount Vernon Bill passed both Houses with only 2 dissenting votes. Mr. Langfitt presented Bill. Ladies attended both Houses in a body. Detailed description of way opposition was overcome. ER-3, p. 57

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A.L.S. Asks for a rough copy of a letter re: contract, for the newspapers. ER-3, p. 59

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A.L.S. Philadelphia. Refers to "Enquirer" article. Receipt of a large package of MVLA papers from Miss Lawson with no explanation for sending them. Writes at length on motives of cause, in form of a few thoughts thrown together for an address to be published in religious periodicals. ER-3. p. 81

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A.L.S Richmond. Encloses a letter from Mr. Everett: invitations for 22nd not yet out; Mount Vernon cause to be presented at Winchester Masonic Lodge; Gen. Chapman and Mr. Ward (legislator) Masonic committee to call on Regent; selling pictures; Dr. Dove will call on Regent; sends Regent a "book." ER-3, p. 111

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A.L.S. fragment of letter. Re: Mr. Everett and his lecture; selling tickets; Mr. Yancy will not speak; guards at Mount Vernon paid $1 per day selling pictures. No carriages on Mount Vernon grounds the 22nd. ER-3, p. 113

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A.L.S. Washington? Mr. Booth's matinee for Mount Vernon - reference to another benefit. ER-3, p. 122

Scope and Contents A.L.S. Astoria, Long Island, NY. re appointments of VRs. Best advisers say facts rather thatn a defense of J.A. Washington should be given. Sent VRs Miss Hamilton's system, has distributed Records; does not consent to publication of her letter re Miss Hamilton, but an article may be written by Christie Johnson from this letter - Miss Hamilton's constant efforts for MV - Disapproves Regent's wish to open an office in Philadelphia. Reports activity of workers in Astoria and Ravenswood. Mrs....

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A.L.S. Richmond. Sends Mr. Riggs $441.25 including Dr. Dove's contribution. Difficulties in crediting Masonic contributions. ER-36, p. 203

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A.L.S. 3 pp. Editors of Literary Messenger deliver addresses on Mount Vernon Association, February 22, with appeal for purchase of Mount Vernon. Begs Regent to write clearly so there will be no misunderstandings, ER-3-9

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A.L.S. 4 pp. Mrs. Ritchie, Mrs. Pellet and others canvas Richmond for funds; circulars sent to prominent men; other publicity. Despairs of understanding discussion on constitution. Dissatisfaction with two committees. ER-3-10

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A.L.S. 6 pp. The circulars requested were sent; refers to lack of harmony in the Association and advises turning all "motives" into benefit work for Mount Vernon; appointment of honorary members; reports on various individuals helping Mount Vernon; Mrs. Hale, Lady's Book continues to give space to Mount Vernon. ER-3-11

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A.L.S. 6 pp. "Projected Movements" in Richmond and St. Louis; re: fundraising. Mrs. John Tyler asked to serve on a committee. Mrs. Ritchie declines to be president of central committee, will serve as secretary. ER-3 p. 25

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A.L.S. Richmond. Governor Wise's letter published with general satisfaction; encloses some clippings. Regent and Mrs. Ritchie disagree on Governor's attitude toward Mr. Everett. Mr. Tyler publishes his lecture. ER-3, p. 72

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A.L.S. Richmond. Hastens to send John Augustine Washington's letter and Mr. Ritchie's answer, with request she return them promptly. ER-3, p. 109