Biographical/historical information

William A. Patterson was born in Milton, Caswell County, NC, and was an equal partner in the commission merchant and grocer firm of Patterson and Hicks in Wilmington, NC. This collection is largely comprised of correspondence from Patterson to his sweetheart, Olivia Russell Hargrove, of Townesville, Granville County, NC. Patterson died in 1881.

Scope and arrangement

The letters describe various aspects of nineteenth century courtship, including the couple's meeting through friends and relatives, and a picnic in Townsville. Numerous letters mention tuberculosis and Patterson's experience with the disease, including weakness, chills, and coughing (August 16, 1879-September 8, 1881). The correspondence also describes traveling to the North Carolina towns that Patterson visited for his work, including Laurinburg, Lumberton, Turnpike, Wilson, and Tate Springs, where Patterson retreated to recover from his disease (June 27, 1881). Also mentioned are Patterson's Presbyterian faith and the weather.

Also included are Patterson's portrait, a newspaper clipping with Patterson's obituary, and religious cards.

Administrative information

Custodial History

January 9, 1996, 31 items; Correspondence (1879-1881) written from Wilmington, NC. Gift of Ms. Connie Henderson Fitz, South Pomfret, VT.

Source of acquisition

Gift of Ms. Connie Henderson Fitz

Processing information

Processed by David Adam, February 1997

Encoded by Apex Data Services

Copyright notice

Literary rights to specific documents are retained by the authors or their descendants in accordance with U.S. copyright law.

Metadata Rights Declaration

Key terms

Personal Names

Hargrove, Olivia Russell--Correspondence
Patterson, William A. -1881

Topical

Courtship--North Carolina
Tuberculosis--North Carolina

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