F.E. Griffith Family Correspondence (Sandwich)

Collection

Identifier: RHC-RC-089

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The Griffith Family Papers collection is a three generation chronicle of the Frank E. Griffith family containing letters, photographs, and legal documents dating from the late 1700's to 1938. The major series of this collection consists of letters Frank Griffith sent home during his military service in the Civil War (1862-1865), and several letters from other family members. These letters are a unique primary source providing insights on the Union Army attitudes and revealing the struggles between family members during war-time separation. A songbook, poetry, and recipes complete the collection. The original Griffith Family correspondence located in Box 2 is not open to the public. Researchers will use photocopies and typed transcripts of the original letters.

Dates

created: 1794-1938
Other: Date acquired: 03/14/1980

Conditions Governing Access

There are no restrictions on access to the collection.

Conditions Governing Use

Property rights in the collection are held by the Regional History Center; literary rights are dedicated to the public.

Biographical or Historical Information

Frank Elnathan Griffith and his wife, Thankful Myers, lived in East Concord and later Evans, Erie County, New York. During the Civil War Frank Griffith served with Company K. of the 116th Regiment of the New York State Volunteer Infantry, primarily in the vicinity of New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Louisiana. After being wounded in April 1864, Griffith was transferred to the Invalid Corps and finished his tour of duty in Washington, D.C. The family moved to Sandwich, DeKalb County, Illinois in 1876. Frank and Thankful had one son, Edwin Clare, and four daughters Carrie Annette, Gertrude Mary, Cora Elsie, and Harriet, the eldest two “Nettie” and “Gertie” are mentioned in the letters. Mr. Griffith was employed as a carpenter and contractor. On March 23, 1877 Griffith helped found the Excelsior Lodge No. 67 of the Ancient Order of United Workmen (A.O.U.W.) in Sandwich, Illinois. He was a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, Sandwich Post, No. 510 . Frank E. Griffith died November 17, 1921 at the age of 86.

Note written by

Extent

0.75 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Source of Acquisition

Mr. William C. Burrows

Method of Acquisition

Mr. William C. Burrows donated the Griffith Family Papers to the Northern Illinois Regional History Center on March 14, 1980.

Existence and Location of Originals

The original Griffith Family correspondence located in Box 2 is not open to the public. Researchers will use photocopies and typed transcripts of the original letters.