Ellard-Murphree-Pilgreen-Smith Family Papers Collection

The majority of the contents of the Ellard-Murphree-Pilgreen-Smith Collection (referred to as the “Smith Family Papers”) includes letters and diaries among family members and friends, with most letters from members of the Smith Family--Pauline and Sam H, and their children, Bernice, Christine, Martha, and Sam E (or “Sonny Boy.”). The geographic center of the collection is Pittsboro (or Calhoun County) Mississippi, where the family maintained their home since 1914, and where Pauline wrote most of her letters. Several letters from Jackson, MS are from Sam H. Smith, who was a state senator between 1932 and 1936. Letters to and from Columbus, MS are from Bernice, Christine, and Martha, who each attended the Mississippi State College for Women between approximately 1931 and 1938. As Pauline and Sam H. grow older and continue to write from Mississippi, the children move around the country, and with a few military appointments, around the world. The letters reflect this.

Language Note: We recognize that items in this collection use outdated and/or racist language. Unless otherwise noted, this is the language used by the record creator(s) and not imposed by the Beulah Culbertson Archives and Special Collections. Visit our website to read our harmful language policy.

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Letter from Joe Andrews to Bernice Smith; January 15, 1945

Joe Andrews

Joe says Bernice has hurt his feelings by not writing to him anymore.
Letter from Jesse Ellard to Martha Smith; May 21, 1945

Jesse Ellard

Jesse tells Christine that he is sorry to hear about Christine's miscarriage. He describes his location in the Philippines, the attractiveness of the people and their skin color, how the area has been bombed by Americans. He recalls a brutal scene of dead soldiers, and asks Martha if is dating anyone.
Letter from Jesse Ellard to Sam H. and Pauline Smith; August 8, 1945

Jesse Ellard

Jesse writes his aunt and uncle about being in Japan. He gives his opinon of Japanese soldier fighting strategies, and he describes some of the horrors he has seen. He also speaks ill of the indigenous people, saying they are dirty and ignorant, and he describes their burial practices.
Letter from Christine Faust to Martha Smith; April 1, 1945

Edith Christine Faust

Christine writes about her activities while staying with her parents. She discusses family and neighbors and expresses a wish to return home.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; April 16,1945

Edith Christine Faust

Pauline expresses her emotions following the death of President Roosevelt, and her intentions to get a graduation gift for Bob.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; April 9, 1945

Edith Christine Faust

Christine tells her mother about an alumni luncheon she went to.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; August 16, 1945

Edith Christine Faust

Christine and Woody are visiting the Fausts in Pennsylvania. The people in the town are very excited that the war is over. She describes the town and people to her mother, and says she doesn't feel at home even though everyone is nice.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; August 26, 1945

Edith Christine Faust

Christine describes her trip to Pennsylvania, from her travel woes to meeting Woody's family members, their customs and accents. While visiting, an older aunt passed away. There was a Victory over Japan Day celebration in town, and they sell their car. Because of the trip to Pennsylvania, they won't be able to visit Pauline in Mississippi.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; December 29, 1945

Edith Christine Faust

Christine tells her mother what all she and her husband got for Christmas, thanking her for what she sent.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; December 3, 1945

Edith Christine Faust

Christine has moved apartments, and describes the process. She remarks that tourist season in Miami has started, which has also brought in more crime. She describes her work at the Red Cross.