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Language Note: We recognize that items in this collection use outdated and/or racist language.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 Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; October 25, 1948

Edith Christine Faust

Christine writes about society around Saratoga Springs, including a recent auction of items owned by a formerly wealthy family, and discusses her recent visitors. She also mentions friends who are being stationed in Guam.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; October 25, 1948

Edith Christine Faust

Christine writes about society around Saratoga Springs, including a recent auction of items owned by a formerly wealthy family, and discusses her recent visitors. She also mentions friends who are being stationed in Guam.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; September 13, 1948

Edith Christine Faust

Christine writes to Pauline and tells her about a Scottish festival she and Woody went to with the Traceys. There were lots of singing and bagpipe playing. Martha also came for a visit but she did not get to go to the festival. She will send pictures when Woody's photos develop.
Letter from Christine Faust to Pauline Smith; September 13, 1948

Edith Christine Faust

Christine writes to Pauline and tells her about a Scottish festival she and Woody went to with the Traceys. There were lots of singing and bagpipe playing. Martha also came for a visit but she did not get to go to the festival. She will send pictures when Woody's photos develop.
Letter from Pauline Smith to Martha Smith; August 2, 1948

Edith Christine Faust

Pauline writes to Martha to update her on different things in her life around Pittsboro, including an engagement story, birthday presents, and other social events.
Letter from Pauline Smith to Martha Smith; August 2, 1948

Edith Christine Faust

Pauline writes to Martha to update her on different things in her life around Pittsboro, including an engagement story, birthday presents, and other social events.
Letter from Mrs. Faust to Pauline Smith; May 23, 1948

Mrs. Faust

Mrs. Faust expresses concern for Pauline hoping she will get well soon and brags on Christine's cooking after visiting them.
Letter from Mrs. Faust to Pauline Smith; May 23, 1948

Mrs. Faust

Mrs. Faust expresses concern for Pauline hoping she will get well soon and brags on Christine's cooking after visiting them.
Letter from Mary Goar to Pauline Smith; May 24, 1948

Mary Goar

Mary writes to Pauline and wishes her well. She tells her that her husband lost his job at Parchman.
Letter from Mary Goar to Pauline Smith; May 24, 1948

Mary Goar

Mary writes to Pauline and wishes her well. She tells her that her husband lost his job at Parchman.