Items

• Letter to Richard Gwyn from his brother H(ugh) Gwyn
  Letter to Richard Gwyn from his brother H(ugh) Gwyn in Chatham Hill Virginia Chatham Hill, Virginia, December 26th, 1902, Dear Bro: I will try to answer your letter and send the Church deed back to you I will sign and you can witness it My time as Admr has expired long ago but as there is no date about signing suppose deed will be good. We are having the first cold weather we have had this winter. We have had a fine fall and winter so far have not had to feed much yet it was well enough too for our crops were so poor if we had had to feed much we would not have been able to winter much stock. I am not trying to winter as many cattle as I will want in the spring they are very scarce and high. We are all well, so are all the kin No news every thing seems to be dragging along in the same old way. This year (1902) has been the hardest it has ever been since we lived here. All crops failed cattle did not put on much. If it had not been for the high prices we would have lost money as it was I made but mightly little. Hope you made a good crop and getting on well. Did you ever pay interest on Wythe Graham's note he said some thing to me about it some time ago I promised to write you but did not. Now it you have not could you do so at once. I was in hopes I could make you all a visit last fall while Carrie was away or after she came back but always find so much that ought to be done and do so very little that I find it hard to get away. Can't you all come over and see us. Much love to all, Your Bro, H. Gwyn -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter from W.B. Graham to Richard Gwyn
  Letter from W.B. Graham in Max Meadows Virginia to Richard Gwyn Max Meadow, Virginia, September 2nd, 1902, Mr. R. L. Gwyn, Mount Airy, North Carolina, Dear richard: Zeb is in west end of county looking after some young cattle. So I conclude to write you. I have concluded not to buy & mix ingredients. It is difficult to get it uniformly mixed. I use a fertilizer containing Phosphoric Acid 8 per cent Ammonia 2 per cent & potash 2 per cent. It is animal bone & potashcompound manufactured by Baugh & Son Baltimore, Maryland. It costs delivered about $19.50 per ton. Over at the other house (Hull Place) they mix 2 sacks of acid phosphate (South Carolina rock) with one of Bone meal. With one sack of this mixture they put about 20 pounds of potash or a sack of muriate of potash to a ton of the mixture. The acid phosphate costs about $13 per ton. The Bone meal about $25.50 per ton, & the muriate of potash about $45 per ton. Bone meal is more prolonged in its effect and will tend to improve clay land. On your sandy soil I hardly believe it will give results as satisfactory as over here. The bone meal is used principally for the ammonia it yields. I believe it would be better you use a fertilizer that will respond quickly & fully. The fertilizer I use is manufactured by Baugh & Son expressly for wheat. It is called Baugh's wheat fertilizer & sometimes known as Baugh's animal bone & potash compound. The establishment is in the city of Baltimore. Hoping you are all well I remain As ever, Yours truly, W. B. Graham -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter from J.M. Gwyn to Richard Gwyn
  Letter from J.M. Gwyn in Chatham Hill Virginia to Richard Gwyn Chatham, Virginia, February 18, 1902, Dear Brother, your letter to hand some days ago glad to hear you are all well. We are having a very cold winter some four inches Snow amd a high wind fortunately I have plenty of feed for once and full supply of cattle have engauged my cattle for fall delivery at a fine price selling 225 head export cattle. The greatest job we have now is to feed those cattle in all 500 head when we have snow it is difficult to feed enough. You wrote me about selling the timber in Virginia. Timber here is very high and advancing lands have also greatly advanced so it depends much upon the price offered for the timber I do not think lumber will ever be worth less than now it seems to me it would be best to sell timber and then the land afterwards. Tis fine tobacco land and I see leaf tob is selling for a fine price I would like to come over in spring and have an estimate made on timber can you have that done if so the trees ought to be marked when it is done. Hugh and all are well just come up fm Mr. Mergen or Morgan. Mally or Molly has a little boy all are well as usual. You said you would ship me some Tob on Martins apc send it on I can use some of it right now I see probable Congress may reduce the price on Tax on tob. soon. We are getting small pox scattered through the co see a great deal of it through Virginia. Let Genie & Jo come and see hope you are well send Tob. soon as possible to do so my love to all Yours, J. M. Gwyn -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Envelope addressed to Mr. R.L. Gwyn
  Envelope addressed to Mr. R.L. Gwyn postmarked Marion Virginia -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter from W.B. Graham to Richard Gwyn
  Letter from W.B. Graham to Richard Gwyn Max Meadow, Virginia, April 25th, 1901, Dear Richard: Yours received. From what I can learn about the land. I think you would do well to sell the land at the price you speak of (6000.). You have been trying to sell a long time and if you now have a fair offer I would let it go. We are well as usual. The weather is unusually cold & backward. Farmers are being thrown very much behind. I have never known a Spring as backward. A few daysago we had the biggest kind of a freshet followed by snow. All the streams were higher than known for years. New River was higher than since'78 (the highest ever known) and immense damage done rail road bridges & farms along these streams. Can't you get over to see us or have you abandoned , for good. that idea? Yours as ever, W. B. Graham -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter from W.B. Graham to Richard Gwyn
  Letter from W.B. Graham to Richard Gwyn Max Meadow, Virginia, January 11th 1901, Mr. R. L. Gwyn, Mount Airy, North Carolina, Dear Richard: Your favor of 8th inst. received. You are in a position to know more about what to do with the landed property you speak of than possibly could be expected of us and of you can get the price (or near it) per acre for the merchantable lumber ($3.) I would think you would do well to let it go -- espically as you seem to think there would be no difficulty in getting $3. per acre for the Land. Timbered Land over here -- that is wild land, is hard to dispose of at any price after it is stripped of its timber. From what you say I suppose this is the best opportunity you have ever had of selling. We are all well. We hope Joe will get better of his rheumatism. Write us letting us know how he gets on. Mrs. Tate, as you doubtless have heard, has Typhoid Fever. I have been out there. Her situation was a little dangerous about 12 days ago: but she has been improving since then. She has every attention. We heard from her yesterday (10th) & she still improves & prospects are now all favorable for her speedy recovery. I was also to see Hugh. He was complaining some of cold. I suppose he is well by this time. Ride over to see us if none of the others can at present come. We would like to see you. Hope the children can get over to see us after the winter. Hoping you a happy new year & with love to all. I am ever yours, W. B. Graham, -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter to Richard Gwyn from his brother H(ugh) Gwyn
  Letter to Richard Gwyn from his brother H(ugh) Gwyn in Chatham Hill Virginia Chatham Hill, Virginia, April 28, 1899, Dear Bro R., Yours received in reply will say. Jno and I both think had better sell the Virginia land if you can get the price you name. Hope the other heirs will agree to it. Was glad to hear from you all. We are all well. No news. We have just got rid of the biggest snow we have had for the season. I had just turned out all my cattle a few days before it came and was nearly out of feed so it took scraping to feed them till it went off but they are al O.K. now plenty of grass &c. Come over to see us this summer bring Justin and children. Love to all, your bro, H. Gwyn, -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter to Richard Gwyn from his sister Ginnie Graham
  Letter to Richard Gwyn from his sister Ginnie Graham Dear bro Richard: Joe has shown me the papers which you want me to sign. I am willing to help you. My interest in the home place you told me was worth $2000 and I told you I would be perfectly satisfied with $1800 and have your note for this amount dated 8 of March 1899. I would rather not sign the papers you sent me as it would show that I had been paid up in full. I propose to do this for my interest in the N. C. land if you will pay me for it I will surrender all right to the N. C. land and the Virginia land also. I wish it could all be settled up as it has been running on so long. I know it worries you I think it has been about 17 years since poor Papa's death and I expect it has been on your mind ever since. Joe says you do not owe muchnow. I am so glad to hear you are getting out of debt and will come out all right. Do try to take all the care you can of yourself. Your Affec. sister, Gennie Graham, enveloped is addressed to Mr. R. L. Gwyn At Home -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter to Richard Gwyn from his brother Hugh Gwyn
  Letter to Richard Gwyn from his brother Hugh Gwyn in Chatham Hill Virginia Chatham Hill, Virginia, April 21, 1898, Dear bro, I return the note herewith hope will reach you in time. Could we claim I was bidding for you on the land. I think it will be all ok. no one will kick as I have never claimed the land or had any benifit from it. We are all well. I have never seen Jim. I will keep paper till do see him then will return it. Will look for you and sister ? this summer. Much love, Your bro Hugh -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter and envelope to Richard Gwyn from his sister Ginnie
  Letter and envelop to Richard Gwyn from his sister Ginnie postmarked Max Meadows Virginia Mr. R. L. Gwyn, Mt. Airy, Surry County, North Carolina, postmarked - Max Meadows, Virginia, August 30, 1898, 7:00 p.m., 2 cent stamp, letter -Max Meadows, August 20th 1898, Dear bro Richard: I ought to have written you sooner and thanked you for your kindness. The letter and the money came all right and I will enclose your note in this to you. The children and I did not need it before Nov - but if it suited you as well to send it now we are very thankful fir it. When Mary saw the money she said if she could ever sell any of her paintings she would give it back to Uncle Richard. I am so glad to have such good children. Zeb says so often that he is coming over this Fall, and there is more truth in it than when he was a little fellow. Imogene and Joe come now since the weather is cooler? It might improve her health the change of water and climate. Tell her Dr Robinson is at home now, will stay here two or three weeks, he told me Sunday at church. We have just finished up with the wheat have about 1200 bus., some damaged. We have had so much rain this Summer but it has been good on the Fall pastures, every place looks so green. We are expecting some company so I will have to bring this to a close. Let us hear from you all when ever you can write. We all are glad to hear you all are well. Mary and ?Zeb? join me in lots of love to you all. Your Affec. sister, Ginnie, "Waverly" is imprinted on the letter -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Envelope addressed to Mr. R.L. Gwyn
  Envelope addressed to Mr. R.L. Gwyn postmarked Wytheville Virginia -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter to Richard Gwyn from his sister J.G.
  Letter to Richard Gwyn from his sister J.G. Max Meadows, Virginia, August 6th 1898, Dear bro. Richard: We have not heard from any of you in a long time. I have been thinking every few days I would write to know how you all were. We have looked for you and Tishie this Summer, we hope yet you will pay us that promised visit. If you both can not come send Joe and Genie and one of the little ones you can spare, to stay with us that we can teach with this little girl we have. This is a very good child, so easy with others, and it would not be any more trouble to teach two than one, if they were together. I think Mary is a splendid teacher, has so much patience, and is so fond of children. This child here, has improved so much since she came, which has just been a little over one year. I was telling Mary I thought some of our own kin people might reap the benefit of her patience and kindness in teaching as a little stranger does. We have had a great deal of rain, which has thrown the farmers behind in their meadows. Mr. Graham is about half through cutting the grass. I was out at Chilhowie about a month ago; I saw Hugh and Carrie there. Their baby was very sick while I was there, and has not recovered yet, but I hope by today he is much better. Carrie was looking so thin and badly, she has been so anxious about the child, could not eat or sleep. She is a sweet little woman, the more I see of her, the more I like her. Sister Millie and her little family were all well. She has a lively little set to control. They all have their banjos. Edith can play as well as the boys. Will came home with one, but I could not prevail on him to bring his banjo. I know Mr. G. would want to hear him play. The day after we came, Mr. Graham would borrow one for him, and I never saw any one enjoy it like Mr. G. did. Tell Imogene she ought to have seen her Uncle dancing to that music. I hope your health is better now than it has been, and that you can find sale for all your tobacco, and other products you have on the farm. I will need a little money this Fall, if it will suit your convenience to let me have $60. I think that is about what you borrowed two years ago. I would have had a small amount, if my turkeys had not have died last year, and this year we thought best not to have any. Mr G. will have to pay a good deal on the farm he bought this Fall and he finds it right hard to collect so I do not like to bother him with any little bills. I told the children about what I loaned you and they as well as myself would like for you to take your time when it suited you best to return it. If you can send it by the first of November I can make it suit me. I will owe a bill for my teeth and Mary's toothen. As it is getting late I will close. I hope you all are well. My best love & best wishes for you all. I am affectionately your Sister, J. G. -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Release of Interest on land purchased by Richard Gwyn
  Release of Interest on land purchased by Richard Gwyn This instrument witnesseth, that, whereas by order of the Superior Court of Surry County North Carolina, certain Real Estate of Hugh Gwyn Deceased was sold at public auction, and whereas R. L. Gwyn became the last and highest bidder for a poetion of the land belonging to the Estate, and whereas the said R. L. Gwyn has had considerable trouble and expense with the Estate in the way of Taxes, Surveying & plotting lands, and various other expenses, and whereas the notes executed by R. L. Gwyn for the defined payments on his purchase are bearing interest: - Now therefore in consideration of the premises, and the further consideration of One Dollar - we, John M. Gwyn, M. D. Gwyn, Hugh Gwyn, S. F. Harper & wife Mary, Jas. D. Tate Agt., W. B. Graham & wife Jennie, M. D. Moore & wife Myrtle, Annie Speer & Jno J. Speer, do hereby agree to release R. L. Gwyn from payment of interest on purchase money notes, and do hereby direct H. C. Brown Coms. not to collect Interest on said notes. Given under our hands & seals October 25th 1897. J. M. Gwyn (seal), Hugh Gwyn (seal), W. B. Graham (seal), Jennie Graham (seal), Jno. J. Speer (seal), M. D. Gwyn (seal), S. F. Harper (seal), Mary G. Harper (seal), (seal), (seal), (seal), (the above was hand written on lined paper -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter to "My Dear Uncle Richard" from ?
  Letter to Richard Gwyn Quanah, Texas, August 5, 1894, My dear Uncle Richard, Your letter came a few days since & I am obliged for your prompt answer. I have thought over the business you spoke of and have concluded if possible it would be better for Pa to go to North Carolina this fall and then he could straighten up all the business. I knew nothing of what Pa had written you as he wrote the letter you spoke of after I left Fort Worth. He had spoken several times of selling you the tobacco as he suggested to you and would always get angry with me when I would suggest that probably it would not be satisfactory. Uncle Richard you seem to reflect on me about my treatment to Pa. This is because you don't know what I have done. It is the wonder to me that every hair in my head is not grey. The trouble and worry I have had and am still having over him. We children can't pay all Pa's debts. If we pay this land debt as it now stands it will be doing well and it will take the boys years to do that you expression "There is no business in that" is just exactly why I wrote you as I did. Pa undertakes so much more than he can do, more than any young man could do, this is the trouble and for us to let him go on does not help him or lighten his burden. If we had used more discretion and not let him borrowed the money he has, he would have been a great deal better off, instead whenever he said sign a paper I signed & so the result. We were glad Pa got the tobacco but every cent ??ght to have been put directly in our land debt. The tobacco that ?urned in Sallies amt. to $1075.54. This is all the money we have gotten for tobacco. Pa sold some last Spring for two mules. One of them was diseased & when I left home he thought of making the man take it back. There is no sale for the tobacco. Pa has tried hard to sell it. Robt. tried, offered to sell it as low as 15 cents. Mr. P. tried up here, no one will buy it and all give the same reason that it is an off brand & no sale for it. Son I tell you all this for you to think about and see if you can not suggest some plan to Pa by which he can dispose. Robt. & myself signed the receipt as soon as Pa came from North Carolina. I came up here & he was to get this sign & send to you. I thought you had it for three months. Then he suggested taking part of tobacco himself & I distroyed the old receipt Another instance of pulling off. I know you will do what is right & I appreciate your motive in letting us have tobacco. -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter to Richard Gwyn
  Letter to Richard Gwyn Patterson, North Carolina, December 30th, 1892, My dear bro Richard, I've had to wait several days to finish up my writing letters to home folks which numbers one more year of our lives gone. They come around fast, don't they? We all have been spared, and as far as I know are in good health, which is the greatest blessing of all. We are all getting to be old people now even you and Hugh. I saw him in June on my way home from Nellies. He & little Beattie were at sister Millie's to see me & while he seemed very much like he used to be I could see he had grown older. He has a bright pretty sweet child and loves him too. Sister Millie was as cheerful and active as I expected to see her. The little Wren children were bright but smaller than I thought would be. Edith is the age pf Mabel here and not near as tall, neither is Beverly any thing like as tall as our Richard Hugh tho' his same age. They are so slender too. I had one of the most delightful visits of my life on that trip. Mrs Hull was at Nell's the first three weeks of my stay, and Gennie so near. We all came as near being one house hold as could well be. I think Gennie seemed more cheerful too after getting out from home so much. I can't help looking forward to another visit then tho' I may not be able to go. We all (Mary Morgan & family Hughie & Beattie) at sister Millies one evening had a pleasant time too. I shall ever remem (end of letter) (no signature) (may be sister M. H.) -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter to Richard Gwyn from his sister
  Letter to Richard Gwyn from his sister November 19th 1891, Dear brother Richard, Your kind letter received some weeks since I would have replied soon but have had Rheumatism in my right arm & could not write Relative to my interest in that estate I do not know what to tell you as I know so little about it I would suggest that you should say what you think it would be worth. Just anything you & bro Hugh will decide on let me know I will be satisfied If it can be subject to my individual order & would prepare Tho if not do not trouble about it Mr. Tate has been talking of going over there but I do think he ever will go I was very sorry about the one hundred dollars not being applied as you requested but it was taken out of my hands & I have never seen one cent since & I do know that I ever will get any of it I hope you & family are well I expect you are through with the tobacco we this the have had some real cold winter weather here I have the two oldest boys with us of our poor little Rosas Mr Wren has the other three with him He lives with his sister Mrs Hefferman rents his own house for 5.00 dollars pr year & gives Mrs H 6.50 to board himself & children But those two (Bever & Will) do not fancy Lynchburg as much as the country they say Tho they will go home before Xmas I expect it is too cold for them here I have not seen or heard from bro John for a week Rush was very sick last week but I hope is improving or we would have heard Mary Gwyn has just returned from a trip to New York Washington & the big cities north I think she is much pleased from accounts I heard that sis Jinnie was sick too I am sorry I was in hopes her trip to the springs would restore her health permanently Sis Mary writes me right often such good long newsy letters too you please write some times & tell me something about your family little ones & accept heap of love all of you Your loving sister (P.S.) How are Martin & Will getting on Tell them to write me & come over It is not worthwhile to ask you as you are so busy & have so much to keep you there all the time -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter to Rosamond Gwyn from her daughter A
  Letter to Rosamond Gwyn from her daughter A postmarked Chilhowie Virginia August 24th 1888, My dear Mother, I wrote you sometime since but have never gotten any letter from you. Sis Mary wrote me tho that your hand was stiff so that might to keep you from trying to write me. I have gotten two letters from Richard lately & answered the first one & think will write you this time instead of Richard & say to you that I do not want to sign anything that would cut you out of a support from your land & home that was left for you I understand that it was something of the kind that he Richard wants me to sign I have never gotten the papers but I will not sign it if I did unless I see you first. I want you to live there ??p?el independant of any body & just have any thing & everything you want of your own. If you do not need the rent you can give it to Richard. But Ma be sure and keep it just as it was fixed for you & enjoy all the comforts your money can give you do not live there stinting yourself of anything you know it is yours & no one elses & do not let any one have the control of it. I would not hesitate to sign my own right away to that estate but I never will sign yours away. I do not care what promise is made you I would not want to see you at your old home if it did not belong to you just as it was left for you. You promised us that you would never sign your right away & I hope you have not. I want to go and see you this fall if possible. Martha is here with me & seems to be very honest & will take care of everything the best she can. We are all getting on here about as usual. Rosa has be here & stayed 5 weeks with her little boys. Her ????? was very sick when she came but improved very much. She is with Mittie now & writes me that he is improving still & getting real fat. she expects to go home next week. Jimmie and Mit have paid us two visits each this summer. They both seem very well. I have a good garden & the most chickens I ever did have. I had 47 turkeys as large as grown here & they all disappeared in one day & night but 3 & I have not heard of them since. I am so lonely I do care much for anything. Do wish you would come & spend the winter with me this year. Mr Tate is about as well as has been. Has not had a spell of Rheumatism since spring. He is trying very hard to reform now does not drink so much & I think his health is better. I make a heap of butter now but it has been so hot I have not sent it off for two weeks & have not seen any of the kin out here lately. I have been looking for bro Johns children for some time but none of them comes. Cous Sallie Wright came & spent a day or two with me. I expect she has your home eve this I will write & tell you when I can go over there you must come home with me. Give my best love to Richard, Sister Tishie, Martin, Will and all of the relatives & except ????? of love for your own self ???? Your loving daughter A, the envelope is addressed to - Ms Rosamond Gwyn, Mt. Airy, Surry County, North Carolina, postmarked - Chilhowie, Virginia, August 25, 1888, stamp has been torn off, postmark on the back - Mt. Airy, North Carolina, August 27, 1888 -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letters to Richard Gwyn from his family
  Letters to Richard Gwyn from his family (3 different letters are on the same paper), the paper had a seal pressed on it - it may be a house with trees, October the 10 1887, Dear Richard, We were verry glad to hear from you all and that you were all well as that is the greatest blessing that can bestowed upon us, we are anxiuos for the grave of your Pa to to be fixed up and as well satisfied with the verse you spoke of as anny we can select infact if his works do follow him it will be as good as apropeat as anny thing we could have fixed, we are all getting along very well all well accept my self I have improved verry slowly thus far if I get anny better I want to go to the Grayhams (Grahams) in a few weeks or as soon as I can Milly and myself wants to go before the weather gets to cold I want to see you all and whin we get to the Grayhams I will wite to again and you must come and see me and it may be that I will go home with you I am treated as well here as I could be anny where as they all are verry kind to me but my home apeas to be the place for me now I will stop by giving my best love to you all. Your mother, I had like to forgotten to till you I had two Dr to see me when I was sick Dr Dunn come to see me several times and never felt my pulse or looked at my tongue he got his leg broken I was so sick we got Dr T Hubble he helped me directly they then made out their bills we paid them both off Dr Dunn charged and sent a letter yesterday said he had made a mistake of two dollars more that I had and that was all I did have I will pay him that I will have to get Milly to pay my expenses to Jennys. My dear brother, As mother nearly filled this sheet I will only add a few lines & say the verse that you have selected are the most appropriate that I can think of I hope you can get the stone as you expect this fall I will love to think my dear good Fathers grave is marked as it is away off there so lonely I fear I cannot keep my dear old Mother here this winter she seems to want to be at her home but oh I will be so lonely when she is away I hope to be able to keep her till Spring Then I will go over with her & she can fix up to live contented by another winter She would have to have company at night as well as day time She seems feeble yet & does not improve much as I would like to see her. I think she & I will try to go up to Mr Granhams in two weeks Will write you from there what she wants to do I hope to see you soon Come over & bring sis Tishie & children with you We would be so glad to see you all Write soon & accept much love from us all, Very affectionately, Your Sister A -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter from Wythe B. Graham to Richard Gwyn
  Letter from Wythe B. Graham to Richard Gwyn regarding the sale of land in Mount Airy Max Meadows, Virginia, Dear Richard, Your favor of 29th reached me two or three days ago. It must have been delayed a little on the way. I am glad to hear you are all in reasonably good health. We felt some anxiety for you, for we had heard you had a great deal of sickness (in many cases fatal) in and around Mt. Airy. The children and I are in usual health. Your Sister Gennie is delicate but going around. We had a most pleasant visit from your Sister Mary and Carrie. Your ma is still at Maj. Tate's and we hear she is feeble. Gennie expects to go see her in a very short while. As to selling the lands, you seem to think it best to do so soon & most likely you are right. If your Rail Road is sure to be built to Mount Airy very soon (I hear it will be completed to Mt. Airy by December next) it would seem that now would be an oppoetune time to sell. You know there is, and has been, a "great boom" all over the country, in Real Estate, in, and near towns where new Rail Roads are coming in. Of course, sooner or later, there will be a "let up" to some extent at least, in this thing. And it may be that now is as good a time as any in the near future at least. Of course it is hard for many of us to "see very far ahead of us" in a time when the march of events is so rapid. I would like to get over to see you all. Would be very glad to see Sister Titia & the children. Some of whom I have never seen and all of the children no doubt have changed greatly since I saw them. But it is harder for me to get away tahn formerly. Mary, I suppose, will go back again to Wytheville to school & we will then be a little more lonely. Now why not you & your wife & little ones come over while the climate is pleasant & stay with us awhile? It would be advantageous. The trip would, for the health of you all. Now why not take a little recreation over here in our mountains? We hope you may write us to the effect that you will do so> With my best love & best wishes for the health & happiness of you all. I remain, as ever, Yours, Wythe B. Graham -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter from Robert Speer to Richard Gwyn
  Letter from Robert Speer to his brother in law Richard Gwyn Speers Grove Texas, December 11th 1886, Mr. R. L. Gwyn, Dear Bro we received your last letter stateing you would accept our feeble proposition of fifty five hundred dollars, after writing to you we found we could raise some more money, and have just closed the land transaction and review the deed to day, and put in Bank in New York exchange ($6275.00) sixty two hundred and seventy five dollars, and gave one note payable in 12 months for $562.50 five hundred and sixty two dollars 50/100 and one for the same amt to be paid in two years with interest from date. Now bro Richard I regretted to see the Lawyers that Bro Harper has been corresponding with take one hundred dollars out of this money for a fee. They have done nothing but deliver the deed, and write a few letters. I have paid for all the deeds, acknowledgements & rewriting fees, and had it not been for agents, and lawyers, your money would have been paid years ago. But if I had sold the land they would have missed their commission. Now bro Richard you perhaps will tjink a little strange of my last remarks, as I introduced you to the Firm of Hanah, & Hogsett, telling you they were good Lawyers & safe men, so I did and all I said was true. Mr. Hoggsett had not been here many years, and Capt Hanah took him in as a partner, and controled him in his charges and controled him in the business with me, and tranacted all thr business I had in my troubles before you come and attended to drawing and deed when you purchased and only charged fifty dollars. Capt Hanah has been dead about 4 years. Now Capt. Hogset & his new partner both good lawyers and got very wealthy since you were here. They charge one hundred for delivering a deed and holding it a few weeks and writing a few letters back that the poor fellow can't pay the deed out, &c. hopeing for the commission for selling it. I do hope you & Bro. Harper will not give them any more money for nothing I will do your write, and can do better without a guard over me, and my determination is to refund every dollar with the interest you charge give me a chance without agents, or Lawyers. As ever your devoted Bro. Robt. Speer, I have just writen to Bro Fin Harper would have been glad to have forwarded your money but had no control only to pay Bank. My kindest regards to Sister Tisha, & children. My best wishes to Bros Martin, & Hugh, and friends generally -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter from Robert Speer to Richard Gwyn
  Letter from Robert Speer to his brother in law Richard Gwyn Dear Bro Richard in your last letter you requested me to write you concerning young Mr. Moore. I would have written immediately but circumstances were such it would have done no good. and the trouble I was in about him I was not in condition to express myself to friends abroad. I was at the farm and stayed from the children 2 weeks could hear from them every day by mail if necessary. When I went in after being with children a day or two Annie told me Mat Moore had been in town I inquired if he had visited them. The answer was he had. I soon found he had been in town about a week and he, & Dear Myrtle had made an engagement for marriage upon condition they could get my consent. I set to work to try and brake it up but I soon found through Annie it was only respect shoing to me and if they could not get my consent the matter would be consumate any how yet no expressions from Myrtle to this effect. I thought yet that Myrtle loved me so dearly and respected my feelings so highly that she would not act against my advice. I talked to Myrtle and told her in the strongest terms from the information I had from her near relations and best friends and strongest of all I told her to recollect the advice of her Dear old Gran Father Gwyn. and her Dear Mother that were now both in the grave. She would listen attentively and seemed to be very much affected but was very calm would say but little but when she would speak of Moore she would always speak in his favor that if he had been wild he had reformed and she believed he would continue to be a good man &c Mr Moore went off. I staid with the children about a week. Came to the farm and returned in few days. Mr Moore had been back and arrangements were all made for him to ask my consent to their marriage. Annie told me. I talked to Myrtle she said she thought it the best for her. Myrtle had good opportunities was very popular with the young people but I long since found that she liked Mr. Moore better than any of her associates yet at times she would say they had stopped their correspondence, but in short time I would see a letter that I had reasons to believe come from Mr. Moore and for the last 2 years I have had reasons to believe that Myrtle was engaged to a very worthy gentleman of good property, and fine business qualifycations, good moral quallities, and ranked among the best class of men, his relatives all thought they were going to be maried and it has come like an electric shock when it was found Myrtle preferred an other . Now bro Richard I was in a terrible fix. You and every one that knows me, know that I am devoted to my children and whilst I think I love them all a like under like circumstances, and Dear Myrtle has been my house keeper ever since her Dear Mother died and being with her somuch and she has been so attentive to my wants, and has aided me somuch in keeping my dear little Boys respectible, and administering to their many wants in the absence of a mother it all has its influence to make it seem that I could not give my consent for her to leave me, if she had made a selection that her dear relations were all in favor of but O how is it when the selection and choice of my dear child is one that all her near relations and best friends are bitterly opposed to. Now my Dear Bro I have only experienced one trial that was equal to this, and that was the Death of my Dear companion. That was providential and couldnot be avoided and we were forced to be resigned--but in this case it seems there is no remedy and as I found it would be I told them to mary at home, and they fixed the time on the to be maried on the 22nd 1886. I hope it may turn out better than has been antisipate this is all I can say at present. My kindest regards to all the relations. As ever, Your Bro. Respectfully, Robt. Speer -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Letter to "My Own Dear Mother" from Amelia (Tate)
  Letter to "My Own Dear Mother" from Amelia (Tate) etter and envelope, 1 page folded in half to have four side to write on, August 1st 1885, My own dear Mother, I ought to have answered your good little letter ere this, but we have had workmen here painting & finishing off the house ever since I came home untill yesterday they completed the job & left, it is said by all that we have the prettiest & finest house in this country everything is painted & varnished very nicely, We have six rooms papered & some painted others whitewashed. It has been very expensive & great deal of work & trouble for me, I am glad it is over, Rosa & Mit are both with us now, Mr. Shuff is expected tomorrow to spend a few days, Mr Wren comes out about every ten days & stay three or four days, cant leave the store long, Little Beverley grows every day seems very well he is very fond of riding on a horse Mr Greerer take him all round the farm with him, Mit lookes thin but does not complain any Rosa is very well & stout Mr. Tate is in Lynchburg. He is in better health now than has been for three or four years He took exceptions to your letter & says he intends to sue for his part but I do not think he will, I told him that I did not think that Pa ever intended for us to get anything more, & we did not need it I did not want it &c, I would be qualified that Pa told me that Mr Tate was ungrateful & if he ever had any thing to give us, he would give it to me (I have never told Mr Tate this) but I remember the conversation perfectly well, I hope Mr. Tate will never hear of it, I will not tell him unless I am compelled (& I do not want any of you to tell him) I think Ma if he could see you he would give up to or take your advice, I do not want to incur the displeasure of single one of my good & kind fathers family for his sake as well as many other reasons, As he loved & wished so much to have us love each other I do not believe that any one of my brothers & sisters would allow me or one of my children to suffer for the Necessaties of life so I will be content with anything they do & you sanction. I do not intend to commit myself to Mr. Tate in anyway I can avoid against you all, I must say I think it was very careless & unthoughted in Martin or Richard not to send me a paper that had Pas obituary in it, I forgot to leave the money with them to get the paper a year, but that one would not have been much, if they had thought of it as I most assuredly would done for any of them This is a hard cold world (but we make it so) I am glad that the time is coming that we can leave it & be at rest Now my dear good mother I wish so much to have you with me when could you come I would go for you any time you think could come, I know you are so lonely do feel so sorry that I cannot be with you, wish I had remained a month or two when there If I had know that you would have been alone all this time I would Please burn this letter as soon as you read it, I do not want Mr Tate to see it if he ever sees you he will ask you to show it to him Now just as you all fix things will be agreeable with me Do write me soon some of you with best love to you & all the family I close, Your loving child Amelia, the envelope is addressed to Mrs. Rosamond Gwyn, Care R. L. Gwyn, Mt. Airy, Surry County, North Carolina, postmarked - Town House, Virginia, August 1, 1885 with a 2 cent stamp -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Envelope addressed to Mr. R.L. Gwyn
  Envelope addressed to Mr. R.L. Gwyn postmarked Macon Georgia -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Envelope addressed to Mr. Richard L. Gwyn
  Envelope addressed to Mr. Richard L. Gwyn from a tobacco company in Atlanta GA -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned
• Envelope addressed to Mr. Richard L. Gwyn
  Envelope addressed to Mr. Richard L. Gwyn postmarked Mocksville NC -Hugh Gwyn, born 1804, died 1885, wife - Rosamond Dickerson -Moved to Mount Airy in 1850 -Home was on the Piper's Gap Road four miles from Mount Airy -Home was called Idle Wilde -Hugh and Rosamond had ten children -One of Hugh's sons was Richard Littleton Gwyn -Richard Littleton Gwyn was the only child that stayed in Mount Airy -Richard married Letitia Hollingsworth Gwyn and stayed at Idle Wilde -Richard and Letitia had eight children - Imogene (Genie) Gwyn (single), -Joseph (Joe) Hollingsworth Gwyn who married Blanche Holt, as a young man he operated Gwyn Drug store and ran the nearby White Sulphur Springs Hotel, he died in 1975 at the age of 93, -Annie Gwyn who married Thomas D. Gilliam and they had three children Nancy Gilliam, Betsy Gilliam and Thomas D. Gilliam Jr., -Hugh Gwyn, -Letitia Gwyn who married William Simpson, -Richard Reginald Gwyn, -May Gwyn who married William Ashby, -Elma Gwyn who married Robert E. Ashby and they had two children -Next Idle Wilde's ownership fell to Richard Reginald Gwyn and Robert and Emma Gwyn Ashby and Genie Gwyn -In the 1970's the house stood empty for the first time in 120 years -It later burned