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This collection is made up of letters from Lewis H. Thompson to his cousin Henry Butts. The correspondence pertains to Thompson's time in Kalamazoo, Michigan, in November 1862, and at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, 1864-1865.

This collection is made up of six letters from Lewis H. Thompson to his cousin Henry Butts. The correspondence pertains to Thompson's time in Kalamazoo, Michigan, in November 1862, and at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, 1864-1865.

Thompson's recipient Henry Butts lived in Dutchess County, New York, and the letters include Thompson's thoughts and opinions on Dutchess County, Henry's decision to attend college, young ladies, and family matters. Thompson wrote about the lack of danger at Jefferson Barracks ("a Hospital for Sick and Wounded Soldiers"), a nearby railroad accident, and activities such as riding on horseback and canvassing the country. Thompson spoke highly of St. Louis, which he remarked would "be the greatest city for Business when this war is over" (March 22, 1864). He mentioned the Lindell Hotel and the construction of the Southern Hotel, both of them St. Louis establishments.