Collections : [University of Michigan Special Collections Research Center]

The Correspondence series, 1827-1904, predominates the collection and is arranged chronologically; containing correspondence with his family, and business associates in connection to his work with canal and bridge companies, and the U.S. War Department. Constantly in a state of travel, Charles Ellet Jr.’s frequent communication with his beloved wife, Ellie, creates an intimate portrait of his daily life, business dealings, and professional experiences. Correspondence prior to their marriage was not preserved. Notable to the papers, are Ellet’s communications with John Roebling, Joseph Cabell, Edward Stanton, and the United States War Department. Missing from the collection is the preservation of communication between McClellan and Ellet. Observations and reports of Charles Ellet, Jr.’s trips to Europe are detailed in the correspondence, 1830-1831 and 1844. Correspondence between 1862 and 1864 consists of family correspondence between Charlie Rivers Ellet, Alfred Ellet, and Mary Virginia Ellet Cabell, with military correspondence related to Alfred Ellet and Charlie River’s involvement in the U.S Ram Fleet and Mississippi Marine Brigade (Ellet’s Brigade). After 1864, the correspondence reflects Mary’s work to preserve and promote Charles Ellet, Jr.’s accomplishments and contributions to 19th century public works projects through publication, the launching of the U.S.S Ellet, and the preservation of the papers in an archival repository.

This series contains letters received by George M. Brown--with an exception being the letters to Frankie Brown, George Brown's first wife. There are many correspondents housed within this collection, however, some regular Senders include: Daniel S. Foster (letters from 1862-1868), Thomas Dunne (letters from 1862-1866), Maria H. Young (letters from 1864-1869), J.D. Hammond (letters from 1864-1869), Frankie Brown (letters from 1877-1878), and Eva Brown (1881-1882).

The Correspondence Series spans 1940-1951, and much of Haan's general correspondence is with his wife, as well as with publishers regarding Haan's attempts to publish his Joe Hill manuscripts. Other correspondents include Constantine and Virginia Filigno, with whom Haan spoke regarding Hill's trial and execution. Constantine was a leader of the Industrial Workers of the World during the 1940s, while Virginia was a strong advocate for Hill's innocence. Also included are several letters with Agnes Inglis of the University of Michigan Labadie Collection.