Series I: Correspondence

This collection contains correspondence and Margaret Boyd's diary. Of the correspondence, 36 letters are written by members of the Boyd family, and 11 letters are written by friends or associates. The letters are arranged by correspondent. The letters span the period 1821 to 1881 and cover a wide range of topics, from Robert Boyd Sr.'s attempt to emigrate to America (1821) by trying to sell property in Ireland, to Daniel Boyd's views on the Civil War (1865). Letters written by Mary Ann Boyd, John E. Boyd, Robert Boyd Sr. and Daniel Boyd himself, contain many references to Sunday school and prayer meetings, indicating that the family had strong religious ties. Most of the letters deal with family members writing to keep up with the affairs surrounding the Boyd household. The diary dates from January 1873 to November 1874 and chronicles Margaret's senior year at Ohio University and first job.