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Wilson, Samuel M., estate, Lexington, Ky. Gift, December 10, 1946.
Collection is open for research.
Copyright has not been assigned to the University of Kentucky.
[Identification of item], Samuel M. Wilson chronological file, 1774-1959, 1900-1946 (bulk dates), 1M51W10, Special Collections, University of Kentucky.
Attorney, historian. Wilson, a native of Louisville, Ky, studied law at Centre College, Danville, Ky. and in the office of Judge Jere R. Morton and then became a prominent lawyer in Lexington, Ky. He was known for interests in social issues and in history, particularly for his work with the Lexington Public Library and the Kentucky Historical Society. He collected books and manuscripts, and founded the "Cakes and Ale Club" in Lexington, which consisted of a group of men who shared Wilson's interests in books and book collecting. Wilson bequeathed his large collection of books and manuscripts to the University of Kentucky library.
The collection contains correspondence, clippings, legal documents, financial records, broadsides and genealogical and historical research materials, the majority of which was generated by Samuel M. Wilson, a Lexington, Ky. attorney and amateur historian. Most of the correspondence concerns Wilson's genealogical and historical research, although some correspondence from his various legal concerns is present. Correspondents include: Frank C. McVey, Desha Breckinridge, R. C. Ballard Thruston and other Kentuckians involved in historical research; and various Lexington attorneys, including Clinton M. Harbison, his law partner for thirty years. Various broadsides and invitations are present, mostly concerning historical societies and commemorative events. Some of Wilson's personal financial records, including bills and receipts are present as well.
Arranged chronologically.