Wilbur Nelson papers

Collection

Identifier: c-00159

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This collection consists of Nelson's war diaries, several transcriptions, a narrative describing Nelson's war experiences, and a muster roll. Nelson wrote his diaries in shorthand. Included are his original diary for 1864, typed and handwritten transcriptions of the 1864 diary, and a typed transcription of Nelson's diary for 1865 (the original is not included in the collection). The narrative, written by Nelson's son Gaylord Nelson, is based on Wilbur Nelson's diary for 1863 and his correspondence (which are not included in the collection). The muster roll for Company I, 102nd Regiment, U.S. Colored Troops, dated February 14, 1864, lists the name, age, and rank of the soldiers in the unit.

This collection has been transcribed, scanned and placed online at http://civilwar.archives.msu.edu/collection/7-1C-1C/wilbur_nelson/.

Dates

Creation: 1864 - 1865

Creator

Nelson, Wilbur (Person)
Nelson, Gaylord, 1886-1947 (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

Collection is open for research.

Conditions Governing Use

Permission to publish material from this collection must be obtained from University Archives & Historical Collections, Michigan State University.

Biographical Note

Wilbur Nelson of Arcadia Township, Clinton County, Michigan, was born January 15, 1839. Nelson served in the 8th Michigan Infantry from 1861 to 1863. He was promoted from sergeant to second lieutenant on January 1, 1863. In late November 1863, Wilbur was wounded in action and resigned. In March 1864, he accepted a commission as captain in the 102nd U.S. Colored Infantry. During the Civil War, Black troops served in segregated units which were led by white officers. When the war ended Nelson returned to Michigan, opened a store, and married Cornelia Church.

Extent

0.1 Cubic Feet (3 folders)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Custodial History

Gift of Miles Nelson, 1959-07-07. Transferred by Michigan State University Museum.

Legal Status

Donor(s) have transferred any applicable copyright to Michigan State University but the collection may contain third-party materials for which copyright was not transferred. Copyright restrictions may apply. Property Rights: Michigan State University.