Series XI: Reid family, 1758-1867

This series consists of correspondence, account books, land and legal records, and related papers of several family members in Virginia. Andrew Reid (1751-1837) was a farmer, clerk of the county court, and clerk of the circuit court. His papers include court records, bonds, official documents, and extensive correspondence relating to agricultural matters. Another Andrew Reid (fl. 1805-11) appears as a correspondent in 1805 and, in letters dating through 1811, Reid discusses experiences as a Virginia legislator and as a young lawyer. His extensive correspondence with Samuel McDowell Reid and former Washington College classmates includes mention of family and political affairs, such as the Burr Conspiracy. Samuel McDowell Reid, who succeeded his father Andrew as clerk of the county and superior courts also served in the Virginia legislature during the Civil War, ran a large legal practice, supervised four major estates, managed family lands in the west, and served as a trustee for Washington College. Correspondence documents his activity as a lawyer, businessman, legislator, and plantation manager. Reid frequently dealt with the issue of slavery in his business dealings, and it is a common topic in his letters.