SCOPE AND CONTENT

The James Moore King Collection is a compilation of personal letters, legal documents, and genealogy notes on James Moore King and his family.  Colonel King was a prominent citizen of Rutherford County and lived in Murfreesboro from 1809 until 1877.  The letters are a mix of Colonel King's personal letters, correspondence written to Colonel King and various letters written between other members of the King family.

The personal letters, which form the largest part of the collection, contain a fascinating look at Murfreesboro and some of its inhabitants during the nineteenth century.  The letters also provide a time capsule in which events such as the War of 1812, the Seminole Indian War, and the Civil War are addressed first hand.   Also discussed in the letters are the rise of the Whig party in Tennessee and other political concerns.  The legal documents found in the collection deal with Colonel King's personal taxes, inventories on property (including slaves), and documents that supply information on land grants and other legal dealings.  Last in the collection is the genealogy papers.  These papers were actively collected by Dr. James King of Nashville during the early part of this century.  Dr. King wrote many letters to relatives and was provided information about Colonel James Moore King and his life. 

Although the King collection is a small collection, anyone looking for insight into nineteenth century life in Rutherford County and other issues will find its content invaluable.

Please feel free to read a sample letter from the King Collection.