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Finding aid for the Western Union Telegram Collection

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MUM00472

Finding Aid for the Western Union Telegram Collection
(MUM00472)

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The Western Union Telegram Collection is open for research.

Finding Aid for the Western Union Telegram Collection


Descriptive Summary

PURL: http://purl.oclc.org/umarchives/MUM00472/
Title: Western Union Telegram Collection
Dates: August-October 1962 (bulk September 1962)
Collector: Western Union Telegraph Company
Physical Extent: 5 boxes (1.88 linear feet)
Repository: University of Mississippi. Department of Archives and Special Collections. University, MS 38677, USA
Identification: MUM00472
Language of Material: English
Abstract: Collection contains correspondence, mainly telegrams, dated 1962 and related to the
University of Mississippi and James Meredith.

Administrative Information

Acquisition Information

Collection acquired in 2003.

Processing Information

Collection processed by Archives & Special Collections staff. Finding aid original
mounted by Chatham Ewing. Encoded by Jason Kovari, 18 February 2010.

Additions

No further additions are expected to this collection.

Alternative Formats

Selected telegrams from this collection have been digitized and are available online:
https://clio.lib.olemiss.edu/cdm/landingpage/collection/west_union. All telegrams in the digital collection are related to the integration of the University
of Mississippi.


Subject Terms

Meredith, James, 1933- — Public opinion
Williams, J. D. (John Davis), 1902-1983 — Public opinion
Barnett, Ross R. (Ross Robert), 1898-1987 — Public opinion
College integration — Mississippi — Oxford — Public opinion
African American college students — Mississippi — Oxford
University of Mississippi — History
Oxford (Miss.) — History


Formats

telegrams
correspondence


Historical Note

In January 1961, James Howard Meredith applied for admission to the University of
Mississippi, receiving a letter of rejection on 25 May 1961. Following eighteen months
of escalating legal battles, the United States Supreme Court ruled in favor of Meredith
on 10 September 1962, permitting his admission to the university.

Meanwhile, the Governor of Mississippi, Ross Barnett, staged elaborate opposition
to integration of the state’s educational institutions. Through strong segregationist
rhetoric and a vehemently pro-states’ rights platform, Barnett crystallized support
from most of the state’s elected officials. Building on 1956 legislation creating
the Sovereignty Commission, Barnett advocated open defiance to encroachment of Federal
laws on Mississippi institutions.

James Meredith arrived on the Ole Miss campus on 30 September 1962. During that evening,
a riot erupted in which a white crowd attacked United States Marshals sent to protect
Meredith. The arrival of federal troops ended the violence in the early hours of 1
October 1962; two bystanders were killed, 206 marshals and soldiers were wounded and
200 people were arrested during the riot. Meredith officially registered for classes
1 October 1962 becoming the first African-American student at the University of Mississippi.


Scope and Content Note

Materials in this collection consist of telegrams sent to and sent out by the Oxford,
MS Western Union telegram office during August-October 1962. Many of the telegrams
relate to the integration of the University of Mississippi. There is only one from
James Meredith, which is to the Registrar Robert Ellis. The telgrams related to the
integration are mostly addressed to Governor Barnett and Chancellor J.D. Williams
and both support and denounce the integration. There are also several annotated news
stories sent by reporters during September 1962.

Folders without item-level description contain telegrams unrelated to the integration.


User Information

Prefered Citation

Western Union Telegram Collection, Archives and Special Collections, J.D. Williams
Library, The
University of Mississippi

Access Restrictions

The Western Union Telegram Collection is open for research.

Copyright Restrictions

The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the
making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under
certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized
to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specified conditions
is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other
than private study, scholarship or research.” If a user makes a request for,
or
later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use”,
that user may be liable for copyright infringement.


Related Material

Resources at the University of Mississippi

Selected telegrams from this collection have been digitized and are available online:
https://clio.lib.olemiss.edu/cdm/landingpage/collection/west_union. All telegrams in the digital collection are related to the integration of the University
of Mississippi.

For more materials related to Civil Rights and the Integration of the University of
Mississippi, see our Civil Rights & Race Relations subject guide.


Arrangement

This collection is arranged chronologically.

Folders designated as “Noteworthy Telegrams” pertain to James Meredith & the integration
of Ole Miss and are organized by the date and time of day. The general telegrams do
not pertain to integration.


Container List

Miscellaneous August 1962 Telegrams
1.1

Telegrams
Saturday 1 September 1962
1.2

Telegrams
Sunday 2 September 1962
1.3

Telegrams
Monday 3 September 1962
1.4

Telegrams
Tuesday 4 September 1962
1.5

Telegrams
Wednesday 5 September 1962
1.6

Telegrams
Thursday 6 September 1962
1.7

Telegrams
Friday 7 September 1962
1.8

Telegrams
Saturday 8 September 1962
1.9

Telegrams
Sunday 9 September 1962
1.10

Telegrams
Monday 10 September 1962
Note: Included is a telegram dated 10 September 1962, 10:36 A.M. from the Oxford-Lafayette
County Chamber of Commerce to President John F. Kennedy urging President Kennedy to
look at Mississippi as he flies from Huntsville to Houston, noting state’s strong
points. On Western Union Telegram letterhead
1.11

Telegrams
Tuesday 11 September 1962
Note: Includes TD. 11 September 1962. 8:49 A.M. J. H. [James Howard] Meredith to [R]obert
Ellis, Registrar, University of Mississippi. Re: Enrollment in September
1.12

Telegrams
Wednesday 12 September 1962
1.13

Telegrams
Thursday 13 September 1962
Note: Includes TD. 13 September 1962. Telegram from Annette to Mrs. A.A. Walker concerning
Governor Barnett’s speech on radio and television that evening at 7:30
1.14

Telegrams
Friday 14 September 1962. Telegrams
1.15.1

TD. 14 September 1962. 8:50 A.M. Bill to Mrs. Bramlett [Virginia Bramlett]. Re: recent
wire. Note: Also includes typed reply from Mrs. Bramlett letting the other telegraph
operator know that she has “requested your presence in event things get rough up
here next week.”
1.15.2

TD. 14 September 1962. 8:55 A.M. Elmore Greaves, editor of Gulf Coast Gazette to Chancellor
Williams. Re: Demanding to know Williams’ position on the admission of James Meredith
and Judge Black’s order.
1.15.3

TD. 14 September 1962. 11:18 A.M. Oxford-Ole Miss Citizens’ Council to Honorable Ross
R. Barnett. Re: Congratulating Barnett on his speech on September 13th.
1.15.4

TD. 14 September 1962. 11:18 A.M. Oxford-Ole Miss Citizens’ Council to Honorable Ross
Barnett. Re: Asking for his presence at regular meeting on 24 September 1962 in the
Lafayette County Courthouse.
1.15.5

TD. 14 September 1962. 3:24 P.M. Berryhill to Bramlett. Re: Developing conditions
and his availability.
1.15.6

TD. 14 September 1962. 5:03 P.M. Ragland Radio and TV Center, Leonard Ragland to Honorable
Ross Barnett. Re: Courageous stand and speech, Thursday September 13th. Support of
Oxford and Lafayette County.
Saturday 15 September 1962
1.16

Telegrams
Sunday 16 September 1962
2.1

Telegrams
Monday 17 September 1962. Telegrams
2.2.1

TD. [17 September 1962]. In-house telegraph instructions regarding journalists sending
telegrams.
2.2.2

TD. 17 September 1962. 8:53 A.M. Vivian Davidson to The Board of Trustees, University
of Mississippi, Chancellor John D. Williams. Re: A former Mississippian with a student
enrolled at the University asks that the Board and the Chancellor consider every possible
solution before closing the University.
2.2.3

TD. 17 September 1962. 9:04 A.M. Berryhill to Bramlett. Re: Extra help for the Oxford
Western Union Telegram Office.
2.2.4

TD. 17 September 1962. 10:18 A.M. Fred Fortenberry, Charles Voss and Thomas Purnell
to Governor Barnett. Re: Admiration for his stand on state’s rights.
2.2.5

TD. 17 September 1962, 10:18 A,M. Frances Witherspoon to Officials, University of
Mississippi. Re: The daughter of a former Mississippi Congressman and early University
of Mississippi Instructor urges officials to defy Governor Barnett and admit James
Meredith.
2.2.6

TD. [17 September 1962]. 10:30A.M. Mr. and Mrs. J.B. Askew to The Board of Trustees,
University of Mississippi. Re: Urges the Board to support the Governor “in his cause.”
2.2.7

TD. [17 September 1962]. 10:55 A.M. Oxford, Miss telegraph office to Mrs. Russell
Stewart. Re: Mrs. Stewart’s message to Governor Barnett not delivered as he is in
Jackson, MS.
2.2.8

TD. 17 September 1962. 11:25 A.M. Mrs. Russell Stewart to Gov. Ross Barnett and Board
of Directors. Re: Maintaining state’s rights.
2.2.9

TD. [17 September 1962]. 11:30 A.M. Western Union Telegraph Company to Martin S. Hemphill
of Brookhaven, MS. Re: Mr. Hemphill’s telegram to the Board of Institutes of Higher
Learning not delivered as they are not located in Oxford.
2.2.10

TD. 17 September 1962. 11:58 A.M. Jack Reed, RW Reed and WR Reed to Chancellor J.D.
Williams. Re: Support.
2.2.11

TD. 17 September 1962. 12:25 P.M. Western Union Telegram Company to George Bischoff.
Re: Bischoff’s telegram to the Board of Trustees not delivered.
2.2.12

TD. 17 September 1962. 1:16 P.M. In house directions on telegram of Mrs. Russell Stewart
to Governor Ross Barnett.
2.2.13

TMS. 17 September 1962. 2:43 P.M. Annotated article by Gordon Donaldson to London
England’s Sunday Express. Re: Canada’ s Parliament. 5pp.
2.2.14

TD. 17 September 1962. 4:37 P.M. Berryhill to Bramlett. Re: Asking if another Western
Union operator, Rushing, had reported yet? Note: Also includes Bramlett’s typed reply
which references a Canadian correspondent here “covering excitement just filed 2000
words press to London England re Canadian News.”
2.2.15

TD. 17 September 1962. 5:08 P.M. “Gin” [Virginia Bramlett] to Berryhill. Re: Information
that Mr. Heaton with Movietone News provided about 24 correspondents arriving in Oxford
on Tuesday night.
Tuesday 18 September 1962. Telegrams
2.3.1

TD. [18 September 1962]. In house Western Union telegram from J.B. to Berryhill. Re:
inquiry from Mr. Cofield in the Public Relations Department at the University of Mississippi
regarding capability of Oxford’s Western Union office of handling press, they have
approximately 25 correspondents on campus at that time.
2.3.2

TD. 18 September 1962. 8:45 A.M. In house Western Union telegram from Berryhill to
“Gin” [Virginia Bramlett]. Re: Asks that she report when another operator Rushing
arrives.
2.3.3

TD. 18 September 1962. 9:48 A.M. WH Vaughn of the North Mississippi Detective Agency
to Honorable Ross Barnett. Re: asking permission to assist in Oxford.
2.3.4

TD. 18 September 1962. 10:01 A.M. Berryhill to Bramlett. Re: Confirming his reservation
at Mansels Motel, worried about crowding in Oxford.
2.3.5

TD. 18 September 1962. 11:41 A.M. Western Union Telegram Company to Mr. and Mrs. W.J.
Lea. Re: Unable to deliver telegram to Board of Trustees.
2.3.6

TD. 18 September 1962. 2:19 P.M. Berryhill to Bramlett. Re: Berryhill responding
to Bramlett’s question regarding keeping the Oxford Western Union Telegraph office
open in order to handle press.
2.3.7

TD. 18 September 1962. 4:08 P.M. Marshall County Bar Association to Chancellor Williams.
Re: Advising that the preservation of the University should be a “consideration paramount
to all others.”
2.3.8

TD. 18 September 1962. 6:22 P.M. Charles H. Griffin, administrative assistant to Congressman
John Bell Williams to J. Walter Brown, a senior at the University of Mississippi.
2.3.9

TD. 18 September 1962. 6:54 P.M. A.M. Kirk to Robert B. Ellis, Registrar University
of Mississippi. Re: Commenting that if Mr. Ellis was “a white man” he should not register
James Meredith.
Wednesday 19 September 1962 Noteworthy telegrams
2.4.1

TD. 19 September 1962. [time?]. Berryhill to Salzer. Re: Information about keeping
the Oxford Western Union Telegram Office open.
2.4.2

TD. [19 September 1962]. [time?]. Oxford Miss 19 to Unknown. Re: High priority messages
needing to get to Oxford.
2.4.3

TD. 19 September 1962. 8:47 A.M. Bill McPeters to Honorable Ross Barnett. Re: Support
for Barnett. Reference to a lynching on his property. Note: Attached telegrams advising
Mr. McPeters that Ross Barnett was not in Oxford and the telegram could not be delivered.
2.4.4

TD. 19 September 1962. 8:50 A.M. Harry P. Gamble to President of the Student Body,
The University of Mississippi. Re: Denying Meredith entrance and references to Robert
Kennedy as a communist. Note: makes threatening statements.
2.4.5

TD. 19 September 1962. 9:10 A.M. Dick Allen to Epsilon XI Chapter of Sigma Nu Fraternity.
Re: Closing of school and moral character of James Meredith.
2.4.6

TD. 19 September 1962. 9:14 A.M. Water Valley Jaycees to Honorable Ross Barnett. Re:
Support for “courageous stand to keep our university white-at all costs.”
2.4.7

TD. 19 September 1962. 9:38 A.M. Ruth Ford (Mrs. Zachary Scott) to Chi Omega Sorority,
The University of Mississippi. Re: Request by actress and former graduate and Chi
Omega at the University of Mississippi to keep the peace and “uphold the constitution
of our great country and the rights and privileges of all human beings.”
2.4.8

TD. 19 September 1962. 10:18 A.M. Western Union Telegram Company to Bill McPeters.
Re: Inability to send his telegram as Ross Barnett was not on campus.
2.4.9

TD. 19 September 1962. 10:18 A.M. Henry Yarborough to Dr. John D. Williams, Chancellor
of the University of Mississippi. Re: Requesting that the Chancellor uphold “our way
of life” and support the stand made by Governor Barnett.
2.4.10

TD. 19 September 1962. 11:26 A.M. Rudolph Massey to Registrar, University of Mississippi.
Re: Advising Registrar not to admit James Meredith and to “help preserve the white
race.”
2.4.11

TD. 19 September 1962. 11:48 A.M. Interested Brothers of AO Chapter Tulane University
to Consul Eta Chapter Sigma Chi Fraternity, University of Mississippi. Re: Mocking
telegram recommending James Meredith as a fraternity rushee.
2.4.12

TD. 19 September 1962, 11:57 A.M. Berryhill to [Helms?]. Re: Tense situation in Oxford’s
Western Union Telegram Office and anticipation of heavy filings. Describes the University’s
set up for reporters and inclusion of equipment for telegrams.
2.4.13

TD. 19 September 1962. 1:32 P.M. Berryhill to Brooks. Re: Asking for developments
in Jackson, Ms noting that several newspaper reporters had left Oxford on their way
to Jackson.
2.4.14

TD. 19 September 1962. 1:37 P.M. Berryhill to Traweek. Re: Adjustment for press failure
in Western Union telegram office.
2.4.15

TD. 19 September 1962. 1:46 P.M. Berryhill to [Helms]. Re: Evaluation of the current
situation and ability of Oxford’s Western Union Telegram Office to handle the reporters
and increased traffic.
2.4.16

TD. 19 September 1962. 1:53 P.M. Reverend Thomas M. Ward of Louisville Kentucky to
James Meredith, Oxford, Mississippi. Re: Support of Meredith and racial justice from
a white man in Louisiana. Note: Several in-house Western Union telegrams attempting
to locate Mr. Meredith.
2.4.17

TD. 19 September 1962. 2:01 P.M. Margaret and the Gladiola Boys to Ken Wooten and
George Street, Office of Admission, University of Mississippi. Re: Support.
2.4.18

TD. 19 September 1962. 2:08 P.M. Mr. and Mrs. G.T. Watterson to The Chairman Board
of Trustees Ole Miss [Note: this has been crossed through in pencil and Registrar
has been written in]. Re: Support of Ross Barnett. Note: Several in house telegrams
from Western Union notifying the Watterson’s that their telegram to the Board of Trustees
could not be delivered and was re-directed to the Registrar.
2.4.19

TD. 19 September 1962. 2:14 P.M. Western Union Telegram Company to Mr. and Mrs. G.T.
Watterson. Re: Inability to deliver their telegram to the Board of Trustees.
2.4.20

TD. 19 September 1962. 2:55 P.M. Eldon L. Johnson to Chancellor Williams. Re: Support
of Williams.
2.4.21

TD. 19 September 1962. 3:00 P.M. Mrs. William Faulkner to Miss Victoria Fielden. Re:
Condition of Miss Fielden’s mother.
2.4.22

TD. 19 September 1962. 3:54 P.M. Linton Crook of Anniston, Alabama to Governor Ross
Barnett. Re: Courage of Barnett.
2.4.23

TD. 19 September 1962. 3:57 P.M. Berryhill to Brooks. Re: Distribution of news release
by telegram offices.
2.4.24

TD. 19 September 1962. 4:07 P.M. Oxford Western Union Telegram Office to Supervisor.
Re: Closing time extended due to “local conditions.”
2.4.25

TD. 19 September 1962. 7:11 P.M. Robert Erskine Wagner of Meridian Mississippi to
The Registrar, University of Mississippi. Re: Asking the Registrar to support Governor
Barnett.
2.4.26

TD. 19 September 1962. 7:34 P.M. Bill Hurter of Atlanta, Georgia to Dr. J.D. Williams.
Re: Support of Williams.
2.4.27

TD. 19 September 1962. 8:06 P.M. Berryhill to Farmer. Re: Oxford Western Union office
remaining open and notification of heavy press files.
2.4.28

TMS. 19 September 1962. 8:45 P.M. Annotated article by Clark Porteous sent to Memphis
Press-Scimitar. 2pp.
2.4.29

TD. 19 September 1962. 8:50 P.M. Berryhill to TFC Supervisor. Re: Oxford office remaining
open later than normal, requesting that the “high priority wires” be transferred to
the Oxford office.
2.4.30

TD. 19 September 1962. 8:58. Notice from Western Union Telegram Company to Robert
F. Kennedy, Attorney General that his telegram to Robert Byron Ellis, Registrar at
the University of Mississippi had been delivered at 8:51 P.M.
2.4.31

TD. 19 September 1962. 9:40 P.M. Notice from Western Union Telegram Company to Robert
F. Kennedy, Attorney General that his telegram to Arthur Beverly Lewis, Dean College
of Liberal Arts was delivered at 9:34 P.M.
2.4.32

TMS. 19 September 1962. 10:41 P.M. Annotated article by Dudley Morris, Colonial Hotel,
Oxford, Mississippi sent to Birmingham, time inc. 8pp. Re: Attempt in Jackson to register
James Meredith. Note: severe vermin damage.
2.4.33

TMS. 19 September 1962. 10:54 P.M. Annotated article by George Metz sent to Birmingham
News. 3pp. Re: Possible closing of the University of Mississippi.
Wednesday 19 September 1962. General Telegrams
2.5

General telegrams
Thursday 20 September 1962. Noteworthy Telegrams
2.6.1

TD. [20 September 1962]. 9:07 A.M. Western Union Telegram Company to W.R. Furniss
in Columbus, Ohio. Re: Notifying Mr. Furniss that his telegram to Dr. E.R. Jobe, Executive
Secretary Board of Trustees, was not delivered as he was not in Oxford.
2.6.2

TD. [20 September 1962]. 9:22 A.M. Berryhill to Helms. Re: In-house Western Union
telegram about situation in Oxford office. Berryhill notes, “the only excitement here
is among the reporters who can’t find anything to write about. All calm and orderly
and apparently will remain.”
2.6.3

TD. 20 September 1962. 9:59 A.M. Mr. and Mrs. John Horan to Governor Ross Barnett.
Re: Continued support and best wishes.
2.6.4

TD. 20 September 1962. 10:20 A.M. M.E. Wallace to Honorable Ross Barnett. Re: Support
to “keep our Mississippi schools white.”
2.6.5

TD. [20 September 1962]. 10:37 A.M. Western Union Telegram Company to M.E. Wallace.
Re: Telegram to Ross Barnett not delivered as the addressee was not on campus.
2.6.6

TD. [20 September 1962]. 10:55 A.M. Oxford Mississippi Western Union in-house telegram.
Re: Attempting to find First Negro Baptist Church or National Negro Church in regard
to a telegram sent by Rev. Thomas M. Ward to James Meredith.
2.6.7

TMS. 20 September 1962. 11:01 A.M. Annotated article by Dudley Morris, Colonial Hotel,
Oxford, Mississippi sent to Birmingham, time, inc. 4pp. Re: Attitude in Oxford regarding
integration.
2.6.8

TD. 20 September 1962. 11:05 A.M. Western Union Telegram Company to Robert F. Kennedy,
Attorney General. Re: Telegram of the 19th was delivered to Chancellor John Davis
Williams at 10:52 A.M.
2.6.9

TMS. 20 September 1962. 12:49 P.M. Annotated article by Fleming, Ole Miss Motel, sent
to Query Editor, Newsweek. 6pp. Re: Burning effigies and crosses on Ole Miss campus
and legal maneuverings to block Meredith’s registration.
2.6.10

TD. 20 September 1962. 1:49 P.M. In house Western Union telegram from Berryhill to
Kennedy [probably Robert F. Kennedy]. Re: Delivery of Kennedy’s telegram to Chancellor
J.D. Williams by Berryhill. It was not signed for by Williams, as he was in a conference,
but his administrative assistant Hugh Clegg signed for it and promised to give it
to Williams immediately.
2.6.11

TD. [20 September 1962]. 2:54 P.M. In-house Western Union telegram from Oxford office
to unknown recipient. Re: Ira Lamar Morgan.
2.6.12

TD. [20 September 1962]. 3:32-3:34. In house Western Union telegram to “TSB, WC, and
TFC Supvr.” Re: keeping office open until about midnight that evening and that they
would not “cut to agency.”
2.6.13

TD. 20 September 1962. 4:55 P.M. James Ira Grimsley to Governor Ross Barnett. Re:
Support for governor.
2.6.14

TD. 20 September 1962. 4:50 P.M. W.R. Lusk to Ross Barnett. Re: submitting his application
to be appointed as registrar of the University of Mississippi. Support of Barnett.
Note: Note: Attached is a telegram from the Western Union company stating that telegram
could not be delivered , as Ross Barnett left the University before the telegram could
be delivered.
2.6.15

TD. [20 September 1962]. 5:48 P.M. Western Union Telegram Company to R.C. Langford
of Rolling Fork, Mississippi. Re: Ross Barnett left the campus before Mr. Langford’s
telegram could be delivered.
2.6.16

TD. [20 September 1962]. 5:50 P.M. Western Union Telegram Company to James Ira Grimsley
of Pascagoula, Mississippi. Re: Ross Barnett left the campus before Mr. Grimsley’s
telegram could be delivered.
2.6.17

TD. [20 September 1962]. 5:50 P.M. Western Union Telegram Company to W. R. Lusk of
Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Re: Ross Barnett left the campus before Mr. Lusk’s telegram
could be delivered.
2.6.18

TD. 20 September 1962. 6:00 P.M. Linton Crook to Governor Ross Barnett. Re: Support
of Alabama. Note: Attached telegram from Western Union states that Barnett was en
route to Jackson from Oxford and Mr. Crook’s telegram could not be delivered.
2.6.19

TD. [20 September 1962]. 6:09 P.M. Western Union Telegram Company to Men in Jenkins
and McFarland Halls, Louisiana Polytechnic Institute. Re: Telegram to Ross Barnett
was not delivered.
2.6.20

TD. [20 September 1962]. 6:10 P.M. Western Union Telegram Company to J.O. Hollis.
Re: Telegram to Ross Barnett could not be delivered.
2.6.21

TD. 20 September 1962. 6:32 P.M. In house Western Union Telegram discussing charges
for forwarding various telegrams to Jackson.
2.6.22

TMS. 20 September 1962. 7:01 P.M. Annotated article by Fleming, Ole Miss Motel sent
to Query Editor, Newsweek. 6pp. Re: Attempted registration of James Meredith.
2.6.23

TD. 20 September 1962. 7:18 P.M. Mrs. D.C. Joseph of New Orleans to President of Student
Body, University of Mississippi. Re: Support.
2.6.24

TD. 20 September 1962. 7:19 P.M. Zeta Zeta Chapter, Baton Rouge, Louisiana to Chi
Chapter of Delta Kappa Epsilon, University of Mississippi. Re: pledging Meredith.
2.6.25

TD. 20 September 1962. 7:30 P.M. Kappa Alpha Order, Ole Miss to Governor Ross Barnett.
Re: Proud of Barnett’s stand on the Meredith case.
2.6.26

TD. 20 September 1962. 8:35 P.M. John T. Ames to Dr. John D. Williams. Re: Urging
Williams to defy Barnett.
2.6.27

TMS. 20 September 1962. 8:44 P.M. Annotated article by Clark Porteous sent to Press-Scimitar
Memphis, TN. 4pp. Re: Attempted registration of James Meredith.
2.6.28

TD. 20 September 1962. 8:17 P.M. Katherine Whitfield Wolf to Governor Ross Barnett.
Re: Support of “every true Southerner.” Note: Attached telegram from the Western Union
Oxford office stating that the telegram could not be delivered.
2.6.29

TMS. 20 September 1962. 9:18 P.M. Annotated article by Dudley Morris sent to Birmingham,
time, Inc.. Re: Attempt of James Meredith to register. 20pp.
2.6.30

TMS. 20 September 1962. 10:07 P.M. Annotated article by Joe Moore sent to The Clarion-Ledger
in Jackson, Mississippi. 1p. Re: Denial of admission of James Meredith by Governor
Barnett and mood on campus.
Thursday September 20. General telegrams
2.7

General telegrams
Friday, September 21. Noteworthy telegrams
2.8.1

TD. 21 September 1962. 8:46 A.M. Mary Elizabeth Sample Mosby and Tom Mosby from Denver,
Colorado to Governor Ross Barnett. Re: Support of Barnett’s stand against the “Kennedy
dictatorship.” Note: also included is a Western Union reply indicating that the telegram
could not be delivered.
2.8.2

TD. 21 September 1962. 8:48 A.M. W.A. Weddell of Merritt Island Florida to Chancellor
John D. Williams. Re: Support of Williams’ stand against “unlawful federal executives
and judicial tyranny.”
2.8.3

TD. 21 September 1962. 8:56 A.M. J.O. Hollis of Boston, MA to Ross Barnett. Re: Support
of constitution and Barnett. Note: also included is a Western Union reply indicating
that the telegram could not be delivered.
2.8.4

TD. [21 September 1962]. 9:36 A.M. Berryhill to Andrews. Re: An in-house Western Union
communication asking Andrews to keep Berryhill informed of the developments of federal
court hearings scheduled for that day involving university officials and the barring
of Meredith from registration.
2.8.5

TD. 21 September 1962. 9:41 A.M. The C.P. Granthams of Houston, TX to Ross Barnett.
Re: Support. Note: also included is a Western Union communication indicating that
the telegram could not be delivered.
2.8.6

TD. 21 September 1962. 11:10 A.M. Boyce Holleman, district attorney of Wiggins, MS
to A.J. Holloway of the University of Mississippi. Re: Support of the football team
and their efforts “in the midst of a crisis which was none of our choosing.”
2.8.7

TD. 21 September 1962. 11:11 A.M. Harry Inge Johnstone of Mobile, Alabama to Chancellor
J.D. Williams. Re: support of Williams’ stand on “upholding law” and support of Barnett.
Also “abhors the rowdy demonstrations and disgraceful actions of the students. The
South’s position would be greatly strengthened and dignified if you would publicly
announce that any unseemly action by any student would bring immediate suspension
from the university.”
2.8.8

TD. 21 September 1962. 11:12 A.M. W.L. Godwin, Director Southern Regional Education
Board, Atlanta, GA to Chancellor J.D. Williams. Re: Thinking about Williams and wishing
him luck.
2.8.9

TD. 21 September 1962. 11:13 A.M. Robert W. Easley, President Cattaraugus and Allegheny
Counties Labor Council to Ross Barnett. Re: Disagreement with Barnett stating, “to
be a free American is one of God’s greatest gifts to man. No Citizen can be more-no
citizen can be less.” Note: also contains communications from Western Union indicating
that the telegram could not be sent.
2.8.10

TD. 21 September 1962. 11:45 A.M. Robert L. Taylor, President Mississippi State University
Student Association to Dick Wilson, President Student Body, University of Mississippi.
Re: Support of students at the University of Mississippi and hope that no one will
be seriously injured.
2.8.11

TD. 21 September 1962. 12:08 P.M. Dr. R.M. Gross of Demopolis, Alabama to Miss Patricia
Rowland, University of Mississippi. Re: Ashamed of Miss Rowland’s stand on integration.
Says that her stand helps the cause of integration.
2.8.12

TD. 21 September 1962. 1:21 P.M. Dr. R.M. Goss of Demopolis, Alabama to Larry Smitherman,
University of Mississippi. Re: Ashamed of Smitherman’s stand on integration. Says
his stand helps promote integration.
2.8.13

TD. 21 September 1962. 2:45 P.M. Okolona Chamber of Commerce to Chancellor J.D. Williams
and other University of Mississippi officials. Re: Support of Williams’ “courage and
loyalty.”
2.8.14

TD. [21 September 1962] 4:45 P.M. Bramlett to Berryhill. Re: In-house communication
from Oxford Western Union office to Jackson office about state of affairs, “had some
press for Washington Post and will have more later. They all seem to think things
will really pop next week, think Meredith may try return Monday or Tues. All depends
on how things go in Meridian.”
2.8.15

TD. 21 September 1962. 6:25 P.M. Andrews of Meridian Western Union office to Rushing
at Oxford office. Re: reporting on outcome on the Justice Department’s contempt of
court charges for Chancellor Williams, Dean A.B. Lewis, and registrar Robert Ellis
for the refusal to allow Meredith to register. On Sept. 21 U.S. District Court Judge
Sidney Mize in Meridian abolished contempt charges.
2.8.16

TMS. 21 September 1962. 3:06 P.M. Annotated article by James Clayton sent to World
Desk, Washington Post. 2pp. Re: Outcome of trial in Meridian and attitude on University
of Mississippi campus. Note: Several additional pages sent at 6:16 P.M.
2.8.17

TMS. 21 September 1962. 12:02 P.M. Annotated article by unnamed correspondent sent
to Birmingham News. Re: Refusal to allow Meredith to register on 20th. 3pp.
2.8.18

TMS. 21 September 1962. 5:02 P.M. Annotated article by Charles Whaley, Ole Miss Motel
sent to Courier-Journal, Louisville, KY. 3pp. Re: Attitude on University of Mississippi
campus.
Friday 21 September 1962. General telegrams
2.9

General telegrams
Saturday 22 September 1962. Noteworthy telegrams
3.1.1

TD. 22 September 1962. 8:51 A.M. George Burrows of Tulsa, OK to Ross Barnett. Re:
Suggestions for opposing the “Kennedy Dynasty.” Note: Western Union communications
regarding inability to deliver telegram in Oxford, suggest forwarding to Jackson.
3.1.2

TD. 22 September 1962. 10:33 A.M. Ed Connell of Clarksdale, MS to Chancellor Williams.
Re: Congratulating Williams on the overthrow of the contempt charges in Meridian the
day before (although on Saturday the U.S. Court of Appeals in New Orleans, LA ordered
the officials and all the board of trustees to appear in court on Monday).
3.1.3

TD. 22 September 1962. 10:34 A.M. Katie and Billy Frazer of Clarksdale, MS to Chancellor
J.D. Williams. Re: Support of Williams.
3.1.4

TD. 22 September 1962. 11:03 A.M. Horace Twiford of Clarksdale, MS to Chancellor
Williams. Re: Support of Williams.
3.1.5

TD. 22 September 1962. 11:08 A.M. Pat D. Holcomb of Clarksdale, MS to Chancellor J.D.
Williams. Re: Congratulating Williams on the overthrow of the contempt charges in
Meridian the day before (although on Saturday the U.S. Court of Appeals in New Orleans,
LA ordered the officials and all the board of trustees to appear in court on Monday).
3.1.6

TD. 22 September 1962. 11:09 A.M. Ed Connell of Clarksdale, MS to Robert Ellis, Registrar
University of Mississippi. Re: Congratulating Ellis on the overthrow of the contempt
charges in Meridian the day before (although on Saturday the U.S. Court of Appeals
in New Orleans, LA ordered the officials and all the board of trustees to appear in
court on Monday).
3.1.7

TMS. 22 September 1962. 11:33 A.M. Annotated article by Dudley Morris sent to Time,
Inc. 4pp. Re: Oxford campus, Department of Justice and civil contempt citations in
New Orleans.
3.1.8

TMS. 22 September 1962. 11:43 A.M. Annotated page sent by James Clayton to World Desk,
Washington Post. 1p. Re: Faulkner and Oxford.
3.1.9

TD. 22 September 1962. 11:55 A.M. Charles McGonagill and C.B. Shipp of Oxford, MS
to Ross Barnett. Re: Support of Ross and University Trustees.
3.1.10

TMS. 22 September 1962. 12:26 P.M. Annotated page by unnamed correspondent sent to
Parker, Time, Inc. 1p. Re: Corrections to article.
3.1.11

TMS. 22 September 1962. 1:03 P.M. Annotated article by unnamed correspondent sent
to Time, Inc. 2pp. Re: The fate of higher education in Mississippi.
3.1.12

TMS. 22 September 1962. 1:28 P.M. Annotated manuscript by Charles Whaley, Ole Miss
Motel sent to The Courier Journal, Louisville, KY. 5pp.
3.1.13

TMS. 22 September 1962. 2:59 P.M. Annotated article by Joe Moore sent to Clarion Ledger.
1p. Re: registration at the University of Mississippi and news coverage.
Saturday 22 September 1962. General telegrams
3.2

General telegrams
Sunday 23 September 1962. Noteworthy telegrams
3.3.1

TD. 23 September 1962. 9:12 A.M. Richard and Jean Todd of Washington, D.C. to Ross
Barnett. Re: Support of Barnett.
3.3.2

TD. 23 September 1962. 9:13 A.M. David Martinez of Sacramento, CA to Ross Barnett.
Re: Disagreement with Barnett’s position. Note: also included are Western Union communications
indicating that the Martinez telegram could not be delivered.
3.3.3

TD. 23 September 1962. 11:25 A.M. Nelson T. Levings of Southampton, NY to Chancellor
Williams. Re: Support of Williams and Barnett against the “unconstitutional, political,
and prejudiced out of state courts.”
Sunday 23 September 1962. General telegrams
3.4

General telegrams
Monday 24 September 1962. Noteworthy telegrams
3.5.1

TD. 24 September 1962. 8:57 A.M. The Ole Miss [Canterbury?] Association, Reverend
Wofford Smith to Chancellor J.D. Williams, Roosevelt Hotel, New Orleans. Re: Thoughts
and prayers with Chancellor Williams.
3.5.2

TD. 24 September 1962. 9:34 A.M. Charlie Hathorn, to Ira L. Morgan, Care Clerks Office
Court of Appeals 5th Circuit Bldg.
3.5.3

TD. [24 September 1962]. 11:40 A.M. In house communication from Bramlett to Berryhill.
Re: Sheriffs and highway patrol and additional reporters.
3.5.4

TMS. 24 September 1962. 8:55 P.M. Annotated article by G. Metz sent to The Birmingham
News. 6pp.
3.5.5

TMS. 24 September 1962. 9:37 P.M. Annotated article “The Chess Game” by Dudley Morris
sent to time, inc. 5pp.
3.5.6

TD. 24 September 1962. 9:58 P.M. Neal D. Rogers Jr. to Ross Barnett. Re: University
of Mississippi’s accreditation.
Monday 24 September 1962. General telegrams
3.6

General telegrams
Tuesday 25 September 1962. Noteworthy telegrams
3.7.1

TD. 25 September 1962. 9:05 A.M. Helen Majors Kitchens of Los Angeles, CA to Ross
Barnett. Re: Support. Note: also included Western Union communication indicating
inability to send telegram.
3.7.2

TD. 25 September 1962. 9:12 A.M. H.A. Fennerty, O.T. Harrington from Louisiana Alpha
Chapter to Mississippi Alpha Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. Re: Mocking references to
pledging James Meredith.
3.7.3

TD. 25 September 1962. 9:14 A.M. John Morris of Miami Beach, Florida to University
of Mississippi. Re: Support for stand against integration.
3.7.4

TD. 25 September 1962. 9:12 A.M. Joe Woosley to Robert Ellis. Re: “Non Illigitimi
Carorundum.”
3.7.5

TD. 25 September 1962. 9:40 A.M. In house Western Union communication from Berryhill
to Bramlett. Re: Situation in Oxford. Note: also contains Bramlett’s reply which mentions
road blocks around campus.
3.7.6

TD. 25 September 1962.1:11 P.M. Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, University, Mississippi
to Ross Barnett. Re: Support of Barnett.
3.7.7

TD. 25 September 1962. 1:27 P.M. Alex Vaughan of State College, PA to Ross Barnett.
Re: Support for Barnett. Note: also included are Western Union communications indicating
that telegram could not be delivered in Oxford.
3.7.8

TD. 25 September 1962. 3:05 P.M. Doris and Bo Murry to Chancellor John D. Williams,
Dr. A.B. Lewis and Robert Ellis. Re: Support.
3.7.9

TD. 25 September 1962. 3:42 P.M. Cancellation of telegram from Phil Zabriskie and
Ted Bennett, Division of College Work, New York, NY to Reverend Wofford Smith. Re:
Cancellation of trip to Hattiesburg. Note: The original telegram is also included.
3.7.10

TD. September 25. 1962. 4:49 P.M. In-house Western Union communication from Rushing
in Jackson office to Berryhill in Oxford. Re: Installation of telephones in “key equipment.”
“This in connection direct phone highway department.”
3.7.11

TD. 25 September 1962. 5:48 P.M. Edmund Walker & Tiger Brown of the University of
Mississippi to Ross Barnett. Re: Support for Barnett.
3.7.12

TD. 25 September 1962. 5:52 P.M. Lynn Britton, George Boutwell, Jimmy Conlee, Carroll
Hughes and others, student of the University of Mississippi to Governor Barnett. Re:
Support and prayers.
3.7.13

TMS. 25 September 1962. 7:34 P.M. Annotated article by Joe Morre sent to Clarion-Ledger.
2pp. Re: Ban by Mississippi Highway Patrol on newsmen entering campus.
3.7.14

TMS. 25 September 1962. 7:39 P.M. Annotated article by Clark Porteous sent to Memphis
Press-Scimitar. 3pp. Re: Highway Patrol.
3.7.15

TD. 25 September 1962. 8:40 P.M. Marshall Bennett and Donnie Brock to Ross Barnett.
Re: Student support for Barnett, “proud of our Governor and Sovereign State.”
Tuesday 25 September 1962. General Telegrams
3.8

General telegrams
Wednesday 26 September 1962. Noteworthy Telegrams
3.9.1

TDS. September 26, [1962]. Petition of Oxford, MS citizens supporting “using every
legal means to prevent integration at Ole Miss” but also “in favor of keeping our
universities and colleges open.” 4pp. On Elliott Lumber Company letterhead.
3.9.2

TD. 26 September 1962. 9:10 A.M. Charles C. Hathorn to Honorable John F. Kennedy.
Re: Asking the President to consider that the “majority of Mississippians believe
in states rights. The majority of Negroes in the State of Mississippi are not in favor
of your use of force in the Meredith issue.”
3.9.3

TLS. 26 September 1962. 5:23 P.M. John S. Wagoner of Johnstown, PA to Senator Mike
Mansfield, Senator Everett M. Dirksen, Congressman John W. McCormack, and Congressman
Charles A. Halleck. 2pp. Re: Asking representatives to try to prevent the use of force
in Oxford, MS.
3.9.4

TD. 26 September 1962. 5:29 P.M. H.M. Ivy of Meridian, MS to Chancellor J.D. Williams.
Re: Has spoken with “several other past presidents of the Southern Association in
regard to the effect of closing down the University of Mississippi on the accredited
status of the other state institutions of higher learning.”
3.9.5

TD. 26 September 1962. 7:13 P.M. Dr. Leroy Allen of Raleigh, NC to Ross Barnett. Re:
support of states rights. Note: also included are Western Union correspondence indicating
an inability to send telegram.
3.9.6

TD. 26 September 1962. 7:15 P.M. Arthur Sherman McDonald, Sr. and family of CA to
Ross Barnett. Re: Support of Barnett saying “keep old Mississippi white and when my
6 year old son grows up I’ll send him to college there.”
3.9.7

TD. 26 September 1962. 7:46 P.M. Dr. William H. Ferguson of Winter Park, FL to President,
University of Mississippi. Re: Against actions of Chancellor.
3.9.8

TD. 26 September 1962. 9:01 P.M. Cliff Boerema of Plainfield, NJ to Ross Barnett.
Re: Support of Barnett and offer of help. Note: also included are Western Union communications
indicating the inability to send telegram as addressed.
3.9.9

TD. 26 September 1962. 10:09 P.M. Rosemary B. Chappel of Glendale, CA to Ross Barnett.
Re: Support of Barnett.
3.9.10

TD. 26 September 1962. 11:24 P.M. St. Mary’s College, Notre Dame Indiana to Student
Council, University of Mississippi. Re: Support of James Meredith.
Wednesday 26 September 1962. General telegrams
3.10

General telegrams
Thursday 27 September 1962. Noteworthy telegrams
3.11.1

TMS. 27 September 1962. 8:38 A.M. Annotated article by Bern Rotman of New Orleans,
LA sent to Newsday, Garden City, NJ. 2pp. Re: Possibility of closing the University
of Mississippi.
3.11.2

TD. 27 September 1962. 9:10 A.M. Duncan Gray, Jr. to Mrs. St. Lloyd of North Springfield,
Va. Re: Asking Mrs. Lloyd to pray for the University and telling her to look at Memphis
papers, not Jackson ones. States that “cooler heads throughout state soliciting telegrams
urging governor to keep university open. Watch CBS Eye Witness Friday.”
3.11.3

TMS. 27 September 1962. 9:10 A.M. Annotated article by Dudley Morris, Ole Miss Motel
sent to Parker, New York, Atlanta. 8pp. Re: Attempt to register James Meredith on
Wednesday September 26 in Oxford, Paul B. Johnson, United States Marshal James McShane.
3.11.4

TD. 27 September 1962. 9:22 A.M. Thomas J. Riggs, Permanent Delegate of AFL CIO Labor
Counsel, Houston, TX to Governor Barnett. Re: Support of the Pipefitters Local Union
211 and hopes that the next governor of Texas will “have the intestinal fortitude
to take your stand.”
3.11.5

TD. 27 September 1962. 9:23 A.M. Jean Arthurs Sangster, class of 38 and family of
Little Rock, Arkansas to Governor Ross Barnett. Re: Support and offer of help.
3.11.6

TD. 27 September 1962. 9:26 A,M. Jean Arthur Sangster, class of 38 and family of Little
Rock, Arkansas to Lt. Governor Paul Johnson. Re: Support and offer of help.
3.11.7

TD. 27 September 1962. 9:24 A.M. Scott McAllister of New Jersey to Lt. Governor of
Mississippi. Re: Support and statement to “keep your pow[d]er dry.”
3.11.8

TD. 27 September 1962. 9:24 A.M. Wendell Care Dick Henry’s Restaurant Westhampton
Beach, NY to Ross Barnett. Re: Support for Barnett and statement that “here’s one
good Yankee who will fight with the Rebels.”
3.11.9

TD. 27 September 1962. 9:27 A.M. Carl E. Hutchinson and Margaret B. Hutchinson of
Lakeland, FL to Ross Barnett. Re: Support of Barnett’s stand “against communism.”
3.11.10

TD. 27 September 1962. 9:32 A.M. J.D. [Williams] to Dr. Winfred Godwin, Southern Regional
Education Board. Re: Cancellation of trip to Miami “due to clash of troops near campus.”
3.11.11

TD. 27 September 1962. 9:32 A.M. J.D. Williams to Mr. John H. Kunstel, Reservation
Manager, Diplomat Hotel. Re: Cancellation of reservations for September 29 to October
1 at the Hollywood-by-the Sea, Florida hotel.
3.11.12

TD. 27 September 1962. 9:32 A.M. Daddy to Miss Betty Price. Re: attempted to call,
“rumors make things look bad Please stay in.”
3.11.13

TD. 27 September 1962. 9:33 A.M. Mr. and Mrs. J. Alex Tinsley of West Palm Beach,
FL to Ross Barnett and Paul Johnson. Re: Support of Governor , stating “more power
to you if you can keep the state of Mississippi under white supremacy. I will sell
my home and buy one in Mississippi.”
3.11.14

TD. 27 September 1962. 10:04 A.M. Jesse Walker, City Editor New York Amsterdam News
to Marvin Black, Director of Public Relations, The Mississippian, University of Mississippi.
Re: Refusal of accreditation to James L.Hicks on assignment. Asking Black to reconsider.
3.11.15

TD. 27 September 1962. 10:33 A.M. Donald Blowers and Family, Cleveland, OH to Ross
Barnett. Re: Congratulating Barnett on his stand.
3.11.16

TD. 27 September 1962. 10:34 A.M. Mrs. Elizabeth C. Parker of Washington, D.C. to
Student Council, University of Mississippi. Re: support of James Meredith.
3.11.17

TD. 27 September 1962. 10:40 A.M. In house Western Union communication from Berryhill
to Helms. Re: reporting they are in excess of two hundred percent above normal and
thanking the offices for “doing an outstanding job.”
3.11.18

TD. 27 September 1962. 10:44 A.M. In-house Western Union communication from Berryhill
to Rushing in Jackson, MS and Helms. Re: Holding telegrams for governor’s office until
they receive permission to deliver them. Asking them to tell “all your people that
they are not to discuss the volume of telegrams with anyone but to refer request to
you. You should inform any one inquiring info not available…we are holding in excess
of two thousand telegrams for Barnett at Jackson awaiting permission to deliver.”
3.11.19

TD. 27 September 1962. 11:34 A.M. Harry Newton, Dallas, TX to Gov. Ross Barnett. Re:
Support of Barnett.
3.11.20

TD. 27 September 1962. 11:43 A.M. John R. McNeal of Biloxi, MS to Ross Barnett. Re:
Support of Barnett’s actions “for the sake of my family and everybody else’s family”
and offer of help.
3.11.21

TD. 27 September 1962. 11:51 A.M. Howard F. Green of Dallas, TX to Governor Ross Barnett.
Re: Support of “a man’s man.”
3.11.22

TD. 27 September 1962. 12:11 P.M. In-house Western Union communication from Berryhill
to Helms and Rushing. Re: Handled approximately 11, 320 words from press so far from
Oxford on the 27th. The message load is “325 percent above normal.”
3.11.23

TD. 27 September 1962. 12:47 P.M. Telegram from Oxford citizens, Dr. Robert L. Holley
Jr., Mrs. William Faulkner, Mrs. Robert L. Holley, Mrs. Gayle Beanland, Mrs. Sam Friedman,
Mrs. Kate Baker and Bank of Oxford to Ross Barnett, Walter Sillers and Senator Homer
S. Samuels. Re: Concern for situation at the University and “respectfully urge that
you keep the University open, protect its accreditation, and preserve its good name.”
3.11.24

TD. 27 September 1962. 12:47 P.M. Citizens of Oxford to Ross Barnett, Walter Sillers
and Senator Homer S. Samuels. Re: concern about situation at Oxford and “urge that
you keep the university open, protect its accreditation, and preserve its good name.”
Note: Mrs. Faulkner is not included in this list.
3.11.25

TD. 27 September 1962. 1:04 P.M. “An American and a Louisianan” J.D. Turner to Ross
Barnett. Re: Support of Barnett and offer of support.
3.11.26

TD. 27 September 1962. 1:11 P.M. Xi Chapter, Kappa Alpha Order, Georgetown, TX to
Kappa Alpha Fraternity House, University of Mississippi. Re: Support of XI Chapter
Southwestern University for University of MS chapter and support of Barnett.
3.11.27

TD. 27 September 1962. 1:42 P.M. A.R. Ingran, Dalton Hyde, H.H. White, D.B. Chittom,
J.B. Edgar, A.T. Morgan, D.L. Dorris, Rev. Dorsey McCay, Murray L. Williams of Water
Valley, MS to Ross Barnett. Re: Support of Barnett.
3.11.28

TD. 27 September 1962. 1:51 P.M. In house Western-Union communication from JFN of
Tampa, FL to Berryhill, Oxford, MS. Re: Support and offer of help. Note: also includes
Berryhill’s response indicating that “despite reports to the contrary this is probably
the most peaceful town in the nation, news reports and TV newscasts distort picture.”
3.11.29

TMS. 27 September 1962. 2:10 P.M. Annotated article entitled “The New Ross” by D.M.
[Dudley Moore] to Time, Inc. Nation. 6pp. Re: Increasing popularity of Ross Barnett
and his political ambitions.
3.11.30

TD. 27 September 1962. 2:17 P.M. West Monroe Kiwanis Club, Monroe, LA to Ross Barnett.
Re: Support.
3.11.31

TD. 27 September 1962. 2:27 P.M. G.S. Monroe, Past President of Mississippi Chapter
of Patriotic American Youth to John F. Kennedy. Re: Uncontrollable situation “cease
federal intervention before blood flows in streets of Oxford, Mississippi.”
3.11.32

TD. 27 September 1962. 2:42 P.M. Charles Toni and Guy Newcomb of Osceola, Arkansas
to Ross Barnett. Re: Support.
3.11.33

TD. 27 September 1962. 3:32 P.M. Robert Huber of Weiner, Arkansas to Governor Barnett.
RE: Support of everyone in area.
3.11.34

TD. 27 September 1962. 3:27 P.M. Eric Mcvey of Macon, MS to Ross Barnett. Re: Support
and wish that Barnett was President.
3.11.35

TD. 27 September 1962. 3:27 P.M. Robert A. Fitz of Waco, TX to Ross Barnett. Re: Support.
3.11.36

TD. 27 September 1962. 3:28 P.M. Erick Mcvey of Macon, MS to Lt. Gov. Paul B. Johnson.
Re: Support.
3.11.37

TD. 27 September 1962. 4:54 P.M. Josef C. Dine, Chairman of Freedom of Press Committee,
New York, NY to Marvin Black, Public Relations Officer, University of Mississippi.
Re: Facilitate efforts of James Hicks, reporter and editor for the New York Amsterdam
News.
3.11.38

TD. 27 September 1962. 6:05 P.M. Harvey H. Hutchins, Attorney Gulfport, MS to Registrar
Robert Ellis, University of Mississippi. Re: Injunction issued by the Chancery Court
of Jones County “enjoining you and all employees of the University from performing
any act, the execution of which is intended to bring about the registration and enrollment
of the negro James Meredith as a student…has been removed by action of the U.S.
Department of Justice to the U.S. District Court of the Southern District of Mississippi.”
Advising that “this injunction is now a federal court injunction, has not been set
aside and must be obeyed.” Hutchins further states that “defiance of this injunction
on your part by any effort designed to enter the negro in the University as a student
will cause a petition to be filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District
of Miss. to have you cited for contempt.”
3.11.39

TD. 27 September 1962. 6:06 P.M. Harvey H. Hutchins, Attorney Gulfport, MS to Chancellor
John D. Williams. Re: Injunction issued by the Chancery Court of Jones County “enjoining
you and all employees of the University from performing any act, the execution of
which is intended to bring about the registration and enrollment of the negro James
Meredith as a student…has been removed by action of the U.S. Department of Justice
to the U.S. District Court of the Southern District of Mississippi.” Advising that
“this injunction is now a federal court injunction, has not been set aside and must
be obeyed.” Hutchins further states that “defiance of this injunction on your part
by any effort designed to enter the negro in the University as a student will cause
a petition to be filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Miss.
to have you cited for contempt.”
3.11.40

TD. 27 September 1962. 8:16 P.M. The 60 Men of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, University,
Ms to Governor John Patterson, Governor of Alabama. Re: thanking Patterson for his
support “help save us from Kennedy and Meredith.”
3.11.41

TD. 27 September 1962. 8:15 P.M. Pendergast to Associated Press, Times Picayune. Re:
Governor Barnett and Lt. Governor Paul Johnson left Oxford that evening with police
and plain clothes police.
3.11.42

TMS. 27 September 1962. 8:36 P.M. Annotated article by Sitton sent to New York Times.
6pp. Re: Cancellation of fourth attempt to enroll James Meredith.
3.11.43

TMS. 27 September 1962. 8:43 P.M. Annotated article by Fleming sent to Query Editor,
Newsweek. 5pp. Re: Fifth Circuit’s contempt citation and atmosphere on campus.
3.11.44

TD. 27 September 1962. 8:45 P.M. Mother from Biloxi, MS to George Goodenow, Oxford,
MS. Re: Insisting that he come home “week end to avoid trouble there.”
3.11.45

TD. 27 September 1962. 8:46 P.M. Joseph M. Mosby of Meridian, MS to J.D. Williams.
Re: Asking Williams to keep University of Mississippi open on behalf of Lauderdale
County Ole Miss Alumni. They resolved that Williams should keep the University open
“even if we must bow to the federal government.”
3.11.46

TD. 27 September 1962. 9:49 P.M. Sigma Chapter of Sigma Nu Fraternity, Vanderbilt
to Sigma Nu Fraternity, University of Mississippi. Re: Support for Sigma Nu’s at Ole
Miss. Stating “never a Negro Sigma Nu.”
3.11.47

TMS. 27 September 1962. 8:59 P.M. Annotated article by Robert Nelson to The Christian
Science Monitor. 4pp. Re: Events of Sept. 27 on campus.
3.11.48

TD. 27 September 1962. 9:24 P.M. Brandon to Press Thomsonews London. Re: “situation
here so unpredictable that its likely waste money and effort file tonight.”
3.11.49

TMS. 27 September 1962. 10:23 P.M. Annotated article “Justice Department, Act IV”
by Dudley Morris sent to Parker, time Inc. 9pp.
3.11.50

TMS. 27 September 1962. 10:48 P.M. Annotated article by Robert Nelson sent to The
Christian Science Monitor, Sceneweek. 6pp.
3.11.51

TMS. 27 September 1962. 11:44 P.M. Annotated article by unnamed correspondent to London
Daily Telegraph, Telenews London. 5pp.
3.11.52

TD. 27 September 1962. 11:55 P.M. Norman Uphoff, University of Minnesota to Student
Body President, University of Mississippi. Re: Need to support James Meredith and
have peaceful registration.
Thursday, 27 September 1962. General telegrams
3.12

General telegrams
Friday, 28 September 1962. Noteworthy telegrams
3.13.1

TMS. 28 September 1962. 12:33 A.M. Annotated article by Yarbrough sent to Post Dispatch,
St. Louis, Mo. 2pp.
3.13.2

TMS. 28 September 1962. 1:04 A.M. Annotated article by Alex Thomas sent to The Huntsville
Times. 1p.
3.13.3

TMS. 28 September 1962. 1:21 A.M. Annotated article by Raymond R. Coffey to Chicago
Daily News. 7pp.
3.13.4

TMS. 28 September 1962. 8:35 A.M. Annotated article by Robert Baker sent to Washington
Post. 7pp.
3.13.5

TD. 28 September 1962. 9:15 A.M. Dr. Norman Mann of San Diego, CA to Present, Student
Government Association, University of Mississippi. Re: Absence of condemnation of
Governor Barnett.
3.13.6

TD. 28 September 1962. 9:24 A.M. Rocket of Muskogee, OK to Jack C. Hannah. Re: Support
and help.
3.13.7

TD. 28 September 1962. 9:29 A.M. W.D. [Heddleston] Jr. to Governor Barnett. Re: Admiration
and suggestion to close University.
3.13.8

TD. 28 September 1962. 9:31 A.M. Jackie and Jim Pierce of Jackson, MS to Registrar,
University of Mississippi. Re: Appreciation of service.
3.13.9

TD. 28 September 1962. 9:37 A.M. B. Barbrey of Washington, D.C. to Student Body, University
of Mississippi. Re: putting James Meredith through Harvard.
3.13.10

TD. 28 September 1962. 9:40 A.M. Mom and Dad from Venice, FL to David D. Mason. Re:
Sympathy to the problems of University but asking David to “stay very much in the
background.”
3.13.11

TD. 28 September 1962. 9:41 A.M. Clyde et al. from Corinth, Ms to Bobby Fooshee. Re:
“Have gun will travel.”
3.13.12

TD. 28 September 1962. 9:50 A.M. Mrs. Paul A. Hammer of CA to Ross Barnett. Re: Support
of Barnett.
3.13.13

TD. 28 September 1962.9:52 A.M. Robert and Sue Victor of New York to Ross Barnett.
Re: Support.
3.13.14

TD. 28 September 1962. 10:35 A.M. Citizens of Americus, GA to Ross Barnett and Lt.
Gov. Johnson. Re: Support and praise.
3.13.15

TD. 28 September 1962. 11:39 A.M. Russell Burson Associate from Charlotte, NC to Minister,
University Methodist Church, Oxford, MS. Re: Prayers and support.
3.13.16

TMS. 28 September 1962. 11:39 A.M. Annotated article by [Dudley Morris?] sent to Parker,
Time, Inc. 4pp.
3.13.17

TD. 28 September 1962. 11:57 A.M. Alpha Zeta Chapter, Kappa Alpha Order, Williamsburg,
VA to Number 1 Kappa Alpha Order, Oxford, Miss. Re: Support.
3.13.18

TD. 28 September 1962. 12:20 P.M. Kappa Alpha Order, Gamma PI Chapter Florida to Kappa
Alpha Order, Oxford, Miss. Re: Support and help.
3.13.19

TD. 28 September 1962. 12:52 P.M. Charles C. Hathorn to Ross Barnett. Re: Support
but “please don’t let our boys get hurt.”
3.13.20

TD. 28 September 1962. 1:09 P.M. Elno Smith of Montgomery, AL to Ross Barnett. Re:
Contingent of Alabama Volunteers leaving for Oxford on the 29th.
3.13.21

TD. 28 September 1962. 1:13 P.M. Unsigned Gamma Rho Chapter of Kappa Alpha Order,
Greenville, NC to Kappa Alpha Chapter, University of Mississippi. Re: Support to “the
South’s last stand.”
3.13.22

TD. 28 September 1962. 2:18 P.M. Gamma Gamma Chapter of Kappa Alpha, Memphis, TN to
Kappa Alpha Chapter, University of Mississippi. Re: Support.
3.13.23

TD. 28 September 1962. 2:22 P.M. H. McCoy Wilson and B. Newell Simrall III to John
F. Kennedy. Re: Kappa Alpha Order at the University of Mississippi urging Kennedy
to “leave Mississippi in the hands of state officials and our loyal citizens, we feel
we are capable of handling our own affairs. With all respect, leave us alone.”
3.13.24

TD. 28 September 1962. 2:26 P.M. D.L. Pierce et al. of Atlanta, GA to Secretary of
State, Mississippi. Re: Georgians offering support to Barnett.
3.14.1

TD. 28 September 1962. 2:27 P.M. Phi Alpha Texas Rho, University of Texas Fraternity
to Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity, University of Mississippi. Re: Support and “101
men armed to the teeth…ready to fight.”
3.14.2

TD. 28 September 1962. 2:36 P.M. William W. Scranton, Member of Congress Tenth District
Pennsylvania to James Meredith. Re: Support of his cause. Note: includes several other
Western Union communications conveying the fact that Mr. Meredith was not on the Oxford
campus and attempts to locate him to deliver telegram.
3.14.3

TD. 28 September 1962. 3:08 P.M. O.D. Edwards et al. of Corpus Christi, TX to Ross
Barnett. Re: Support of Barnett.
3.14.4

TMS. 28 September 1962. 3:13 P.M. Annotated article by Norman Richardson sent to[Sport
Times]. About 4 pp.
3.14.5

TD. 28 September 1962. 3:50 P.M. John E. McNamee Sr. of Water Valley, Ms to Ross Barnett.
Re: Members of ACWA Local 643 of Water Valley support of Barnett.
3.14.6

TMS. 28 September 1962. 4:36 P.M. Series of student quotes gathered by Bruce Jayne
for Evening Independent, St. Petersburg, FL. 2pp.
3.14.7

TMS. 28 September 1962. 6:29 P.M. Annotated article by Brandon sent to Thomason newspapers
London. 5pp.
3.14.8

TMS. 28 September 1962. 6:37 P.M. Annotated article by D.M. [Dudley Morris] sent to
Parker, time. inc. 5pp.
3.14.9

TMS. 28 September 1962. 7:07 P.M. Annotated article by Robert Nelson sent to The Christian
Science Monitor. 5pp. Re: Actions of the Fifth Circuit Federal Court’s decision on
the 28th to allow Gov. Barnett until Tuesday of the next week “to purge himself of
contempt of their court.”
3.14.10

TD. 28 September 1962. 7:39 P.M. John L. Daniels of Littleton, CO to Ross Barnett.
Re: Opposition to Barnett.
3.14.11

TMS. 28 September 1962. 7:52 P.M. Annotated article by Brandon sent to Thompson newspapers,
London. 4pp.
3.14.12

TMS. 28 September 1962. 9:15 P.M. Annotated article by Clark Porteous sent to the
Memphis Press Scimitar. 4pp.
3.14.13

TMS. 28 September 1962. 9:56 P.M. Annotated article by Brandon sent to Thompson newspapers
London. 2pp.
3.15.1

TMS. 28 September 1962. 10:14 P.M. Annotated article from Godfrey Hodgson to London
Press Observer. 6pp.
3.15.2

TMS. 28 September 1962. 10:15 P.M. Annotated article from Rogers to The Denver Post.
2pp.
3.15.3

TMS. 28 September 1962. 10:16 P.M. Annotated article from Rogers to The Denver Post.
5pp.
3.15.4

TMS. 28 September 1962. 10:40 P.M. Annotated article by Raymond R. Coffey sent to
Chicago Daily News. 5pp.
3.15.5

TMS. 28 September 1962. 10:43 P.M. Annotated article by Stan Opotowsky sent to New
York Post. 3pp.
3.15.6

TD. 28 September 1962. 10:48 P.M. Chi-Omega of Kappa Sigma University of South Carolina
to Grand Master, Kappa Sigma Fraternity, University of Mississippi. Re: Support and
offer of help.
3.15.7

TD. 28 September 1962. 10:55 P.M. Short message/article for the Associated Press from
George Bartsch. 1p.
3.15.8

TMS. 28 September 1962. 11:09 P.M. Annotated article by Raymond R. Coffey sent to
Chicago Daily News. 3pp. Re: The University of Mississippi’s Mary Buie Museum.
3.15.9

TMS. 28 September 1962. 11:11 P.M. Annotated article by Robert Nelson sent to Chicago’s
American. 7pp.
3.15.10

TMS. 28 September 1962. 11:38 P.M. Annotated article by Michael Dorman sent to Newsday.
4pp.
Friday, 28 September 1962. General telegrams
3.16

General telegrams
Annotated Newspaper and Magazine Articles sent 30 September 1962
8:20 P.M. – 2:50 P.M.
4.1.1

TMS. 30 September 1962. 8:20 A.M. Annotated article by William R. Clabby, Henry Hotel,
Oxford, Mississippi sent to Jim Soderlind, The Wall Street Journal, 44 Broad St., New York, N.Y.6pp.
4.1.2

TMS. 30 September 1962. 10:10 A.M. Annotated article by Ivor Davis sent to Daily Sketch London. 2pp.
4.1.3

TMS. 30 September 1962. 12:03 P.M. Annotated article by Tuttle to City Desk, Miami Herald, Miami, Florida. 4pp.
4.1.4

TMS. 30 September 1962. 12:58 P.M. Unattributed annotated article by a reporter staying
at the Henry Hotel, Oxford, Ms. sent to Globe and Mail of Toronto Canada. 1p.
4.1.5

TMS. 30 September 1962. 1:44 P.M. Annotated article by Hoke Norris, Henry Hotel sent
to Sun Times, Chicago, IL. 3pp.
4.1.6

TMS. 30 September 1962. 2:50 P.M. Annotated article by Richard Starnes, Hotel Colonial,
Oxford, Miss. sent to Scripps-Howard Newspaper Alliance, Washington, D.C. 5pp.
4:22 P.M. – 6:16 P.M.
4.2.1

TMS. 30 September 1962. 4:22 P.M. Annotated article by James Kingsley, Oxford, MS
to The Commercial Appeal, Memphis, TN. 2pp.
4.2.2

TMS. 30 September 1962. 4:43 P.M. Annotated article by D.M. [Oxford, MS] sent to Parker-Time,
Inc. for Life Editorials. 7pp.
4.2.3

TMS. 30 September 1962. 5:03 P.M. Annotated article by John D. Harris, Oxford, MS
sent to Record-American (Boston, MA), Times-Union (Albany, NY), Examiner (San Francisco, CA), and Post Intelligencer (Seattle, WA). 2pp.
4.2.4

TMS. 30 September 1962. 5:09 P.M. Annotated article by Edward P. Moore, Jr. Oxford,
MS sent to Commercial Appeal Memphis, TN. 2pp.
4.2.5

TMS. 30 September 1962. 6:16 P.M. Annotated article “The Governor’s Prepared Statement”
by [illegible signature] to Shreveport Times. In fragments.
6:19 P.M. – 10:07 P.M.
4.3.1

TMS. 30 September 1962. 6:19 P.M. Annotated article by Gene Sherman, Thrift Courts,
Water Valley, MS sent to executive news editor, Los Angeles Times. 4pp.
4.3.2

TMS. 30 September 1962. 6:34 P.M. Annotated article by Jack Roach to Managing Editor,
Charleston News and Courier, Charleston, SC. 3pp.
4.3.3

TMS. 30 September 1962. 6:46 P.M. Annotated article by Anthony Harrigan sent to Managing
Editor, The News and Courier, Charleston, South Carolina. 5pp.
4.3.4

TMS. 30 September 1962. 7:08 P.M. Annotated article by Crittenden sent to City Editor,
San Francisco Examiner, San Francisco., CA.
4.3.5

TMS. 30 September 1962. 7:09 P.M. Article by unidentified correspondent sent to [South Port Times?]. 1p.
4.3.6

TMS. 30 September 1962. 9:06 P.M. Annotated article by Anthony Harrigan sent to The News and Courier, Charleston, SC. 2pp.
4.3.7

TMS. 30 September 1962. 10:07 P.M. Annotated article by Gene Sherman sent to executive
news editor, Los Angeles Times. 4pp.
4.3.8

TMS. 30 September 1962. 10:07 P.M. Annotated article by unidentified author sent
to Press Reuters, New York. 2pp.
10:10 P.M. – 11:40 P.M.
4.4.1

TMS. 30 September 1962. 10:40 P.M. Annotated article by Cruttenden sent to City Editor,
San Francisco Examiner. 3pp.
4.4.2

TD. 30 September 1962. 10:43 P.M. Telegram received by telephone from George Bartsch
to “the Associated Press.” 1p.
4.4.3

TMS. 30 September 1962. 10:53 P.M. Annotated article by Walter Wallich, Oxford, MS
sent to Newscasts, London, WI. 2pp.
4.4.4

TD. 30 September 1962. 11:03 P.M. Annotated article by Coffey to Chicago Daily News. 3pp. On Western Union Press Message letterhead. Note: Coffey begins by writing,
“Note to desk: impossible get phone line out of here; hence using this.”
4.4.5

TD. 30 September 1962. 11:09 P.M. Annotated article by Starnes sent to Scripps-Howard Newspaper Alliance, Washington, D.C. 4pp. One page on Western Union Press letterhead. Note: Extensive
notes on backs of pages. First article to mention the death of Paul Guihard.
4.4.6

TD. 30 September 1962. 11:10 P.M. Annotated telegram-article sent by Robert Nelson,
Colonial Hotel sent to The Christian Science Monitor, Boston, MA. 6pp. On Western Union telegram letterhead.
4.4.7

TD. 30 September 1962. 11:40 P.M. Annotated telegram-article by Stan Opotowsky sent
to New York Post. 8pp. On Western Union Press Message letterhead.
Petition
Restrictions: Box 5 : Restricted until 2018


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