Restrictions: This collection is open to all researchers. Letters are fragile; please consult photocopies before handling originals.
Rights: The status of copyright for these materials is governed by Copyright Law of the United States (Title 17, U. S. C.). Copyright restrictions may apply.
Access Notes: Most letters are encapsulated in polyester sleeves with pressure-sensitive tape around borders. Some tape has come in contact with original letters.
Acquisition Note: Source: Lucy Gordan Jeffers by donation.
Preferred Citation: Pollard Letters, MSS 0000-058, Sargeant Memorial Collection, Norfolk Public Library, Norfolk, Virginia.
Collection Material Type: Personal Papers
Other Note: Box 1 is currently housed inside Box 2 until a new box can be obtained.
Scope and Contents: Twenty-two love letters from United States Navy Lieutenant James Madison Lockert to Margaret E. Pollard of Norfolk, Virginia, primarily during their courtship from 1839-1841 when he was aboard the USS Brandywine. Also included is Lockert's letter to Benjamin Pollard asking for Margaret's hand in marriage, a letter from Aunt Ellen, and two pages of verse mourning the death of Lockert in 1845. The collection also includes a cloth bookcover with printed obituaries pasted on the interior featuring Lockert and other sailors who died on the USS Vandalia from yellow fever in April 1845. The last folder contains photocopies of all 26 letters.