This collection consists of a single letter written by Ludwell H. Estes, postmaster at Columbia, Tennessee during the outbreak of the American Civil War. Written from Columbia to Estes' brother, W. I. A. [William Isaac Addison] Estes in Corinth, the letter is dated May 12, 1861. Estes provides information on the organization of local Confederate forces and participation by family and friends. "Henry and Hunter both joined Abe Looney's Company," Estes writes, "which is now in Camp about 75 miles from Nashville ..." He adds that many local men have marching orders, probably for Kentucky, "as Louisville was blockaded day before yesterday and the R.R. ... are threatened to be torn up." Estes asks his brother to purchase and send him a Colt Navy revolver, then informs William that he has recently been appointed Columbia posmaster ("now discharging that duty under old Abe, hope to be transferd to Jeff Davis verry soon"). Estes notes that the state will vote on secession on June 8 and that the governor has called for 55 thousand army volunteers. "Maury [County] has sent off about 4 Companies and there is now 5 or six more that will start during this week," Estes adds.