This collection consists of a single letter written by Oren Thoits, a farmer living in Fort Fairfield, Maine, during the American Civil War. Writing to his aunt and uncle on May 5, 1861, Thoits relays family news and local farm conditions and crop prices before discussing the outbreak of war and pledging to enlist if a local regiment is organized. The final page of the letter is written by Jennet, presumably Oren Thoits's wife, sharing and soliciting personal news.