Thomas L. Ross Papers

Collection Summary

Title: Thomas L. Ross Papers
Call Number: MS 94-05
Size: 0.25 linear feet
Acquisition: Purchased from Barry Cassidy Rare Books
Processed by: MTK, 1994; JEF, 4-27-1998
Note: None
Restrictions: None

Literary Rights

Literary rights were not granted to Wichita State University. When permission is granted to examine the manuscripts, it is not an authorization to publish them. Manuscripts cannot be used for publication without regard for common law literary rights, copyright laws and the laws of libel. It is the responsibility of the researcher and his/her publisher to obtain permission to publish. Scholars and students who eventually plan to have their work published are urged to make inquiry regarding overall restrictions on publication before initial research.

Content Note

The Thomas L. Ross Papers contain a six-page holograph letter dated March 29, 1875. Written from Topeka, Kansas, to Ed Smith in Paw Paw, Michigan, Ross describes the economy in and around Topeka, commenting on the continuing migration of people looking for farmland to work, and the output of and market for crops, especially winter wheat. Ross gives a candid assessment of the economic and social conditions in Kansas in 1875 especially concerning requests for relief. The collection includes a typewritten transcription of the letter.

Biography

Thomas L. Ross came to Kansas in the early 1870s and operated a real estate and insurance business in Topeka. At one time he was in partnership with O. T. Welch who later served as state superintendent of insurance.

Detailed Description: Box and Folder Listing

 

Box 1 FF 1 Letter dated March 29, 1875, written by Thomas L. Ross of Topeka, Kansas, to Ed Smith, Paw Paw, Michigan. The letter contains observations and opinions concerning the economic and social conditions in Kansas. Pages 1-3 are written on Insurance Company of North America stationery, and pages 4-6 are on Kansas Central Relief Committee stationery.
Box 1 FF 2 Typed transcription of the letter.