This collection chiefly contains letterpress books of correspondence mainly related to the professional life of Minnesota railroad employee, land developer, and poet Henry Whitcomb Holley (1828-1897), including real estate transactions, mining claims, railroad construction/development, business enterprises, and his literary career on the side.

Henry Whitcomb Holley (1828-1897) was born in Pierrepont Manor, New York, May 5, 1828, the son of David and Betsey (Randall) Holley. He graduated from Norwich University, Vermont, in 1849. From 1849-1856, he was a contracting engineer for railroads in Ohio, Indiana, and Wisconsin. Holley came to Minnesota in 1856 and settled in Chatfield. He was editor of the Chatfield Republican (1856-1861); a state senator (1859-1861); and receiver of the U.S. Land Office at Winnebago City (1861-1869). He began his engineering career with the Southern Minnesota Railroad in 1865, became chief engineer of construction, and was also the company's general manager and superintendent.

4 Linear Feet (in 4 cartons) (36 items in 1 envelope and 26 volumes )

The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such activities. The responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining necessary permissions rests with the researcher.

Open to qualified researchers by prior application through the Reader Services Department. For more information, contact Reader Services.