Nobles Family Papers, 1825-1990 (bulk 1863-1876). 0.3 linear ft. Location: V:1. The Nobles and related families were farmers of Louisiana, Texas and Alabama. Levi Nobles was a Confederate soldier with the 57th Alabama Infantry, married to Mary Elizabeth Massey. The collection relates to the Nobles and related Henry and Massey families. Early papers consist of photocopies and transcriptions of Henry family correspondence and legal documents (1825-1851). Papers include a receipt for the slave, Isaac (March 6, 1835). Civil War and post-war letters are those of the Nobles family, written primarily to Mary E. Nobles and Lou "Babe" Nobles. They relate Levi Nobles' wartime activities and his instructions to Mary on the use of their land (1863). Letters also relay condolences to Mary on the death of Levi (July 5, 15, 18, 1863). Post war letters are written from family and friends in Texas and her brother in Alabama. They discuss family matters, health and crop production. Mary's brother comments on the participation of African Americans in the presidential election (Dec. 9, 1876) and her sister Sarah Smith comments on race relations in Texas (April 1878). Several letters relate to the courtship of Lou "Babe" Nobles. The collection also contains Robert Henry family genealogical material (1979, 1990, undated). Mss. 5163.