Biography/History:

This collection was apparently assembled by the donor, Frances Witty Darden, whose relation to the Bennett and Jenkins families is uncertain.

Edward Warren Bennett was born in North Carolina around 1802. He was married to Manerva (Minerva) R. Womack by 1837. The couple later moved to Colbert, Monroe County (now Clay County), Mississippi, where Bennett engaged in farming. The Bennetts had six children: Edward Warren, Jr. (b. ca. 1837), Malcom McNeill (b. ca. 1844), John (b. ca. 1846), Barton (b. ca. 1850), Julia (b. ca. 1854), and F. B. (b. ca. 1857). The Bennett family had moved to Carroll County, Mississippi, by November 1858. Edward Warren Bennett, Sr., continued to reside in Carroll County where he farmed until his death in 1862. Manerva R. Womack Bennett died in 1861. The Bennetts were interred at Middleton Cemetery, Carroll County (now Montgomery County), Mississippi.

James S. Jenkins was born in South Carolina around 1818. He and his wife, Mary J. Jenkins, had settled in Monroeville, Monroe County, Alabama, by 1850. Jenkins was also a physician. The couple had four children: Lora (b. ca. 1845), Albert (b. ca. 1847), John (b. ca. 1850), and Betty (b. ca. 1855).

Scope and Content:

This collection consists of the correspondence of Edward Warren Bennett of Carroll and Monroe counties, Mississippi, and the Jenkins family of Monroe County, Alabama.

There are two letters addressed to Edward W. Bennett. One letter was written to Bennett in Colbert, Monroe County, by Malcom McNeill in 1844. He expresses disappointment that his sister will not be able to visit but reveals his pleasure that Malcolm McNeill Bennett was named after him. McNeill also discusses his views on national affairs, especially the annexation of Texas. Another letter was written to Bennett by John M. Burke of Friars Point, Coahoma County, Mississippi, in 1858. Burke advises that he is selling Black Lake plantation in Coahoma County. He provides a very detailed description of the plantation and its location. Burke also notes the crops, livestock, and structures he is planning to sell with the property.

The Jenkins family correspondence consists of three complete letters and two partial ones. The first letter was written by John Snell to his brother-in-law, Dr. James S. Jenkins. He discusses an upcoming examination, relates news of mutual acquaintances and the status of crops, and mentions a fishing trip. The second letter was also written by John Snell to his sister, Mary J. Jenkins. He offers news of family and friends and discusses the condition of his crops and the status of his health. Three other letters written to “Mary” include one signed by “Anne” and two unsigned partial letters that are similar in style to the one from “Anne.” All of the letters relate news of the activities and health of family members. The writer of one letter also discusses gardening.

Series Identification:

1. Correspondence. 1844; 1851-1858; n.d. 1 folder.