Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on June 20, 1947, informing him of the following day’s radio broadcast of President Harry Truman’s speech to Parliament. [1]
Salutation: none; Signature: “Love and all good wishes=W L Mackenzie King.”

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on August 2, 1947, responding to one just received, containing news of a holiday in Muskoka, and confirming receipt of fruit knives and forks with “precious associations” sent to Arthur and his wife Kathleen by Mackenzie King and his sister Jennie.
King thanks Arthur and Kathleen for their earlier letter of congratulations on achieving twenty years as Prime Minister. He describes the unveiling of his own and Sir Robert Borden’s portraits by Lord Alexander and mentions the presence of President Harry Truman. He declares his intent to send Arthur and Kathleen copies of Hansard of June 10 and 11 containing congratulations to himself, speeches made at the unveiling, and President Truman’s address to both Houses of Parliament.
King asks about the vitamin supply, and gives news about Mr. Handy’s son’s health.
Salutation: “My dear Arthur” [typewritten]; Signature: “With love to you and Kathleen, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie” [handwritten.]

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on August 18, 1947, thanking him and his wife Kathleen for their “charming little letter” on the death of King’s dog Pat, and noting “Naturally I feel his loss very much.” King expresses hope of seeing Arthur and Kathleen when he is “up at the Exhibition” [1] and gives details of his busy schedule during the days of his visit. Although he will not be able to visit them at home he has asked that they be sent tickets to the garden party being given by the Lieutenant Governor the Honourable Ray Lawson in the hopes that they may meet each other. King asks if Arthur remembers going with him and his brother Lyon to the opening of the Exhibition “the last time I was there. I think that was just twenty years ago.”
King asks about the vitamin supply.
Salutation: “My dear Arthur” [typewritten]; Signature: “With fondest love to you and Kathleen, Yours affectionately , Uncle Willie” [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur and his wife Kathleen on December 21, 1947, thanking them for their letters of “love and best wishes” for his 73rd birthday. He blames his current lack of communication on “how very strenuous the pace has been. I doubt if ever in my life I have had so much ground to cover, or been as active and busy as I have. “ He then notes “It has all been a kind of ‘grand finale’ to my many years in public life, and which in the nature of things, cannot be expected to continue much longer.” King explains that he has had no time to select a Christmas gift and so has instead enclosed a “Bank Money Order” to be used for something for their home “as coming from me; something that may serve to remind you at all times of my love and abiding affection for you both.”
Salutation: “Dear Arthur and Kathleen” [handwritten; Signature: “Again, with fondest love and best of wishes, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie” [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.
Includes enclosure: empty Christmas money-holder card, 16 x 8 cm folded. Inscribed in King’s hand: “To Arthur and Kathleen With love and all good wishes for Christmas and the new year from Uncle Willie, Xmas 1947."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on December 26, 1947, expressing thanks for Arthur and his wife Kathleen's Christmas letter and gift to him of hand-painted tiles. “How sweet of you both to have remembered my admiration of the little paintings so exquisitely framed! I have already given them a place in my sunroom at Laurier House to which they are lending a note of added beauty and cheer. In the summer time I may take them to Kingsmere as well.” King continues in this effusive and somewhat repetitive vein, and again asks about their vitamin supply. King speculates that Arthur may have telephoned his mother and/or have written to her during the Christmas season, and informs Arthur that he had received a book from her entitled Human Destiny which he is looking forward to reading. [1]
Salutation: “My dear Arthur” [handwritten; Signature: “Again, with my warmest thanks to Kathleen and yourself for your lovely gift and letter, and much love to you both, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie” [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on February 17, 1948, in response to one received. King informs Arthur that after some months of ill health, King's sister and Arthur's aunt, Jennie, has had an operation for a perforated appendix and has recovered. King describes also the "miraculous" recovery of Mr. Handy's son who, after having spent 14 months in hospital, is now at home "with his leg completely restored."
King expresses pleasure at Arthur's report of his progress at work and his advancement to a supervisory position, remarking "It means that your future is now secured."
King advises having, or moving to, living quarters with plenty of sunlight, as beneficial to health. He also agrees with Arthur that Arthur's mother has "gained a new strength and power," and asks, "How are the vitamins holding out?"
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten; Signature: "Your loving uncle Willie."
Includes handwritten corrections.

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on March 27, 1948: "Affectionate Easter greetings dear Arthur you and Kathleen = Mackenzie King."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on August 20, 1948, describing his relationship with John D. Rockefeller Jr., and mentioning his invitation to visit Mr. Rockfeller's "summer home at Seal Harbor, Maine." King anticipates going to Europe in three weeks, and notes that he is "now relieved of the leadership of the Party. On my return, I expect to be giving up office as well."[1] King declares the "Convention" as "a great success" [Liberal leadership election] [2] and wishes that Arthur and Kathleen had been there to "witness the ovations." He expresses his pleasure at Arthur and Kathleen's new home in Leaside, although his opening of Sunnybrook Hospital prevented him from visiting in person. He remarks on the pretty names "Southvale Drive" and "Leaside."
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "With fondest love to you both, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on December 18, 1927. King sends wishes of the season, says he has heard from Santa Claus that neither nephew wants a single present but several smaller ones such as, in Arthur’s case, an archery target, radio tubes and batteries. King says he will send a bank draft that ought to cover the presents plus extra and asks Arthur to write and say what he has purchased. He also indicates that he is sending a sum to Arthur’s mother to use for Christmas, the “I want to do that for Daddy.” [Daddy?]
Salutation: “My dear Arthur”; Signature: “Your loving uncle, Willie.”

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King (while at the 1948 Commonwealth Prime Ministers' Conference in London, England) [1] to his nephew Arthur on October 18, 1948, in reply to a letter from Arthur and Kathleen apparently expressing concern about King's health. King downplays the press reports of his "condition" and explains that he has taken medical advice to "take a complete rest instead of attempting to go on with the proceedings of the Prime Ministers' Meetings at Downing Street," and anticipates being in bed for a further week until boarding the "Queen Elizabeth" on October 29.
King expresses interest in Arthur and Kathleen's house and garden, and notes that everything is "going so well for your mother."
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on December 22, 1948, thanking him and his wife Kathleen for sending 74th birthday congratulations. King asks that his best wishes be extended to all members of Arthur and Kathleen's family that will be gathered at their "own" home, and expresses pleasure that Arthur's mother will be visiting them. King suggests that Arthur and Kathleen use the enclosed money order to add to the silver King gave them as a wedding present.
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "Yours affectionately Uncle Willie" [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.
Includes two possible enclosures: a printed correspondence card (9 x 13 cm) sending Christmas and New year's wishes from King to all who had sent him greetings, dated December 1948. Also includes an empty envelope (7 x 10 cm) inscribed "To Arthur and Kathleen with love and all good wishes from Uncle Willie" in King's handwriting.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on December 28, 1948, containing effusive thanks to him and his wife Kathleen for letters and Christmas gift of hand-picked and preserved wild raspberry jam. King notes that the jam will be used for special occasions of afternoon tea at Laurier House or Kingsmere. King reminisces "I remember when Lord Athlone and Princess Alice used to come out to Kingsmere occasionally for a walk, there was nothing they enjoyed so much as some of the strawberry jam which I had there. Jam made from wild strawberries is, of course, the most delicious of all. [1]
King refers to his "little gift" to Arthur and Kathleen and says that "Nothing could give me more pleasure than that you should use the cheque toward the purchase of a rug for one of the rooms in your little home." He also extends his thanks to Arthur's mother for her letter and gift of books. King notes that is health is not good and that he was wise to have retired when he did. In closing, King mentions that he is sending Kathleen another supply of vitamins.
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "With love to you both Yours affectionately Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on March 22, 1949, relaying information from Arthur's friend Wilmot Gordon that his father had died, and encouraging Arthur to contact him.
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "With fondest love Yours affectionately Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on March 29, 1949, in reply to his of March 28. King notes that Arthur has written to Wilmot Gordon and has also acquired a dog. King cautions Arthur against being overworked.
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [typewritten]; Signature: "Fondest love to you and Kathleen, Affectionately yours, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on April 17, 1949: "A Happy Easter with love to you and Kathleen=Uncle Willie."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on June 14, 1949, expressing pleasure that Arthur and his wife Kathleen are going on holiday to Denver to see Arthur's mother. King cautions Arthur not to drive too fast or to far. He announces that he is now at Kingsmere for the summer, and that Arthur's Aunt Jennie and Rosabel will be staying with him in July.
Salutation: Dear Arthur [typewritten]; Signature: With fondest love and all good wishes to you both, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie." [Handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on December 20, 1949, thanking Arthur and his wife Kathleen for 75th birthday congratulations. King notes that because he can't keep track of family birthdays, he is more appreciative when people remember his. He explains that he is enclosing a bank draft to be used, he hopes, on something for their home as a gift from him. King notes that he has just written to Arthur's mother, and closes by sending Christmas and New Year's wishes to Arthur and Kathleen. Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "With fondest love to you both, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur and his wife Kathleen on December 31, 1949, with New Years greetings.
Salutation: none; Signature: "Uncle Willie" [all printed in block capitals].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on January 6, 1950, containing belated thanks for their Christmas letters and gift of the book Cry The Beloved Country. King finds it "extraordinary" that three books recommended to him by Violet Markham were given to him by three separate family members that Christmas. The other two were Schweitzer's Out of My Life and Thought and Lead, Kindly Light. [1] King describes his poor health, commiserates with Arthur's disappointment at not seeing his mother at Christmas, and approves of Arthur and Kathleen's plans to use his Christmas cheque to buy a set of nesting tables. King reiterates his pleasure at receiving letters from Arthur and Kathleen, and ends with concern that Kathleen's vitamins might have run out and that he is sending more.
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "With fondest love and all good wishes to Kathleen and yourself. [Illegible, possibly Again as?] always, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on August 28, 1929 in reply to letters received from both Arthur and Lyon after a trip from Denver to Ontario to visit family. In it King states that a letter of thanks is as good as a gift (proposed by Lyon for Aunt Jennie), reminds them to tip the maid at Aunt Jennie’s, envies them their trip to Niagara, and ends by saying he is sending the letter ahead of them to Denver.
Salutation: “My Dear Arthur” [handwritten]; Signature: “Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" handwritten].
Includes one handwritten correction.

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur and his wife Kathleen on April 7, 1950, with Easter greetings.
Salutation: none; Signature: "Uncle Willie"

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on Easter Sunday, April 9, 1950 in which he describes his own poor health and expresses concern for Arthur's. King asks for all the details about the oil burner that Arthur has acquired for his furnace and notes that the cost of oil makes heating almost as expensive as coal.
King thanks Arthur for congratulations on "the Royal Honours recently received, the Grand Cross of the Order of the Netherlands Lion and the Grand Cross of the Order of Leopold from Belgium," the which he notes belong to the nation and not to him personally. He goes on to quote from a letter from Churchill to himself published on p. 739 of Churchill's most recent work, The Grand Alliance, in which Churchill writes: " ﾑWhat a pleasure it is to see the whole empire pulling as one man, and believe me, my friend, I understand the reasons for your success in marshalling the grand war effort of Canada.' It is a nice tribute from the one who, more than any other, had to do with the direction of affairs at the time of the war." King expresses hope that he will soon be able to start work on his memoirs. He has still not ever visited Arthur and Kathleen's "little home in Toronto", and intends to do so "the first time I am in the city."
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [typewritten]; Signature: "Yours very affectionately" [typewritten] "Uncle Willie" [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on May 17, 1950 in reply to one from Arthur commenting on the official opening of Mackenzie House in Toronto on May 9, 1950.[1] King notes that the premier of the Province [Leslie Frost] and the mayor of the City of Toronto [Herbert E. McCallum], both Conservatives, took part in the ceremonies: "To my mind, that disclosed a fine spirit, and one which would have brought great happiness to Mackenzie's heart." King expresses concern that Arthur has not reported on a dinner at which Leonard W. Brockington was to speak: "I thought I had made it clear to Kathleen and yourself that I not only would have liked you both to be present to hear Mr. Brockington speak, but that I would be happy to make that part of the proceeding ﾑmy treat'. King describes the speech [about William Lyon Mackenzie] in superlatives.
In a handwritten added paragraph King wonders if he has not mixed up the Royal York and the King Edward hotels as the dinner location, "or if by any chance, you happen to be minus a dinner jacket or dress suit. Please let me know if you have the latter."
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "Once again my fondest love to you and Kathleen,Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on May 25, 1950. King is happy that Arthur and his wife Kathleen did after all attend the dinner and speech by Mr. Brockington, that they had a chance to speak with Brockington, and encloses a cheque to pay the cost of the tickets [not present]. King reports that he has been out for one or two drives and that he will soon be going to Kingsmere. He mentions his own poor health and asks after Arthur's health.
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on June 19, 1950, hoping that Arthur and his wife Kathleen had spent a pleasant day in Buffalo with Arthur's mother, that he is enclosing a cheque that he had promised to send for her, and that he is happy she is having a "delightful little holiday."
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on July 5, 1950, enclosing a letter that King has just received from Arthur's mother, who is on holiday in England. He says that she acknowledges the cheque King send to her through Arthur, and adds that Arthur might like to keep the letter "as a receipt."
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [typewritten; Signature: "With every good wish, Yours sincerely," [all typewritten] "McKenzie King" [handwritten].

Handwritten Air Letter from May King in England to William Lyon Mackenzie King on June 28, 1950, describing her trip to England and thanking him for his gift.

Salutation: "My dear Willie" [handwritten]; Signature: "ever affectionately May" [handwritten].

Six engraved calling cards from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur and Arthur's wife Kathleen, four of them dated and inscribed in Mackenzie King's handwriting, probably as accompaniments to letters or gifts.
Envelope inscribed “Mr. and Mrs. Arthur King” in Mackenzie King's handwriting.

Engraved calling card: "Mr. W.L. Mackenzie King, Laurier House, Ottawa, Canada," inscribed in King's handwriting to Miss Kathleen M. Thomas on December 24, 1942: "So many thanks for your beautiful card of Christmas greetings. My very best of wishes to you for the New Year. So kind of you to have had me in your thoughts at this season. Again, my very best of wishes to you. WLMK 24-Dec-42."

Handwritten formal reply by William Lyon Mackenzie King dated May [illegible], 1943, to an invitation from Mr. and Mrs. A.H. Thomas to the wedding of their daughter Kathleen Marion to Mr. Arthur Macdougall King on May 20, 1943 at Trinity College Chapel, Toronto.

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on December 28, 1930, thanking him for the gift of a book on science, but especially for the greeting card meant for “Pat” [WLMK’s dog] as well as for himself. “I am glad you remembered Pat, for I know he often thinks of you, and I am sure he sensed in your card some note of friendliness towards himself on the part of Tatters also.” King says he will enjoy reading Science and that “the discoveries of science are revolutionizing modern thought, as well as practices, in a number of directions. He then mentions Eddington and Jeans [1] and hopes that “someday I hope you will come to view things as they do. They seem to catch glimpses of the great unseen universe much more profound than those of most scientific writers of our day. King then mentions Evelyn Underhill [2] and her book The Life of the Spirit and the Life of Today that also “gives glimpses of much that lies beyond the revelations of science.” King mentions that he has had correspondence with Arthur’s brother Lyon, and invites Arthur to write on any topics that interest him.
Salutation: “My dear Arthur”; Signature: “Your loving uncle, Willie.”

Handwritten promissory note from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Miss Kathleen Thomas on May 16, 1943, for one hundred dollars as a souvenir of her wedding day May 20, 1943. [her future husband is William Lyon Mackenzie King's nephew Arthur Macdougall King.]

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Miss Kathleen Thomas on May 16, 1943.
Transcription: “My dear Kathleen: This is the week on which you and Arthur are to be married. I have waited until this Sunday morning to write to you, not being too sure during the past few days just what my movements might be in the course of the present week. You no doubt will have seen from the papers that the President and Mr. Churchill have invited me to come to Washington for talks together, for meetings, conference, and the like, in the course of Mr Churchill's stay. It is now clear that I shall be obliged to leave tomorrow afternoon at the latest, and that I shall be obliged to be there in Washington on the day of your wedding, Thursday May 20th.
I need not tell you how sorry I am to have to disappoint Arthur and yourself; and, myself, to miss the pleasure of being with you both at the marriage ceremony, and to sign the register as a witness, as I did in the case of Margery and Lyon's wedding. However, there is no alternative, as Mr. Churchill is expecting me to be with him on Tuesday, and the President has invited me to be his guest, at the White House, on Wednesday spending the night there, and attending a meeting of the Pacific Council on Thursday morning, and a meeting of delegates from different parts of the British Empire, on Monday afternoon. I mention these engagements because of their importance and historic significance, and that you may know just why it will not be possible for me to be with you all on the day of, and at the time of your wedding. Perhaps, in the long run, a message from the White House, on the day of the wedding, may come to be an even more significant and welcome souvenir of the occasion than the witnessing of the marriage ceremony, and being a witness to its having taken place. Still I should have liked to have been with you and Arthur as I was with Margery and Lyon.
You know, I am sure, all the good wishes that I send to you for the day and for the Nova vita [underlined] on which you enter at that time. I wish you and Arthur the greatest possible happiness. As you both have a high purpose in life, and a love of service, and with the [will be?] sharing kindred ideals, I am certain that the way will open out before you in [to?] new widening vistas of opportunities, and of realization of your highest hopes. It will, I imagine, not be without its difficulties and privations at the start, and until this time of war becomes something of the past. You will have in that the consolation of knowing that you are sharing with others the sacrifices by which in the end, all that is highest in attainment is accomplished. There will be, too, [illegible] much sunshine and gladness along the way.
I should like to make you a little gift which would be something you would like to have from me, as a remembrance of your wedding day. In order that I may be sure the choice would be something you yourself would approve, I am going to ask you to help me in the selection of it, after you come to Ottawa, where we can confer together about it. Meanwhile, please accept 'my promise to pay' with my love and best of wishes for May the 20th, 1943, and for the days, and months and years to come. I pray through this all, you may be greatly blessed.”
Salutation: “My dear Kathleen,” [handwritten; Signature: “Yours affectionately, W.L. Mackenzie King.”

Telegram of good wishes from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Miss Kathleen M. Thomas on May 19, 1943: “Please let this message bring to you on the morning of your wedding day every loving good wish for your happiness today and through the years to come I am sorry not to have been able to be present at the wedding ceremony but my thoughts will be with you all. “
Salutation: none; Signature: “W L Mackenzie King.”

Typewritten letter, marked “Personal”, from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Kathleen King on May 21, 1948, in which he expresses pleasure at seeing Arthur and Kathleen in Toronto, ascribes their good health and happiness to having their own “little house,” and sends them wedding anniversary congratulations. He adds that he is sending more vitamins.
Salutation: My dear Kathleen” [handwritten]; Signature: With love to Arthur and yourself, Yours affectionately, W.L. Mackenzie King” [handwritten].

Typewritten and handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Kathleen King on January 8, 1949, acknowledging one received from Kathleen with news that the vitamins had arrived safely. He comments on Arthur’s mother’s visit. [typewritten].In an added handwritten paragraph King writes: “Your wild strawberry jam is awfully delicious. Mr & Mrs Guthrie of Paris, France, were the first to sample it at tea, a few days ago. [illegible word word word word word word word word] for Ottawa’s future as Canada’s capital. Today the Prime Minister of New Zealand Mr Fraser, and the High Commissioner, had a taste. They were all delighted. [illegible word] never tasted anything as good. Love again to you and Arthur.”
Salutation: “My dear Kathleen” [handwritten]; Signature: “Yours affectionately, W.L. Mackenzie King” [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Kathleen King on January 18, 1950, on the topic of her vitamin supply. King notes that he is pleased that Arthur and Kathleen have decided to use his gift of money to purchase nesting tables.
Salutation: “My dear Kathleen:” [typewritten]; Signature: “Yours affectionately [typewritten], 'Uncle Willie.” [handwritten].

Printed invitations from the William Lyon Mackenzie Homestead Foundation to Arthur King and his wife Kathleen on May 8, 1950, one inviting them to attend the official opening of Mackenzie House in Toronto on May 9, 1950, and the other inviting them to attend the dinner to be held afterwards.

Telegram from Arthur King to May Macdougall King on July 23, 1950 reporting the death of William Lyon Mackenzie King the night before: “Uncle Willie died quietly peacefully last night with John Harry and myself in attendance. I am representing father here and will detail full account subsequently. Fondest love to you all.
Salutation: none; Signature: “Arthur.”

Typewritten letter from an unidentified person at Laurier House to Arthur King on August 8, 1950, who encloses a mimeograph copy of William Lyon Mackenzie’s King’s will and who promises to send a copy of Leonard Brockington’s broadcast.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on December 19, 1931 in reply to one sent by Arthur from Boulder, Colorado. King expresses his pleasure at Arthur’s enjoyment of life at university and expands on the importance of character as the most important ingredient in success. He expresses his approval of electrical engineering as Arthur’s course of study. His Christmas gift to the family will be a sum of money to draw on through the year as needed, as well as individual sums.
Salutation [handwritten]: “My Dear Arthur”; Signature: “Your loving uncle, Willie.” [“Willie” handwritten]
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on February 15, 1932, with congratulations on his results in the first quarter of university. He expands on the necessity of knowing one’s subject thoroughly, even if it takes longer. He references his brother Dougall Macdougall King's book on Nerves and Personal Power, and advises “Nature has no short cuts in anything; she never hastens, but also she never rests. It is the steady careful work which counts for most in the end.” King advises Arthur to concentrate on doing his best to complete his first year before thinking of any other possible activities.
Salutation: “My dear Arthur”; Signature: “Yours Affectionately, Uncle Willie.” [“Uncle Willie handwritten.]

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on July 27, 1934. King advises Arthur, having heard that he had to give up on a course because of chicken-pox, to put his health ahead of everything else in order to fully recuperate. King reports on the “gratifying” election results in Ontario and Saskatchewan, and anticipates a general election. King reports that the past winter’s arthritis has disappeared, also that he has been to Williamsburg to see Dr. Locke[1] and is wearing Locke shoes [for fallen arches]. In regard to his nephews’ chosen professions of medicine and engineering, King says “The service which can be rendered the world through electrical development has become more apparent in our age than in all the centuries of the past, and I believe that we are only at the beginning of discoveries in that field which will revolutionize the thought, as well as the daily life and habits of the people. “
Salutation: “My dear Arthur”; Signature: none [all after p. 4 missing].

The Sims family collection encompasses records of the Sims and Cook, Davidson and Garden families retained by members of the two family branches that came together when Harvey James Sims and Florence Katherine Roos married in 1902. Their Sims and Davidson forbears were equally significant in the history of the Waterloo-Wellington area and in the growth and development of agriculture, education, business and government. Harvey James Sims and Florence Katherine Roos were deeply involved in their local community of Berlin, (later Kitchener) Ontario and their own records contain significant additions to our knowledge of local personalities and affairs. Harvey was a childhood and lifelong friend of William Lyon Mackenzie King; they wrote and visited each other regularly. King's sister Bella was also a close friend of Florence from school days on.

Letter from Peter H. Sims from Glenelg, September 18, 1869 to his wife Jemima Sims: "My dear wife
I arrived here safely last night and I Can tell you I was pretty tired. I feel somewhat sore this morning but will be all right soon. There was nothing remarkable happened on the way worthy to being related. When I came in sight of the old House in the moon light I then began to feel lonesome. I felt like turning in and staying all night but I knew you were not there to greet me on my return so I went on to mothers where I got a cup of tea and then went to bed. I slept well for  I was very tired. I begin to see now how lonesome I am going to be without you. No one can supply your place and now you are away I begin to feel it . . . I now bid you good bye with a good hearty kiss.
Hoping to hear from you soon.
I remain your loving husband
P.H. Sims.”
Includes a stamped envelope addressed to Jemima at Flora P.O. (later Floradale) and postmarked Walkerton.

Letter from Peter H. Sims dated Guelph, Ontario, May 31, 1880 to his wife Jemima Sims, on the way to Mount Forest where he has been called suddenly. Jemima and the children are not at home; he reassures her that he has left everything locked up, that he is lonely without the family, and that he is downhearted about serious business losses.

Telegram from Peter H. Sims dated London, Ontario, October 1, 1890 to his wife Jemima Sims, with a message that he is somewhat better.

Letter from Peter H. Sims dated Toronto, October 4, 1895 to his wife Jemima Sims: "My dear wife, enclosed find a birthday present from me on this your birthday. As year after year rolls away we come to know each other better and to love each other more and more."

Letter from Peter H. Sims dated Toronto, October 15, 1915 to his wife Jemima Sims: "The occasion of your birthday recalls the many happy years we have been together and it awakens the hope that the years to come will be the brightest still and full of more happiness and pleasure." Peter continues in this vein, and hopes that their new home will contribute to better health and happiness.

Letter from Rosie Bricker dated Salem, December 22 1868 to her sister Jemima Cook. She writes that her husband Ephraim can't leave the mill at Christmas (Includes envelope).

Letter at least partially from Rosie Bricker postmarked Salem, December 1, 1868 to her sister Jemima Cook, about Christmas. Most of the letter seems to be written by another (younger?) sister about social life or lack of it in Elora and Salem with some speculation about the future (includes envelope).

Letter from Hannah Cook dated March 4, 1869 to her sister Jemima Cook, with an added note signed "Harriet", probably visiting their sister Rosie Bricker in Salem. Written on lined paper (Includes envelope postmarked Feb. 12, 1869; probably not correct one).

Letter from Hannah Cook dated Preston, September 2, 1869 to her sister Jemima "Mrs. P.H." Sims, giving her family and friends' news from Salem and from Preston. Mention of dressmaking, spinning, and good food.

Letter from Anna C. Elsley postmarked Breslau, September 27, 1889 to her sister Jemima Sims describing the death of her daughter, "Carrie" on August 19, 1889 (Includes envelope).

Letter from Clara Oberholtzer dated Alanson, [Michigan], December 10, 1890 to her aunt Jemima Sims reporting on the death of her aunt Angelina Dunham (nee Cook), the grief of Mr. Dunham, and the effect on other family members.

Letter from Peter H. Sims dated Salem, October 4, 1869 to his wife Jemima Sims: "I am making every endeavour to get out of the bush country but I cannot do so untill [sic] I collect the accounts and straighten the business somewhat. After I got back I went out collecting but found it was impossible to get any money, consequently I took cattle. By this means I got a dozen together and I then started for Elora to turn them into money, which I will do tomorrow."

Correspondence from Jemima Cook's friends prior to her marriage in 1869.

From: Yorkville.

Invitation to social evening.

From: "Canada Hygienic Home" Blair.

From: "Canada Hygienic Home" Blair.

From: "Canada Hygienic Home" Blair.

From: At Home, Blair.

From: Waterloo.

Invitation to a quilting.

From: Kent.

From: Kent.

General correspondence received by Jemima Sims.

From: Breslau, about sewing.

From: Breslau, about sewing.

Two letters from Janet McQueen to her brother Peter H. Sims.

From: Walkerton. Discusses insolvency and money owed to John Robertson, and illness.

From: Athena. Discusses how she and John can't pay the note; their boys are supporting them.

Letter from John McQueen, Walkerton, to Peter H. Sims: note enclosed in favour of John Robertson, "I have never been well Since I took the medison which caused the fits," also received a letter from Peter's mother asking for money.

Letter from James and Janet Sims, Hawkesville, thanking Peter H. Sims for the $30.00 he sent so they could pay for the cow.

Four letters from Janet Sims in Salem to Peter H. Sims.

Letter asking after William in Manitoba, family comings and goings.

"You are getting quite careless about your mother, you promised to come in the fall but failed."

"I had dinner ready waiting for you on that day but as you failed to come I had it all to myself."

Postcard from Salem to say she has received Peter's letters.

Three letters from James Campbell Sims in Montreal to Peter H. Sims.

James expresses desire to see old home again; he is not well.

James writes about illness in the family.

Harvey has arrived to visit.

Letter from Peter H. Sims dated Waterloo, July 28, 1876 to his wife Jemima Sims: "I am getting along very well, have plenty to do to keep me from getting lonesome. But when night come and before I retire to rest I feel that I [am] alone and that home would be dreary enough without you . . . What do you think the town has had a visit from Mrs Von Schultis. She is dressed up in wonderful fine style. Black. Silk. Bustles and flounces. I suppose she came to see her children, and get a plan (place?) for her little girl at [B---'s?] I think she has left. She created quite a sensation in town . . . Remember me to Harvey and tell him Pa would like to see him and that I hope he is a good boy. Be careful of the water and do not let him go too close to it. I do not wish to hurry you home but I feel that I would like to see you back sometime next week. I am your loving Husband, Peter."
Letterhead is The Mercantile Fire Insurance Company, President I.E. Bowman, P.H. Sims Secretary.

Two letters from Harvey J. Sims to his parents Peter H. and Jemima Sims.

From Waterloo: letter to M.J. Sims in Petoskey, Michigan (includes envelope).

From Kettle Point: letter to Peter H. Sims.

From Floradale (includes envelope).

From Waterloo: letter from James Lockie to P.H. Sims reporting internal issues and factions, personnel problems and cliques working for their own ends.

Business correspondence relating to mortgage loans and payments managed by John H. Robertson and Peter H. Sims. Includes correspondence from individuals about their payments.

Correspondence and agreements relating to a U.S. patent issued to Peter H. Sims and Philip Hohmeier of Waterloo for improvements to a hot air furnace and the transfer of manufacturing rights to Henry B. Weaver of Blue Ball, Pennsylvania. In the first letter of May 6, 1886, A.M. Weaver asks about the "Balm of Life receipt" sent to her by Peter, but wants to know how many ounces of "oil of origanum" are needed.

Correspondence to Peter H. Sims from A. Millar, legal documents, and receipts all relating to action brought against Peter by creditors John Travers and Milton Cushing Schofield.

Letter from Peter H. Sims dated Waterloo, September 6, 1876 to his wife Jemima Sims, who is in Montreal visiting Peter's brother James' family. He describes Harvey's distress at her leaving on the boat, his trip home to Berlin, arrangements for Harvey staying with Jemima's sister Rosy, and plans for visiting him the following day. Includes envelope.

Correspondence and accounts relating to James and Janet Sims' finances from 1875-1881, also to Janet Sims' estate from 1881-1888. James died in 1880 and Janet died Oct. 3, 1881.

Letter to Harvey J. Sims dated August 4, 1930 from John R. Connon of Elora, enclosing advertisements for what he describes as "relating to your father's unfortunate venture in the Salem Woollen Mill." Includes an original manuscript copy of an advertisement for the Sims Bros. Salem Woollen Works, and the advertisement as published in the Elora Observer, no. 39 Friday April 17, 1868.

Letter from Peter H. Sims dated Waterloo, September 8, 1876 to his wife Jemima Sims, who is in Montreal. He is pleased to have received a letter, also that she enjoyed the trip but wants a better description when she gets home. He tells her that Harvey is doing well and that he himself is coping: "I am enjoying myself and have plenty of work to keep me busy. I go down to the place in the evening and am taking up the potatoes, but when night comes and I find I am alone and my thoughts are on you my dear wife. I send you a dozen kisses and I will kiss Harvey for you." Includes envelope.

Letter from Peter H. Sims dated Waterloo, September 12, 1876 to his wife Jemima Sims, who is in Montreal: "My Dear Wife, I expected a letter from you yesterday and was much disappointed at not receiving one. However I conclude you are enjoying yourself so much that you can scarcely get time to write me. Yet I have no doubt that Harvey and Pa are the chief objects of your loving heart."

Letter from Peter H. Sims dated Waterloo, September 13, 1876 to his wife Jemima Sims, who is in Montreal: "I was glad to hear you are seeing the great sights of the largest city in the Dominion and one of the best built cities on this continent." He gives news of Harvey, family, and friends. Includes envelope.