Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated July 21, 1928 concerning his inability to accept an invitation to visit the Sims, and announcing his decision to "be one of the delegation to represent Canada at the forthcoming Assembly of the League of Nations at Geneva in September," detailing travel and speaking engagements in Manitoba and Saskatchewan and a visit to his constituency of Prince Albert. King regards the trip to Geneva as a sacrifice as it "means another summer and autumn lost as far as Kingsmere is concerned." King also says that he has asked his Secretary to "find out from the Department of Marine and Fisheries what may be possible and should be done to secure the trout you are anxious for." In a handwritten P.S. King says "I find from Dept of Marine & Fisheries that the provincial govt has entire charge of fish hatcheries in Ontario. You had better [two words illegible] to Hon Chas McCrea."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]."

Printed circular letter dated August 6, 1930, expressing Mackenzie King's thanks to well-wishers after the June 28 election.
Salutation: "My dear Peter!"; Signature: "W.L. Mackenzie King," both in King's handwriting. Includes note in King's handwriting: "Will write first opportunity. This is just to let you see how I am trying to get over ‘thousands' of communications. I shall be glad of the change. Billie."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated September 15, 1930, concerning the agreed need for "friends" to fight in the coming by-elections. King expresses frustration at having his usual time at Kingsmere interrupted.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Believe me as always, my dear Peter, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated February 28, 1931, in anticipation of a short overnight visit by Harvey on March 14, 1931 on his way to Montreal. King says that he will be delighted to see Harvey but will be busy preparing his speech to be delivered on March 16, 1931: "It relates particularly to the Speech from the throne, a copy of which I do not receive until after it is delivered, so that I shall be probably much occupied in getting material together through the day."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]." Includes an insertion in Mackenzie King's handwriting.

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 5, 1931, in which King sends Easter greetings from himself, his dog Pat, and Pat's sister.
Salutation: none; Signature: "Mackenzie King." The telegram is initialed "WLK."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 4, 1932, congratulating Harvey on the votes he received on his election as a bencher.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "With kindest regards, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy K. [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated March 8, 1932, thanking Harvey for sending him a copy of the history of Osgoode Hall issued by the Law Society of Upper Canada on its one hundredth anniversary. King expresses his personal interest because of his father's life and career, and his own childhood memories of visiting Osgoode Hall. King expresses interest in exchanging visits with the Sims in the coming year.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "With all good wishes, believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated August 23, 1933, with thanks for the issue of Canadian Homes and Gardens containing an article about Chicopee. He reports that he has been on a speaking tour of the prairies, and that at Swan River, Manitoba he met a cousin of Harvey named Mr. William Sims.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated November 6, 1933, expressing satisfaction at by-election results for Liberal candidates, but concerned that Bennett might call an election too soon. He comments on his own health and that of his dog Pat, and on bringing his sister Jennie and family to Kitchener. King's plan for visiting Kitchener before the end of the year is partly because he wants to talk to Homer Watson: "I am also most anxious to see Homer Watson again, as I am hoping it is going to be possible for me to be of some assistance to him. We have had a quite a little correspondence together. He has asked me if I would come up and spend a night in his home." King is pleased that Mr. Coleman has been appointed Under-Secretary of State, and also pleased at recent negative publicity about R.B. Bennett.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours affectionately [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 14, 1934, in reply to Harvey's letter of May 12 outlining the difficulties in the way of digging up plants at Woodside. King replies that he will try to settle the matter himself on a future visit to Kitchener. He notes that Kingsmere is looking lovely and commends Harvey for travelling to England on holiday: "There will be plenty of time to rest and reflect, and recall the past, when you get your new library into shape!"
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With kindest remembrances and regards, and very many thanks, Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours affectionately [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 23, 1935, concerning Harvey's presence in Ottawa "this week" and the semi-official functions and meetings that will prevent King from seeing Harvey until Saturday, also the "arrears of work" that have been caused by his absences in the United States. He sends sympathy to Harvey's son Kenneth whose wife has been in a car accident, Christmas greetings to the family, and thanks to Florence and Harvey for sending a copy of E. Stanley Jones' Christ's alternative to communism. He comments on the current struggle as between Christianity and materialism, "which the future will regard as one of transition accompanied by great suffering of mankind."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]" ; Signature: "With affectionate good wishes, Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Your very sincere friend [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 19, 1936, thanking him for having visited Kingsmere, describing his current workload, and sending regrets for not being able to be in Kitchener to greet Lord and Lady Tweedsmuir, due to prior obligations.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated August 31, 1936, making arrangements for the forthcoming visit of Harvey and Florence Sims and Borgstrom to Kingsmere.
Salutation: none; Signature: "Billy."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated February 20, 1937, thanking Harvey for his suggestion of Colonel H. Ballantyne as "the representative of the Second Brigade Area on the Coronation contingent" and that the Honourable Ian Mackenzie has promised to consider Ballantyne's credentials when the time comes for selecting the contingent members.
Includes a postscript in Mackenzie King's handwriting concerning Florence's health.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "Yours very sincerely, Billy [handwritten.]"

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated March 26, 1937, sending Easter greetings to Florence and Harvey and best of wishes for Florence's continuing recovery. He regrets having missed the exhibition of Homer Watson's paintings in order to rest before beginning preparations for the Coronation and the Imperial Conference.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With all good wishes, Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten.]"

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated October 31, 1938. King is returning from just having visited Bermuda, Jamaica, and Cuba. He mentions talking and visiting, approves of Harvey having started a journal, congratulates Harvey on another grandson, and, writing of Harvey's living alone, re-iterates that "attitude and belief account for what is most real and enduring in our happiness."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With every good wish, Yours affectionately, WK Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated March 28, 1931, in which he reports on the health of his dog Pat, who had been treated by doctors at "The Health of Animals Branch." He reports on an accidental fall suffered by Godfroy Patteson, husband of King's good friend Joan Patteson, and says in closing "I am glad, despite the length of the speech, that its reading created the favourable impression which your letter mentions."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "With kindest regards, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated February 25, 1933, sending congratulations on the birth of a grandson.
Salutation: none; Signature: "W L Mackenzie King." The telegram is initialed "WLK [handwritten]."

Printed circular reply card from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 22, 1939 with thank you for birthday greetings sent to him. He adds a handwritten note to Harvey.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "My affectionate good wishes to you both, and my best of wishes for your own birthday. I hope and pray [4 words illegible] Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims, dated May 13, 1941, concerning Angus Macdonald who relayed a message from Harvey, also mentioning his own intention to visit Kitchener in the summer.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With all good wishes, Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 23, 1923, thanking him for his generous birthday gift, thanking him for "devout friendship … begotten of a love that even David might have envied." He presses Harvey to visit and to bring Florence; also Madge and Minnie Gibson. He closes by saying that he has had a wonderful year, and that "of the Conferences, I have a lot to tell you. So come soon."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated January 20, 1924 regarding arrangements for a visit to Ottawa by Harvey and his wife Florence.
Salutation: "My dear Peter"; Signature: "Yours ever sincerely, Billy."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 23, 1925, replying to an invitation to attend a luncheon in his honour in Kitchener and to visit Harvey.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Believe me, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 30, 1926, thanking him for a birthday gift and letter. King says he is fatigued and lists the many political activities of the past year.
Salutation: "My dear Peter"; Signature: "With true affection, Believe me as always devotedly your friend, Billy."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 6, 1931, written on behalf of his dog Pat, thanking Sims for having sent him biscuits for Easter. King then reports that Pat's recovery has been "well nigh a miracle," and that they have been out to Kingsmere walking.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "With affectionate remembrances to one and all, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 24, 1934, sending birthday and Christmas greetings.
Salutation: none; Signature: "Billy."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated March 11, 1932, with further congratulations on the birth of a grandson, also repeating the desire to exchange visits, and concern about Florence's health. He also thanks Harvey for approving of the speech made by King on February 28, 1933 "on the Woodsworth resolution."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With affectionate remembrances to you both, believe me, as ever, dear Peter, Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 9, 1934, in response to one from Harvey, confirming meeting.
Salutation: none; Signature: "W L Mackenzie King."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 22, 1936, thanking Harvey for his birthday letter and for sending a copy of his "most recent treatise on life insurance legislation," which King confesses he has not attempted to read. He expresses delight that Harvey has changed his billiard room into a library. He sends birthday and Christmas wishes to the family.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "Your old friend, Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 13, 1937, thanking Harvey for sending him a framed photograph of Chicopee, and also for sending a copy of The Rotarian containing a picture of King and Mr. Hull. He expresses happiness at Florence's improvement but says of the Coronation: "I am well nigh terrified at what I know will be expected in this particular on the part of the Canadian delegation, and of its head in particular."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "With every good wish, Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten.]"

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated October 16, 1937, concerning Violet Markham's book Paxton and the Bachelor Duke and the possibility of obtaining extra copies. King also mentions his pleasure at Florence's improved health and strength.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "With affectionate remembrances to you both, Believe me, as always, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 22, 1937, thanking him for the birthday letter and greetings, expressing sympathy and concern for Florence's health, and mentioning his own busy life, including "contentious problems that I have had to meet in the last ten days." In closing he sends Christmas wishes to the family and birthday wishes to Harvey.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "To one and all I send my good wishes [typewritten], Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten.]"

Typewritten letter marked "Personal, Private" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated March 23, 1938, commenting on Harvey's report of Florence's increased good health and on Harvey's opinion of John Buchan, Lord Tweedsmuir's biography of the Roman Emperor Augustus. King offers to send Buchan Harvey's comments. King is sending Harvey the Hansard he requested, "containing my speech on the Export of Power Bill. The communications from the United States, recently received, make it pretty clear that I have not been far wrong in my estimate of what the attitude of the United States would be, toward the attitude taken by the government of Ontario, and not far wrong in the strategy I have employed in not permitting Hepburn's behaviour either to embarrass me or Members of the Party in the Federal Parliament. He has only himself to thank for the door of the United States being shut so completely in his face." King comments that his own health is better due to his own determination not to take on more in a day than he can handle without fatigue.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With kindest remembrances and best of wishes to Florence and yourself, Believe me, as always, dear Peter [typewritten], Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated June 11, 1938, looking forward to seeing Harvey in Niagara on June 18, hoping that his sister Jennie will be well enough to be there also, and expressing regret that Florence will not be attending. He extends an invitation to Harvey to join him in visiting the William Lyon Mackenzie homestead on the same day.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated September 12, 1941, thanking Harvey for his most recent welcome letter and his praise for King's "Mansion House" speech. He re-iterates his desire to visit Chicopee.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims, dated August 10, 1925, containing effusive thanks for her hospitality during the Old Boys' Reunion in Kitchener, many memories of the past, and reminiscences of all he saw and did while in the area.

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated December 23, 1934, affirming Florence's decision to stay home at Christmas but to let her two sons travel to Hartford, CT, where Harvey is in hospital. King offers to help in any way and offers to see Florence should she wish to come to Ottawa and talk: "If you thought a chaperone necessary, it would be well to bring one of the boys along, or Madge Gibson, or Mrs. Patteson would I am sure be glad to make a second or have you stay with her."
Salutation: "My dear Florence [handwritten]" ; Signature: "With every affectionate good wish to yourself, Believe me, as always, Very sincerely yours, Willie [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated April 25, 1934, thanking her for her hospitality on his most recent visit to Chicopee, expressing satisfaction with the by-election results in South Oxford, and hoping that Florence and Harvey will be able to visit Kingsmere in return: "There are no friends like the old friends, and the talks which I have of the old days when I meet you both always awaken memories that are precious and life-giving as well."
Salutation: "My dear Florence [handwritten]"; Signature: "Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]." Includes handwritten corrections.

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated "New Year's Eve" 1930, expressing gratitude for the hand-made cushions she had sent him for Christmas, and apologizing for not being able to contact her sooner.
Salutation: "My dear Florence"; Signature: "With all good wishes, Yours very sincerely, W.L. Mackenzie King."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated June 22, 1933 containing effusive gratitude for and memories of the visit he has just made to Chicopee. He writes lyrically and at length about the changes he has seen, "the glimpses of old Berlin hidden away amid the city of Kitchener which proclaims so much of growth prosperity," also "All these things touched my heart very deeply and stirred as you remarked, my very soul." King describes his trip home and his arrival at Kingsmere at midnight: "As I looked out of my window the heaven was lighted across its entire width with a display of aurora borealis such as I have never seen before. It was like a crown of eternal [illegible] set upon a vision of another world – the world of memory, of imagination, of delight in which I lived from the moment of departure to the moment of return." King finishes the letter with possible arrangements for Florence and Peter's visit to Kingsmere.
Salutation: "My dear Florence [handwritten]"; Signature: "Again my warmest wishes to Peter and yourself, for all your generous hospitality and for the joy you gave me, Believe me, dear Florence, Yours affectionately, Willie [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated April 18, 1935, sending Easter wishes to Florence, "the boys", and Harvey, "if he is at home with you." King declares himself very busy, pleased with Harvey's progress, and hoping to be able to travel. In a handwritten postscript he adds: "In Harvey's letters he has spoken with great enthusiasm of yourself, of how brave you have been, and how glad he is that you are so strong and well again. He feels that you have helped him immensely to get back into good shape."
Salutation: "My dear Florence [handwritten]"; Signature: "With love to you all, Yours affectionately, Willie [handwritten]."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated January 31, 1928, expressing sympathy for the death of Florence's mother Elizabeth Roos and mentioning close family ties: "I cannot express too sincerely the deep sympathy I feel for you, Maggie, Ethel and Irvine in your overwhelming bereavement. You know how closely our family and yours have been associated for many years. None of your many friends will feel more deeply for you all than Jennie and myself."
Salutation: "Dear Florence"; Signature: "W.L. Mackenzie King."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence and Harvey J. Sims dated June 6, 1930, declining an invitation to their son Kenneth's wedding on June 28, 1930, due to the pressures of the "present campaign."
Salutation: "My dear Florence & Peter" [handwritten]; Signature: "As ever, Yours very sincerely & affectionately, Billy" [handwritten].

Letter from Bella King (sister of W.L. Mackenzie King) dated July 17, [1904] to her friend Florence Sims, who has just given birth to her first child. After asking about the baby and Florence's health, Bella announces that "the house question" has finally been settled and that they are to move to 4 Grange Road in the middle of September, talks about holidays, and reports on going to "the Dundonald reception" with her Father John King. Signed Bella.

Letter from Bella King dated 4 Grange Road, Toronto, June 28, 1908 to Florence Sims after the birth of William, her second child. She asks about the baby, mentions family, friends, and plans: "Willie is going to take [mother Isabel King] on a trip when he comes back from Quebec." Signed Isabel King.

Letter from Bella King dated 4 Grange Road, Toronto, February 14, 1915 to Florence Sims, writing on her mother's behalf [Isabel King]. She thanks Florence for sending her mother "the very pretty little knitted wrap", also that it was good of her "to think of Max and his little family," and reports that Max's health is much better. She also mentions "this awful war" and how women have "worked and are working everywhere." She speaks of her mother's health as well. Signed Bella King.

Letter from Nigel Kempt, cousin of Kenneth Sims, dated January 6, 1950, thanking Mabel and Kenneth Sims for the "lovely piece of beef" sent at Christmas. "New Year is usually rather a wearisome time with us as our staff always have to get off, leaving us to feed the hens & do the cooking and so on."

Letter from Maggie Kempt dated Glasgow, April 28, 1881 to her mother Margaret Davidson written after she had received her mother's telegram reporting George Davidson's death the day before: "Your telegram telling us of dear Papa's death, came this morning about eight-o'clock when Irvine and I were dressing, and has made us all very downcast." She expresses her sorrow and sympathy, and also the effects of the technology of the telegram on her feelings: "This is the first telegram I have received across the Atlantic and somehow it seems to bring me nearer home than I have ever felt before. To think that I know today what happened with you yesterday and though the message brought sad news we are pleased you thought of telegraphing."

Letter from Maggie Kempt dated Forest-Hill, Glasgow, December 22, 1886 to her mother Margaret Davidson, containing news of the family, her son George's impressions of Canada and that his health has improved (includes envelope).

Letter from Maggie Kempt dated Wiston Manre [Manor?], Wiston, by Biggar, July 1, 1886 to her mother Margaret Davidson describing her daughter Florence's asthma, and thanking her mother for looking after her son George on his trip to Canada. She sends all the news of visitors from Canada and says of George: "I hope George will be able to go and see our old home when he is in Berlin. Do you know the people that have Forest-Hill? He has heard so much about it that he will be disappointed if he cannot get into the house. You will find George a great politician and a fearful Tory, but I hope he won't display his views too much among a lot of radicals. He says the Canadians are nearly all Radicals." In closing she says "this courting through the telephone must be a novel arrangement."

Telegram from Irvine Kempt in Glasgow but postmarked Oban, July 30, 1923 to Florence Sims, regretting that he will be unable to meet her.

Letter from Florence Kempt dated Glasgow, December 13, 1882 to her grandmother Margaret Davidson, written in pencil in capital letters.

Handwritten letter from C. Ellison Kaumeyer, Chairman of the Niagara Parks Commission, to Harvey J. Sims dated June 6, 1938, inviting Harvey to stay overnight in Niagara Falls as his guest after the ceremony opening the Memorial Arch. He has made reservations at the Brock Hotel for Mackenzie King and his party as well.
Salutation: "My Dear Mr. Sims [handwritten]"; Signature: "Faithfully yours, C. Ellison Kaumeyer [handwritten.]"

Correspondents include Bob Kay and L. Keyzer. Bob Kay, an old friend of Harvey Sims, lived in Hartford, CT and Florida, and was acquainted with Harvey's sister Rella and her husband John Ross Stewart. The correspondence concerns mostly the scrapbooks about curling and football that Kay had assembled and their eventual disposition.
Postcard in this file: "RMS Ausonia, White Star Line" from L. Keyzer, a fellow Rotarian, postmarked Brussels.

From: Waterloo.

Correspondents include Lieut. L.K. Harrison (Director of Music, Royal Canadian Regiment), Sir A. Wilson Hungerford, Belfast (fellow bowler), Elizabeth M. Harper (Fellow of the Royal Empire Society and Men of the Trees), Homer Heard (to and from concerning work done at Chicopee), Allison Heasley, and "Harry."

Letter from Manette Goldsworthy dated August 25, 1953, Kitchener asking Mabel Sims for a loan.

Typewritten letter from Alex R. Goldie dated May 13, 1937 to Harvey J. Sims, concerning the visit of the Governor-General to Kitchener on May 19, 1937.

Partial letter from [Robert?] Garden dated London, 31 October, 1833, to "Dear Sisters," followed by a long disquisition on the proper response of women to changes in their circumstances: "It is the smile of contentment which ought to be on your lips even in the midst of the greatest difficulty." It is not made clear whether actual changes in circumstance in the financial or social standing Garden family are behind this well-meaning attempt to stave off discontent in the sisters. This is possibly from Garden sisters' brother Robert Garden.

Letter to Margaret, Jane, and Jessie dated London, September 11, 1835 from their brother John Garden, in which he reports on the sad state of his health and wardrobe, asks for shirts and collars, but particularly for "flannel drawers and a surcoat." He reports that on reading Jessie's letter "an overpowering sort of sensation thrilled through me, such as I have not felt since I came here … never did I wish so much to be home" (includes envelope).

Correspondents include the Hon. Mr. Justice Godfrey, Supreme Court of Ontario, V. Evan Gray, Ainslie W. Greene, and Norman S. Gurd.

Letter from Margaret Forbes dated Inverury, October 4, 1835 addressed to Miss Garden, 204 Gallowgate, Aberdeen, hoping that Margaret will visit after the communion: "It always gives me pleasure to know that you have been favoured with such a Minister, who is likely to be zealous, in the cause of Christ … while God gives much grace to your young minister, he also will be the means of comforting you." She goes on to say, "We at present are well supplied with Gospel ministers, I pray for us, that the Spirit may accompany their labours," and ends by sending love to Jane and Jessy and hopes all can visit or write.

Correspondents include C.E. Fischer offering an income plan, Forsey Page enclosing a letter from Bruce C. Matson, who photographed the Sims property in 1933, W. Sherwood Fox, and T.H. Noble.

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).

One letter from William Daum Euler, Minister of National Revenue, Canada, dated Jan. 12, 1928.

Letter from William Davidson dated Toronto, December 23, 1925 to his sister Elizabeth Roos, sending Christmas wishes and fond memories (includes stamped envelope)

Letter from Margaret Davidson dated Toronto, November 19, 1886 to her granddaughter Florence Roos, sending the news of family doings in Toronto (includes envelope).

Letter from Margaret Davidson dated Toronto, June 30, 1890 to her granddaughter Florence Roos, sending the news of family doings in Toronto. She says she received and encloses a letter from Mrs. Argo for Florence's mother to read, and that if she is well she will be there on Tuesday (includes envelope).

Letter from John Davidson, Fraserburgh, Scotland on October 16, 1848 to his nephew George Davidson, commiserating on the death of George's infant child: "I know that you are of tender heart and will be much affected." John is Assessor and Collector of Road Money in Fraserburgh and as such was out on business when George left for home.

Letter from George Davidson in Aberdeen, Scotland to his wife Margaret in New Aberdeen, C.W., responding to the news of the death of their infant son: "The intelligence was painful, more so than had I been present with you, for altho' my friends here feel deeply with me, still you were awaiting." He speaks of the comfort that their belief offers, and continues: "I thank God that you are living & that I have so near a prospect of meeting you again – how happy I shall be to see you & this feeling is strengthened from the fact that you will be the same regarding me." He will be on the steamer Europa from Liverpool to New York and lists in detail the amount of time it will take to be back in New Aberdeen. (includes envelope sealed with family crest)

Letter from George Davidson in New York, dated May 16, 1880 to his wife Margaret, commenting on the number of "pleasure seekers" passing his window on a Sabbath. He mentions that "other people from Berlin are here." He complains that he will be confined to his room as the elevator is out of order, recounts an accident with a chamber pot and complains that his appetite is not good (Includes envelope addressed to Margaret at "Forest Hill, Berlin, Ontario").

Letter from George Davidson in Berlin, Ont. Dated 9 ½ o'clock, May 5, 1863 to his wife Margaret who is in Toronto: "The children have gone to bed, and so I sit down – all alone – to write you the promised letter – you will be enjoying yourself with Mrs. Manning over Schedam Sch[illegible] while I poor unfortunate am enjoying myself in thinking how comfortable it will be to go up to a cold bed, and nobody in it. I have just been up stairs Bob & Sandy are in bed the former at the front the latter at the back with space and an extra pillow between for Lizzie who has been managing the children and the affairs of the household at a great rate." He gives Margaret a list of cash payments to make – boys' board, clothes, but also ask her to bring home seed catalogues and stock. A postscript the next morning describes the state of affairs: "Wednesday morning 7 ½ O.C. we have slept and waked – thank God – Lizzie was up about ½ hour ago went down and put [kettle on], is however still in her nightgown sitting on the floor with Sandy playing Jackstones or something of that sort – Bob is up and takes this to the P.O. Very cold rainy morning GD."

Letter from George Davidson at 100-West 53 St., New York dated May 7, 1880 to his wife Margaret, thanking her for letters received: "I am glad you are well and more than glad that Lizzie has got those ugly teeth out & hope she will now be free from that horrid disease neuralgia." He is having treatments of various sorts for his legs in the hope that he can walk without crutches, treatments that he describes in great detail and mentions that he is rooming with his son Sandy, who adds a page at the end of the letter.

Letter from George Davidson in Toronto, dated June 26, 1879, to his wife Margaret, reporting on treatment he has received in Toronto on his leg, people he has seen and visited, and arrangements for getting home. He underlines "slang" words such as "chimbly" and "cracks" (jokes).

Letter from Margaret Davidson's sister-in-law Catherine Davidson from 5 Ann Place, Aberdeen, July 30, 1884 reporting the death of her brother and Margaret's brother-in-law John Davidson (includes envelope addressed to Mrs. Sheriff Davidson at 272 King Street, Toronto).

Letter from George Davidson's sister Catherine from 5 Ann Place, Aberdeen, April 13, 1881: she is sorry for his protracted illness, and relates news of all the family.

Letter from Alexander Davidson, Port Elphinstone, dated July 22, 1856, to his niece Margaret Davidson, thanking her for presents sent. He reports on the growth and changes in Aberdeen and area since she had last been there, and lists all his children and what they are doing.

Correspondence concerning soil samples and pest remedies, as well as handwritten notes by Harvey Sims about chemicals and types of pests. Includes two letters from A.H. Tomlinson, Associate Professor in the Department of Horticulture, one of which is accompanied by a list of ornamental flowering shrubs and a list of deciduous trees, and both of which have pencilled checkmarks, presumably made by Harvey.

Correspondence from and to C. Ellison Kaumeyer, General Manager of the Niagara Parks Commission, and K.M. Broman, Superintendent of Arboriculture at the Niagara Parks Commission, relating to acquiring more specimens for Harvey J. Sims' collection of trees and shrubs, also requesting labels to be made for attaching to his specimens. Includes many lists annotated in pencil by Harvey, also many pencilled lists in his handwriting, as well as some mention of swans and ducks. Included in this folder are several letters to and from the Minister of Highways, T.B. McQuesten, regarding establishing a botanical garden in Hamilton.

Correspondence from and to Harvey J. Sims and the Ontario Department of Lands and Forests, Forestry Branch concerning applications for forest trees from Government nurseries. Includes letters between Harvey and F.S. Newman, Head Forester at the St. Williams Government Nursery, lists of trees and shrubs, and application forms for government nursery stock. Also includes correspondence between Harvey and A.H. Richardson, also a clipping and letter describing the 1928 tree planting done at Chicopee by the Boy Scouts and Rotarians.

Letters from Harvey J. Sims to horticulturists at the Department of Agriculture Central Experimental Farm in Ottawa, with replies from M.B. Davis, Dominion Horticulturist, T.F. Ritchie, Chief Assistant, and R.W. Oliver, Assistant (ornamental horticulture) as well as to Leonard S. McLaine at the Destructive Pest and Insect Advisory Board. The correspondence relates primarily to Harvey's collection of shrubs and trees, and his pursuit of adding more species to his collection. He mentions that he has collected 76 of the 82 native trees listed in Forest trees of Ontario, also that he has between 500 and 600 different varieties of trees and shrubs. He requests specimens for testing hardiness, also sends an unknown specimen for identification, and requests information on permits necessary to import nursery specimens from the Arnold Arboretum in Jamaica Plains, New York.

Correspondence from and to Harvey J. Sims and various nurseries and seed and plant suppliers relating to plants, trees, and shrubs for his property. Includes catalogues, lists and invoices. Suppliers include The Brampton Nursery, Cedarvale Tree Experts, Depuys and Ferguson (Montreal), Dominion Seed House, Endean Nurseries (Richmond Hill), Herbst Brothers (New York). More suppliers can be found in Series 8, Harvey J. Sims : Personal Business.

Correspondence from and to Harvey J. Sims and Alfred Rehder, Curator of the Herbarium at The Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plains, New York, attempting to identify specimens Harvey is sending.

Correspondence from and to Harvey J. Sims and J.H. White, University of Toronto, author of Forest Trees of Ontario. Includes pencil notes and lists by Harvey, information about Tree Tanglefoot and an envelope labelled "Address – Forest Trees" containing pencilled notes by Harvey for a speech about the importance of forest trees.

Correspondence from and to Harvey J. Sims and Arthur Gilbey, Nursery Sales Manager, Nursery Stock, at E.D. Smith and Sons, Winona, Ontario.

Correspondence from and to Harvey J. Sims and H.D. Smith, K.C., R.A. McLaren, and Charles C. Bell in Chatham, Ont. about sourcing and procuring seedlings of specific native trees and shrubs found at Rondeau Park and vicinity.

Correspondence from and to Harvey J. Sims and various book dealers and publishers relating to Harvey's efforts to build his library collection: Albert Britnell Book Shop (Toronto), The Book Society, World Books, Old Authors Shop (Ottawa), The Narrator (January 1942), Toronto Book Fair, Creasser's Book Shop (Toronto), T. Eaton Co. and the John Hardwick Co. (The Book House for Children). Includes invoices, catalogues, book lists, reviews, periodical issues and ephemera.

Correspondence from and to Harvey Sims and Arthur Herbert Richardson at the Ontario Department of Lands and Forest concerning reforestation efforts at Chicopee. In 1940, Harvey writes that he has more than 700 varieties of trees and shrubs, including all but 5 of the 82 native forest trees listed by J.H. White in Forest Trees of Ontario. In 1930, he writes that the Boy Scouts and Rotarians propose helping him plant 3500 more trees on Chicopee heights to complete the work started in 1929.

Correspondence from and to Harvey J. Sims, Adam Strohm, Librarian at the Detroit Public Library, and Charles R, Sanderson, Chief Librarian of the Toronto Public Library, between 1927 and 1941, the latter two often enclosing each other's letters. Adam Strohm sometimes encloses letters from Fred Burden, a mutual friend of his and Harvey's. Harvey had initially approached Adam Strohm for advice about books for his library; this correspondence included Sanderson after 1927. As well as corresponding about books these three men developed a friendship demonstrated in their letters, writing about their visits, their travels, and their lives.

Letters (approximately 16) between members of the Arthur Forbes Nicol and Harvey J. Sims families from 1928 to 1941. Harvey J. Sim's wife Florence Katherine Roos and Arthur F. Nicol's wife Florence Helen Kempt were first cousins: their mothers were sisters Elizabeth and Margaret Davidson. Letters concern mutual interests, politics and family.

Correspondence to and from Harvey J. Sims and Carl A. Borgstrom, landscape architect mostly concerning trees and shrubs for Harvey's property.

Correspondence to and from Harvey J. Sims and Carl A. Borgstrom of Carl Borgstrom & H.S.M. Carver, Landscape Architects and Town Planners, relating to nursery stock supplied through Lorne Park Nurseries. Includes a hand-drawn orchard plan.

Correspondence to and from Harvey J. Sims (carbons), relating to ongoing work at Chicopee, such as the pergola, log cabin, frog fountains, plantings, trees, and shrubs, and problems with wiring for road lights and flood lights. Includes detailed lists of nursery stock. Correspondents include Carl A. Borgstrom, Ball Brothers, Lorne Park Nurseries, A.H. Tomlinson (Department of Horticulture, University of Guelph), and the Mattell & Bierwagen Electric Company.

Correspondence to and from Harvey J. Sims (carbons), tenders, agreements, invoices and other material relating to work being planned and carried out at Chicopee, including landscape features, nursery stock, concrete bridge, bubbling tanks, dry stone walls, also to a Workmen's Compensation case. Correspondents include Ball Bros., Dunker Brothers, Herbert Johnston, Civil Engineer, Forsey Page & Steele, architects, Fess Oil Burners of Canada Ltd., Thomas Rennie, Ontario Agricultural College, Carl A. Borgstrom (of Wilson, Bunnell & Borgstrom Ltd., also of Lorne Park Nurseries) landscape architect.

Correspondence relating to Chicopee: recommendation from William Rennie Seed Co., Nov. 1, 1928, that Harvey contact Arthur E.K. Bunnell of Wilson Bunnell & Borgstrom, Landscape Architects for designing his grounds, and Lt. Col. Sandford F. Smith "would be better to consult regarding your house."
Includes two letters from Forsey Page & Steele, December 14 and 29, regarding drawing up plans for the house, and one submission from Bell Telephone for supplying telephone service.

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

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 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).

Letters accepting or declining the invitation to the marriage of Mabel Alguire Cameron and James Kenneth Sims, to be held in Cornwall, Ont.

Letters accepting or declining the invitation to the marriage of Mabel Alguire Cameron and James Kenneth Sims, to be held in Cornwall, Ont.