Scope and Content From the Collection: The collection begins with four 19th century autograph albums, containing autographs, poetry, prose, and wishes from friends. An album presented to Miss Ellen Nickles by a friend on April 3, 1852 in Winchester, Virginia mirrors the gift book or literary annual that was so popular from the 1820s through the 1860s. Published annually, these anthologies of fiction and poetry were presented to friends and family members as Christmas or birthday presents. Inside Ellen Nickles' album are engraved...