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J. Floyd Monk began amassing his book collection in the 1930's and continued collecting throughout his life. He was especially interested in books on Florida history, geography and wildlife. Most of his books were purchased from the used book stores he frequently visited. A large portion of his Florida book collection was compiled as part of his research while writing the two books and several articles he authored. Although his books went unpublished, several of his articles were accepted for publication. The J. Floyd Monk papers are comprised of 4 boxes of research in Florida history and boxes of music sheets. Some of his frequently addressed topics include: The Seminole War, tourism in Florida, and the history of Cedar Key, one of Monk's special interests which also served as a vacation place for his family. The sub-topics within Cedar Key that he researched include: wildlife conservation (sea turtle habitat), industry (the pencil company) and racial tensions (Rosewood Massacre). Included are the manuscripts of his scholarly articles and works of fiction.

This collection of letters and documents describe John Burke and his experiences as an American Civil War soldier in the Union Navy. There are 21 letters, correspondences, and a general affidavit with an itinerary. Most of the letters, John Burke writes to his wife Mary Burke informing her of his life on the union navy ship USS R.R. Cuyler. Mr. Burke's journey begins with him getting drunk and enlisting in the navy. The bulk of the letters, Mr. Burke requests that his wife send him provisions and explains to her how to collect his pay. There are a few letters asking about the family and news from home.

Photocopy of a typescript of a letter written to Mr. William Simpson containing the second half of the Forbes Journal. The first half of the journal was published in the Florida Historical Quarterly. The journal covers the period of Friday May 27, 1803 to Friday June 3, 1803. Concerned with Mr. Forbes talks to the Creek Chiefs at Hickory Ground, May 1803, Indian debts and William Bowles.

The collection consists chiefly of the personal correspondence of Varnum Family members and other correspondents circa 1841-1927, with the bulk of the materials from the family's Jacksonville period of 1877 to 1888. Most of the letters are outgoing correspondence to relatives from Josephine L. Dyer (signed "Josie") Varnum, wife of John P. Varnum.