Letters (1878-1881) of Charles Edward NELSON

This series of letters is written by a son to his parents. They cover an interesting period during various wars in South Africa (Cape Colony) from 1878-1881. While largely not in a fighting unit, he was nevertheless posted and spent time in a number of remote military camps. We get an idea of development of the Colony with new towns being founded, difficulty for business as a result of wars, but also new opportunities to support the growing economy. The interactions and descriptions give a personal viewpoint of historical events.

At a personal and family level, the letters include many insights into temperance, religious thinking and personal relationships. They also indicate a closeness of contact, if only by letter, between friends and family widely separated both within South Africa and in England.