William A. Carter correspondence, 1863-1879

Series

Identifier: MSS SC 490 Series 1

Staff Only

Scope and Contents note

Letters, written 1863 to 1879, describe Carter's business activities in regard to Fort Bridger and his several enterprises, and include descriptions of his interaction with U.S. government leaders, especially military officers. He mentions the events of the time, such as the Credit Mobilier investigation, and comments on the people he meets, including Ben Holladay and Ned Buntline. He includes much news of the family related activities, including his search for teachers to be hired for the school at Fort Bridger. He frequently expresses tender personal feelings for his wife.

Dates

Other: 1863-1879

Creator

Carter, William A. (William Alexander), 1818-1881 (Person)

Conditions Governing Access note

Open for public research.

Conditions Governing Use note

It is the responsibility of the researcher to obtain any necessary copyright clearances.

Permission to publish material from William A. Carter Papers must be obtained from the Supervisor of Reference Services and/or the Special Collections Board of Curators.

Biographical/Historical note

From the Collection:

William A. Carter was born April 15, 1818 in Virginia. Around 1857 to 1858 William A. Carter came with Johnston's Army as a sutler or storekeeper to Fort Bridger, Wyoming. Carter and his wife, Mary E. Carter, had six children: Ada, Anna, Lulie, Roberta, William A. and Edgar. He stayed at Fort Bridger with his family rebuilding and restocking the fort. One of the region's early businessmen, Carter was involved in mining, oil, logging, and cattle ranching, and he also operated a sawmill. He raised hay and grain on the land surrounding the Fort to fill contracts with the government. Carter was soon known as Mr. Fort Bridger, and became Wyoming's first millionaire. In addition to his business activities Carter was justice of the peace and probate judge for Green River County.