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Three autograph letters signed by William W. Wight (1836–1912), Milwaukee historian, genealogist, and chairman of the city’s Board of Fire & Police Commissioners. Dated March–July 1895, all on official letterhead, discussing manuscripts and sermons of Rev. Eleathan Wight, family history research, and correspondence with fellow genealogists. Excellent content on 19th-century literary and genealogical pursuits.
Each letter is entirely in Wight’s hand and signed “William W. Wight.” Light age toning and folds, overall very good condition. An appealing group linking early Milwaukee civic history with New England genealogy.
Keywords: Milwaukee history, genealogy, Wisconsin autograph, Fire and Police Commission, Rev. Eleathan Wight, 19th century letter, genealogist correspondence.
Transcription Highlights
Letter 1 – 27 March 1895
Wight thanks the recipient for sending manuscripts of the Rev. Eleathan Wight, whom he identifies as a relative, and expresses appreciation for confirming the handwriting. He mentions his literary work and references “my book, The Wights,” likely his 1890 genealogical history A Record of the Wight Family.
> “I recognized the handwriting and I was confirmed in my judgment by sending it for inspection to descendants of Rev. Eleathan who had specimens of his handwriting… I am engaged in several literary works now…”
Letter 2 – 5 April 1895
A short, friendly note acknowledging receipt of correspondence and offering to send autograph sermons of Rev. Eleathan Wight for postage (27 cents).
> “If you will send me two of the autograph sermons of Mr. Eleathan Wight and the postage (27 cents), I will send you the Wights.”
Letter 3 – 1 July 1895
Follow-up letter to Rev. Aaron Pihs, apologizing for delayed communication and noting he has received the first reply since March. He references post office inquiries and mentions his continued interest in the late Moses Wight.
> “The slip you send about Moses Wight I am much interested to receive. It is my first news of his lamented death.”
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🖋️ Historical Context & Significance
William Ward Wight was a Milwaukee lawyer, historian, and genealogist, best known for A Record of the Wight Family (1890), an important genealogical reference tracing early New England families. He also served as Chairman of the Milwaukee Fire and Police Commission (as seen on this letterhead) and contributed articles to state historical publications.
The letters show his active genealogical correspondence in the 1890s, authenticating family manuscripts and maintaining contact with other descendants and ministers related to Rev. Eleathan Wight (a prominent early Congregationalist preacher). Together, these letters illustrate Wight’s dedication to preserving his family’s historical record and his role as a civic leader in Milwaukee.
