| Abstract |
The Shepherd papers generally reflect the early law practice of James E. Shepherd, including legal briefs, personal notes dealing with particular cases, and correspondence. Of particular interest is a letter from Edward Ransom to Shepherd commenting on the 1875 North Carolina Constitutional Convention and claiming to be insulted by the Democratic Party's offer to nominate him as lieutenant governor. Shepherd's financial papers include his business ledger in partnership with Thomas Sparrow, which records legal fees charged and reveals personal purchase of cotton for possible resale; promissory notes; receipts for county and state taxes; and shipping bills. Other materials include a scrapbook of poems, several pamphlets, personal notebook, and undated election tickets. |
| Access restriction | Joyner- No access restrictions. |
| Cite as |
James E. Shepherd Papers (#199), Special Collections Department, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA. |
| Terms of use | Joyner- Literary rights to specific documents are retained by the authors or their descendants in accordance with U.S. copyright law. |
| Acquisitions source |
Joyner- Gift of Mrs. William Withers. |
| Biographical note | James E. Shepherd (1847-1910) opened a law partnership with Thomas Sparrow in Washington, N.C. Shepherd became active in politics, serving as the chairman of the Democratic Executive Committee in Beaufort County. In 1875, he represented Beaufort and Pamlico Counties in the North Carolina Constitutional Convention and authored the important provision concerning county government. After serving six years as Superior Court judge, Shepherd was elected to the North Carolina Supreme Court in 1888. In 1892, he was appointed Chief Justice and served in that capacity for two years. |
