ler, who wrote it down in German, possesses the
rare talent of writing equally well in prose and in poetry. I take
great pleasure in expressing to these kind persons my just gratitude.

DOCUMENTS

LETTERS OF NEGRO MIGRANTS OF 1916-1918[1]

The exodus of the Negroes during the World War, the most significant
event in our recent internal history, may be profitably studied by
reading the letters of the various migrants. The investigator has been
fortunate in finding letters from Negroes of all conditions in almost
all parts of the South and these letters are based on almost every
topic of concern to humanity. These documents will serve as a guide in
getting at the motive dominant in the minds of these refugees and at
the real situation during the upheaval. As a whole, these letters
throw much light on all phases of Negro life and, in setting forth the
causes of unrest in the South, portray the character of the whites
with whom the blacks have had to do.

These letters are of further value for information concerning the
Negroes in the North. From these reliable sources the student can
learn where the Negroes settled, what they engaged in, and how they
have readjusted themselves in a new situation. Here may be seen the
effects of the loss resulting from the absence of immigrants from
Europe, the conflict of the laboring elements, the evidences of racial
troubles and the menace of mob rule.

LETTERS ASKING FOR INFORMATION ABOUT THE NORTH

GALVESTON, TEXAS,
this 24th day of May, 1917.

_Sir_: Please inform me of a situation, please ans. if fill out
or not so I will no. answer at once.

DALLAS, TEX.,
April 23, 1917.

_Dear Sir_: Having been informed through the Chicago Defender
paper that I can secure information from you. I am a constant
reader of the Defender and am contemplating on leaving here for
some point north. Having your city in view I thought to inquire
of you about conditions for work, housing, wages and everything
necessary. I am now employed as a laborer in a structural shop,
have worked for the firm five years.

I stored cars for Armour packing co. 3 years, I also claims to
know something about candy making, am handy at most anything for
an honest living. I am 31 yrs. old have a very industrio