Skinner family papers

Collection — Multiple Containers

Identifier: ARCHS-002

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

Papers from the Skinner family, dating from the pre-revolutionary period. Comprised of books, legal documents, family letters, and business papers. The collection comprises of mostly receipts and land deeds/indentures. Includes papers from William Skinner, Charles Skinner, and James Skinner.

Dates

Created: 1773-1880
Other: Date acquired: 06/21/1977

Conditions Governing Access

Collection is open for research. However, due to the poor condition and fragility of the documents, there are extensive limitations on what patrons are able to touch. Please contact the archivist for more information.

Conditions Governing Use

Biographical / Historical

The Skinner family was a multigenerational family residing in Augusta, Georgia dating to the 19th century. The family’s ties to Augusta began when Major William Skinner received a land grant in the area in 1806 for his service in the American Revolutionary War. While the land grant originally allotted Major Skinner land in the Screven County area, he eventually made arrangements to transfer to the Augusta area. Skinner soon established himself as a notable businessman in the area. Subsequent generations of the Skinner family continued to participate in Augusta’s commercial and civic life. Family members were involved in local business, property management, and community organizations.

Extent

3 boxes

15 folders

2 items (Two books)

Language

English

Additional Description

Arrangement

This collection is primarily arranged as a single series and in alphabetical order at the folder level.

Custodial History

A small batch of papers was misfiled and seperated into a seperate collection titled MSS 168. That collection was consolidated and reprocessed into the main Skinner Family papers collection, ARCHS 002.

Reprocessed on 3/3/2026

Source of Acquisition

From Mr. Harold S. Skinner to the Richmond County Historical Society

Method of Acquisition

This material was donated to ARCHS by Harold S. Skinner on 6/21/1977. Acc#1978.09

Other Descriptive Information

Statement by Mr. Ray Rowland, former curator of the Richmond County Historical Society, that some of the items are significant. There is a deed signed by Humphrey Wells from 1773