This collection contains the call numbers Y.c.1825 (1-221).

This collection contains mostly letters written by William Winter to his daughter-in-law Elsie Leslie from 1898 to 1916. The letters display a close relationship between Winter and Leslie and often he refers to her as "Babine," "Babe," or "Pet." Most often he signs the letters, "Old Ga," but also uses "Ancient" and "Old Burro." The letters are written on various types of paper, including hotel stationery, yellow notebook paper, and blue half-sheets. Winter sometimes uses purple or black ink, but often uses pencil. Occasionally he includes additional materials with the letters, such as newspaper clippings and postcards. Many of the letters are accompanied by their original envelopes and are reliably dated, however many are not and simply contain the date in the form of month and day, or the day of the week. These letters have been given approximate dates based upon the content of the letter and/or other clues such as the type of stationery Winter was using at the time. The content of the letters is generally personal in nature and contains Winter's sentiments of endearment to Leslie. However there are also numerous mentions of theatrical performances in New York City, as well as the places where Leslie is traveling. There are also references to articles and books Winter had published and mentions of people he came in contact with or from whom he received letters.