Letters 
Letter Tags
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J.R.R. Tolkien's father, Arthur, writes to his mother, Mary Jane, to inform her of his sons birth the previous day.
Arthur Tolkien writes to his father from his and Mabel's home in South Africa to give an update on family life, especially news of a very "sharp" John R...
Mabel Tolkien, J.R.R. Tolkien's mother, writes to her husband's parents saying that John Ronald does not go outside in the daytime due to the heat. She ...
Arthur Tolkien writing to his parents sends the delightful news of his second son, Hilary's birth. He talks at length of Mabel's recovery which he says ...
Arthur Tolkien writes to his father, John Benjamin Tolkien, informing him of life for his family in Bloemfontein, Orange Free State. He mentions the com...
In a letter to her brother, Roland Suffield, Mabel sends news of life in Bloemfontein, Orange Free State with details of her two boys, Ronald and Hilary...
Arthur writes to his father giving news of life in Bloemfontein, Orange Free State. He and Mabel had a gathering of friends for a musical evening. Some ...
This letter to Arthur Tolkien, father of Ronald and Hilary, was dictated by Tolkien's nurse. Mabel, Tolkien's mother, received a telegram that day that ...
May Incledon writes to Mabel Tolkien on the subject of her prayers. Her and Mabel (her sister), were converting to be members of the Catholic chruch and...
Mabel writes to her two son's grandmother on the Tolkien side (mother of her late husband) enclosing drawings by the boys. They have worked on them duri...
Mabel writes a letter to her mother-in-law saying that the boys look very well, especially compared to how they looked when they met her at the train st...
Emily Jane Suffield writes to Hilary on New Years Eve wishing him well for the coming year and thanks him for his gift and letter for Christmas. She als...
Rob Gilson writes saying that he had last heard from Tolkien was the letter shown him by G.B. Smith in London and he hopes that both he and Edith were f...
Hilary Tolkien writes to Edith thanking her for her letter and parcel. He gives an update on matters in France and the hopelessness of the war. He remar...
Hilary Tolkien writes to Edith with news of his time in France during WWI. He says that his party have returned from the front lines are on training and...
Tolkien's brother Hilary writes to him with news from his own part of the war effort in France. He mentions that in the England they have had terrible w...
Hilary writes to Edith. It has been some time since his last letter and Edith has now moved from Warwickshire and he does not know her new address. He h...
Hilary, writing to his brother gives news of his time near the front lines. They are resting currently. He had heard from Edith a few days ago. He has b...
Tolkien had written to Wiseman after hearing of the death of his mother. Wiseman congratulates Tolkien on the news that he and Edith are expecting a chi...
Hilary writes to Tolkien giving updates on his current circumstances. He asks him to send his wishes to Edith. He will write to her, but not for a few d...
Edith had given birth to their first child, John, on 16 November but she had a difficult time. Tolkien could get leave for a few days and Aunt May write...
Reynolds writes to Tolkien offering congratulations on the birth of his and Edith's first child. He thanks Tolkien for a parcel, and for including his p...
From 25 July, Edith writes to Tolkien from 1 Blenheim, Parade, Pittsville. No details are known of how many letters but we can be fairly certain that sh...
In early December, Tolkien informs Kenneth Sisam that he and his family have been unwell and he is delayed with his work on the Clarendon Chaucer.
Tolkien writes to R.W. Chambers complaining that he has only recently finished marking School Certification exam papers, which he had to do to pay medic...
This letter, mentioned only briefly in Wheelbarrows at Dawn discusses family matters of the Incledon family.
Writing to Hilary, John Suffield gives family news. Hilary's cousin, Donald John Suffield reports that his father has died. He details the area where he...
Father Francis Morgan writes to Hilary to congratulate him on the birth of his son. He wishes that he could perform the baptism but is now unable to tra...
Father Francis Morgan replies to Hilary. He has been away for three weeks "at the Shaws and the other half at the Richmond Convent in Yorkshire." While ...
Writing to his son John, Tolkien asks about the credits he will take and also that he noted that his German books remained in his trunk after his holida...
In reply to Hilary's "interesting letter", Father Francis replies with news on happenings. He is happy to know the latest on Hilary's "mission" and note...
Father Francis wishes Hilary and his family the best for 1935. He has been laid up with lumbago but is now on the mend.
Father Francis replies to Hilary's warm wishes for his birthday and asks him to pass on his thanks to Magdalen and Gabriel for the Violets they sent.
Writing to, Christopher, Tolkien says he misses his son but that he is glad Christopher’s little holiday has begun with fine weather. He discusses the...
Tolkien sends birthday wishes for his son Michael. He says that he has heard from John that he is short of cash and apologizes for his lack of help but ...
Tolkien replies to Michael's letter. It appears that Michael has opted to change his work, but Tolkien would like to talk with Welch & Bostock first bef...
Tolkien's Aunt Jane (Neave) writes to Tolkien demanding to know more about his new book, The Hobbit. Tolkien had written to her, and signed a copy of th...
Writing to his son Christopher, Tolkien says how delighted he is to have received his letter, although he doesn't expect them. He, Edith, and Priscilla ...
Hilary's Aunt Mabel writes in reply to his letter. She has been unwell for quite some time and is only able to travel short distances. She hopes to be w...
Tolkien informs Gordon that he will be in Birmingham for his Aunt Mabel's (Mitton) funeral who had died the previous day.
Young Christopher writes a letter to Father Christmas (likely in early December) where he describes how his father (JRR Tolkien) read The Hobbit to him ...
Tolkien's Aunt Florence (Hadley) writes to thank him the copy of The Hobbit which he sent to her in British Columbia, Canada. She notes that had her sis...
Rütten & Loening Verlag, the German publisher enquired about publishing a German translation of The Hobbit. As part of their conditions they wanted to ...
Tolkien opens with news of the terrible year the family have had. Christopher has had a bad heart and in bad health the entire year. More than a dozen f...
Tolkien offers his sympathies to his son Michael as he has been bedridden with a bad cold. He has been very busy and feels he has neglected his son with...
Tolkien replies to a letter from his son Michael where he had evidently spoken about his feelings about events of the world, studies, etc. Tolkien is re...
Mary Incledon replies to Hilary. She has been unwell and cannot see people for long. If he wishes to visit her next Friday she would be delighted but if...
Walter Incledon, Uncle to Hilary and Ronald writes upon the death of Mary a couple of days previous. He is concerned about the mortgage in Mary's name a...
Tolkien hopes that Christopher has not had air raids recently. He notes that he is very lonely without him close to home. Tolkien has been busy with ter...
Hilary's Aunt Florence, who lives in Victoria BC, Canada, writes offering sympathies for the current situation in Europe. Letters are taking between thr...
Tolkien sends Christopher some money, and reminds him that it is important to remember birthdays, especially his mother’s. Tolkien then goes on to rem...
Writing to Christopher, Tolkien remarks on the work of typing up "Hobbit" and how Edith and Priscilla are getting along. He then promises to write more.
Identifying more with his Suffield heritage than his Tolkien name, Tolkien expresses a deep connection to Worcestershire, considering it "home" due to h...
Hilary's Aunt Florence writes from Victoria BC, Canada to wish them all well for the Christmas period. She talks on world events, and notes her regret t...
Tolkien describes meeting C.E.B. Joad the night before at dinner with C.S. Lewis, and talks a bit about Joad's visit to Russia. The dinner is described ...
Tolkien had not managed to send Christopher his pipe yesterday, and sends it on to him with this letter. He and Edith received a long letter and were ha...
Tolkien writes to Christopher after hearing from his brother Michael that Christopher had been unwell again. Tolkien updates him on home life, with Edit...
Tolkien offers Christopher advice on prayer and to remember his guardian angel. He reminds him to use "praises", and says of them "if you have these by ...
Tolkien had received an airletter from Christopher that morning and he read it while enjoying breakfast in bed. He describes the events of St. George's ...
Writing to Christopher with an update on recent happenings. He had dinner in college and notes that "the three old gents" were very easy to talk to. Lew...
Tolkien writes to Leila Keane and Patricia Kirke, he discusses his progress with The Lord of the Rings, and the fortunes of his family. The letter was a...
Tolkien has been enjoying reading Stenton's Anglo-Saxon England, and wishes he had a time-machine. Tolkien tells Christopher that this is the history "o...
Tolkien writes to Christopher while in working with Cadets at the Taylorian . He is missing his son and wishes he could see him. He gives an update on t...
A short excerpt from Tolkien to Christopher after he had been on leave. He describes seeing him again as like having an old tooth with a "dulled ache". ...
Roland Suffield, Uncle to Hilary and Ronald, writes to Hilary wishing them all the best for Christmas. He encloses some postal orders for the children. ...
Magdalen Tolkien writes to her son, Gabriel. She reports that Paul, his younger brother, has won three prizes at school in the sports day. She reports o...
Tolkien replies to a letter from a Mrs. Tolkien in the USA and tells her various information about his family history. They are likely third cousins as ...
Writing to his son Michael and daughter-in-law Joan, Tolkien gives an update on their move to a new house, to 76 Sandfield Road. He notes that the start...
Tolkien discusses some questions from The New York Times. He talks about the name, TOLKIEN, his ancestors, and even though he was born in Africa, he con...
Tolkien writes to granddaughter Joan and says that he really enjoyed her birthday party, and that she is growing so fast. He has enclosed some money for...
Tolkien writes to his eldest son, Father John Tolkien, saying that he will miss him at Christmas time but knows that he will see him soon. He says he is...
Tolkien confirms that a parcel arrived safely but due to being unwell and during a busy time he had not replied. Tolkien will return the books (Hammond/...
Tolkien apologises for his lack of time to write letters or Christmas cards. He is immensely busy. He notes that his daughter, Priscilla, will be taking...
A very brief note from Tolkien to his grandson on the occasion of his 15th birthday.
Phyllis Potter, a friend of Hilary's Aunt Jane (Neave) writes to him on her behalf. Jane is currently unwell and is under observation for the next ten d...
Marjorie Incledon writes in reply to Julian Tolkien's birthday wishes. She is pleased that he is enjoying home life and mentions Hilary's sketches which...
In this letter Tolkien complains of the effects of old age and other troubles. Edith is under observation with the fear that she has cancer.
Angela Tolkien writes to her mother on the news that she now has a baby brother. She wishes it was a girl but would like the baby to be called Paul Domi...
Tolkien has been asked to provide more poems to go with 'Tom Bombadil' as the book is too small according to GA&U. He notes that he believed a small vol...
Jane Neave writes to Hilary and Madgalen Tolkien. She enjoyed a visit with them. She felt very much at home. Jane wants to transfer some shares to them ...
Aunt Jane writes further on the shares she wishes to have transferred to Hilary. A new certificate will be issued, and she mentions various matters on i...
In this letter, a reply to the Kloos's letter from March, Tolkien writes about his inspirations for The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. It was started...
Colin Brookes-Smith writes to Hilary Tolkien on matters of finance. He has asked Tucker (family lawyer) to detail the usual rulings on dividend and inte...
Writing to Hilary, Colin Brookes-Smith discussses various financial matters related to the family.
Hilary writes to his son. He remarks on the sunny weather and mentions the plants that are startung to show. He says that "Mum's leg" is "slowly improvi...
Tolkien writes to his grandson Michael George, clarifying that he is interest in all apsects of Michael's "work and tastes". He says that he may have he...
Ediths remarks on Chandlers visit to Aylesbury and "The Bull". Thanks her for some photos. She remarks that their daughter Priscilla stopped in for tea ...
Tolkien writes about living near the school in his youth. He tells the class that a cheap paperback is available in the US but not currently in the UK. ...
Edith writes thanking Pamela Chandler for writing. It is the Professor's 75th birthday and he has received many cards, letters, and telegrams. Chandler ...
Joy has sent Tolkien a copy of The Children's Treasury of Literature, which includes a chapter from The Hobbit.
Writing to Willaim Ready, Tolkien states that he does not like being written about and will not provide information on his family and origins. He asks R...
Christopher explains the origin of the Tolkien name to William Ready, and gives a brief account of his siblings and himself. Ready's book was challenged...
Priscilla Tolkien writes to Pamela Chandler confirming that she would be delighted to see her for lunch. She gives directions and mentions that her brot...
Priscilla writes thanking Pamela for her letter and mentions how lovely it was to see her. She offers a bed in future if she would like to stay.
In his letter of late November, Tolkien says that he had begun a letter "some time ago", but this had never been finished and remained unsent. Tolkien i...
Edith apologises for taking so long to reply but Tolkien has been very ill with a virus. he remains in bed. She remarks that she would like six of the s...
Edith thanks Pamela for her letter and remarks that she is happy that she is busy and has plenty of work. Tolkien, with much care is feeling much better...
Tolkien writes about the writer's grandfather, Paul Barbier. The address is incorrect on this letter, it should be Grosmont Haggs not Grosmont Maggs.
Edith is delighted by the photographs and writes to thank Pamela for them. Tolkien is much better now, but easily becomes tired. Priscilla will be visit...
Marjorie Incledon (known as Mink), writes to Julian thanking him for his letter and the silk scarf which he sent her for Christmas. She gives family det...
Tolkien writes about the origin of Bag-End, which was the local name of a house an aunt of his lived in in Worcestershire.
Tolkien declines an invitation to a program on November 30th titled "An Afternoon in Middle-earth", but mentions some of his connections to the West Mid...
Tolkien wrote a letter to his cousin Dorothy (Ding) Wood. Among the subjects he discusses is his recent fall. Tolkien makes some mention of his name, fa...
Tolkien discusses his problems with progressing with the Silmarillion. An additional portion of the letter has been quoted on Michael Tolkien's website.
Tolkien writes to his brother, Hilary, offering his prayers for him, on the death of Hilary's wife.
Tolkien writes to his cousin Dorothy after he and Edith had dined at Hotel Miramar (possibly with Rayner Unwin) and had been told that Dorothy had inqui...
Edith writes to family friend Mollie Cowling. Giving updates on family, and her health. Members of the family had been on a trip to Canada for five week...
Writing to Julian Tolkien, Marjorie Incledon gives news on her health, and a friend who has now been moved to a nursing home. She hopes that he feels be...
Tolkien and Edith send a telegram in honour of her eightieth birthday. Mrs Dorothy Grace Wood (née Mountain) and Tolkien were cousins. Her mother was G...
Among the subjects included in this letter to his cousin, Dorothy Wood, Tolkien has asked Allen & Unwin to send her a copy of the India paper edition of...
Tolkien describes his visit to Sidmouth.
Tolkien writes to Rayner about his becoming Chairman of GA&U. A brief quote about Edith's health is reproduced in Chronology.
Marjorie Incledon (Aunt Mink), writes to Julian to wish him a happy new year. Like him, she could not make Edith's funeral but has spoken with Christoph...
Tolkien writes to his son about the very generous accommodation offered to him by Merton College in Oxford.
Tolkien mentions his forthcoming trip to Buckingham Palace to receive a CBE. He says that the Queen Mother is due to make the presentation, who he has s...
L. Mason writes to Hilary with thanks for his memories of Mason's sister. he notes that his daughter is called Hilary and mentions a funny story of the ...
Tolkien thanks Rayner for organizing his trip to London to Buckingham Palace to be awarded the C.B.E., a party at the Garrick Club in his honour and sta...
Tolkien writes to Suzanne Eward stating his love of the "West Midlands". He will certainly donate copies of his work to the Gloucester Cathedral Library...
L. Mason writes asking Hilary if he knows if his letter to his brother, JRRT, has been received. He sent it to Merton College.
Tolkien writes to Christopher about Edith, her headstone, his thoughts of her as Lúthien and a visit to GA&U's headquarters.
Tolkien discusses the origins of the name Tolkien.
Tolkien writes to his Physician Extraordinary (Doctor Tolhurst) and asks if he can go and stay with him and his wife. Tolkien also talks about the Middl...
Tolkien writes to Christopher about his trip to the Tolhursts and news of Priscilla's holiday in Crete.
Tolkien writes to Mr Todd and has signed The Lord of the Rings. He was impressed with the letter from Angela, and he congratulates her on her spelling.
Marjorie writes to Hilary thanking him for visiting her. She gives him news on her leg, whoch the doctors have said must be amputated given her age and ...
Hilary writes to Messrs Farrington & WHite on matters of Marjorie Incledon's will after her death in November. He asks if his eldest son, Gabriel, is to...
Hilary Tolkien writes to the Registrar General, Bloemfontein to request information on his birth. It appears that this was required in order for Hilary ...
Humphrey Carpenter writes to Hilary Tolkien on matters of family history. He encloses a photo of Hilary, Ronald, their Uncle Edwin and some unnamed boys...
Humphrey Carpenter writes in reply to Hilary Tolkien to thank him for details on his and his brothers early life. he remarks that in the time since his ...
Letter Tags
Stats
Guide to Tolkien's Letters
Tolkien family
(131 letters match)1892
4 January 1892
Arthur Tolkien to Mary Jane Tolkien (Stowe)
#987
J.R.R. Tolkien's father, Arthur, writes to his mother, Mary Jane, to inform her of his sons birth the previous day.
14 November 1892
Arthur Tolkien to John Benjamin Tolkien
#1155
Arthur Tolkien writes to his father from his and Mabel's home in South Africa to give an update on family life, especially news of a very "sharp" John R...
1893
4 March 1893
Mabel Tolkien to John Benjamin Tolkien and Mary Jane Tolkien
#988
Mabel Tolkien, J.R.R. Tolkien's mother, writes to her husband's parents saying that John Ronald does not go outside in the daytime due to the heat. She ...
1894
18 February 1894
Arthur Tolkien to John Benjamin Tolkien & Mary Jane Tolkien
#1182
Arthur Tolkien writing to his parents sends the delightful news of his second son, Hilary's birth. He talks at length of Mabel's recovery which he says ...
24 March 1894
Arthur Tolkien to John Benjamin Tolkien
#1233
Arthur Tolkien writes to his father, John Benjamin Tolkien, informing him of life for his family in Bloemfontein, Orange Free State. He mentions the com...
16 July 1894
Mabel Tolkien to Roland Suffield
#1238
In a letter to her brother, Roland Suffield, Mabel sends news of life in Bloemfontein, Orange Free State with details of her two boys, Ronald and Hilary...
3 August 1894
Arthur Tolkien to John Benjamin Tolkien
#1239
Arthur writes to his father giving news of life in Bloemfontein, Orange Free State. He and Mabel had a gathering of friends for a musical evening. Some ...
1896
14 February 1896
J.R.R. Tolkien to Arthur Tolkien
#41
This letter to Arthur Tolkien, father of Ronald and Hilary, was dictated by Tolkien's nurse. Mabel, Tolkien's mother, received a telegram that day that ...
1900
Early (Spring) 1900
May Incledon to Mabel Tolkien
#1879
May Incledon writes to Mabel Tolkien on the subject of her prayers. Her and Mabel (her sister), were converting to be members of the Catholic chruch and...
1903
Christmas 1903
Mabel Tolkien to Mary Jane Tolkien (Stowe)
#989
Mabel writes to her two son's grandmother on the Tolkien side (mother of her late husband) enclosing drawings by the boys. They have worked on them duri...
1904
Late July 1904
Mabel Tolkien to Mary Jane Tolkien (Stowe)
#990
Mabel writes a letter to her mother-in-law saying that the boys look very well, especially compared to how they looked when they met her at the train st...
1913
31 December 1913
Emily Jane Suffield to Hilary Tolkien
#1240
Emily Jane Suffield writes to Hilary on New Years Eve wishing him well for the coming year and thanks him for his gift and letter for Christmas. She als...
1915
21 November 1915
Rob Gilson to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1298
Rob Gilson writes saying that he had last heard from Tolkien was the letter shown him by G.B. Smith in London and he hopes that both he and Edith were f...
1916
14 January 1916
Hilary Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1821
Hilary Tolkien writes to Edith thanking her for her letter and parcel. He gives an update on matters in France and the hopelessness of the war. He remar...
9 February 1916
Hilary Tolkien to Edith Bratt
#1876
Hilary Tolkien writes to Edith with news of his time in France during WWI. He says that his party have returned from the front lines are on training and...
7 April 1916
Hilary Tolkien to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1877
Tolkien's brother Hilary writes to him with news from his own part of the war effort in France. He mentions that in the England they have had terrible w...
19 April 1916
Hilary Tolkien to J.R.R. Tolkien, Edith Tolkien
#1878
Hilary writes to Edith. It has been some time since his last letter and Edith has now moved from Warwickshire and he does not know her new address. He h...
14 September 1916
Hilary Tolkien to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1880
Hilary, writing to his brother gives news of his time near the front lines. They are resting currently. He had heard from Edith a few days ago. He has b...
1917
10 October 1917 (written 1 September, 7 and 10 October, 1917)
Christopher Wiseman to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1594
Tolkien had written to Wiseman after hearing of the death of his mother. Wiseman congratulates Tolkien on the news that he and Edith are expecting a chi...
10 September 1917
Hilary Tolkien to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1881
Hilary writes to Tolkien giving updates on his current circumstances. He asks him to send his wishes to Edith. He will write to her, but not for a few d...
c. 16 November 1917
May Incledon to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2072
Edith had given birth to their first child, John, on 16 November but she had a difficult time. Tolkien could get leave for a few days and Aunt May write...
19 November 1917
R.W. Reynolds to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1593
Reynolds writes to Tolkien offering congratulations on the birth of his and Edith's first child. He thanks Tolkien for a parcel, and for including his p...
1918
c. 25 July 1918
Edith Tolkien to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1599
From 25 July, Edith writes to Tolkien from 1 Blenheim, Parade, Pittsville. No details are known of how many letters but we can be fairly certain that sh...
1924
Early December 1924
J.R.R. Tolkien to Kenneth Sisam
#1644
In early December, Tolkien informs Kenneth Sisam that he and his family have been unwell and he is delayed with his work on the Clarendon Chaucer.
1925
7 August 1925
J.R.R. Tolkien to R.W. Chambers
#1724
Tolkien writes to R.W. Chambers complaining that he has only recently finished marking School Certification exam papers, which he had to do to pay medic...
1928
1928 or 1929
Walter Incledon to Marjorie Incledon
#1893
This letter, mentioned only briefly in Wheelbarrows at Dawn discusses family matters of the Incledon family.
7 January 1928
John Suffield to Hilary Tolkien
#1882
Writing to Hilary, John Suffield gives family news. Hilary's cousin, Donald John Suffield reports that his father has died. He details the area where he...
1931
24 February 1931
Father Francis Morgan to Hilary Tolkien
#1884
Father Francis Morgan writes to Hilary to congratulate him on the birth of his son. He wishes that he could perform the baptism but is now unable to tra...
26 August 1931
Father Francis Morgan to Hilary Tolkien
#1885
Father Francis Morgan replies to Hilary. He has been away for three weeks "at the Shaws and the other half at the Richmond Convent in Yorkshire." While ...
1934
21 January 1934
J.R.R. Tolkien to John Tolkien
#1364
Carpenter #8a
Writing to his son John, Tolkien asks about the credits he will take and also that he noted that his German books remained in his trunk after his holida...
21 June 1934
Father Francis Morgan to Hilary Tolkien
#1886
In reply to Hilary's "interesting letter", Father Francis replies with news on happenings. He is happy to know the latest on Hilary's "mission" and note...
1935
3 January 1935
Father Francis Morgan to Hilary Tolkien
#1887
Father Francis wishes Hilary and his family the best for 1935. He has been laid up with lumbago but is now on the mend.
24 January 1935
Father Francis Morgan to Hilary Tolkien
#1888
Father Francis replies to Hilary's warm wishes for his birthday and asks him to pass on his thanks to Magdalen and Gabriel for the Violets they sent.
1936
10 August 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1367
Carpenter #8b
Writing to, Christopher, Tolkien says he misses his son but that he is glad Christopher’s little holiday has begun with fine weather. He discusses the...
21 October 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#1368
Carpenter #8c
Tolkien sends birthday wishes for his son Michael. He says that he has heard from John that he is short of cash and apologizes for his lack of help but ...
1937
12 February 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#1369
Carpenter #11a
Tolkien replies to Michael's letter. It appears that Michael has opted to change his work, but Tolkien would like to talk with Welch & Bostock first bef...
1 October 1937
Jane Neave to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2002
Tolkien's Aunt Jane (Neave) writes to Tolkien demanding to know more about his new book, The Hobbit. Tolkien had written to her, and signed a copy of th...
2 October 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1373
Carpenter #15b
Writing to his son Christopher, Tolkien says how delighted he is to have received his letter, although he doesn't expect them. He, Edith, and Priscilla ...
12 November 1937
Mabel Milton to Hilary Tolkien
#1889
Hilary's Aunt Mabel writes in reply to his letter. She has been unwell for quite some time and is only able to travel short distances. She hopes to be w...
29 November 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to E.V. Gordon
#2112
Tolkien informs Gordon that he will be in Birmingham for his Aunt Mabel's (Mitton) funeral who had died the previous day.
December 1937
Christopher Tolkien to Father Christmas
#1858
Young Christopher writes a letter to Father Christmas (likely in early December) where he describes how his father (JRR Tolkien) read The Hobbit to him ...
1938
13 February 1938
Florence Hadley to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2001
Tolkien's Aunt Florence (Hadley) writes to thank him the copy of The Hobbit which he sent to her in British Columbia, Canada. She notes that had her sis...
25 July 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rütten & Loening Verlag
#34
Carpenter #30
Rütten & Loening Verlag, the German publisher enquired about publishing a German translation of The Hobbit. As part of their conditions they wanted to ...
24 December 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Kilbride
#110
Tolkien opens with news of the terrible year the family have had. Christopher has had a bad heart and in bad health the entire year. More than a dozen f...
1939
1 March 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#1375
Carpenter #36a
Tolkien offers his sympathies to his son Michael as he has been bedridden with a bad cold. He has been very busy and feels he has neglected his son with...
1940
12 July 1940
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#1377
Carpenter #38a
Tolkien replies to a letter from his son Michael where he had evidently spoken about his feelings about events of the world, studies, etc. Tolkien is re...
20 July 1940
Mary Incledon to Hilary Tolkien
#1890
Mary Incledon replies to Hilary. She has been unwell and cannot see people for long. If he wishes to visit her next Friday she would be delighted but if...
25 July 1940
Walter Incledon to Hilary Tolkien
#1891
Walter Incledon, Uncle to Hilary and Ronald writes upon the death of Mary a couple of days previous. He is concerned about the mortgage in Mary's name a...
20 October 1940
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1378
Carpenter #40a
Tolkien hopes that Christopher has not had air raids recently. He notes that he is very lonely without him close to home. Tolkien has been busy with ter...
17 November 1940
Florence Hadley to Hilary Tolkien
#1894
Hilary's Aunt Florence, who lives in Victoria BC, Canada, writes offering sympathies for the current situation in Europe. Letters are taking between thr...
1941
26 January 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1379
Carpenter #42a
Tolkien sends Christopher some money, and reminds him that it is important to remember birthdays, especially his mother’s. Tolkien then goes on to rem...
1 February 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1380
Carpenter #42b
Writing to Christopher, Tolkien remarks on the work of typing up "Hobbit" and how Edith and Priscilla are getting along. He then promises to write more.
18 March 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#59
Carpenter #44
Identifying more with his Suffield heritage than his Tolkien name, Tolkien expresses a deep connection to Worcestershire, considering it "home" due to h...
1943
19 October 1943
Florence Hadley to Hilary Tolkien
#1895
Hilary's Aunt Florence writes from Victoria BC, Canada to wish them all well for the Christmas period. She talks on world events, and notes her regret t...
27 October 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#85
Carpenter #51
Tolkien describes meeting C.E.B. Joad the night before at dinner with C.S. Lewis, and talks a bit about Joad's visit to Russia. The dinner is described ...
3 November 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1388
Carpenter #51a
Tolkien had not managed to send Christopher his pipe yesterday, and sends it on to him with this letter. He and Edith received a long letter and were ha...
15 December 1943
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1390
Carpenter #53a
Tolkien writes to Christopher after hearing from his brother Michael that Christopher had been unwell again. Tolkien updates him on home life, with Edit...
1944
8 January 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#88
Carpenter #54
Tolkien offers Christopher advice on prayer and to remember his guardian angel. He reminds him to use "praises", and says of them "if you have these by ...
24 April 1944 (continued 26 April)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#97
Carpenter #63
Tolkien had received an airletter from Christopher that morning and he read it while enjoying breakfast in bed. He describes the events of St. George's ...
31 May 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#143
Carpenter #72
Writing to Christopher with an update on recent happenings. He had dinner in college and notes that "the three old gents" were very easy to talk to. Lew...
1945
9 January 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Leila Keane and Patricia Kirke
#572
Tolkien writes to Leila Keane and Patricia Kirke, he discusses his progress with The Lord of the Rings, and the fortunes of his family. The letter was a...
18 January 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#220
Carpenter #95
Tolkien has been enjoying reading Stenton's Anglo-Saxon England, and wishes he had a time-machine. Tolkien tells Christopher that this is the history "o...
12 March 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1409
Carpenter #97c
Tolkien writes to Christopher while in working with Cadets at the Taylorian . He is missing his son and wishes he could see him. He gives an update on t...
29 April 1945
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#1410
Carpenter #98a
A short excerpt from Tolkien to Christopher after he had been on leave. He describes seeing him again as like having an old tooth with a "dulled ache". ...
1948
11 December 1948
Roland Suffield to Hilary Tolkien
#1896
Roland Suffield, Uncle to Hilary and Ronald, writes to Hilary wishing them all the best for Christmas. He encloses some postal orders for the children. ...
1949
12 July 1949
Magdalen Tolkien to Gabriel Tolkien
#1897
Magdalen Tolkien writes to her son, Gabriel. She reports that Paul, his younger brother, has won three prizes at school in the sports day. She reports o...
1951
30 March 1951
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs. Tolkien
#151
Tolkien replies to a letter from a Mrs. Tolkien in the USA and tells her various information about his family history. They are likely third cousins as ...
1953
29 January 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael and Joan Tolkien
#1421
Carpenter #135c
Writing to his son Michael and daughter-in-law Joan, Tolkien gives an update on their move to a new house, to 76 Sandfield Road. He notes that the start...
1955
30 June 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Houghton Mifflin Co.
#478
Carpenter #165
Tolkien discusses some questions from The New York Times. He talks about the name, TOLKIEN, his ancestors, and even though he was born in Africa, he con...
20 December 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Joan Anne Tolkien
#1452
Carpenter #179b
Tolkien writes to granddaughter Joan and says that he really enjoyed her birthday party, and that she is growing so fast. He has enclosed some money for...
20 December 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to John Tolkien
#1451
Carpenter #179a
Tolkien writes to his eldest son, Father John Tolkien, saying that he will miss him at Christmas time but knows that he will see him soon. He says he is...
1956
21 March 1956
J.R.R. Tolkien to Ernest Rasdall
#241
Tolkien confirms that a parcel arrived safely but due to being unwell and during a busy time he had not replied. Tolkien will return the books (Hammond/...
24 December 1956
J.R.R. Tolkien to Patricia Kirke
#284
Tolkien apologises for his lack of time to write letters or Christmas cards. He is immensely busy. He notes that his daughter, Priscilla, will be taking...
1958
10 January 1958
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael George Tolkien
#331
A very brief note from Tolkien to his grandson on the occasion of his 15th birthday.
1960
Early 1960
Phyllis Potter to Hilary Tolkien
#1898
Phyllis Potter, a friend of Hilary's Aunt Jane (Neave) writes to him on her behalf. Jane is currently unwell and is under observation for the next ten d...
15 October 1960
Marjorie Incledon to Julian Tolkien
#1899
Marjorie Incledon writes in reply to Julian Tolkien's birthday wishes. She is pleased that he is enjoying home life and mentions Hilary's sketches which...
22 November 1960
J.R.R. Tolkien to Przemyslaw Mroczkowski
#463
In this letter Tolkien complains of the effects of old age and other troubles. Edith is under observation with the fear that she has cancer.
1961
c. 29 September 1961
Angela Tolkien to June Tolkien
#1900
Angela Tolkien writes to her mother on the news that she now has a baby brother. She wishes it was a girl but would like the baby to be called Paul Domi...
15 November 1961
J.R.R. Tolkien to Jane Neave
#487
Tolkien has been asked to provide more poems to go with 'Tom Bombadil' as the book is too small according to GA&U. He notes that he believed a small vol...
1962
c. October 1962
Jane Neave to Hilary Tolkien, Magdalen Tolkien
#1901
Jane Neave writes to Hilary and Madgalen Tolkien. She enjoyed a visit with them. She felt very much at home. Jane wants to transfer some shares to them ...
21 December 1962
Jane Neave to Hilary Tolkien
#1902
Aunt Jane writes further on the shares she wishes to have transferred to Hilary. A new certificate will be issued, and she mentions various matters on i...
1963
18 April - 6 May 1963
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. and Mrs. Kloos
#523
In this letter, a reply to the Kloos's letter from March, Tolkien writes about his inspirations for The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. It was started...
27 October 1963
Colin Brookes-Smith to Hilary Tolkien
#1903
Colin Brookes-Smith writes to Hilary Tolkien on matters of finance. He has asked Tucker (family lawyer) to detail the usual rulings on dividend and inte...
29 October 1963
Colin Brookes-Smith to Hilary Tolkien
#1918
Writing to Hilary, Colin Brookes-Smith discussses various financial matters related to the family.
1964
11 April 1964
Hilary Tolkien to Julian Tolkien
#1904
Hilary writes to his son. He remarks on the sunny weather and mentions the plants that are startung to show. He says that "Mum's leg" is "slowly improvi...
1965
16 September 1965
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael George Tolkien
#701
Tolkien writes to his grandson Michael George, clarifying that he is interest in all apsects of Michael's "work and tastes". He says that he may have he...
1966
10 August 1966
Edith Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#849
Ediths remarks on Chandlers visit to Aylesbury and "The Bull". Thanks her for some photos. She remarks that their daughter Priscilla stopped in for tea ...
17 October 1966
J.R.R. Tolkien to Class II G (of Acocks Green, Primary School)
#770
Tolkien writes about living near the school in his youth. He tells the class that a cheap paperback is available in the US but not currently in the UK. ...
1967
3 January 1967
Edith Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#854
Edith writes thanking Pamela Chandler for writing. It is the Professor's 75th birthday and he has received many cards, letters, and telegrams. Chandler ...
5 January 1967
J.R.R. Tolkien to Joy Hill
#740
Joy has sent Tolkien a copy of The Children's Treasury of Literature, which includes a chapter from The Hobbit.
2 February 1967
J.R.R. Tolkien to William Ready
#1023
Writing to Willaim Ready, Tolkien states that he does not like being written about and will not provide information on his family and origins. He asks R...
1 March 1967
Christopher Tolkien to William Ready
#1366
Christopher explains the origin of the Tolkien name to William Ready, and gives a brief account of his siblings and himself. Ready's book was challenged...
5 June 1967
Priscilla Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#856
Priscilla Tolkien writes to Pamela Chandler confirming that she would be delighted to see her for lunch. She gives directions and mentions that her brot...
17 June 1967
Priscilla Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#857
Priscilla writes thanking Pamela for her letter and mentions how lovely it was to see her. She offers a bed in future if she would like to stay.
?Late Summer 1967
J.R.R. Tolkien to Clyde S. kilby
#1534
In his letter of late November, Tolkien says that he had begun a letter "some time ago", but this had never been finished and remained unsent. Tolkien i...
25 October 1967
Edith Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#858
Edith apologises for taking so long to reply but Tolkien has been very ill with a virus. he remains in bed. She remarks that she would like six of the s...
18 November 1967
Edith Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#859
Edith thanks Pamela for her letter and remarks that she is happy that she is busy and has plenty of work. Tolkien, with much care is feeling much better...
24 November 1967
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss [Karen C.] Walker
#758
Tolkien writes about the writer's grandfather, Paul Barbier. The address is incorrect on this letter, it should be Grosmont Haggs not Grosmont Maggs.
29 November 1967
Edith Tolkien to Mollie Cowling
#1745
5 December 1967
Edith Tolkien to Pamela Chandler
#860
Edith is delighted by the photographs and writes to thank Pamela for them. Tolkien is much better now, but easily becomes tired. Priscilla will be visit...
1968
2 January 1968
Marjorie Incledon to Julian Tolkien
#1905
Marjorie Incledon (known as Mink), writes to Julian thanking him for his letter and the silk scarf which he sent her for Christmas. She gives family det...
29 January 1968
J.R.R. Tolkien to K. Jackson
#733
Tolkien writes about the origin of Bag-End, which was the local name of a house an aunt of his lived in in Worcestershire.
1969
Early November 1969
J.R.R. Tolkien to Amy Ronald
#460
Tolkien declines an invitation to a program on November 30th titled "An Afternoon in Middle-earth", but mentions some of his connections to the West Mid...
31 December 1969
J.R.R. Tolkien to Dorothy Wood
#440
Tolkien wrote a letter to his cousin Dorothy (Ding) Wood. Among the subjects he discusses is his recent fall. Tolkien makes some mention of his name, fa...
1970
1 January 1970
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael George Tolkien
#387
Carpenter #315
Tolkien discusses his problems with progressing with the Silmarillion. An additional portion of the letter has been quoted on Michael Tolkien's website.
5 April 1970
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hilary Tolkien
#1332
Tolkien writes to his brother, Hilary, offering his prayers for him, on the death of Hilary's wife.
22 April 1970
J.R.R. Tolkien to Dorothy Wood
#441
Tolkien writes to his cousin Dorothy after he and Edith had dined at Hotel Miramar (possibly with Rayner Unwin) and had been told that Dorothy had inqui...
21 October 1970
Edith Tolkien to Mollie Cowling
#1713
Edith writes to family friend Mollie Cowling. Giving updates on family, and her health. Members of the family had been on a trip to Canada for five week...
1971
6 January 1971
Marjorie Incledon to Julian Tolkien
#1906
Writing to Julian Tolkien, Marjorie Incledon gives news on her health, and a friend who has now been moved to a nursing home. She hopes that he feels be...
?4-?9 May 1971
J.R.R. Tolkien and Edith Tolkien to Dorothy Wood
#442
Tolkien and Edith send a telegram in honour of her eightieth birthday. Mrs Dorothy Grace Wood (née Mountain) and Tolkien were cousins. Her mother was G...
26 May 1971
J.R.R. Tolkien to Dorothy Wood
#443
Among the subjects included in this letter to his cousin, Dorothy Wood, Tolkien has asked Allen & Unwin to send her a copy of the India paper edition of...
about 2 June 1971
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#418
Carpenter #323
Tolkien describes his visit to Sidmouth.
24 July 1971
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#421
Carpenter #326
Tolkien writes to Rayner about his becoming Chairman of GA&U. A brief quote about Edith's health is reproduced in Chronology.
1972
9 January 1972
Marjorie Incledon to Julian Tolkien
#1907
Marjorie Incledon (Aunt Mink), writes to Julian to wish him a happy new year. Like him, she could not make Edith's funeral but has spoken with Christoph...
24 January 1972
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#426
Carpenter #332
Tolkien writes to his son about the very generous accommodation offered to him by Merton College in Oxford.
2 February 1972
J.R.R. Tolkien to Dorothy Wood
#445
Tolkien mentions his forthcoming trip to Buckingham Palace to receive a CBE. He says that the Queen Mother is due to make the presentation, who he has s...
25 February 1972
L. Mason to Hilary Tolkien
#1908
L. Mason writes to Hilary with thanks for his memories of Mason's sister. he notes that his daughter is called Hilary and mentions a funny story of the ...
30 March 1972
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#428
Carpenter #334
Tolkien thanks Rayner for organizing his trip to London to Buckingham Palace to be awarded the C.B.E., a party at the Garrick Club in his honour and sta...
23 April 1972
J.R.R. Tolkien to Suzanne Eward
#830
Tolkien writes to Suzanne Eward stating his love of the "West Midlands". He will certainly donate copies of his work to the Gloucester Cathedral Library...
20 June 1972
L. Mason to Hilary Tolkien
#1909
L. Mason writes asking Hilary if he knows if his letter to his brother, JRRT, has been received. He sent it to Merton College.
11 July 1972
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#433
Carpenter #340
Tolkien writes to Christopher about Edith, her headstone, his thoughts of her as Lúthien and a visit to GA&U's headquarters.
1973
8 March 1973
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs E. R. Ehrardt
#386
Carpenter #349
Tolkien discusses the origins of the name Tolkien.
20 April 1973
J.R.R. Tolkien to Dr Tolhurst
#373
Tolkien writes to his Physician Extraordinary (Doctor Tolhurst) and asks if he can go and stay with him and his wife. Tolkien also talks about the Middl...
29 May 1973
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#382
Carpenter #351
Tolkien writes to Christopher about his trip to the Tolhursts and news of Priscilla's holiday in Crete.
21 June 1973
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr Todd
#1052
Tolkien writes to Mr Todd and has signed The Lord of the Rings. He was impressed with the letter from Angela, and he congratulates her on her spelling.
Late October 1973
Marjorie Incledon to Hilary Tolkien
#1910
Marjorie writes to Hilary thanking him for visiting her. She gives him news on her leg, whoch the doctors have said must be amputated given her age and ...
3 December 1973
Hilary Tolkien to Messrs Farrington & Whiting
#1911
Hilary writes to Messrs Farrington & WHite on matters of Marjorie Incledon's will after her death in November. He asks if his eldest son, Gabriel, is to...
1974
c. May 1974
Hilary Tolkien to Registrar General, Bloemfontein
#1912
Hilary Tolkien writes to the Registrar General, Bloemfontein to request information on his birth. It appears that this was required in order for Hilary ...
14 December 1974
Humphrey Carpenter to Hilary Tolkien
#1913
Humphrey Carpenter writes to Hilary Tolkien on matters of family history. He encloses a photo of Hilary, Ronald, their Uncle Edwin and some unnamed boys...
31 December 1974
Humphrey Carpenter to Hilary Tolkien
#1914
Humphrey Carpenter writes in reply to Hilary Tolkien to thank him for details on his and his brothers early life. he remarks that in the time since his ...
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