Charles L. Dilks papers

Collection

Identifier: D.311

Staff Only

Biographical/Historical note

Charles L. Dilks, was born in Crosswicks, NJ on March 14, 1914. At an early age, he worked as a mechanic, and developed handyman skills, which he used when he was drafted into the Army, September 5, 1942. Dilks was stationed and trained throughout the United States, including Fort Ontario New York and Camp Butner North Carolina, before his departure for the war in Europe January 10, 1945. Dilks spent the majority of World War II as a member of Company M of the 354th Infantry of the 89th Division. His unit was instrumental in securing parts of the Rhine River, advancing into German territory, and liberating Camp Ohrdruf. After the German surrender, Dilks served as part of the occupation, working in France and Austria with the 89th and 83rd Divisions. He returned home March 5, 1946 and was honorably discharged from the Army a few days later.

Scope and Contents

This collection of over 400 letters written by Dilks to his fiancée Virginia Smith begin in September 1943. In his letters Dilks writes of his personal and professional activities and feelings throughout his military service. A significant portion of the letters consist of affectionate prose to Smith, as well as stories and feelings shared between the two, including their passion for cats. Dilks' letters also touch on religious issues, racial attitudes of the times and his personal feelings toward Europe and the Army. Accounts of combat are scattered throughout Dilks' letters as well as other more mundane military issues including problems with mail service, censorship of correspondence, and soldiers' extracurricular activities. Dilks served as an infantryman, and also as a technician and cook and in his letters he shares his feelings about these various duties. He also expresses the effect that warfare is having on his individual character and his thoughts about other issues and nationalities. Dilks' correspondence concludes in February of 1946. After returning home he married Virginia Smith on July 30, 1948; they were divorced seven years later. Dilks died February 15, 1960. Numerous photographs, postcards, telegrams, and greeting cards accompany Dilks' letters. Also included in the collection are artifacts such as his army cap, sewing kit, medals, patches and dog tags.

Creator

Dilks, Charles L., 1914-1960 (Person)

Dates

Creation: 1942-1946

Language of Materials

English

Extent

5 box(es)

Access

The Charles L. Dilks Papers is open for research use. Researchers are advised to contact the Rare Books Special Collections & Preservation Department prior to visiting. Upon arrival, researchers will also be asked to fill out a registration form and provide photo identification.

Use

In consultation with a curator, reproductions may be made upon request. Permission to publish materials from the collection must be requested from a curator. Researchers are responsible for determining any copyright questions.

Immediate Source of Acquisition

The collection was donated to the University of Rochester in August 2004 by Virginia Smith"s nephew, H. Bradford Smith.

Preferred Citation

[Item title, item date], Charles L. Dilks Papers, D.311, Rare Books, Special Collections, and Preservation, River Campus Libraries, University of Rochester