Scope and Contents The McFarland-Russell family papers contain the personal histories of early Texans Thomas S. McFarland and Robert B. Russell and their descendants. The McFarland journal, an original copy, was written by Thomas McFarland from January 1st, 1837 to June 1840 about his daily activities while land surveying in early East Texas. It provides a glimpse into life for Texans following independence from Mexico. Robert B. Russell’s correspondence details his service as the Confederate postmaster of...