Series consists of a single object, a suit of cashmere and wool undergarments owned and worn by William Lyon Mackenzie King.

Series consists of newspaper coverage of Mackenzie King's life, death and funeral. Significant issues of newspapers with major war-related headlines contain stories about Mackenzie King's prime-ministerial activities in relation to events of the day. However, the focus of this series is primarily coverage of Mackenzie King's death, memorial and funeral services published by major Ontario newspapers, often in more than one edition in a day.

Series consists of documents received by Arthur King after the death of Mackenzie King on July 22, 1950: ephemera issued to participants in the memorial and funeral services, press releases, legal documents relating to the estate of Mackenzie King including his will and estate accounts, and commentary on his bequests.

One black and white snapshot of William Lyon Mackenzie King seated at a desk indoors, probably at Kingsmere.[1]

Collection consists of material relating to William Lyon Mackenzie King from the estates of his brother Dougall Macdougall “Max” King and of his nephew (Dougall’s son) Arthur Macdougall King. Its major component is correspondence from Mackenzie King to Arthur King and also to Arthur’s wife Kathleen, over a period of twenty-seven years from 1923 to 1950.The first letter is dated 1923, a scant three years after the death of Max King, when Arthur and his twin brother Lyon were 10 years old and the last in the series is dated July 5, 1950. The collection also contains documents and ephemera relating to King’s death, funeral and will, received by Arthur King as a participant in those events; also present are issues of major Ontario newspapers that covered Mackenzie King's death and funeral as events unfolded day-by-day. A small selection of photographs, some formal and some snapshots, are also present. A selection of books retained by the family, among them works written and presented by John King and Dougall Macdougall King, also works owned by Mackenzie King as a boy, present a tangible reminder of the intellectual legacy of the King family.

One black and white informal portrait of William Lyon Mackenzie King seated on the farmhouse porch at Kingsmere.
Photo dated July 18, 1950, National Film Board.

One black and white snapshot of a group of people at Kingsmere, taken outside: William Lyon Mackenzie King is standing on the right with a camera in his hand; three unidentified men stand to his right. Isabel King and two unidentified females are seated in the grass.

One informal group portrait taken outdoors, location and occasion unidentified. William Lyon Mackenzie King is standing third from the right; to his right are his nephew Arthur King and Arthur’s wife Kathleen King. Three females and two males are unidentified. The location appears to be a wooded area, with tents.

File consists of material relating to the wedding of Lydia Louise Anthes and Albert B. Breithaupt held in Berlin (now Kitchener) in 1901. Includes a photocopy of an undated newspaper clipping about the wedding and a reproduction of a photograph of the wedding party and guests. William Lyon Mackenzie King was best man in the wedding and appears in the photograph.

Pamphlet in green and red type. Includes menu, list of toasts, and Berlin Board of Trade officers and council.

Typewritten letter, green carbon copy, from Harvey J. Sims to William Lyon Mackenzie King dated May 12, 1934, in reply to King's letter of May 10 requesting plants and shrubs from Woodside. Harvey replies that he was unable to make the request due to the health of the owner and says he will let King know when it might be possible.
Salutation: "My dear Billy"; Signature: "With the kindest regards from the both of us, I am, Yours most sincerely."

Typewritten letter, carbon copy, from Harvey J. Sims to William Lyon Mackenzie King dated October 22, 1937, following up on King's letter of October 16 and replying that he has ordered two copies of Violet Markham's book; also that he had spoken to "Mr. Sanderson, the Chief Librarian of the Toronto Public Library." This letter is accompanied by a carbon copy dated the same day of Harvey J. Sims' letter to Hodder & Stoughton Ltd. In London, England, requesting copies of Violet Markham's book and mentioning that it had been suggested to him by "The Rt. Hon. Mackenzie King, Prime Minister of Canada."
Salutation: "My Dear Billy [typewritten]"; Signature: "Yours very sincerely [typewritten]."

Typewritten letter, green carbon copy, from Harvey J. Sims to William Lyon Mackenzie King dated May 11, 1942, asking on behalf of Louis Lang that King use his influence to "induce" the American Ambassador from Russia to speak at the Canadian Manufacturers Association Annual Meeting in Toronto. Further, Harvey explains that Louis Lang is a close personal friend and that if Mr. Litvinoff cannot speak, King could perhaps suggest someone who would. This letter is accompanied by a carbon copy of Louis Lang's letter to Mackenzie King on the same subject, dated May 9, 1942.
Salutation: "My dear Billy" ; Signature: "Yours most sincerely."

Typewritten carbon letter from Harvey J. Sims to William Lyon Mackenzie King, recommending Charles Henry, a junior solicitor in his office, "for appointment as a non-commissioned officer in the Royal Canadian navy."

Clippings about William Lyon Mackenzie King, some dated but most not.

Christmas card from the Scots Fusiliers of Canada with photograph (printed on coated paper) tipped in: "Their Majesties at Kitchener, June 6th, 1939." Left to right: William Lyon Mackenzie King, Queen Elizabeth, King George VI, standing on the reception platform at the Kitchener railway station.

One formal group portrait.

Back row, left to right: Senator Robb, N. Asmussen M.P.P., J.A. Scellen, W.T. Sass, Hon. James Malcolm, John A. Lang, W. Max Euler.

Middle row, left to right: W.J. Motz, Mr. King's secretary, H.J. Sims, Mrs. J. Cole, Mayor Greb, Premier King, Hon. W.D. Euler, Mrs. Peden Mielke, Mrs. Leonard Oliver, Senator Dr. Rankin.

Front row, left to right: Mrs. Max Euler, Miss Rankin, Mrs. W.D. Euler, Mrs. W.J. Motz.

One informal posed group portrait of L.O. Breithaupt and family with William Lyon Mackenzie King in 1947, taken outdoors. Front row left: The Honorable L.O. Breithaupt (Lieutenant Governor).
Front or middle: The Right Honorable MacKenzie King (Prime Minister).
Includes three unidentified women and two unidentified men.

Manuscript (original) of an "old Berlin" talk given by Norman C. Schneider on January 23, 1975 to the Retired Business and Professional Men's Club at Kitchener Waterloo Y. Includes childhood memories of swimming holes, fishing, bicycles, climbing the water tower, Norman's first airplane ride, a description of the first plane to fly in Berlin, Ont. Information about Christoph Schneider and Charles Andrew Ahrens, and memories of William Lyon MacKenzie King are included, along with memories of childhood friends who became prominent citizens: Walter P. Zeller, Ivan Keffer, and Fred Bowman.

Letter from Mackenzie King dated June 6, 1930 to the aunts of Mabel Cameron Alguire, regretting that he is unable to attend her wedding to James Kenneth Davidson Sims on June 28, 1930 in Cornwall, Ontario.

Handwritten telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Mr. and Mrs. Harvey James Sims in Berlin, Ont. on October 29, 1902, sending congratulations on their wedding day.
Salutation: none; Signature: W.L. Mackenzie King.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to J. Kenneth Sims dated September 22, 1947, thanking Kenneth for having him to tea at Chicopee. He mentions the library and says of Harvey J. Sims, who had died two years previously, "I am glad to think that he now knows that I have seen it." He also mentions preservation of Woodside. Salutation and signature in Mackenzie King's handwriting.

Typewritten letter marked (confidential) from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated September 11, 1907, accompanied by a carbon copy of a letter from John A. Lang to A.B. Aylesworth; together with a letter from Peter H. Sims to Harvey dated October 1, 1907 commenting on Mackenzie King's proposals.

Monogrammed card from Laurier House, Ottawa sent as a Christmas card from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims, undated, inscribed inside in Mackenzie King's handwriting: "With the season's Greetings, W.L. Mackenzie King." Printed inside is King's favourite portrait of Isabel King (painted by J.W.L. Forster in 1905).

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated August 7, 1925, thanking him and his wife Florence for the memorable visit: "I can recall no happier home town visit since the days of Woodside."
Salutation: none; Signature: "Billy."

Telegram with pictorial header from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 31, 1927, sending best wishes for the New Year.
Salutation: none; Signature: "Billie."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated January 31, 1928, concerning the possibility of Mackenzie King attending the funeral of Florence Sims' mother Elizabeth Roos.
Salutation: "Dear Peter"; Signature: "William L. Mackenzie Kin.[sic]"

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 22, 1930, in reply to one just received. King describes the volume of mail he still receives, "whether it be due to sympathy or regard." In response to being asked how he felt about being in the opposition, King says there is not much difference: "Office is a hard row and a perpetual grind. Opposition is just about the same," and confesses that he is glad not to have to "carry responsibility for conditions as they are in Canada at present."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Your very devoted and affectionate friend [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated August 6, 1931, expressing his frustration and humiliation over "incidents of the past few weeks" and declaring that "far too much has been left to one or two to do. I have made up my mind that unless a sufficient number of Liberals can be found who will undertake the management and maintenance of an information and organization office, run under the party's own responsibility, I shall cease to have anything further to do with the party's leadership."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Believe me, as always, dear Peter [handwritten], Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 29, 1931, thanking Harvey for his letter and comparing Harvey's enjoyment of country life at Chicopee with his own experience "through similar ventures at Kingsmere. Indeed, some of the things you have been doing, and some of the improvements you have made on your property are so ridiculously like those which I have been attempting myself that I have fairly danced with glee at the parallel." King elaborates on improvements and work at Kingsmere, walks, and underbrush, and says he intends to follow Sims' efforts with little dams and waterfalls along a stream. He thanks Harvey and Florence for the gift of a book England, The Unknown Isle and counters with a similar book by Lukin Johnson, a personal friend. King also thanks Harvey for sending him the 1930 volume of the Waterloo Historical Society, detailing the writers and contents, giving a paean of praise for the work of the Society, and expressing amazement at the growth of the County. King ends by mentioning his health, his fatigue. and his need for recreation, and sends New Year's wishes to the Sims family: "The older we grow, the more precious become the friendships that have their beginnings in childhood's days."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [handwritten]; Signature: "With affectionate good wishes to you all, Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Your sincere and devoted friend [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]." Includes insertions and corrections in Mackenzie King's handwriting.

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated January 32, 1932, offering to "get up" a book of photographs of Kingsmere and exchange it for one of Chicopee, after having seen one that had been received by someone else.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "With kindest regards, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated November 9, 1933, concerning publication of the proceedings of the Port Hope Conference as The Liberal Way and the picture of King that appears in it. King submitted to the publication committee a picture that had been taken at Chicopee, not at the conference. He is asking, after the fact, for permission and thanks to the actual photographer.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]" ; Signature: "With all good wishes, believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours affectionately [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 6, 1934, concerning King's travels in the South Oxford by-election, allowing him to consider visiting Homer Watson again, with whom he has "one or two matters" to discuss. He refers to his previous visit in Harvey's company and reiterates that he wants to see Harvey again on the same visit. The bulk of the letter concerns organizing the trip to suit King's wishes.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "With kindest regards, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]." Includes handwritten insertion and handwritten P.S.: "Please do not think of this above for a moment if you have other engagements or should it not be wholly convenient. This is just a [illegible] shot. K."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 16, 1934: "The memories of Kitchener visit and South Oxford campaign more delightful than ever, never mind the IOU, I can never repay all your kindness to me."
Salutation: none; Signature: "Affectionate remembrance to all, Billy."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 10, 1934, in which he passes thanks to Mr. Burden for a clipping sent through Harvey, and expressing interest in obtaining plants and shrubs from his old home Woodside to re-plant at Kingsmere. He asks Harvey to be his middle-man in finding a way to accomplish this while also releasing him from any feeling of obligation. King notes that Kingsmere is looking beautiful and that he has a good gardener, and adds a handwritten postscript emphasizing that Harvey need not take any trouble unless he knows "just the person."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]" ; Signature: "With affectionate remembrances to you both, Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]." Includes corrections and postscript in Mackenzie King's handwriting.

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated August 12, 1936, apologizing for not having been able to visit Chicopee due to pressure of work, and to preparing for his forthcoming trip to Geneva where he is to head the Canadian delegation to the League of Nations. He makes reference to a photograph of himself and "The President" sent to him by Harvey. King tells Harvey that he has received two letter from "your friend Borgstrom" and says he has written again to the Minister of Labour and the National Employment Commission on his behalf. He asks Harvey bring Florence and Carl Borgstrom to visit Kingsmere so that he might "sound him out" before possibly obtaining his professional opinion about improvements at Kingsmere.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten] ; Signature: "Yours as ever, Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 2, 1936, thanking Harvey for information, describing the pressure of his work: "The problems are far and away beyond anything the like of which we have had hitherto to consider," and expressing sympathy for Euler and his wife in their "great bereavement."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated July 15, 1937, making arrangements for the forthcoming visit of Harvey to Kingsmere.
Salutation: "Dear Peter"; Signature: "Billy."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated October 30, 1937, refusing an invitation from Harvey J. Sims to a banquet in Kitchener on the grounds of overwork: "The truth is, I am at present, once again played out. " He leaves it to Harvey to explain "to our friends" and to pass on King's appreciation of the thought.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "Love to Florence and to yourself [handwritten], Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."
Includes handwritten corrections and insertion.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated January 12, 1938, concerning his present to Harvey of an autographed copy of John Buchan's Augustus and his wishes for good health for Florence in the coming year.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "My best of wishes again to you both [typewritten], Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten.]"

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated June 4, 1938, mentioning the "Grand River conservation matter" and also looking forward to seeing Harvey in Queenston on June 18. He mentions that due to fatigue he has given up attending sittings of the House.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "I do hope Florence is regaining her strength. With affectionate good wishes to you both, Billy [handwritten]."
This letter is accompanied by material relating to the opening of the Memorial Arch at Niagara Falls by Mackenzie King on June 18, 1938: official invitations to Harvey and Florence Sims to attend the opening ceremony, a luncheon, and a dinner, as well as a two-page typescript carbon itinerary.

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims (who is a passenger on the Letitia, en route to Scotland) dated August 3, 1938, in which he thanks Harvey for his visit to Kingsmere and relates that a "vision" had led him to listen to a radio story about the composer of the music for "The Sweet by and by," who felt he was guided by his deceased wife. King states "When I see you again, I shall tell you more in the way of evidence of Florence's continued existence, and her power to continue to share your life." King describes the Army Corps Reunion and his day in Kingston where he spoke at the official opening of Fort Henry. He gives Harvey advice on how to structure his life on the trip to Scotland, and ends: "Continue to think of nature as the garment of the invisible, and to commune with the spiritual reality which lies behind the things we see."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With every good wish, Yours affectionately, WLM Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter Marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated August 17, 1939, regretting not having seen him after "the banquet in Toronto."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "Believe me, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten."Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated September 26, 1941, thanking Mrs. Shannon Bowlby for sending photographs to him through Harvey. He expresses interest in visiting Chicopee but is having difficulty arranging it.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "All good wishes, Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."
Includes handwritten correction.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 23, 1941, concerning changed arrangements for Harvey to visit Ottawa, as King is unsure when he will be called to Washington by the President.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "Please let this letter bring to you anew my warmest and best of wishes for your seventieth birthday anniversary, and for Christmas day. Let it bring my best of wishes also to the boys, and my love to Madge and Minnie. Indeed, I send my love to you all [typewritten]. Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 12, 1942, concerning the opening of "the great Dam on the Grand River, which has recently been completed," and the impossibility of his being able to attend. He explains that although he has had many invitations and honours, he does not "feel at liberty to make any engagement which might take me from Ottawa at a time when I might be most needed." King has also received Harvey's letter of May 11 and replies that he would not approach Mr. Litvinoff about an engagement in Canada, as he had already indicated to King that he would not travel here again for the coming year.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "With all good wishes, Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."
Includes handwritten corrections.

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated January 2, 1923, thanking him for a gift for Laurier House and discussing the delay in reconstruction at Laurier House and the reconvening of Parliament on January 31, 1923. King also speaks of his "deeply valued friendship" with Harvey Sims.
Salutation: "My dear Peter"; Signature: "Ever your true friend, Billy K."

My dear Peter,
Your wonderful gift has kept me more or less at bay for the past ten days. I have hardly known how to acknowledge it, not having words [wherewith?] to express my appreciation of your great generosity. I am still at a loss and shall have to ask you to accept the will for the deed. It will be a great happiness to do as you suggest, to purchase for Laurier House something of which I may be in need to put the finishing touch required and to be a reminder through the years of your kindness. The bookshelves and library equipment which has made my present house the joy it has been in that respect, and which were the fruit of your previous gift, I am moving, in fact, out to Kingsmere, so summer and winter alike I shall be surrounded by evidences of your benevolence. I had expected to be in Laurier House by this time, but it has taken longer than anticipated to complete the work of reconstruction. It is going to be worth all the delay, however, and I shall look forward with delight to having you as a [first?] guest whenever you can come. I shall be able now to look after Florence's comfort as well, so do bring her with you when you are this way on some future occasion. Your generous gift enabled me to do a little better by some of my friends at this Xmas season than I would otherwise have felt I could. It came at a moment I was debating what I should send to May and the two young lads at Denver, and permitted me to make without thought of sacrifice what I was anxious to send. I must thank you therefore in more than a two fold sense for your goodness as well as your generosity.
I am very very busy as you can well imagine. Parliament re-assembling on January 31 and three of the ministers still overseas and two or more hors de combat. I may put your gift into riding or boxing lessons. A health investment is the best possible for my job.
I hope you all had a happy Xmas and I think, dear Peter, that this New Year will be the best you have ever known. My grateful thanks for your deeply valued friendship goes with my best of wishes to you and to all near and dear to you.
Ever your true friend,
Billy K.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated January 25, 1924, regarding arrangements for a forthcoming visit to Ottawa by Harvey and his wife Florence.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Believe me, as always, dear Peter, very sincerely yours. [Typewritten] Billy [handwritten]"

Printed Christmas card from William Lyon Mackenzie King presumably received by Harvey J. Sims, monogrammed on the front, with an engraved picture of Laurier House and greetings for 1924-1925 inside: "With the Season's Greetings, W.L. Mackenzie King."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated July 21, 1928 concerning his inability to accept an invitation to visit the Sims, and announcing his decision to "be one of the delegation to represent Canada at the forthcoming Assembly of the League of Nations at Geneva in September," detailing travel and speaking engagements in Manitoba and Saskatchewan and a visit to his constituency of Prince Albert. King regards the trip to Geneva as a sacrifice as it "means another summer and autumn lost as far as Kingsmere is concerned." King also says that he has asked his Secretary to "find out from the Department of Marine and Fisheries what may be possible and should be done to secure the trout you are anxious for." In a handwritten P.S. King says "I find from Dept of Marine & Fisheries that the provincial govt has entire charge of fish hatcheries in Ontario. You had better [two words illegible] to Hon Chas McCrea."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]."

Printed circular letter dated August 6, 1930, expressing Mackenzie King's thanks to well-wishers after the June 28 election.
Salutation: "My dear Peter!"; Signature: "W.L. Mackenzie King," both in King's handwriting. Includes note in King's handwriting: "Will write first opportunity. This is just to let you see how I am trying to get over ‘thousands' of communications. I shall be glad of the change. Billie."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated September 15, 1930, concerning the agreed need for "friends" to fight in the coming by-elections. King expresses frustration at having his usual time at Kingsmere interrupted.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Believe me as always, my dear Peter, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated February 28, 1931, in anticipation of a short overnight visit by Harvey on March 14, 1931 on his way to Montreal. King says that he will be delighted to see Harvey but will be busy preparing his speech to be delivered on March 16, 1931: "It relates particularly to the Speech from the throne, a copy of which I do not receive until after it is delivered, so that I shall be probably much occupied in getting material together through the day."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]." Includes an insertion in Mackenzie King's handwriting.

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 5, 1931, in which King sends Easter greetings from himself, his dog Pat, and Pat's sister.
Salutation: none; Signature: "Mackenzie King." The telegram is initialed "WLK."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 4, 1932, congratulating Harvey on the votes he received on his election as a bencher.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "With kindest regards, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy K. [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated March 8, 1932, thanking Harvey for sending him a copy of the history of Osgoode Hall issued by the Law Society of Upper Canada on its one hundredth anniversary. King expresses his personal interest because of his father's life and career, and his own childhood memories of visiting Osgoode Hall. King expresses interest in exchanging visits with the Sims in the coming year.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "With all good wishes, believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated August 23, 1933, with thanks for the issue of Canadian Homes and Gardens containing an article about Chicopee. He reports that he has been on a speaking tour of the prairies, and that at Swan River, Manitoba he met a cousin of Harvey named Mr. William Sims.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated November 6, 1933, expressing satisfaction at by-election results for Liberal candidates, but concerned that Bennett might call an election too soon. He comments on his own health and that of his dog Pat, and on bringing his sister Jennie and family to Kitchener. King's plan for visiting Kitchener before the end of the year is partly because he wants to talk to Homer Watson: "I am also most anxious to see Homer Watson again, as I am hoping it is going to be possible for me to be of some assistance to him. We have had a quite a little correspondence together. He has asked me if I would come up and spend a night in his home." King is pleased that Mr. Coleman has been appointed Under-Secretary of State, and also pleased at recent negative publicity about R.B. Bennett.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours affectionately [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 14, 1934, in reply to Harvey's letter of May 12 outlining the difficulties in the way of digging up plants at Woodside. King replies that he will try to settle the matter himself on a future visit to Kitchener. He notes that Kingsmere is looking lovely and commends Harvey for travelling to England on holiday: "There will be plenty of time to rest and reflect, and recall the past, when you get your new library into shape!"
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With kindest remembrances and regards, and very many thanks, Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours affectionately [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 23, 1935, concerning Harvey's presence in Ottawa "this week" and the semi-official functions and meetings that will prevent King from seeing Harvey until Saturday, also the "arrears of work" that have been caused by his absences in the United States. He sends sympathy to Harvey's son Kenneth whose wife has been in a car accident, Christmas greetings to the family, and thanks to Florence and Harvey for sending a copy of E. Stanley Jones' Christ's alternative to communism. He comments on the current struggle as between Christianity and materialism, "which the future will regard as one of transition accompanied by great suffering of mankind."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]" ; Signature: "With affectionate good wishes, Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Your very sincere friend [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 19, 1936, thanking him for having visited Kingsmere, describing his current workload, and sending regrets for not being able to be in Kitchener to greet Lord and Lady Tweedsmuir, due to prior obligations.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated August 31, 1936, making arrangements for the forthcoming visit of Harvey and Florence Sims and Borgstrom to Kingsmere.
Salutation: none; Signature: "Billy."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated February 20, 1937, thanking Harvey for his suggestion of Colonel H. Ballantyne as "the representative of the Second Brigade Area on the Coronation contingent" and that the Honourable Ian Mackenzie has promised to consider Ballantyne's credentials when the time comes for selecting the contingent members.
Includes a postscript in Mackenzie King's handwriting concerning Florence's health.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "Yours very sincerely, Billy [handwritten.]"

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated March 26, 1937, sending Easter greetings to Florence and Harvey and best of wishes for Florence's continuing recovery. He regrets having missed the exhibition of Homer Watson's paintings in order to rest before beginning preparations for the Coronation and the Imperial Conference.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With all good wishes, Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten.]"

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated October 31, 1938. King is returning from just having visited Bermuda, Jamaica, and Cuba. He mentions talking and visiting, approves of Harvey having started a journal, congratulates Harvey on another grandson, and, writing of Harvey's living alone, re-iterates that "attitude and belief account for what is most real and enduring in our happiness."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With every good wish, Yours affectionately, WK Billy [handwritten]."

Calling card from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims, accompanied by a newspaper clipping showing King George VI, Mackenzie King, and [unnamed] Hertzog. King's handwritten note on the card: "Dear Peter, My love and best wishes go to you with this little reminder of an historic event. My best of wishes for your birthday and Christmas and the New Year, Billy. Xmas 1939."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated March 28, 1931, in which he reports on the health of his dog Pat, who had been treated by doctors at "The Health of Animals Branch." He reports on an accidental fall suffered by Godfroy Patteson, husband of King's good friend Joan Patteson, and says in closing "I am glad, despite the length of the speech, that its reading created the favourable impression which your letter mentions."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "With kindest regards, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated February 25, 1933, sending congratulations on the birth of a grandson.
Salutation: none; Signature: "W L Mackenzie King." The telegram is initialed "WLK [handwritten]."

Printed circular reply card from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 22, 1939 with thank you for birthday greetings sent to him. He adds a handwritten note to Harvey.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "My affectionate good wishes to you both, and my best of wishes for your own birthday. I hope and pray [4 words illegible] Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims, dated May 13, 1941, concerning Angus Macdonald who relayed a message from Harvey, also mentioning his own intention to visit Kitchener in the summer.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With all good wishes, Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 23, 1923, thanking him for his generous birthday gift, thanking him for "devout friendship … begotten of a love that even David might have envied." He presses Harvey to visit and to bring Florence; also Madge and Minnie Gibson. He closes by saying that he has had a wonderful year, and that "of the Conferences, I have a lot to tell you. So come soon."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated January 20, 1924 regarding arrangements for a visit to Ottawa by Harvey and his wife Florence.
Salutation: "My dear Peter"; Signature: "Yours ever sincerely, Billy."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 23, 1925, replying to an invitation to attend a luncheon in his honour in Kitchener and to visit Harvey.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Believe me, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 30, 1926, thanking him for a birthday gift and letter. King says he is fatigued and lists the many political activities of the past year.
Salutation: "My dear Peter"; Signature: "With true affection, Believe me as always devotedly your friend, Billy."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 6, 1931, written on behalf of his dog Pat, thanking Sims for having sent him biscuits for Easter. King then reports that Pat's recovery has been "well nigh a miracle," and that they have been out to Kingsmere walking.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "With affectionate remembrances to one and all, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 24, 1934, sending birthday and Christmas greetings.
Salutation: none; Signature: "Billy."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated March 11, 1932, with further congratulations on the birth of a grandson, also repeating the desire to exchange visits, and concern about Florence's health. He also thanks Harvey for approving of the speech made by King on February 28, 1933 "on the Woodsworth resolution."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With affectionate remembrances to you both, believe me, as ever, dear Peter, Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 9, 1934, in response to one from Harvey, confirming meeting.
Salutation: none; Signature: "W L Mackenzie King."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 22, 1936, thanking Harvey for his birthday letter and for sending a copy of his "most recent treatise on life insurance legislation," which King confesses he has not attempted to read. He expresses delight that Harvey has changed his billiard room into a library. He sends birthday and Christmas wishes to the family.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "Your old friend, Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 13, 1937, thanking Harvey for sending him a framed photograph of Chicopee, and also for sending a copy of The Rotarian containing a picture of King and Mr. Hull. He expresses happiness at Florence's improvement but says of the Coronation: "I am well nigh terrified at what I know will be expected in this particular on the part of the Canadian delegation, and of its head in particular."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "With every good wish, Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten.]"

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated October 16, 1937, concerning Violet Markham's book Paxton and the Bachelor Duke and the possibility of obtaining extra copies. King also mentions his pleasure at Florence's improved health and strength.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "With affectionate remembrances to you both, Believe me, as always, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 22, 1937, thanking him for the birthday letter and greetings, expressing sympathy and concern for Florence's health, and mentioning his own busy life, including "contentious problems that I have had to meet in the last ten days." In closing he sends Christmas wishes to the family and birthday wishes to Harvey.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "To one and all I send my good wishes [typewritten], Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten.]"

Typewritten letter marked "Personal, Private" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated March 23, 1938, commenting on Harvey's report of Florence's increased good health and on Harvey's opinion of John Buchan, Lord Tweedsmuir's biography of the Roman Emperor Augustus. King offers to send Buchan Harvey's comments. King is sending Harvey the Hansard he requested, "containing my speech on the Export of Power Bill. The communications from the United States, recently received, make it pretty clear that I have not been far wrong in my estimate of what the attitude of the United States would be, toward the attitude taken by the government of Ontario, and not far wrong in the strategy I have employed in not permitting Hepburn's behaviour either to embarrass me or Members of the Party in the Federal Parliament. He has only himself to thank for the door of the United States being shut so completely in his face." King comments that his own health is better due to his own determination not to take on more in a day than he can handle without fatigue.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With kindest remembrances and best of wishes to Florence and yourself, Believe me, as always, dear Peter [typewritten], Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated June 11, 1938, looking forward to seeing Harvey in Niagara on June 18, hoping that his sister Jennie will be well enough to be there also, and expressing regret that Florence will not be attending. He extends an invitation to Harvey to join him in visiting the William Lyon Mackenzie homestead on the same day.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated September 12, 1941, thanking Harvey for his most recent welcome letter and his praise for King's "Mansion House" speech. He re-iterates his desire to visit Chicopee.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims, dated August 10, 1925, containing effusive thanks for her hospitality during the Old Boys' Reunion in Kitchener, many memories of the past, and reminiscences of all he saw and did while in the area.

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated December 23, 1934, affirming Florence's decision to stay home at Christmas but to let her two sons travel to Hartford, CT, where Harvey is in hospital. King offers to help in any way and offers to see Florence should she wish to come to Ottawa and talk: "If you thought a chaperone necessary, it would be well to bring one of the boys along, or Madge Gibson, or Mrs. Patteson would I am sure be glad to make a second or have you stay with her."
Salutation: "My dear Florence [handwritten]" ; Signature: "With every affectionate good wish to yourself, Believe me, as always, Very sincerely yours, Willie [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated April 25, 1934, thanking her for her hospitality on his most recent visit to Chicopee, expressing satisfaction with the by-election results in South Oxford, and hoping that Florence and Harvey will be able to visit Kingsmere in return: "There are no friends like the old friends, and the talks which I have of the old days when I meet you both always awaken memories that are precious and life-giving as well."
Salutation: "My dear Florence [handwritten]"; Signature: "Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]." Includes handwritten corrections.

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated "New Year's Eve" 1930, expressing gratitude for the hand-made cushions she had sent him for Christmas, and apologizing for not being able to contact her sooner.
Salutation: "My dear Florence"; Signature: "With all good wishes, Yours very sincerely, W.L. Mackenzie King."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated June 22, 1933 containing effusive gratitude for and memories of the visit he has just made to Chicopee. He writes lyrically and at length about the changes he has seen, "the glimpses of old Berlin hidden away amid the city of Kitchener which proclaims so much of growth prosperity," also "All these things touched my heart very deeply and stirred as you remarked, my very soul." King describes his trip home and his arrival at Kingsmere at midnight: "As I looked out of my window the heaven was lighted across its entire width with a display of aurora borealis such as I have never seen before. It was like a crown of eternal [illegible] set upon a vision of another world – the world of memory, of imagination, of delight in which I lived from the moment of departure to the moment of return." King finishes the letter with possible arrangements for Florence and Peter's visit to Kingsmere.
Salutation: "My dear Florence [handwritten]"; Signature: "Again my warmest wishes to Peter and yourself, for all your generous hospitality and for the joy you gave me, Believe me, dear Florence, Yours affectionately, Willie [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated April 18, 1935, sending Easter wishes to Florence, "the boys", and Harvey, "if he is at home with you." King declares himself very busy, pleased with Harvey's progress, and hoping to be able to travel. In a handwritten postscript he adds: "In Harvey's letters he has spoken with great enthusiasm of yourself, of how brave you have been, and how glad he is that you are so strong and well again. He feels that you have helped him immensely to get back into good shape."
Salutation: "My dear Florence [handwritten]"; Signature: "With love to you all, Yours affectionately, Willie [handwritten]."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated January 31, 1928, expressing sympathy for the death of Florence's mother Elizabeth Roos and mentioning close family ties: "I cannot express too sincerely the deep sympathy I feel for you, Maggie, Ethel and Irvine in your overwhelming bereavement. You know how closely our family and yours have been associated for many years. None of your many friends will feel more deeply for you all than Jennie and myself."
Salutation: "Dear Florence"; Signature: "W.L. Mackenzie King."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence and Harvey J. Sims dated June 6, 1930, declining an invitation to their son Kenneth's wedding on June 28, 1930, due to the pressures of the "present campaign."
Salutation: "My dear Florence & Peter" [handwritten]; Signature: "As ever, Yours very sincerely & affectionately, Billy" [handwritten].

Formal studio portrait in photographer's folder of William Lyon Mackenzie King, seated, by Champion Studios, New York, inscribed to Harvey J. Sims: "To H.J. Sims, from his friend, W.L. Mackenzie King, Ottawa, ‘Xmas 1922."

Photograph of William Lyon Mackenzie King taken outdoors, inscribed to Harvey J. Sims: “To Peter, from Willy, with all good wishes for Christmas and the New year, Laurier House, Ottawa."

Photograph of William Lyon Mackenzie King standing on the steps of Laurier House, with printed greeting: "With the Season's Greetings, W.L. Mackenzie King, Laurier House, Ottawa, Christmas 1938."