Scope and Contents Melvin Thompson, the first person elected to the office of lieutenant governor of Georgia, served as the state's governor in 1947-48. He is best remembered for his fight with Herman Talmadge over the governorship after the death of Governor-elect Eugene Talmadge in 1946. The papers of M.E. Thompson consist primarily of correspondence relating to the Three Governors Controversy and Thompson’s subsequent campaign years.  The major correspondents include Jimmy Carter, Phil Landrum, Herman...

Scope and Contents This box contains many personal documents. Among these are receipts and bills along with insurance claims. It is evident that M.E. Thompson is gaining wealth because there are many letters congratulating him on his wealth and by viewing the receipts you can come to the conclusion that he has money to spend. He is also becoming involved with the sell and purchase of real estate, particularly on Colonel Island. There are several receipts from drug stores that might suggest Thompson’s...

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In this folder Thompson appears to be upset with his present insurance and looking for some new coverage. Thompson is writing and receiving many letters about real estate on Colonel Island and Jekyll Island. Lots of personal letters of congratulations on success and letters of concern for his health

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Christmas time is approaching and Thompson is sending out Christmas checks. Notices on his letters of recommendation can be found. Lots of business and financial papers. Letters and bill payments all point in the direction that Thompson is doing financially well.

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Many receipts from drug store M.E. getting older. Thompson making many guest appearances in the town of Valdosta. Trying to get better television coverage for South Georgia. Seems to be doing well financially. Able to pay debts for other people. Many receipts showing a great deal of money being spent on personal items.

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Receiving recognition in local news papers for public services in Valdosta. Letters asking him to send photos and information to the state capital for a biography. Letters from UGA football coach asking him to help recruit local Valdosta kids for the Bulldogs.