United States Service Commission Report of Averages: Farmer Examination, Washington, D.C., to John B. Troy, Helena, Montana, Feb. 3, 1987 - exam taken Dec. 5, 1896 (70=pass, which proves eligibility)., 1896

Letters written by John B. Troy to his family in Spencer and Ithaca, N.Y. from Helena, Montana, Dawson City, Yukon Territory; and Skaguay, Alaska during the gold rush. His letters discuss a gold miner's life in the Klondike district and include descriptions of the gold mining process, harsh weather and working conditions, fluctuating wages, the high cost of living, medical care, gambling and lawlessness, and the difficulty of making a fortune. The collection also includes photographs, a picture book, photocopies of newspaper clippings, and several personal documents.