A devastating fire on April 9, 1889 (the 24th anniversary of Lee's surrender at Appomattox) destroyed his house and many of his personal possessions, including his personal papers and memorabilia.
En ødelæggende brand den 9. april 1889 (på 24-årsdagen for Lee’s overgivelse ved Appomattox) ødelagde hans hus og mange af hans personlige effekter, herunder hans personlige souvenirs og dokumenter fra borgerkrigen.