I plan to offer for Congress in 1962, although there has been terrific pressure on me to run for Governor. Correspondence between 1962 and 1964 provides fascinating insights into the effort launched by friends of Hemphill to secure his appointment to the bench. As you know better than most, he was the only Congressman from our State who openly campaigned for President Kennedy in 1960. Hemphill again was the only Congressman who campaigned for you in the face of surprising Republican strength. Other correspondents include Sol Blatt, Jr., John Bolt Culbertson, Olin Johnston, John F. and Robert Kennedy, John Spratt, and Strom Thurmond.
Later letters touch on all manners of subjects, judicial, political, and personnel.
The trial judge is closer to the truth of the situation than any other judge. His principal search is for the truth and his duty to make sure that the truth is realized in the form of a verdict. Appellate judges are concerned with error, procedure, technicality and form. Speeches include the texts of speeches presented by Hemphill as well as programs for events at which Hemphill spoke. Topical Files contain Hemphill's military records and papers relating to his long involvement with the Civil Air Patrol.