The papers of Luther T. Ellsworth consist of original correspondence and other personal papers (certificates, photographs, and newspaper clippings) pertaining to his activities as an American Consul. The papers focus on Ellsworth's diplomatic career (1897-1913) but also include material relating to other periods in his life. Some of the letters and clippings in the collection appear to have come from a scrap book. It is not possible from information in the collection, to establish the original arrangement of these materials.

Mr. Ellsworth was active in Republican election affairs in the late 1890s. His activities led to an acquaintanceship with Charles Dick who served on the Republican National Committee and was later the Congressman instrumental in Mr. Ellsworth's appointment as American Consul to Venezuela, Columbia, and Mexico.

Many of the letters, diplomatic reports, and newspaper clippings included in this collection describe the political instability and resulting difficulties experienced by the citizens of Venezuela and Mexico. In the late 1890s Venezuela and later Mexico were embroiled in internal revolution and threats of foreign intervention. Gunboat diplomacy which played a major role in U.S. foreign policy as well as in the internal politics of Latin American states necessitated an active role on the part of American consular officials. In his official duties as consul, Mr. Ellsworth generated correspondence with various officials, i.e. David J. Hill, Assistant Secretary of State; F.B. Loomis, Ambassador to Venezuela; J.M. Hemphill, commander of the U.S.S Detroit; and Generals Ramon Guerra, Antonio Paredes, and Cipriano Castro - who led various factions in Venezuela.

Ellsworth's activities were reported upon by several newspapers. Clippings of these articles are included in the collection. In addition, there are certificates signed by McKinley, Roosevelt, and Porfirio Diaz regarding his appointments.