In a December 23, 1869 letter to Union General George H. Thomas, John Ruhm describes the atmosphere in Nashville towards the end of Reconstruction. After praising Thomas's previous letter to him, Ruhm tells the General, "as for the condition of Tennessee under the present regime, let me assure you it is deplorable." He argues that the current legislature shows zeal in their work to overthrow all their Republican predecessors have done.

Ruhm also describes the state of education in Tennessee, saying that "leading men do absolutely not want the poor man educated." He notes that the "free-school system has been abolished, and the poor little ones are now thrown upon the world without schooling." He adds that even the city schools of Nashville are on the point of being closed under the argument of economy.