1859 letter from Elizabeth Angell

Transcribed in part:"Dear Mary,...I am spending the summer with my sister, Mrs. Lippitt - Now, please don't say: "Emily must have leisure if she is visiting" - for Lizzie is housekeeping and there are many things in which I can assist her. Then the neighbors are very social...One letter to Martha Jaqueth ....I am in Phenix, Rhode Island, a pleasant manufacturing village about twelve miles from Providence where most of all of my relatives live and where the name Angell is almost as common as Smith - Lizzie has a pretty cottage out of the village, but near enough that we can hear the pleasant sound of voices in the morning and evening when the factory is closed. We had the most fun last Winter watching our neighbors, and fancying what manner of people they were...Maria Stebbins...Lucy Newton..Oh it is like old times to meet the Newtons again...I hear from school occasionally - through Libbie Burlingame at the Institute and Martha Jaqueth at Home Cottage. ..Nettie Sterling is an excellent scholar...I met Mrs. Gertrude McEntree in the street last Spring....she...invited me to call upon her at the Studio buildings...Yesterday...the most beautiful rainbow that I ever saw - it spanned most half the sky with most brilliant colors. Like a grand triumphant arch - One might fancy that such was the entrance to Heaven...I presume you remember our old school acquaintance "Thaddeus of Warsaw," Libbie Burlingame writes he is as short as ever, rather fleshy and very uninteresting...If you should look upon me now you would see a young lady of twenty with her hair short and plain behind her ears, just like a childs. Indeed I pass for almost a child now....It is impossible for me to conduct myself for my years, and yet it troubles me to to be thought so juvenile...Lizzie

Letter to mother from Charles Lucious Anderson

Dear Mother,I have been toasting my shins the greater part of the time today over the stove today trying to collect a few scattered thoughts...I was thinking this afternoon what a noted place the Stock Room of the Lowell Machine Shop was for free and open discussion of all subjects Politics, Religion, Temperance & every subject moral & immoral which was ever said or thought of by man, has been discussed & rediscussed till it has been worn out again & again.Yes, I will defy you or any other person to mention a subject which the old Stock Room has not listened to the merits and demerits of it by the Job Hands & others of the L.M. Shop.Could you look in upon me sometimes you would think I kept a regular grocery by the number standing around the stove. But Mr. Burke open the door and walk in and they will scamper about as quick as a flock of sheep scared by a dog.Re. E. B. Foster delivered the first lecture before the Young Mens Christian Association a week ago last Monday evening. Pronounced by all to be the greatest lecture delivered in Huntington Hall this winter. ..The hall was full to overflowing, many standing up around the doors and in the passageways which could not be seated. I have no doubt but more than two thousand persons listened to him.He presented in his lecture those ends which the association intend to carry out...This association intents to seek out employment for young men coming to the city who are strangers from the country and place them in good boarding places to shield them in every possible way from the demoralizing influences of city life...He spoke of the unsettled character of the population of our city and dwelt at some length on the manner in which the great proportion of our young men are born and reared in their country homes, with all the moral & religious influences thrown around them which can be, then spoke of their coming to the city and having no family ties to throw around them a net-work to shield them from evil; of their wandering forth into the streets on some pleasant evening and attracted by the gorgeously lighted saloons, are enlisted to enter and there take the first lessons in the downward part to ruin.He spoke with such eloquence...many were melted to tears & the most profound stillness reigned throughout the hall......Rev. D.C. Eddy delivers the next lecture...I put on my hat and coat & started for a walk. In passing through Hurd Street I noticed the vestry under the large Methodist Church was lit up & having a kind of idle curiosity to know what was going on within I entered & took a seat, not knowing that I might be an intruder. The vestry which was a very large one was filled mostly with young persons from the ages of seventeen to twenty five years of age, mostly females. A table was spread before the speakers desk with bread & water & several gentlemen were passing round the same to the congregation, while the minister was haranguing the audience on the subject of religion with stentorian voice & gestures the most severe....;;;;they got worked up to such a pitch of excitement that I deemed it proper for me to leave.I have endeavored to give you dear mother a short description of a "Methodist Love Fest." ... <....I can remember going to an evening meeting of James Burnahs......I thought the minister would preach all night...noise enough awaken all the neighborhood...Wendall Phillips lectured before the Institute last evening - Subject: "Philosophy of Reform." He is a very good speaker indeed...He said of we are going to bring about reform we must commence at home & educate the masses & not for it in the church & Politician. In speaking of the politician, he said he once asked a veteran in that service "What is a Politician" His answer was "A politician is a man who serves God just so far as not to offend the devil." He was very severe on our schools, ministers & institutions for not crying down the sin of slavery, or perhaps I should say for not doing more to put down slavery. Slavery is his Hobby I should think....Yesterday it rained all day, today it has snowed...Yours, C.L. Anderson

lETTERS AND POSTCARDS FROM GEO. SCOBELL

Letter dated 22nd February 1909 from Colorado Springs, CO.
Dear Wife Margaret & Children:
I received your long letter dated 17 Saturday. I was just sitting up in bed preparing to eat my supper when your letter was brought in. I went to dinner Sat and had 100 (temperature). Sunday also to dinner and had 99.2. I send you a bill of fare. I had my 4th helper sick Sat. It is one month today since I arrived at the Sanitarium. I have not heard a word that would intimate I was not to stay on, but rather the opposite, so rest content Dear Ones. Money. If Geo. (his son, George Edward Scobell, Jr.) does not get more land to work, you will not need so many horses. I was just thinking. Although I said not to sell Baldy, we could not very well afford to refuse $400 for the team--if they look good enough to anyone for that sum. I will finish after dinner if able.
I'm able. We are having a snowstorn. It began last evening and still continues. Well Dear, send some more of those letters of large size. I can write the little ones. I must get to bed now, so with the expectation of getting your sad letter tomorrow, might I close with the hope this will find you feeling all right again. By the way, I am feeling good.
Geo. E. Scobell
Postcard dated 2nd April, 1909 from Rocky Ford, CO.
Dear Wife:
I send you a PC because I have no paper. I just want to let you know that I am nicely located. In ten minutes after I started out to find a home I was all fixed. I get board at a boarding house; $4.50 per week--have a room a block away for $1.00 per week; furnish my own coal. Am feeling fine, no distress in breathing, good appetite. I want to get me a "Chasing Chair" and blanket and begin to "Chase the Cure" in earnest.
Geo. E. Scobell
Letter dated 6th September 1909 from Pueblo, CO.
Dear Wife and Family:
This morning I seat myself to write you what news there is to tell about myself. In the first place, I have a cold and a sore chest. It is cold and wet. It has rained two days and noights and is still damp and cloudy. Well the landlady told me Saturday that some of the roomers complained of being disturbed by my coughing nights and would have to move if I stayed.
At this point in my writing, the landlady came and invited me to the front window to watch the Labor Day parade. When it was over I was too tired to write so layed down til dinner. To resume, I told the lady I would look for a room, but would not dare to go out in the rain. She said no indeed, I should not. Well it has rained ever since till this forenoon when it began to clear. I asked if the parties had made any more complaint. She said no, just asked if I was here yet. She said, "I said yes and he is not going out in the rain to look for a room." "Oh no, of course not," was their reply. I asked if she would rent me the room for another week. Said she did not know about that--the party is here yet. Just rest content as it is and see. I got George's letter and draft yesterday and your last letter the day bofore while the Old Dr. was visiting me. I did not read it until he was gone, and so missed the chance to ask about your trouble in the chest, but will find out before I write again. In the meantime, from this on you have to just not give yourself a chance to take cold. No running out in the cold wind with nothing to protect your chest and throat do you hear. I am afraid your lungs are affected. Do you raise anything from your lungs? If not you may not be (sentence not finished).
You asked me what the Dr. said about me going home. He said as soon as you get over coughing and get fleshed up. By then there would be a cold winter there and I would need to be careful. He examined me the week I was at the Amhurst. Said I was in better shape than he expected to find me. My left lung was in the 2nd stage and the right in the first. Could not see why I should not get well. Now I have heard so many different findings that I do not credit anyone implicitly. I think the Vivifiers are good and I believe will cure me if I don't meet with some other misfortune. If I have to leave this room, I have a mind to go to the Springs. I won't have so hard a time to keep a room. I am tired, so tired, so with love to all I will close. If Mother (Mary Elizabeth Toole) and Alice are there, say hello for me.
Geo. E. Scobell
Letter dated 28th August 1909 from Pueblo, CO (I believe this was misdated by George due to illness and should have been dated 28th September 1909. For that reason I am placing it at the last. He died 4th October 1909.)
Dear Wife:
Come to me without delay on my account. Get all the money you can. I am perfectly helpless. You must come and hurry.
Geo. E. Scobell
(P.S.) I'm 10 miles East of Pueblo

OLD POSTCARD FROM GEO. E. SCOBELL

Postcard dated 21st January, 1909 mailed from Denver, CO to Mrs. M.E. Scobell in Tripp, SD.
Dear Wife:
Arrived here in good shape. I had a fine night's rest coming through. It is a fine crisp morning, no wind, no snow. I ate a pretty fair breakfast. I leave for the springs at nine o'clock. It is now 8:35. I will be at the springs before noon or about that time. I feel that I am going to be better right away. Keep a stiff upper lip and a brave heart and remember.
Geo. E. Scobell

VERY INTERESTING PIONEER LETTER FROM DAKOTA TERRITORY

Sioux Falls, Dakota TR.
July 11th, 1872

Dear Sister,
I am sitting in the doorway of our western home. It is just before sunset, and the country before me is very beautiful, as the shadows of evening fall over it. I wish you could see the Indian Train that just passed by on the Yankton road; it is fantastic I assure you; perhaps I can describe part of it. There were ponies with saddles, and to each pony two very long poles were strapped, one on each side of the saddle, the other end of the poles drag on the ground; there were cross pieces from one pole to the other and quite a load of goods and traps packed on. Some of the packs were topped out with a squaw. There were a good many of these turnouts, and all driven by squaws dressed in gay costumes; but one needs to see it to appreciate it. We have just had a bit of experience in camp life and I will tell you about it. We have long wished to visit the Pipestone Falls, rendered famous by Longfellow, and distant from here a little more than sixty miles. Last Friday morning, July 5th, a company of four, my brother, aunt and uncle Sawtelle, and myself started for the Falls. We had a fine team and a light canvass wagon, well packed with provisions, blankets, pillows, a tent, and everything we thought we were likely to need. Our route lay up the Sioux River. At noon we stopped at the "Dells" made tea and coffee, and set our table on a large flat rock, beneath overhanging cliffs. It was a beautiful place. We rested two hours and then went on. We reached Flandrau just before dark. This is a place on the river 40 miles north of Sioux Falls. It comprises an old store built as a trading post for the Indians and an Indian church. Here is a fine water power, and as fine a farming country extending for hundreds of miles around, as was ever seen. Three of our company have located--have a quarter section each. Campbell of Evansville, has an adjoining claim, whom we found here making improvements. Also a gentleman and his son from the East. These composed the entire white population, although all the land has recently been taken up for miles around, and another year will see the country dotted with homes. Our horses were put out, supper dispatched, and our tent pitched for the night. We enjoyed the scenes around us until a late hour. Upon a little hill was our tent, two or three covered wagons, the old store and the church. At the foot of the hill a beautiful meadow reached to the river, and on it were horses, cattle and Indian ponies without number. Beneath the shadow of the trees on the river bank was an Indian encampment. Plenty of Indians all around us, and no whites except those mentioned. Early the next morning, I went with one of our company to visit one of the Indian families. They had a good log house all in one room. They seemed glad to see us and gave us a seat on the best bed. This bed had a nice clean patchwork quilt, two large pillows with cases, and sheets turned back from the head, a large piece of carpeting was spread on the floor in front of it; the stove was well polished. The family were eating breakfast; they had a nice set of dishes, and sat at the table eating from their plates and drinking from their cups just as anybody would do. There was a shelf in the room filled with books and papers, and some pictures hanging on the walls. This is only one of a good many such families. Saturday afternoon we started for Pipestone Falls, twelve miles distant. We were five miles on the way, and where the earth and sky seemed to meet all around us, when there came up on of the most fearful hailstorms I ever heard of. The horses were unhitched, but pelted by the large hailstones, were frightened and tore around fearfully. It was by almost superhuman efforts that they were restrained from rushing off before the storm. For a few moments I thought we should all perish. The thunder and lightning was dreadful, and it rained as I never saw it rain before. Of course we were thoroughly drenched. We were only in the edge of the storm and were soon able to go back to camp. Campbell, like the good hearted boy that he is, met us on the way with dry blankets and then hastened on and had a hot fire ready for us by the time we reached the old store. Well, we got dry after awhile, and passed the night the best we could. Sunday morning was delightful. Before we were through breakfast we saw the Indians coming to church over the hills and prairies, in all directions as far as we could see. Indians, squaws and papooses, some walking, some in ox teams and some riding on ponies. As they reached the place they sat down in groups on the ground to visit until church time. It was truly a fine sight to see these red men coming quietly and peaceably to church, dressed in citizens clothes, without paint or war gear. Soon the minister, a very intelligent half breed, rang the bell for service. Then all filed into church, we followed and were given the honoured seats beside the minister; eight whites in a church with 150 Indians. Many of them were once chiefs, warriors, and braves, who have often been on the warpath, and often engaged in massacres. I saw Big Eagle, who was formerly chief of the Sioux nation, and who surrendered his whole band to the United States, rather than fight with the troops. I doubt if any of us ever enjoyed a service more than we did that morning. Just think of those Indians singing our old church songs, and offering just as earnest and sincere prayers as were offered in any church. The singing was about as good as any congregational singing I ever heard. They kept perfect time and there were many voices. The men all wore white shirts with collars, neckties, and good suits of clothes. The most of them were intelligent, smart looking men. The squaws did not look quite so well, yet their looks indicated that they tried their best to dress like white women. I saw one very pretty Indian girl, the only one I ever saw. She was about 18 years old, medium height and straight as an arrow. She is said to be very reserved and haughty, won't let an Indian come near her. She says she will never marry until she can marry a white man. After service seven or eight of the leading church members came to shake hands with us, and expressed their pleasure at seeing us there. Towards night Fred wishes me to take a canoe ride, and I never enjoyed a boat ride more than I did that. Floating down the Big Sioux in a regular Indian canoe just at sunset. The branches nearly meeting over our heads, the birds singing their good night songs to their mates and the banks on either side were overgrown with vines and willows. As we were going back through the woods, an old squaw and pappoose came along and for the fun of it I took off my neck ribbon, and tied it around the little girl's neck. The squaw looked on much pleased, saying, washta, washta, which means, good, good. Monday morning we started again for the falls. On crossing the prairie, where the worst of the storm passed, we saw tons of hay torn out from the roots by the hailstones. We went on truly thankful that we were no further within its limits. Before noon we reached the falls, and camped near a beautiful little lake just below, for dinner. We had huckleberries for desert, which we gathered from the bushes. After clambering over many rocks, we at last stood below Pipestone Falls, so famous in Indian legend. The water falls down perpendicular rocks 50 or 75 feet high, the spray forming a beautiful rainbow constantly hanging over it. With a great deal of assistance we reached the top of the rocks above the falls and then found the rock that Longfellow describes, where "Gitchie Manitou the might, He the Master of life descending. On the red crags of the quarry stood erect and smoked the Calumet, the peace pipe, as a signal to the nations." Fred stood on the rock and we stood around him while he read the poem of "The Peace Pipe," which Longfellow has so beautifully written, and we appreciated it as we never did before. had we been here five or six years ago, we should in all probability have had our hair pulled. I could describe to you the quarry, and how the Indians work it, but will leave it for another letter. We went back to Flandrau Monday and came home Tuesday. This we we intend to visit the "Palisades," which Frank says are more wonderful than anything we have yet seen.
E.

LETTER FROM DAKOTA to SIOUX FALLS FROM BLANCHE P. WALDO

LETTER FROM DAKOTA
SIOUX FALLS, Sept. 12, 1878
This September afternoon, Marion, my eldest sister, and Jennie, my younger, sit on the summit of one of the beautiful bluffs of Sioux Falls, a delightful little village in the south-eastern part of Dakota territory. As I gaze around me from this height of 200 feet, or perhaps more, I see our beautiful Sioux River winding its way through a lovely valley, and tumbling over mighty rocks, forming a foaming cataract. Oh! how beautiful the large island, covered with verdure is on this barren prairie. This island contains nine acres of ground, and its principal trees are elm and oak. Sioux Falls is a thriving little place, and as we sit here, we can see the carpenters at work putting up the frames of business houses as well as residences, and the masons venering them with brick. The largest hotel of the place is a large venered building. I smile when I think of the surprise Eastern people manifest as they see the beautiful residences, elegantly furnished of some of our citizens. Before us lies the railroad which was finished through here last month, and on which they are now at work. A great many strangers are coming in every day, some seeking fortunes, and others pleasures; among the latter are six gentlemen, friends of ours, from Evansville, Wisconsin, our former place of residence, surprise us by stepping in upon us unexpectedly. We had a very pleasant visit with them. One mile beyond the depot is the cemetery, on the hillside; it is a beautiful yet lovely spot, and a cherished place for us, because alas! one year ago, we laid all that remained of our beautiful and dearly beloved sister there, and only last month a little niece; just a little while and we too may be laid thre. Our home is just at the foot of the bluff, and Marion and husband think it is a pretty place. Now I am no story writer, my friends, but please accept my poor description of my western home.
Blanche P. Waldo

Postmarked 16 June, 1843, Fayetteville, AR-from Jacob Mills

Postmarked 16 June, 1843, Fayetteville, ARAddressed to Mr. Aaron Mills, State of Indiana, Morgan County, Belville P.O.WashingtonCounty, Arkansas, June 5, 1843Esteemed cousin, I gladly embrace this opportunity to write to you a few lines to let you understand how we are coming on and we are about as well (as) common and hoping these few lines may find you enjoying good health.Now I will inform you that we received your letter the 28 day of May and read it with great joy, that you were all well and all doing well. You said in your letter thar you had looked for a letter time after timne but looked in vain. I have thought a great many times of writing to you but I did not know where to direct my letter to you.I will just state that Father has 200 acres of land where we live, 55 cleared on it. He has another farm in one mile and half that contains 160 acres, a house and six acres cleared on it. He has another farm in 5 miles of him, contains 120 acres with 50 acres under fence and 22 acres of it cleared of it, with a very good house on it. He also gave Aaron L. Mills 140 acres of land. He also gave Enos Mills 160 acres of land. He also gave Henry Mills 160 of land. He gave Joseph Thompson 80 of land. He also gave John Camp 60 acres of land. I will quit that subject.Enos Mills was married June the 14th, 1838 to a girl by the name of Edy Mankins. They have four children. The oldest is a girl, they call her name Martha Jane. The second call her name Lydia, the third his name William Riley, the fourth is a boy, he is four days old. They have not named it yet.Henry Mills was married in 1840. He married a girl by the name of Milly Reed. They have one child, they call his name Seth Phineas. I am single yet but I have my own fun with the girls. I can go when I please and come when I please. And if that is not enough you must come and see for yourself. I would be very (glad) of your company.I will just state that Aaron L. Mills and Henry Mills has moved to Missouri. They live in Dade County, 35 miles of Springfield west on the head of Limestone Creek. They have very pretty farms from accounts. I heard Henry Mills say that he expected to have 50 acres in cultivation this spring. All they have to do is fence it and break it up. They say it is most beautiful prairie out where they live but timber is bad.John Camp and Sarah Camp has moved to Missouri where Aaron L. Mills lives. He has bought a farm, contains 80 acres, but he claims 80 acres more joining him.Aaron L. Mills has had five children. Eldest they call his name John Riley. The second is a girl, they call her name Mary Ann, she deceased from this life last fall. The third they call his name Enos. The fourth they call his name Lewis Williams. The fifth they call her name Sarah. Henry L. Mills & Aaron L. Mills are both sick with the chill and fever. I do not believe it is as healthy as it is here. I will quit that subject.Father and mother is healthier than they have been for many years with the rheumatism. I will give you a small sketch of our country. It is very hilly and rocky here but there is some good land here. I do believe it to be the most healthy country that is in the nowing (sic) world. Times are hard here. Money is scarce and to help the cause, Ball, our cashier of the Bank, he and some of his securities has hooked the money out of the bank and fled to Texas. There was no douby there was more Ball than one, so the old bird has gone and the young ones will soon all follow.Prices of things. Horses is from 15 to 20 dollars, cattle form 4 to 8 dollars, sheep 1 dollar, pork from 1 to 1.50 cents per hundred, wheat 50 cents per bushel, coffee 6 pound to the dollar, sugar 6 pounds to the dollar. I will just state that we have had the hardest winter that we ever had here before. We had a very cold spring.I and father and mother talks of coming to Indiana this fall if we can but times is so hard I can't tell whether we can or not. We want to see you all very bad. If we do not we expect to go to Missouri to see our people. Isaac Mills has sold his place and gone to Missouri this spring. He write a letter back to us that he was going to Oregon Territory, and also John S. Mills & William Willson, Polly Mills' man, was going with him and a great many of the neighbors are talking of going also and father. He would like to cross the Rocky Mountain if all are willing and couold sell out. He says it would be a fortune to them in time.Uncle Aaron Mills lives with father & he wants to go to Colombia if he could sell his land. It was your request that you would like to hear from Benjamin B. Mills. We heard that he was in Missouri, in the Iowa Territory, & that he was married and doing well. We did not understand as to your request that you want to hear from Walter Mills. we heard that there was a man in Arkansas, over at a town they call Little Rock. His name was Walter Mills. We heard that he was a cabinet worker. He got on a steamboat and the boiler bursted and killed him and another person. In fact it was in the newspapers that W. Mills, cabinet workman, was killed, so we do not know whether it was Walter or not.Owen Mills has left his wife and gone with his father. Peter & Amanda Narcissus Mankins is well. They met with bad luck -- they got their house burnt last spring, and also their father and mother was burnt. They judge it was set afire.I shall draw to a close. I want you to write to me every opportunity you can, how you come on. We are all glad to hear from you all. I hope if we do never see each other again in this world, I hope we will meet in heaven where we never shall part no more. The day is past and gone, the evening shade appears. May all remember well, the night of death draws near. We lay our garments by, upon our beds to rest. So shall death soon disrobe us all, of what is here possessed. Lord, keep us safe this night, secure from all our fears. May angels guard us while we sleep till morning light appears. So with sincere love to you all I bid you farewell and all inquiring friends, to Aaron Mills and all my relations.Jacob Mills

letter from S.E. Leland to Miss Durin-Newton L.F. July 7 1873

This letter is written from a S.E. Leland, who was a teacher at the time. It was sent to a friend - Miss Durin - who evidently either lost a post as a teacher, or was turned down for a position as director of a school. The last sentence in the letter requested that Miss Durin destroy this letter after reading it!!
Newton L.F.July 7, 1873
Dear Miss Durin
I wished very much to have an interview with you before you left in relation to school matters
This priviledge was not mine and I have concluded to do the next best thing, address you a friendly note, hoping that it will be received in the same spirit in which it was written.
It became evident to me that your situation in the Primary School was very uncertain, as you are aware I have no doubt that the Supt and comittee on your grade were not at all satisfied with your work, but I know they entertain the highest respect for yourself as a good kind, Christian lady, but wanting in those elements of character which would enable you to sucessfully conduct a primary school.........as ours is: knowing these facts and wishing very much to retain you in my school not only for my own sake but for Miss Gifford's also. I took the liberty to suggest this change that was made, hoping that with my assistance in that room, you might make your work appreciated, and thus retain your situation. I made my plans known to Miss Gifford and found they fully meet her approval and that she was very desirous to have you try the work up stairs.
You may ask why did not you let me know about it before. My reason is, that I did not feel at liberty to speak to you in relation to this matter as my own appointment was not made. I have another reason and that is I could not bear the thought of making you unhappy at the close of your school.
I tried to get Miss Gifford to talk with you about it but she could not make up her mind to do it. We talked the matter over between ourselves at considerable length and finally left it just as it is. I do not know whether you have accepted the position or not. If you have, I shall take the liberty to make some suggestions to you which I hope may not be unheeded; but, if you have not, I shall have nothing to say.
I wish when you return home you would come out here and spend a day or part of one and then I can tell you all I wish, but if you cannot, I will write you as nearly as I can what I wish.
I have been quite busy and am enjoying vacation as well as usual. Mrs. Leland is some better. I expect you are on the mount of exaltation, visiting friends and living over old times.
We all send much love to you hence to our mutual friend, Miss Gifford. I wish I could see you both and see if change of base has brought health and joy to you.
Samuel entered Harvard without conditions and with two of the three honors.
I have written my letter differently from what I wrote Miss Gifford. I would, as I do not know whether you intend to return or not. Tell Miss Gifford to write me soon. I shall expect to hear from you by return mail
We go........tomorrow.....brother......a family gathering. Believe me to by your friend truely.S.E. LeLand
Matter in heart for I must make hay while the sun shines.
Please destroy this letter after you and Miss G. have read it.

1841 letter from EM Ringo to Major JH Bills

Fayetteville Ten May 4th 1841

Maj. JH Bills
Dear Sir
Your letter under date Apr 5th
Came to hand in good time, Requesting to know of me whether I had entered upon the duties of guardian of Elizabeth & William, or not, if I had for to send to you a coppy of my hand which you will find enclosed in this, the only appoligy I have for not writing to you sooner, the clerk was slow making out a coppy & I got it today, & I would like to know of you my This first letter you wright me, if this land and Certifficate is Sufficant, if not I am willing to furnish you with all the nefsary papers, but the clerk told me that this is alltogeather Sufficient, I also when you wright please to Send me a coppy of the certification of all the property valued I want you if you please to give me Notice in time when the final Sale will take place, as I expect to be at it or at least wish to be or will send Capt. Todd for I think it will be my duty be there, Those negros which belong to Elizabeth and William I wish if the arrangement can be made an it will Suite all around for to move them up hear in the first of December next if it is put of later the weather will be verry un pleasant & disagreeable & of cours they will Suffer much, Please to advise me how I had better move them wheather a carryall a two horse wagon or a five horse wagon would be the best & most expedient way, I started William to School in a five days after he came here Elizabeth will start next Monday She is taking music lessons and I expect to buy her a piano Shortly, Elizabeth tells me that her Father Sent for a fine peace of music, if you know anything of it please to inform us of it, Elizabeth & William is in good health and William is quite mischeavious Give my respect to Levi Todd when you see him and tell him we are all well heare
Yours With Respect
EM Ringo

Moses Jewitt letter to brother David Jewitt

One page letter dated Burlington, September 4, 1802 from Moses Jewett to his brother David Jewett in Jaffrey, NH. Moses was a saddler and would travel the country side and up even to Canada to conduct his business. He pens this to his brother as he is about to set about on a journey.
On the same side of as the address, David pens "1802 Sept " Mr. Locke Brought this to me"Also in another address portion is written: "Prostrate my contrite soulMy God my brother my friendDo not forsake me in my end."
In the early years of our new country, there was quite a flourishing trade with Canada. A few years after this letter was written, Thomas Jefferson's Embargo Act would change many things and give name to "Smuggler's Notch" along with other locales people such as Moses would covertly bring goods into the country through.
Transcribed in full:Dear Brother,Owing to the roads gitting (sic) very bad in this country in Oct. I am obliged to send a few days before I had calculated. You will have the goodness to assist Mr. Locke in gitting his load together & furnishing him with provisions to carry him on his journey. I have so much business on hand at this time that I not write on the Road & better wish you to attend to the business -I send you ninety dollars to be paid over to them in proportion as they furnish Leather you will get their bills & add the Credit -What leather they do not furnish I shall send to Roxbury for - I had a -?- from Boston last week & flour is so low that I shall not bring any at this timeYou will assist Mr. Locke all in your Power that he may not be detained any longer than possibly can be helped -Inform Mr. Read & Cutter that money is very scarce in this country & that I shall make them pay as punctual as possible.I want the very best of leathershall wish them to be as moderate in their services as possible as Mr. Locke is a man who takes a decided part in my Interest you will consult him on the quality of the Stock, I am yours dear brother, Moses Jewett
==================Not until 1791, after many delays and misunderstandings and, most important, after the dispute with New York was finally adjusted (1790) by payment of $30,000, did Vermont enter the Union.

Wikipedia entry for Francis A. Pratt-1827-1902

Wikipedia entry on Francis A. Pratt:
Francis A. Pratt (February 15, 1827 - February 10, 1902) was a Connecticut mechanical engineer, inventor, and founder of Pratt & Whitney.Born in Peru, NY, Pratt designed a milling machine for the George S. Lincoln company of Hartford, Connecticut which became the Lincoln Miller, the most important American machine tool of the late 1800s, with 150,000 sold.With Amos Whitney he organized Pratt & Whitney in 1860 to manufacture machine tools, tools for the makers of sewing machines, and gun making machinery for use by the Union Army during the American Civil War. He is credited with being first to permit production of fine gear work. Pratt promoted interchangeable parts and the adoption of a standard system for gages for the United States and Europe. Among several machine-tool patents, his most important was for planing metal granted on July 28, 1869.He died in 1902 Hartford, Connecticut.

letter addressed to Emeline Curtis in Pulaski co. Indiana

This is an extremely early stampless cover letter (with some red sealing wax still attached) that was hand-delivered to the recipient (based on the content of the letter). Due to the way the double "s" was written it's pre-1860s. The letter is addressed to a Mrs. Emeline Curtis in Pulaski (can't read next word) Co. Ind. It is one-page in length and her sister has written a short letter on the inside of the folded letter. The handwriting is precise and very tiny. I LOVE the way the writer dated it:
The 1st Sunday in July 12 o'clock.
Dear Sweet E: I could not in conscience let so good an opportunity of conveyance pass without a few lines of kind remembrance though they will necessarily be brief for want of time. Caroline is with us and has two children which you will see is a month earlier in the season than we had expected her - the reasons of her coming was I think she will write when she returns - now she has gone to her Uncle Isaac Laphams for two or three hours and we have the care of the babies the whilst. Oscar is of great assistance to me in my scribbling for he not only wants my knife but is about determined in taking my pen and acting as scribe - he is a pretty child with a good share of his mother's spunk. Our name sake, Emeline E. although not considered as good looking as her brother is one of the best natured little things living in these days. I so wish it were possible for you to be with us before Caroline leaves which I suppose will be about three weeks from the present time yet I hardly dare hope but will you not come without the expectation of meeting her. We should all be so glad to see you and you know our name is legion. Do return with the bearer of this if possible for I am quite certain that Alanson can not leave his business long enough for you to make up for six years absence. Here Lemuel and Amanda come - I suppose they are bound for Caleb's whose wife is very ill. I fear we shall have to part with her before many days have passed, however hard the conviction. I have thought of her as a sister. Caleb is in great distress and for my own part I cannot see what he will do with himself and their babe. You plead the promises? It is well. They all add their petitions to mine relative to your visiting us. With love to all. I bid you an affectionate adieu. E.D.L.
Here is Caroline's letter inside:
My Dearest Sister: I ought to add a few lines in E's letter yet I hardly know how to spend the time just now. If it is at all consistent return with Spencer. I can not consent to go back without seeing you here. Should you conclude to come on immediately, I will prolong my stay until the first of September. Don't wait to fix yourself I will lend a willing hand in putting you in proper trim. Amanda hurries me, I must bid you adieu. Your's affectionately Caroline.

Amos Storer letter to Eugene Hamilton Storer

Amos R. Storer,
Fine Havana and Domestic Cigars
280 Devonshire Street
Boston, Mass.
Oct. 25 1910

My Dear Son Eugene,
As you will probably get this by the ? ______
I wish you many happy returns of the day. Your mother got home last night and goes off with Roscoe on a two week automobile trip. He goes on business for his firm and they pay all his expenses. I think she will have the time of her life. And as she has had so few in her life I feel very much pleased that she has this opportunity. She had a nice time with her people. How is Harry? I never hear from him anymore. Only by way of you when you think to speak about it.
In regard to myself, one word and I wish you would not speak of it in any of your letters home. I am going out of business. I cannot make a living where I am going to liquidate while I can see my way clear to pay all my bills-I shall not have very much left but it is better to stop now than try to go on. ? ? Harry and yourself.
Your affectionate father,
A.R. Storer

1910 cenus of Amos Storer family

Amos R Storer[Amos R Stover]

Age in 1910:
69
Estimated birth year:
abt 1841
Birthplace:
Maine
Relation to Head of House:
Head
Father's Birth Place:
Maine
Mother's Birth Place:
Maine
Spouse's name:
Hannah J
Home in 1910:
Boston Ward 23, Suffolk, Massachusetts
Marital Status:
Married
Race:
White
Gender:
Male
Neighbors:
Household Members:
Name
Age
Amos R Storer
69
Hannah J Storer
65
Robert H Storer

1880 census of Amos Storer family

Name:
Amos R. Storer
Home in 1880:
Boston, Suffolk, Massachusetts
Age:
39
1880Estimated birth year:
abt 1841
Birthplace:
Maine
Relation to head-of-household:
Self (Head)
Spouse's name:
H. Josephine
Father's birthplace:
Maine
Mother's birthplace:
Maine
Neighbors:

Occupation:
Clerk In Cigar Store
Marital Status:
Married
Race:
White
Gender:
Male
Cannot read/write:Blind:Deaf and dumb:Otherwise disabled:Idiotic or insane:
Household Members:
Name
Age
Amos R. Storer
39
H. Josephine Storer
36
Roscoe R. Storer
7
Robert H. Storer
5
Eugene H. Storer
3
Henry W. Storer
1

1920 census-Sidney Storer-Son of Amos Storer

Sidney A Storen[Sidney A Storer]
Home in 1920:
Manhattan Assembly District 10, New York, New York
Age:
AgeWith12ths('38',true);

38 years
Estimated birth year:
abt 1882
Birthplace:
Massachusetts
Relation to Head of House:
Lodger
Father's Birth Place:
Maine
Mother's Birth Place:
Maine
Marital Status:
Single
Race:
White
Sex:
Male
Able to read:
Yes
Able to Write:
Yes
Image:
446
Neighbors:
Household Members:
Name
Age
Florence Hafer
43
Jean S Hafer
21
Minne Wirth
49
Judah L Magnes
42
Patrick Frotten
49
William S McCaull
55
Evelyn P Millis
39
Charles Manson
56
Florence Petosa
37
Sidney A Storen
38
Ennie Hart
53
Frany Schneider
32
William H Warren
30

1920 census-Sidney Storer-Son of Amos Storer

Sidney A Storen[Sidney A Storer]
Home in 1920:
Manhattan Assembly District 10, New York, New York
Age:
AgeWith12ths('38',true);

38 years
Estimated birth year:
abt 1882
Birthplace:
Massachusetts
Relation to Head of House:
Lodger
Father's Birth Place:
Maine
Mother's Birth Place:
Maine
Marital Status:
Single
Race:
White
Sex:
Male
Able to read:
Yes
Able to Write:
Yes
Image:
446
Neighbors:
Household Members:
Name
Age
Florence Hafer
43
Jean S Hafer
21
Minne Wirth
49
Judah L Magnes
42
Patrick Frotten
49
William S McCaull
55
Evelyn P Millis
39
Charles Manson
56
Florence Petosa
37
Sidney A Storen
38
Ennie Hart
53
Frany Schneider
32
William H Warren
30

1900 census of Amos Storer family-Boston Massachussetts

Amnes r Storer

Home in 1900:
Boston Ward 20, Suffolk, Massachusetts
Age:
59
Estimated birth year:
abt 1841
Birthplace:
Maine
Relationship to head-of-house:
Head
Spouse's name:
Josephine H
Race:
White
Occupation:
View image
Neighbors:
View others on page
Household Members:
Name
Age
Amnes r Storer
59
Josephine H Storer
53
Roscoe R Storer
27
Robert H Storer
25
Eugene H Storer
24
Harry W Storer
21
Syna a Storer
18
Frances E Storer
5
Annie C Connelly
18

one of a series of 11 letters sent to Eugene Hamilton Storer

This is from my personal letter collection. I have 11 letters from 1909 to 1911 that were sent to Eugene Hamilton Storer. I also have photographs that I hope to scan soon. The other letters will be up soon. Thanks!!!!!!



Postmarked Boston Jan 14 11-30 A 1909 Mass-West Roxbury station
Addressed to Mr. Eugene H. Storer-Spokane Washington Box 2432
Return address:250 Park St. W. Roxbury Mass.

Dear Gene,
It has been a long time since I wrote you, but the time has been so filled with care and work that I have really seen no moment when I feel equal to writing. If I have time your father sits here at the table playing solitaire till I sometimes think my brain will soften also, listening to the eternal flip flap of the cards. For a wonder he has left off playing early tonight 10 p.m. but he will not go to bed, so he is sitting in the big rocker out in the kitchen with his feet up on the cabinet taking it easy. Rob is out to Roscoes but will be here soon if he does not fall down on the icy streets. We have had a most remarkable winter. For a week or more the ther. did not go below 54’. We have had no snow, some mud, some dust, just now we are having ice. A little cold wave struck us right before last and a heavy mist which froze as it fell, then last evening we had a little flirt of snow, which remains. Roscoe went on to New York on business Tuesday morning, dined at the Harvard club where Sid joined him at the close of dinner and an invitation joined the theatre party, and at midnight sped the parting guest (Roscoe) on his homeward way. Roscoe went back to New York on the 10 a.m. this morning-dinner at a big hotel tonight then home again on the midnight. This is not to be spoken of to anyone. We had a happy evening on Christmas day and we drank in cider, from raised and clashing glasses-“To his absence. God bless him.” Oh how we did miss you Gene. In the afternoon, we all went out to Roscoe’s where we were joined by Francis, and here in front of a bright fire four of my –Boys- sang the dear old hymns that you have all sung on so many occasions-‘Onward Christian Soldiers’, ‘Oh Paradise war’, and ‘The son of God goes forth to war’ and _____ can’t tell how many ______ I enjoyed it-Oh but how I did miss your voice. I can’t tell you how sorry I am that business is so discouraging for you, and earnestly hope that it is improving by this time. How is your health Gene, and do you have all you need to eat? You must anyway and if you need more money, you must tell us. What is money compared with your comfort or health. ______ said he would send you an X-mas gift. I must send him a line tonight if I can get it written. We enjoyed your apples very much. They were simply great. Rob says they are in the market here. Three for a quarter and he sees them eaten in hotels and restaurants with thin slices of cream cheese put on the apple. What do you think of these earthquakes everywhere-I am glad to be in Boston. I was much interested in what you wrote of the doings at Winston-Salem. Have you received your Christmas gift from Mrs. Morse or has she written? We have what is known as tick fever and is caused by the bite of a tick that troubles cattle or sheep. It is bad and usually causes death. Write as soon as you get this. I have not been so well as usual since Christmas. Have had three of those attacks of neuralgia of the stomach, one of them was pretty bad. I am better now. God bless you and keep you my dear, dear son. Faithfully-Mother

Confederate letter from George Smith Montgomery

Confederate Letter from George Smith Montgomery Springs, Va. April 18th 1863 to his brothers Thomas Co K Va. Reg. and Burnell (And Daniel id he is there) With Partial envelope and two Confederate Stamps. Also included is a letter 3/5/ 65 to Thomas Smith regarding selling and trading some land. Letter reads in part as follows "Montgomery Springs Virginia April the 16trh 1863. Dear Brothers having the opportunity of sending you a few lines by Mr. I thought I would pester you with a few lines to let you know I am well and in good health. and and as as the soldier life. Will admit of i have nothing of any importance to write you I merely thought I would write this to let you know how I was getting along. Joseph is mending I think as fast as could be expected. His Pap is here now He got here yesterday morning he is not well though ....( he talks how the old man is sick himself and is going to try and get his son home but they wont let his go until the weather gets better) Daniel is onthis way to his company but I haven heard a thing from my company since they went to the salt works..... " on with more family news. An Enclosure dated March 5th 1865 in included with this letter though only remotely related to it. It is addressed to the brother of this letter who is in the army. Wants to trade horses for some land. Three pieced all together in good condition. We have them shrink wrapped for protection. Just another Confederate soldier who is ready to come home. Original Confederate Jeff Davis postage stamp adds a nice touch.

1768 "Minutes taken out of the clerk of the superior court's office

This was another item that was for sale that I di not purchase but copied the content.

Original Manuscript Document on handmade ragpaper regarding land. The exact location is a bit of a mystery to me. It mentions York, Maine - but I cannot be certain where the location of this land is.
There are many names mentioned - historians and genealogists should be able to determine definitively what location this refers to with the many details within.It does mention Thompsons Grant from Plymouth Company.Also, Barnabas Seabury* as being the Sheriff who "delivered possession." Seabury was found to be from North Yarmouth.Still, pinning this one down in a cursory search did not yield specific answers.I am certain it will prove fruitful for those with the reference materials.
When held to light and rare and unusual Watermark can be seen.
It reads: [Full names expanded]:"Minutes taken out of the Clerk of the Superior Court's Office 1768
Zachary Trescott, Sarah Wells, John Spooner Sell the Farm to Lewis 20 March 1731Lewis Mortgage to John & Joanna Simpson for L2000 Sterling
Alexander Campbell or Elder Campbell, Swears that he held Lewis's Farm & Marsh all except 8 Acres Salt marsh on the East side of the Creek which Job Lewis, Assigned to Mr. Joseph Heath** as he understood by said Lewis was for Service done him.Thomas & Margaret Stephens Deed to Thomas Kellog & William Hobbs dated 6 September 1681 not recorded until May 1739.J Coleman's Deed to Aaron Hinkley, Humphrey Purrington for Land former E. Side Stephens's Creekdated 21 March 1756John & Jona Simpson's Quit Claim of the Farm to S. Gardiner & William Bowdoin dated 21 Septm 1754 which Simpson's recovered of Job Lewis by Judgement of Superior Court at YorkJune 1748 & delivered Possession by Execution 7 Feb 1748/9.Bowdoin's Quit claim to S. Gardiner dated 7 February 1759N.B. Barnabas Seabury was the Sheriff who delivered Possession.N.B. To Get Jones Plan & Oath to laying out LandN.B. Ham[Or Thom?] Smith & Thompson's Grant from Plymouth Company."====================Document measures 7.75" x 8.5". Some minor fold separations at the edges, light toning atop.

1864 Civil war letter-Lt. addressed to Fred C. Low

Hello,
This letter was posted on ebay. I did not purchase the letter but copied the information as followed. Thanks!!!!!!


An 1864 Civil War envelope & letter addressed to Lt. Fred C. Low of Co B. 1st Maine Heavy Artillery.
In and of itself, this is a good 1864 1st Maine Heavy Artillery stamp cover.
The 1st Maine Heavy Artillery was one of Maine's most important regiments suffering perhaps the biggest mortality rate of any Civil War Regiment
In addition though, the letter written by E. Low ( Head of the Provost Marshall Office in Bangor, Maine) to his son Lieut. Fred C Low of Co B 1st Maine Heavy Artillery provides an interesting and unique perspective..
E. Low - Head of Provost Marshall Office District 4 - in his letter to his son Lt Fred Low gives an account of Bounties in Maine from the standpoint of the Maine Board of Enrollment. Also there is considerable space devoted to the process of company promotions and what a political process that entails. There are also personal family references.
Fred Low was 25 years old when he enlisted. He was promoted to Captain 7/27/64 and wounded 4/6/65 and breveted Major at that time. He was discharged 5/18/65.
tThe transcribed letter follows:
Bangor Feb 28th 1864
Dear Fred,
Your letter of the 24th was received last night and I embrace? the first moment to answer it - as the time for big bounties expires tomorrow we are much drove and we are ordered and are now making the preliminary preparation for the Draft which we hope to avoid by enlistments as we run very near our quota - probably we don't lack more than 2 or 300 of it now. We are however making up the quotas of the towns preparatory. I see the House has passed a bill to continue the time to April1st. If it becomes law, we shall avoid a draft- under the last call.
You say things work queer here so we think. We have furnished 455 men for your Regiment from this office. We thought we were doing you a good turn as anybody here says a finer set of men never entered the service. We expected some acknowledgement from the Officers of the Regiment as our assistance to other Regiments was very thankfully acknowledged, but not a word was said from your Officers altho we had furnished 10 times as many men as any other. But it came at last - with a vengence in shape of two reports highly censoring the the board of enrollment of this District for passing two men who the board ( consisting of Col. Chaplin, Lt Col. Talbot, Major Shepherd and Capt Clark) considered unfit for the service.
One Daniel Clifford who deceived us with hair dye and his discharge papers he proved himself a Veteran by showing he served his whole time and was 44 years old last year and the Adj. Genl's Report corroborated it. The board called him 65 and says he was unfit for even the Invalid Corps by reason of old age. Unfit for the Invalid Corps! Bright!
The other was John A Ellis of Charleston - same report varicose veins, unfit for the Invalid Corps. I should like to see where they find varicose veins unfit for for the Invalid Corps. We have just sent to Washington the sworn Affidavits of the Selectmen of Charleston and also of Dr. Jared Gullen and Soloman Dunning and could get any number of men to prove the man a tough hardworking man up to the time of his enlistment and that he told many men ( of which we did not know ) that he would play sick and get out of the service in a short time.
We have forwarded our reports to Col Gage. They will show we have acted in good faith and have sent 455 men to the Regiment and if only 2 out of 455 has deceived us, we beg leave to differ from the Hon Officers of the 1st Maine Heavy Artillery in considering ourselves "Highly Culpable" (that's the word) for this deception. If you was out of my way, I should show them how this Board appreciated it.
Mr. Rice understands it. The same day the Colonel's son applied to me for assistance to get an appointment as cadet. I gave him the desired assistance. So you see things work queer in your Regiment in more ways than one.
Capt Daggett has not and I fear will not succeed in his efforts to get a position. Upon his arrival he called & I went with him to Major Dale and got a letter from him to Mr Rice and Hamlin. I also drew up a paper to Col McGilroy for a position as Major. I showed him a letter from Gov. Cony I had just received in which he wrote me that Col Varny was Col. & Capt Hight -Lt Col and your Adjt Talbot -Major. The Capt went to Augusta, saw the Gov. who told him the same he had written me. The thing was fixed.
There is some doubt about Col McGilroy raising his new batteries. I hear it is all up as the Quota of Maine will be full without them, but he is at work hard and I have introduced him to the Colonel's friends here and assisted him all I can but Capt Daggett leaves for the Regiment tomorrow morning and things will have to work a while.
I carried Hattie out to ride yesterday and she seemed to enjoy it much. The bell is ringing and I must postpone finishing till after meeting.
There is a Mr. Adams in Co M late 3 Battery who has a son in your Company. The fathjer wants to get into Co B with his son. Can you obtain the transfer. Ask Capt Daggett for me if he can do it- better that I want the transfer of the Father to your company. I am well acquainted with the family and at the earnest request of the Daughter, I promised to try to get the transfer.
Your Uncle Martin Lemont arrived last night on his way to Boston. He will probably stop here till Tuesday. he looks very grey- yet appears as well as usual. Our spring examinations are going on- Annie & Abbie did first rate. Friday I have had 6 to examine and more have Master Littlefield and Girls High School only remaining. I have to jump- the Green House looks better. I sent Hattie a Hyacinth in bloom and the Girls made her a bouquet of Mayflowers yesterday.
I have lots more I cannot think of now to write but after this closed I will probably think of it. We took a meetinghouse yesterday to raise in Bucksport (the Methodist) and estimated in moving another at North Bucksport. Ed Turner is still with me. Fred Cobb of Bath and Emily and Annie Soule took tea with us last evening. Annie & Abbie are doing well with their music. Our streets are most bare and we have got our wood most out. Sent Hattie one load green hard wood and shall haul another from my house if the snow is gone.
Your Mother has done better since she returned from the County. She is trying to get along without a girl, but I have to eat at Wallace's too often to make it much ???. Write as often as you can- not neglecting your other duties of course. Good night Fred. From your affectionate Father. E.