HomeMy WebLinkAboutDescriptions of Letters in box BOX III Section A Letter 1
TO: Angie Place: Essex
From: Martha Date: May 28, 1849
TOPICS: Much visiting with all the cousins
We had a good sail - Mrs Howelll and Hiram good company
Nk H found us a carriage to Aunt Lucy's door - cousins did not recognize Nancy but
said I was Mother's image
Cousin George away fishing
quilted all day at Aunt Lucy's
Cousin Maria came home from a visit in Deep River - we went t stay with her
Went to see Elizabeth unto the steam boat for New York
Pleasant village here - church and academy
walked to church but rode home
A carriage ride after the afternoon service
Mr Champlain and his daughter will voyage to London
Dressmaking details
Overhight visit to Madison planned_ - by steamboat
List of expenses asks family for more money
Directions to make a muslin fireboard
How does milking and butter making go at home ?
Cousin Elizabeth's poll parrot
Will bring a gift shawl to Sarah Tuthill from Miss Doane
Has no money to bring sister Mary a gift but wishes she had
Regards from various relations in Essex
BOX III Section A Letter 2
TO:Parents Place: Brooklyn
FROM: Martha Date: January 16, 1851
TOPICS: Money spent
Father almost angry with her for not writing - but letter came late
She was in New YorX and came back late to Brooklyn
Stayed *ith the Wiswell's -over night - sinceo dark had fallen and even with
street lighting best not to be out alone
A dinner party
Took the stage to the ferry
She had a sick spell
Frank and Silas visited - Silas had smallpox at Thanksgiving which he caught
from Gilbert
Frank has lost his job taking care of his mother-so goes to Orange Co.
Gilbert went to his store again with Silas
Vist ±k to Williamsburg and by stage to Green Point
Young peoples's party- ice cream, oysters, lemknade, cake, candies, fruit
PERSONS: Uncle brought letter helped clean the parlour after
Aunt Sally
Mary L
Dinner with Marion and Grace
Mrs Wiswell alone at home- Mr Wiswell in Phildaelphia
The Birdsall's visitormwas Lydia Case
Visits with Nancy and Mrs St John at Uncle's
Mrs Petit, Grace and Mary , E. Walters
Visit to Miss Reeve
Went to Ny to see Nancy and Esther - David not well
Tea with Mrs Burnet
Mary Lewis goes home Saturday
Esther Wells
Book as a gift for little Henry
George pleased with his corn
Aunt pleased with her sausages and apples
BOX III Section A Letter 3
TO: Parents Place: Brooklyn
From: Martha Date: January 26, 1852
TOPICS: Caroline died suddenly
Took one day to travel fron Newburgh to New York because of snow
Bad ferry crossing to New York
Mr. Wiswell's preaching
Preaching by Mr. Prince who had once preached in Cutchogue
Angie was visiting a relation inGoshen when she lost a front tooth and
had it replaced
Shipping chickens-18 died from eating poison
Cousin Abraham Conklin gave Angie a set of garters
PERSONS: E. Jackson
Travel companions to Brooklyn who are all now at Mrs Dolsen's
-Mr Weed, Benny and Silas, Edgar Philips and Dilby
Amos Griffin, Benjamin King
Cousin Martha had a son
Sarah Beebee
BOX III Section A Letter 4
TO: Angie and Mary Place: New York
From• Martha Date: December 24, 1852
TOPICS: Swaying with Nancy
Met friands on the train
Bought some cake at ?
Friends helped her with the luggage c/o Cprwin1°s Express
Lawyer Caby (?)
Samuel Philips Esq. friend of father's
Weather bad as soon as she arrived
Evening visitors
Purchases of fabrics - but not hats in the rain- dressmaking details
Brought Nancy apples
Gilbert in Orange Co.
BOX III Section A Letter 5
TO: Angie Place: Powhite
From: Martha Date: February 3, 1855
TOPICS: Has received Angie's letter and picture
Mr Adams wrote to father
She is ill- thinks too Many sweet potato4e
He took sick horse to Richmond and traded it to the seller for another
and took a losss the man says the horse is good and she hopes so - $75.00
are much to a poor minister
Horse traders show no mercy
Fanny Gaines came home with a school mate
Mr Braxton not well
No snow yet
Tells Angie not -to be pleasure mad
Mr Whitaker wrote he was in New York to visit an occulist
Correspondence with Mr Wiswell
Sorry Mr St. John could not visit via Richmond
Thanks to Benny for sending his Paper ( Magazine) she has nothing to send
that he would like hopes to receive the Home Journal
Letter from Cossin May
Glad Silas is better
Hopes for goodies from home since they have only soda crackers
in the room
Love to Cousins and Mr Kimball
Has Dr. Furgusson (sp?) come to Virginia
Asks Nancy for a stock of sermon paper- wants sheets that contain more
Mr Adams goes to Salem to preach
BOX III SECTION A Letter 6
TO: Mary Place: Powhite
From: Martha Date: February 24, 1855
TOPICS: Received- letters from Mary and Father and hopes that Angie is
safely home
Letter from an almost forgotten Cousin Cassie
Cold and'd�:little snow
Went to a lecture at Pole Green
Mr Adams has a headache-y cold
Glad Southold churches are doing well
Going to stay at Dr. Pollard's
Mr Adams exchanges pulpit with an old school fxtxxid pastor and
will atay with him
Visits to congregation
Elder Pollard wants a visit from her but it is a 9-10 nile walk
Pollard is a friends of Mr. Wise ( the Gov.) and they think of running
him for the legislature
Dr. Gaines is sad -one of his servants died Young Cephas dying pf
typhoid and others are ill = think this is harder for the master
than the slave when the master is careful
Letter from Mr St. John
Letter from Agnie
Father should Brite- itis easier with practice - glad he
will have a mice carriage
Love to many relations
A man who ran away to be married must be poor (?)
BOX III Section A Letter 7
TO: Mother Place: Powhite
From: Martha Date: May 10, 1855
TOPICS: Thanks for the letter - she has been neglecting them
Interesting meetings at Salem for several days- the Rev. I. Royal preached
17 conversions including i woman of 80 , Ellen Pollard was 1
She went for some of the time- about a 2 week session-but not all- and
stayed at a different house each night except for 2 with Mrs Pollard
Dr and Mrs Pollard went to Richmond - the grils came home from
Prince Edward on the cars
The Adams' are keeping house - she is afraid she will forget her key basket
when giving out supplies - thinks the servants like her as a mistress
Only time to do Mr Adams sewing - only some of hers till she goes home-
hopes to start in mid June
Roses are exquisite- peas next week - cherries and strawberries soon but will
miss the peaches
Wishes she could have some succotash - Mr Adams wants to go fishing with father
Mustgo to a wedding before she leaves
' Tell Jacob to get over his- rhumatism so he can g' things to rights.
:?
( something about eyes)
BOX III Section A Letter 8
jo:^Mother Place: Powhite, Hanover County
l
From: Martha Date: March 22, 1856
TOPICS: Doing the mending - clothes used up fast in washing and ironing
Letter received
Speech in the Watchman � newspaper)
Letter from Nancy brought unexpectedly from Richmond
Surprised at Mabel's daughter
George Hobart's death in letter from Mr Whitaker - sorry for the family
Visit to a sick friend in Richmond
Presbytery meeting
Mr Adams holds prayer meetings in different places - seems to be a revival going on
does not go often - long rides on these roads fatigue her and back aches ensue
some trips are twenty miles round
Mr Adams went to Beulah to teach catechism - Bible is prize for good
recitation of the shorter catechism
Wishes she had her own house - they are boarding not housekeeping
Thankds for the blackberries= she has them stewed with crackers for lunch
BOX III Section A Letter 9
To• Mary Place: Powhite
From: Martha Date: May 12, 1856
TOPICS: Good to have copy of the Watchman
It is very warm
Lost her overshoes and caught cold
Mr Adams says she should have a pocket made for her rubbers
Mr Adams in Richmond to see Rev. Read on his way to General Assembly
Today is Whitsuntide which is a holiday for the servants who are working the
garden plots where they raise things they may sell
Hard to find time for sewing - working on a mohair skirt and a lawn dress
given to her by Mrs Munford
Needs to fix her white dress for an important wedding - can fit new sleeves-
dinner next day will be a problem but can manage if it is cool enought for silk
Meetings in Salem started in May - County clerk and his wife were comverted,
as was his brother a most unreligious man
Dr. Price argued against the revival to no avail - new members extend the
parish 6 miles farther- equal to a trip to Riverhead - what would
Rev Whitaker think of going so far
Wheat is growing well _ corn is up - asparagus and lettuce are the only
vegetables yet
She will start home July i
BOX III Section A Letter 10
To: Angie Place: Powhite
From: Martha Date: October 11, 1856
TOPICS: Just come safely home - by sea to Wilmington ( not too sick) , then
train to Richmond and own carriage home
Letter from Brooklyn - Cousin Silas is ded
Mary is going to school
Seraphina is better
Uncle and Aunt Landon
Dress pattern for a friend
Ginger snaps should be baked hard to keep - write David to send the box
when ready
Theodore White took the call to Mendham
Mr Adams will stay here until a new post opens up
BOX III Section A Letter 11
To: Mother Place: Powhite
From: Martha Date: February 9, 1857
TOPICS: -Received her partnts letter
Has not been well and feared it to be typhoid fever which has been much in the
area this winter
Notes deaths in the congregation from it
Very deep snow
Be;ieves this is a very unhealthy location
Who in Southold dug a tunnel in the snow to visit neighbors
A neighbor's wedding
Expects a large fee for marrying Dr. Gaines Miller's son - wishes more
rich people would marrry - a good fee is nice
Feels ministry is sluggish
Mr A tries to get to church when his horse can get him there
Best wishes to a long list of relatives
Mr Adams is -going to Richmond
Would .ike ( ?) to nurse her instead of all these servants
Necer has anything nice fried up to eat
BOX III Section A Letter 12
To: Parents Place: Powhite
From: Martha Date: March 10, 1857
TOPICS: Visit to King and Queen County at the invitation of Mrs Fauntlez'y
they will go with Dr and Mrs Garnett in their carriage as the Adams'
horse is sick - a 25 miles trip
Had oysterstwice a day the whole stay
Tehn they went on to a pulpit exchange
Very cold and snow heavy - then milders- read about a bad storm in New York
More typhoid fever
Pulpit installation of the Rev. J.O. Sloan in New Kent
Revivial in Mr Widwell's (sp ?) church - hopes for one here- Sunday
school is large and flourishing
Sewing on shirts
Plowing started and gardens all are sown
Mr Overton ( same name as Southold ? same family ) will not live long
A young -couple ran off to North Carolina to be married they are Baptists
BOX III Section A Letter 13
To: Mother Place: Brooklyn
From: Martha Date: November 15, 1857
1- ink
2- pencil continuation
TOPICS:Xedious train ride - David did not meet us - Cousin Fanny carried
the butter pail and carpet bag and the other bag and walked to the depot
house . Cousin Fanny hired a carriage and left me a t Nancy's
Nancy was busy in the basement with the basket
Nancy is well but has a cought - Martha is not well
Fanny went to Mr Beecher's church
Had ypur cheese and doughnuts for tes - and chicken for dinner
Nancy says thanks for the ale and father for the chickens
Nancy can get along if you cannot spare more butter - has a firkin from a
friend of David's
Can get a 30 lb. tin can made to fill with lard when you kill
Rooms will have their stoves fixed tomorrow
(2) Thanks from Nancy for the grapes and pears to Aunt Margaret
Dressmakinl�notes and plans
Please send white
white beeaaas for P®ok acid beans
PERSONS: Party traveling to Brooklyn : Corou sin Fanny, Mrs Prince, Helen, Cousin Martha
Overton, Mrs Ann Hallock
In Brooklyn: Jules and Hanry Howell, Mary Kimball, Matilda
BOX III Section A Letter 14
To: Father Place: Brooklyn
From: Martha Date: December 4, 1857
TOPICS: Martha arrived safely
David received 4 bags of potatoes - no turnips- he is pleased but
would like turnips
Mr. Adams met her at the carsand mother went to see cousin Fanny Hubbard before
she left on the night boat
Making crullers and mince pies
Mr. Adams going to preach in Thompsonville
Rev. Ralph Smith is renting a house in Brooklyn- his mother died and there is
much business - he is preaching in Sharon, Conn-he goes up each Saturday. He
advises Mr. Adams to preach the winter in Thompsonville before accepting
the call. I shall go with him if he boards or keeps house - but he will not
keep house unless he accepts the wall at once
Wants Angie to send her small trunk - list clothes and domestics that she
wants sent and that Nancy wants - Express directions
Mother wants money sent soon
Bunkers and sauages are first rate
BOX III Section A Letter 15
To: Angie and Mary Place:
From; Martha Date: February 15, 1858
TOPICS: Nancy and David started early
Hopes to come to you Thursday
Depot says the cars do not run through to Brooklyn but David can find out
Aunt Sally from Mount Hope in Brooklyn - shall go to Brooklyn to
see her
List of visits
BOX III Section A Letter 16
To: All at home Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: August 28, 1858
TOPICS: Safe arrival
Met Abbie when boarding
Slow trip up river with many landings - waited 3 hours at Deep River wharf for a
Sunday 'school picnic ( 300 children and adults) crowded in the cabin
Put off some at middle Haddam and took on camp meeting folks
At 8:30 more children from a picnic boardedcat Weathersfield for Hartford
Reached the Allyn House in Hartford 9:30 and had supper andstarted for
homenext day at 7:OOAM - Mrs Houston asked usto Breakfast - came home
to find many baked things left for us
All well in house and garden
Things from home traveled well - sorry she did not ask for rye flour since she
would like to bake some rye bread
Much sickness around- especially cholera - so must be careful of our diet
Much indigestion
There is a mystery about Julia (?)
BOX III Section A Letter 17
To: Angie Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: April 12, 1859
TOPICS" Package came safely
Glad she has arrive in Brooklyn- hope you have seen to it eo Mother will
not house clean too hard
Not t-o strong - in the care of a new servant girl - as soon as she came
we had a colporteur who stayed a week
Went to a wedding - gives honeymoon itinerary
Expected a friend from Wilmington I newly married) to arrive in transit to Boston
Sewing society Friday
A fast next week
Presbytery after that
Dressmaking and sewing - wants one day of, a seamstress time surely
Going home via Brooklyn soons
Calista boards at the Houston's
BOX III Section A Letter 18
To: Angie Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: March 25, 1861
TOPICS: Expects Angie to send a pen - thinks she is legible i n pencil- feels she
is too ill to use a pen - has cold and sore throat and so does Mr A
Very stormy weather can cold
Dress making and altering
Maggie helps greatly
Times are dark and hopes they will be better
Mary Houston at home - Agnes and her father keeping house in Hayardsville
foe John's wife is with her Mother in New Haven
Young people scarce here but hope you will come by boat in May
She cannot leave until summer because of hluse cleaning
Hopes for visitors from home
Letter from Mr Chittenden
Death of Judge Parsons
Possible trip to Hartford
BOX III Section A Letter 19
To: All at home Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: May- 2, 1861
TOPICS: Civil War excitement- a false alarm to misnight that the rebels had
tkaen Washington
Mr. Adams went out to find the truth -many wentto Springfield - she never
knew before how much sheloved the Union
Mr Admas put aside his sermon to preach on the need to fly to the
country's rescue
30 men have gone to the war
Trains all night and day taking soldiersz and arms from Boston and Springfield
Better news after church in the afternoon
Grand Glee Club concert tomorrow night
Everybody feels poor here - carpet factory only works 4 days a week - the
stockinette 3/4 time
Mr Houston will be postmaster
Presbytery meeting
Tell father he must raise a flag on the house
BOX III Section A Letter 20
To: Nancy Place: Hartford
Frpm: Martha Date: February 11, 1863
TOPICS: Does not feel well - shaky hand
Visiting in Hartford with Rev. and Mrs. Hall
Sat the doctor who thinks her lungs are ok
She is taking cod liver oil - iron porter and whiskey as a building regime-
she does not like it
Doctor's live well with horses and carriages
BOX III Section A Letter 21
To: Angie and Mary Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: September 12, 1863
TOPICS: Home letters
Aunt Jura's illness
Hard sail leaving home- ill and the boat crowded
May had the house in order but nothing to eat -glad of the fare
brought from homr
Invitation to tea with newly weds - young couple have left to live
in Newbern, NC
Invitation to tea with neighbors whose sister and her husband are residents of
New Zealand - natives of Scotland -he made a fortune in New Zealand
She is well educated - plays and sings
Tey trqvel to Saratoga, Niagara, Chicago- then Washington=Philadelphia-
New York and then to Scotland and the continent
Visitors often here from New York
A sickly time - 4 bells last week and a funeral after each service Sunday
Mother is well
Fruit is scarce
Pies made from apples from home
BOX III Section A Letter 22
To• Angie and Mary Place: Thompsonville
From• Martha Date: December 291863
TOPICS: Hared to clean house inthe cold but they must improve
Mrs Clark sewes the sitting room carpet- hard work
Mr. Hall's visit will stop things awhile
Mr. Adams exchanged with Mr Murphy of Avon who was in seminary with him=
a frind of Mr Whitaker's
Thanksgiving Union Service- collection for the wounded and ill soldiers
Had a cold meat dinner and mince pie - too busy with carpet to prepare
Houston's invited us to chicken supper with children and grandchildren
Thanks to Nancyfor the jar of peaches- enjoying the rye flour very much
Sorry father forgot the pork - you will have to bring the traveling basket
with hominey - sausages - pork and some crackers to eat on the way
Request for gloves
BOX III Section A Letter 23
To: Mother and Auntie Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: February 8, 1864
TOPICS: Mr A is too ill to preach- the congregation are very kind
Gift of a live chicken which lives in a barrell in the cellar- who is to
kill it ? she is too squeamish
A neighboring minister sent them a nice 14 pund turkey
Going to Guilford
No letter from home
Some letters from friends in Springfield on return home
Invited to stay with the St. JohnA in the City
Girls ( her sisters) in a hurry to get back to NY - all talk of the great
fair in Brooklyn and of beaux
PS - a disclaimer - not identified
Wants some apples from home- uses hers very carefully
BOX III Section A Letter 24
To: Paretns and sisters Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: May 24m, 1864
TOPICS: Mr Adams taken ill on the way home from New York - tells his people
he must take a vacation or resign since it is useless to stay *ithout preaching
Congregation chose a vacation
Left Wilmington - invited to the St. John's since trip was too long for 1 day
when going home
Had -trouble with her trunk - feared lost but it turned up
Taking their meals with the Houstons
Thinking of a western trip to the lakes and mountains but lack funds
People will misss him but Session is getting a pulpit supply
Mr Adams will go to Ne w York with her- then she will go home and
he will go on vacation
�J
BOX III Section A Letter
To: Dear ones at home Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Datee November 5, 1864
TOPICS: They are lazy letter writers at home
Mr Adams sermon finished - has gone to get something for breakfast
She wants ham but has been eating prk instead which is very nice
Deacon Cleveland was visiting and enjoyed it because he had been
eating so much fish
Surprise visit from Mrx+ Chittenden p- took her to the kitchen becuasd there
was no fire in the sitting room- she stayed to dinner and Mr Admas
built a fire
John Houstin sent his horse and carriage and took us for a ride
Mr Chittenden is not well and should have a change of air
Butter scarce and dear, - no eggs at any price -the hens have dried up
as well as the cows
There is a little bushel of potatoes from the garden - they look like summer potatoes•
this is probably due to the drought
If father will send some potatoes with the turnips- mr Admas will pay
for the baskets which he can re-sell
Do not forget samp, hominy - a little pork - anything edible- we have
plenty of beef but would like ham, relish, sausages or anything- I
Have some codfish can we trade some ham for coffee with Aunt Phillis or
Aunt Jura ?
Have made no cake - only cookies - ginger snaps lasted
Jane Houston sent a card of gingerbread 3 times and a jar of ginger preserves
Mrs Ely sent a nice tomato pickle
Drop,in visitors
A wedding
Please sedd some popcorn and a few little red apples with the n6xt visitor
Remarks about colds
BOX III Section A Letter 26
To: Friends, Aunt Jura Phillis Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: November 18, 1864
Incomplete with pages missing
Topics: Has not been well
Mr Adams has done the housework
Mrs Houston will do my baking
Lists the weeks activities -why did She get sick?
Sends out the heavy washing and ironing but does small pieces'
List of calls
Lots of company
List of visits
Box of goodies from home
Mr Adams went to Hartford
Conern about freight delivery -box had apples - thank you. for
burning the coffee ( roasiing the beans
Butter, chicken, ham and a can of scallops -cooked them to be sure
of keeping them altho' they were sweet and fresh
BOX III Section A Letter 2f5
TO'' Mary Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: November 15, 1866
TOPICS:Journey home
Mr Adams health - betterbut not great
Had Mrs. Ira B. Tuthill's company to Lakeland Station and Mary Kimball's
the rest of the way
Did not accept her invitation to stay the night As I had to pushon to
Springfield but missed the train to New Haven so went on to Brooklyn
leaving next morning before dawn - a lonely way to 27th St. via City Hall
and then changed. to our depot - very rough men about but took train
home safely Mr Adams met the 3 o'clock and the Hoge's carriage tok us home
BOX III Section A Letter
To: Angie Place: Thompsonville
From. Martha Date: February 25, 1865
TOPICS: Too sick to acknowledge your letter and money when I wrote to mother
Ashamed of my tattered silk wrapper now that I am sitting up - cannot
wear a light dress so must get a wrapper madep-- will the old pattern die well
or should she invest in new fabric
Milk is so scarce - and though cream and whiskey would do her good there is none-
thinks she will try an egg 6r wine
Mr Hall of Plattsburg came and Mr Adams went to Hartford with him
Mr Beigham came to tea
Mrs U getting to mld to paint much anymore and too ill
Much sickness due to severe winter - Mr A much exposed on sick calls and
says he can't take another winter here
Mr A went to assist opening of new Presbyterian chapel at Hartford
Angie's new escort and gay winter
BOX III Section A Letter ZU �.
To: Angie Place:
From: Martha Date: November 27, 1876
TOPICS: She is at Hog Neck
Expects Angie to enjoy her trip to Woodstock
Domestic details
Family activities
The corn is good
Making tallow, mince meat, liver sausages, pickles, preserves
Father glad Mr Revere elected to Congress
Mr A is gone to New York
Drove to Nancy's and had tea- she is not too well
Guests to tea
Not up to going to church
Sent Landon lefter to Washington
Cleaning
emembrances to the cousins
A Thanksgiving box for Maggie- made mince and pumpkin pies, donuts
BOX III Section A Letter
TO Mary Landon ( niece) Place: West Fargs. NYC
From: Aunt Martha ( Martha) Date: August 7, 1878
TOPICS'$4rites Mary Landon were with her and imagines a days' activites together
Little poem and a drawing on the same sheet
BOX III Section A Letter
To: Mary Place: Wilmington, Del.
From: Martha Date: December 30, 1878
TOPICS:Mary has just had a baby boy
Came Saturday to help and found Harry delirious and near death
The Chandler family is glad that she can sit eith Mrs Chandler
Religious reflections
BOX III Section B Letter 1
To: Angie and Mary Place:
From: 1- Nancy
2- Martha
3- Martha
4- Bob Short
TOPICS: 1 - Girlish nonsense- kittens are snug in the welll room, Mother in rocking chair
2- Is Mary better?
Glad to see you in Riverhad but riding on the cars is expensive
picking blackberries
mother has been spinning all day- very tiring work
Society meeting last �w�eea
Mr John Brandt's sister Margaret Janetta married a New York merchant
Job came last week and father visited him at Dr. Tuthill's
Expect good hatching of chickens
Potatoes are coming well
Dress making
3- Mother not well yesterday
Going on the excursion
Can you come to Jamesport to meet father or wait till school is out
4- Will come to Riverhead when it snows in a day or two if the horses
do not stop breathing - sleighing poor for now - Nancy says you must
come home - for Martha is going to step off (?)
BOX III Section B Letter 2
To: Dear sisters Place:
From: Martha Date: August- Monday eve. 9:OOpm
TOPICS:Sorry they cannot stay in Riverhead
Reflections on improving the mind
Visitors are taking a ride - she had a cold and stayed home
Making arrangements for a fair or a festival - not enough things to
exhibit or sell for a fair
Wants to see the Riverhead folks
Mrs Wiswell has a new baby daughter
BOX III Section B Letter 3
To: Mary and Angie Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: Feb 10
TOPICS: Trip to Cornwall with stop in Brooklyn
Invitation from Mrs Ledoux a friend from Brooklyn
Tired from a Presbytery visitation - 2 ministers for 4 days - 2 meetings
each day
Neighbors sent in pies and cakes
Nrs Houston has them to tea
Please send a bag os sausages she can pick up in Brooklyn
Mrs Wiswell haj a son
BOX III Section B Letter 4
To: Angie Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: March 2
TOPICS: About her visit to Cornwall
Just time to write before prayer meeting
It rained and they had a carriage to take them to church and for the tour
on Monday
Drove through the grounds of the famous Idlewild - Mr. P. Unllis' house-
the grounds are open - he likes people to visit the eild ,beautiful, romantid
place on the Hudson
Went on to Nancy in Brooklyn - Addie' in high spirits tho' not well before
we went to Cornwall
Dinner at Uncle Osborne
Mary Kimball's on Thursday
Called on Frank churchs' wife Carrie
Mr Adams running about seeing Southern friends- some from Richmond
Bought a blue striped foul and silk dress
Did not get a new traveling dress- hopes the old one will do
Mr Adams got books and a carpet bag
Brought the sausage home and glad of it
There was a snow storm on arriving home and we were met by a sleigh at the depot
Dinner at Mrs Houston's
Hoped to do housework but many calls kept her busy - so many pEople came we had
to borrow lamps from the neighbors- fires in the three stoves we have up=
study=kitchen= sitting room- all rooms thrown open to the garret
Mr Houston called us from the hall and made a speech and gave us a purse of $108.00
Mr Adams replied impromptu and the various generations separted to play games- did
not bring refreshments thinking it would cause much trouble
House still not in order but Mrs McKnight came to help and swept upstairs and
some of downsatirs
Doen't want to get a girl if she can help it- her sewing suffers - may want Abby for a
day or two in Brooklyn - when is Angies going there
Could Mary find her a man's sailor collar for travel
Trying to make Mr Adams shirts-Helen Griffing is doing some plain sewing
Marys plans for Spring and Summer
Going to get help during the Presbytery - it is 3rd week of August
Sickness- Mrs Frederick Ely lost her 14 mos. son
Anxious to hear from Southold- hopes the disease is checked
Calista to be in Westfield- her school is out
Mother Adams wrote that she is not well
Mrs Wiswell's boy is doing well
BOX III Section B Letter 5
To: Nancy Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: April 23
Topics:Angie and I have sewed all day on the front chamber carpet
Ladies made some for the bedroom
The servant gal is good - she lkkes housekeeping
Plenty of shad - good bread and butter - excellent succotash
A specially prized gift of ivory handled dinner knives and forks and a
carving pair froma poor lady and her daughter who work very hard
Gardening - peas are up and growing well
Do go out with Addie in the wagon to see the folks - do not be lonley
Query after mother's health
BOX III Section B Letter 6
To: All at home Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: September 26
TOPICS:Mrs wilson, Mrs Woodruff, Jenny and Fanny Houston have just left
Mr/ St. John's letter with Mary's note came - glad the money is safe
Mother still at the Landon's
Felt ill on the boat - but not sea sick - smell of food made her ill
all the way to New London from Greenport
Invited to tea at the Allyn House by the gentleman who gave us such a handsome
present last summer
Fried chicken for dinner on the second day home -take breakfast at the hotel
Did a little washing
Letter from Mr. Ledoux4 arriving with family tommorrow
Roasted ( burned) and ground some real coffee
Prepared for baking - Mrs Wilson going away gave her 2 splendid loaves'
of bread and all the garden vegetables to pick she desires - frined helped make
up beds in the house
Mr Hamlin of Mattituck arrived on the train I*a Mr Adams met �ut the Ledoux' did not
- letter came saying they were detained - disappointing, especially as Mr Ledoux
was to have preached
Expecting a visitor from Rochester with nurse and child
Jimmy happy with Angie's gift of a boat -wonders what else he might get
so gave him some apples and cakes from Long Island
Our things came nicely
Flour is 1512 a barrel, coal 142 per ton - everything is very high
Please keep the tumbler I left - it is part of a gift set-gift of
Mother Adams
Mr Adams liked the chicken and the eggs - please tell Aunt Jura - bunkers
not running yet
Regards to other Aunts
BOX III Section B Letter 7
To: Mary Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: May 26
Topics: Letter arrived - hopes for a visit
Mr Adams appointed Commissioner to the General Assembly at Albany
Mr Chittenden came - nothing to eat in anuntidy house - but got the butcher
to bring some meat and gave him dinner
He was an the way to Hartford to meet his wife and go to Mrs Brown's funeral
Visit to Neighbors on Wednesday and Firday
Had tea for Mr Hall the pulpit supplu- he talked me blind
Janet Alexander stayed the night to help - but busy with meals and teaching Sunday
school = glad he wanted to leave on the early train
Calista will come to stay nights with me and Mrs (?) will come to
clean house
Jimmy Houston is sick and Jenny has the measles
Mrs Houstonhas house guests from Hartfors - she is much fatigues but sends love
( to a long list in Southold)
BOX III Section B Letter 8
To: Father Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: August 1
Topics: Learned the boat is running so will be in Greenport next Tuesday night-
feared would have to go via New York - prefer the boat
Please meet us with i carriage if 2 are not possible
Will let you know if the boat plan does not work- otherwise expect us
Will bring Mother, Auntie add 3 trunks
Mr Harris is the pulpit supply while Mr Adams is ill
It is terribly hot - hvave been in the kitchen all day and now it is
dinner so must go back again
BOX III Section B Letter 9
To: Mother Place: Thompsmnville
From: Martha Date: July 9
Topics: Notice the boat will run next week - expect to see you and any you
bring- hope father will come
Let us know and we will meet you at Hartford-will have to wait an hour
or two but the depot is nice and you can get something to eat - take
horse and carriage from the boat to the depot
Mr and Mrs Bryan expect to go when the boat runs- he will take his horse
and carriage and perhaps go to The Neck
Jane Houstin has a baby girl
Mrs Houston has a visitor from London
Aunt Chandler brought me a pretty summer dress
Too dry for the garden - potatoes scarce and late- have grown a
few peasu'and beans -would like some lard
a
BOX III Section B Letter 10
To: Mother Place: Thompsonville
From: Martha Date: June 28
3/4 of a page torn out
Topics: Received the Certificate of Life Membership in the Tract Society from
Mrs Chittenden and wrote to acknowledge it
Glad you reached home well
Mr Adams saw the carriage in Hartford - could not get the whip - and
there are no nets in the city ( for fly protevtions) - there was a dreadful
storm but it cleared by the time he came back
The smith prices the carriage at $300 -hope it is alright
The clock is going well
Hope Mr Corey is better
Can't get butter or eggs -the yams are gone -get the girls to bring some
over - it will pay
Visit to Springfield
Cannot find a dressmaker
Excellent strawberries after ylu had gone- Mr Houston gave me enough to preserve
Mrs Wilson gave strawberries and raspberries
The yeast failed-could find some hops with trouble but not one old potato-
thinking of going over for a supply
Mr Bryan said it would be alright about the money when James came
1
BOX III Section B Letter 11
To: Nancy Place: Wilmington
From: Martha Date: Setptember 27
Topics: Book on letter writing
Much visiting here
Fears some sad news from home
We shill leave Thursday - wish to go via Brooklyn- but cannot stay with the
Gaines as they are not home
Pleasant ride to Philadelphia - James Adams met the boat- John AdQ-s
is our host here
Going to New Castle Del. with Mrs Wiswell
Write to Richmond, Va.
BOX III Section B Ldtter 12
To��,Angie Place:
From: Martha Date:
Topics:Continuing the letter started to May (Mary) so she will get a letter back and
no complaint
Would like a letter once a week
So sorry about the loss of the horses - we all have pride ro ride behind good
ones- angry Bill had to be sold even if Bet had to be - wants to lecture father
for feeling ancient and trying to have all the same -(Areal lecture on how to
age badly)
Jennie Houston went to Norwich for the holidays -sleighing party to Springfield
Mr Burbank took Calista (? romance)
Agnes is visiting - the Misses Wilson are well -Mrs Wilson gave a splendid supper=
for 40 in the afternoon - refreshments for 70 young people in the evening
A large fair held in Springfild but itmis too cold "for her to go
Mrs Wilson would like some turnip seed to try next year
Plans to meet in NY and come back to (Thompsonville ?)
Gilbert sent me a hoop skirit after he went back
Thanks to Mrs St John for the shawl
Odd remark about marriage
Mr A went off without warning otherwise we would have had some sausages sent to
Brooklyn for us - Mr King sold his pDrk on the hoof $90.00 -no sausages there
BOX III Section B Letter 13
To: Angie Place: (NYC)
From: M artha Date: (1) Saturday night)
1 pencil (2) Tuesday morning
2 pen
1. Topics:Resting from a tiresome faint
Sister Mary was to have come but failed -we rode up town to a beautiful new
Jewish synagogue - art galleries and Stewarts ( dept. store)
Found Tillie Landon here and wants us to visit next wwhk before she leaves
for Florida
Tires so writing in pencil as does,not wish to write on Sabbath
Mart Houston writes she is coming soon and will go home with me
Mr Admas has not been down this week - had a sick spell and could not preach-
last Sabbath evening
Allie Hoge and Mary here - Allie is going to Washington
Mary spent the day with Auntie Halsey
Letter from Nancy
2 Topics: Dreasmaking -black skirt -top-sleeves
Visit to Mary Dayton -visit from Geroge -Mary - Mr. Malkins
Mr Adams arrived
Wishes ahe could be with Angie and see all the religious meetings - been to
several good meetings in the evening where she is
Mr. Whitaker mustbe pleased'
George has a new job at 321 B'way with Lewis and Co.
David was to atart home yesterday
Send the lace pattern to Horton -121 Livingston St. Brooklyn
BOX III Section B Letter 14
To: Mary Place:
From: Martha Date:
Two Notes (10 (2)
Topics: (1) Letter received via Mr Whitaker
We are all much better thanks to God - Addie much better
David left yesterday
Mrs. St. John helps wonderfully but is not really well enough herself
(2) Will send this by Mr Whitaker -mother started it for the Society - but I have
to finish it
Meeting of 12 today
Mother better - helps with Addie --hope both much better soon
We will have your wrapper made soon - finishing mother's callico dress
Calisata wrote Angie -Deacon Anderson's son Adam died
Aunt Jura rose to the bay with' old Jose last night
Regards to Nannie, Miss Tuthill Miss Nelson
BOX III Section B Letter 15
To: Fahher and Mother Place:
From: Martha Date: Wednesday AM
Topics:Continuation letter
Mr Adams not well
Turkey dinner Sunday -cold pn Monday - chicken yesterday wich was partly prepared
Sunday
Mary said there were two chickens btt only one appeared in the barrel-- think
she made a mistake- not that it was taken out
Arrived well not eaten one egg broken- am obliged - had ham or ( ) or
Indian cakes for breakfast - excellent for winter
Will thank Uncle Austin for the turnips
vid thanks for the potatoes
Must dress to go to Springfield
Angie is painting - very pretty work -she improves every month
Hope Nancy and the children are well
Wishes Angie could stay and Mary come to
Letter to Mrs Chittenden - will miss his letters so much
Tell Louisa we had a good supper and breakfast from the scallops
BOX III Section B Letter 16
To: Angie and Nancy Place:
From: Martha Date: Wednesday PM
Topics: 9nding your chemise, jacket and collar in Mr Adams' carpet bag -also
trimmings and remnants - also odd keys ( ? to carpet bag and wash stand ?)
Please get me some fabric - specs herewith -Mr Admas will give you the money
Other want wool -will give them a bunch or two
Expect Mr Adams to go to Wilmington for several days - Helen Griffing and
Calista will spend the night with me
Knit almost a foot of sock for Mr A
Mrs Mosely sent % peck of apples and Dr Peace a ham
An unknown bachelor minister is coming to stay Sunday and preach
Will cut out 6 shirts - finish ironing - poor cOmpany- she is very lonely
BOX III Section B Letter 17
To: Father and Mother Place:
From: Martha Date: Wednesday AM
Topics:Mr Adams went to Somers to preach and spend the night
We dressed and went to tea and an evening with several young ladies
more like spring than winter
sheet torn off
Irish Mary left Monday -getting help os very difficult
Fire last week was frightening - ;feared to lose the house nad much else but
God spared us
Hope you are better of your cold
Dr Horton is in the habit of giving out pills -I don't like so many
Terrible murder in Duffield- aold man killed (?) says self defense
BOX III Section B Letter 18
To: torn sheet Place:
From: Martha Date:
Topics: Mr Adams went to Bridgeport and will go to Southeast ( wn NY State)
returning to Rye to an installation and on to NY and home all ne
by appointment of the Presbytery - I cannot go as not appointed
Would love to run away to Southold- if the cars ran straight I would
Wrote Nancy Mr A would be there
Must clean house while he is away -it is raining and I must sew
Maggie is at school
Box III Section B Letter 19
To: Mother and Father Place:
From: Martha Date:
Topics:Mary and Angie took all the space so this is a new sheet
Everyone unwell = list of medical afflictions
A missionary whom ise a doctor cured Mary's tooth ache
My girl (servant) keeps expecting to leave -thinks she is tired of work
Hope she stays even if I do have more than 2 the work to do
175 one night and 100 the next left the house a mess-especially the
Carpets - but the money left is very welcome- ( donation Party)
Will have to get a new table-sitting room is so large
Thank Aunt Margaret for the sausage and dried fruit
Sorry Uncle Austin did not come with the girls
BOX III Section B Letter 20
To:Mother Place:
From: Martha Date:
Topics:Tried to start home- left Nancy's to make calls before cominguo
to Brooklyn -expected her to meet me here -stay all nights-but she left
before I got home
I cried - but Aunt and Uncle said I should not go - Aunt will go with
me to NY - will leave Tuedday if I can- don't think I don't
want to come home
Box III Section C Letter 1
To: Martha Place: Peekskill
From: Mrs. E. Wiswell Date: August 13,1854
Topics:Glad shie is happy in new relations matrimonial and ministerial
Refers to abolitionists - does not like slavery -but admires the Southern
gentlemen
St. Louis visit -describes a slave market and environs - prices and people
Going to Long Island tomorrow
Church and parsonage are not yet built
Persons:John Booth (?) has traveled Detriot-Troy - Saratoga-Holland Patent in
search of a wife- wants a lage dowry -is satisfied in Ny facilities
Mr Wiswell
BOX III Section C Letter 2
TO: Martha Place: Independence, Iowa
From: Martha Date: December 31, 1857
Topics: Moving to new quarters before winter'
Nice to hear from dear friends in Southold
Was house guest
He was ill,now is well- not living on Graham crackers
Describes town
Persons', Cousin Fanny wht5 lives in Woodstock]
Mr Richmond's family
BOX III Section D Letter 1
To: Martha Place:
From: Her niece Date:
Topics: A practice letter
BOX III Section E Letter 1
To: Sister Mary Place: Hanover
From: Carson Adams Date: March 1, 1855
Topics: Mary has joined the church and her brother-in-law is delighted in
much ecclesiastical prose
Anxious about Angie - feels she is not in a state of grace
BOX III Section E Letter 2
To: Father ( in-law) Place: near Richmond
From: Carson Adams Date: February 16, 1857
Topics:Tired from preaching 2 sermons to large congregations and a 20 mile ride
yesterday
First congregation since second Sunday in January the winter is so hard-
the worst known here - for 2-3 weeks could only get out on horseback
Many deaths from freezing throughout the state - people not prepared as in
the North
Snow gone now and it is 72°
Suppoase the railroad is open on Long Island and theycan send things to market
Prices should be good for prok and for potatos if they are not frosen
If you can get a high price for ( old charlie) (?) should let him go
Martha not well- now better- she cries for mother when she gets a little sick-
being sick in other people's houses is not easy - better in a house of our hown
Farms are getting ready to plow and so on
Suppose Buchanan will go into office in a week or 2 -would like to go to
the inauguration if he could spare the time and money
Hopes he can set things right for the Republicans about at the end of their
rope- perhaps they will give up and do something more particular
People blame them for the insurrection among the servants throughout the
country this winter
Suppose you and mother are lonely with the girls in New York this winter
8OX III ' Section E Letter 3
To ' Father and Mother Place: Thompsonville
From: Carson Adams Date: July 29, 1859
Topics:Expect to leave New York for Liverpool Wednesday and be gone 4 moths
and see; as much of Europe as money will permit
Have thought about. it for a month but just made up my mind on
Friday - going because of health - mostly bad throat which is getting worse-
Must do' something or be laid aside from the pulpit and will do anything
not to be laid aside from the pulpit
Martha will make the usual annual visit
Time and money do not allow for a visit to you
Sailing' on the ship Elllen Austin pier 4N ( north river ?)
i
BOX III Section E Letter 4
To: Mother and wife Place: Edinburg, Scotland
From: Carson Adams: Date: Septembeu 20, 1859
Topics: Has written before but had no news- would like a letter and expects
to find one at return to Glasgow
Health better and expects more improvment
Voyage of 25 days at sea- will return on a steamer
Vist to Mrs Houston's sister at Dumfries - travel descriptions and a
mention of Robert Burns - visit to Kilmarnock where his Scots congregation
emigrated -going on to the highlands - Rob Roy country- train to Stirling
Full tourist discription etc. thoughts on Knox St. Giles, covenanter stories
Description of church service
James must be home from New Orleans now
BOX III Section E Letter 5
To: Father and mother ( in law) Place: Thompsonville
From• Carson Adams Date: March 8, 1864
Topics: Martha heen unwell since the 2 girls left - had the doctor everday- now better
-nothing wrong but ,general weakness and bad stomac- - no servant so cooked own
mealx - the neighbors very kind
A nurse now with us
Martha will go to Wilmington as aoon as she is able - he has bean sick himself
Glad shurch did so well by Mr Whitaker - a good donation
Looking for a small farm to get cheap for cash -says he will turn to raising potatoes
and be out of doors if his dyspepsia is no better
Hopes Nancy and children are well - with two Martha Adams on the Neck one must
be called Patty ( an old name for Martha)
i
BOX III Section E Letter 6
To: Wife Place: Madison, Wis.
From: Carson Adams Date: June 29, 1864
Topics:Came on from an uncomfortable time in Chicago - it has a bad smell
It is very hot - if no rain the farmers will have no crops - tell your father to
raise all the corn he can the prices will be good
He likes Madison
Comments on a local church
Going to St. Paul by boat
Please send all Presbyterian publications to him in St. Paul
Wishes she could be with him but knows they cannot afford it
BOX III Section E Letter 7
To: Mother ( in law ) Place: Thompsonville
From: Carson Adams Date: October 9, 1865
Topics: Wishes they could visit but the whole winter program changed - people
here and Presbyterains do not want them to leave - so will stay a little
longer
We will keep house on a different plan - salary raised to $1,000
and the increase will cover the cost of a servant
Going on to Guilford and then to New York and on to Wilmington
Sorry Nancy could not vist
BOX III Sectinn E Letter 8
To: Wife Place: Thompsonville
From: Carson Adams Date: October 11, 1882
Topics: At John Houston's -describes a wedding in great detail
d
BOX IV Section F Letter 4
To: Mary Landon ( Mary Dayton's dau.) Place: Brooklyn
From: Libbie April 29
Topics:Thanks for the flowers which her father brought to the Library-
so many she could give some to friends
Spring is coming in the city -the sparrows have driven all the other
birds away
Rennie, Charles and Elmer are going to Speonk for the summer and
will grow big and strong
Hopes her little brother does not have the measles because if he has she
cannot see the Decoration Day Parade or March on Anniversary Day ( a Brooklyn
Sunday School custom)
' E�
BOX IV Section F Letter 5
To: (J) Dear Sisters ( pencil) Place:
(r) Father (pen) Date: May 16, 1852
From: Mary
To: Dear Girls
From: Mother ( pen)
(3)Postcript
Topics: Glad to get your letter yesterday -spent most of a rainy day reading by
(1) the fire
Aunt Betsy says Angeline should pay particular attention to writing
Silas expedts to go to Orange Co.-Mother looking for a Bible for him
saw a very handsome English one at a book store which will put his name on
it for a shilling-bought it and gave it to him at Uncle 0's -he was
very ,pleased it was his first - sorry we cold not get the slippers ready
yet
(2) some young men teasing hbout Angie's beaux
Will 's
Ly a little after mother goes home -would like some money
sent her
(3) All about the girls' hats
Rain ,had kept her from going to New York about Nancy's carpet
Invitation from the Griffing's in Jersey City
Domestic notes about home
Angie musn't fuss
Wants some fish shipped on ice to keep sweet ,Uncle 0's folks would
like them - we have stayed far longer then I expected because of
Nancy's' dissapointment ( miscarriage ?)
BOX IV Horton Misc. 1
To: Cousin A - probably Angie Place: Albany
From: -writer is female Date: December 3, 1849
Topics: Glad to have a letter - puzzled to get when A so provoked when no
letter from came
Boarding at 666 Broadway with the Young family -only boarder beside us is
Mr Young's clerk
Description of trip from Southold -mer Mr Dayton and sister
Mr Foster's family at Riverhead
Raining in Brooklyn- waited iz hour on train before taking ferry
Took cab to the steamer wharf for the ADMIRAL -excellent supper-frolic
in the cabin with the chambermaid who chased us alaround - an all night
doings
Enjoyed view of the Hudson in the morning - a great high water
freshet and they had to go ashore via another steamer ISAAC NEWTON -the whard
was under water
Alabny a nasty place
Hired a carriage and dined at the AMERICAN HOUSE - Mr Foster and Mr Tuthill
went to find a boarding place with little Josh - Connie ,Maggie and
Mrs Dayton arranged their's ahead-her hostess,Mrs Diamond said she would take
---- for $2.00 a week inc. washing but ---- stayed only until Monday
Church on Sunday
Mrs Foster took us to school Monday - scared of all the faces and wished
to be at home
Registered the first day -then a week of exams -separate enterance -ladies on
Lodge St. , gents on Howard St.
A description of the building and its rooms and their uses
Chronicle of study a nd the school day
They also go to singing school
Last Sunday George, Mrs Dayton and I went to the Catholic Church to see
their curious worship -in the afternoon to hear Dr Sprague -a handsome organ
and good singing
She is angry at someone in Southold (? cad)
Will go to Troy for Christas and New Year
A is in her church choir
Roast turkey for Thanksgiving dinner
Asks them to send some gingerbread
BOX IV Horton Misc. 2
To: Dear Friend Place:
From: Mary A Date: July 20, 1852
Topics: Answering a letter-she is at school
B een to the beach only once so far but had a splendid time
Mr Diamond called
Went to Huntington 1,,
Hungtington July 3 -5
There was a fair here July 5-6
My aunt sick
Taking language lessons
She is too serious but finds she can laugh a plenty
She cailaot make a long visit to Poft Jefferson and Huntington
as she hoped
Are you going to school
A friend expects to go to Miller Place Academy next winter and
wants me to go too
y
I
BOX IV Horton Misc. 3
To: Dear Friend ( Nancy ?) Place: Thompsonville
From: Calista Date: April 10, 1859
Topics: Little new here - but writer procrastinates on correspondence
Mr Manly brought his wife here and I called
Warren and Mary married but -did not make a weddingthey went to
Niagara Falls and will have a wedding party at her brother's
I have not seen Mrs Adams lately
Charles ill but recovering -he and Ellen Wilson stood up at the wedding
I am boarding at Mr Houston's
Mr Burton's people moved out of the village
Writer has a sore throat
Miss Douglas comes a s usual -I have been to few rehersals
Do you and Mary intend a summer visit ?
Ada must have grown to a pretty age by now
Who is the new doctor?
BOX IV Horton Misc. 4
To• Friend• Place: Piskyburg (?)
From: Eliza Mandon Date: May 5,1867
Topics: Her mother died unexpectedly of dystentry
The two girls are getting married
Osborne Horton is "Uncle" to her
Reflexions on mortatlity and religion
A revival in Middletown
A preacher from Chicago came to the Baptist church
Temperance movement, and cburch and sabbath school attendance growing
BOX IV Horton Misc.
TO: Louisa
From: Mary
Topics: Enclosing note with letter to parents
Thinks Louiaa's illness is from too much strong coffee and tea
Writer does not drink coffee anymore
Angie will be gling home
Tipoo - her bird-is going well
Inquires about a list of annimals etc.
BOX IV Horton Misc. 6
To: torn sheet Date: Sabbath morn
From: Mrs Silas Horton- probably
Topics: Could not get the letter to the office
My cold a little better
Had to go to get victuals as the men could not live on soda crackers
Cousin Lydia ill�-Jos Ireland calls it prima donna throat
Mr Mulford to be buried to day
Cannot go to the funeral -it is too wetr
Many thoughts on religion
BOX IV Section C Letter 1
To: Friend Mary Place: New York
From: George L. Dayton Date: September '-'7*, 1864
Topics: Sends her his z,icture"shadow"
A lovely day after a bad East storm and a huge cloud of musquitoes
Abbie and Mr Heath are now on the Island
Elijah came to tea Saturday evening
Have not heard from the "school marms" Mary Halsey and Miss Humphrey
Have you had the pic-nic
Boating trip in Speonk cancelled by rain
Look forward to a letter
BOX IV Section C Letter 2
To: Dear Mary Place: New York City
From: George Dayton ( w. envelope Date: June 22, 1865
Topics: Delayed writing because of the heat
Angie is growing cotton
Mr St. John is home but the ohters ( 2 girls) have gone
to New Haven
Miss Sarah ( St John) said they are going to Niagra
Elijah goes home for the 4th-George cannot leave
Do not know if the Perkins have gone back to Riverhead
Many released rebel prisoners are in the city- they have suffered
severly - a North Carolina man said they had the 16-60- they say they
were well whipped - don't seem to mind -have sold goods to men
from several places -they all say the same
Saw Mary Halsey
There is now a cooling shower
BOX IV Section C Letter 3
To: Dear Mary Place: New York City
From: George Date: October 10, 1865
Topics: Mary's letter
The Riverhead paper article Qa bogus' mavrjAges
Story seems to have started with Hubbard Cleveland - would he stoop to that ?
Romantic paragraph -he is close to proposing
BOX IV Section C Letter 4
To: Mary Place: Brooklyn
From: George ( w. evelope) Date: January 4, 1866
Topics:Received a newspaper today- 33 years old-written in stage coach days
Looking for a letter from her - seems so long since she was here
Heard Mr Robinson preach -morning and afternoon services - gives text
Went to Bethel Music School Christmas for infant class
Heard Mr Beecher on New Years Eve -sermon precis
John and I called on Mary Halsey,Miss Kimball and Miss Sprague and several church
people including Mr Bell - Superintendent of Mr Beecher's school
Moving their store to 401 Broadway
Hopes to visit the Island in 2 weeks
BOX IV Section C Letter 5
To: Mary Place: Brooklyn
From: George w. envelope Date: March 1, 1866
not stamped
Topics: Receives letters from Mary and her parents- had one from
Angie last week
Closed the store Washington's Birthday afternoon and took
it to Hoboken
Someone has been tampering with the mail -will have to consult the Post
Office-missing letter directed without disguise-disguised ones
arrive- hopes she can discovef the snooper- thinks they can use
the Hermitage Post Office and by pass Southold
Mr William Vail comes to the store- said they had a pleasant
donation
Do the chandeliers please the Society?
Met Angie at the St John's and she directed this envelope
BOX IV Section C Letter 6
To: Mary Place:
From: George Date: May 7, 1866
Topics: Sent a gift of two bonnets and a bunch of flowers by express is c/o your
fatherbut not ribbons as unsure of preference- they are tiny but the
latest fashion
Will exchange them for hats if you have alreayd gotten some
Expect to visit next weeks
BOX IV Section C Letter 7
To: Mary Place: Brooklyn
From: George w. envelope Date: May 17, 1866
Topics•• Hopes she will be visiting soon
He stayed at Hermitage during his visit- took the morning trin back and met Mr and Mrs
Reeve on it
Called at Uncle Osborne's to see if she had uome but they were all out
Met Mr St John in Wall Street-will go to the country when is wife is better
BOX IV kSection C Letter 8
To: Mary Place: Brooklyn
From: George Date. May 31, 1866
Topics:She will be there soon
Describes a stroll by the River on Brooklyn Heights
Met Mr Reeve who met Mary a James Slip and took her to the cars
Saw David at the store
Mrs Overton is going to Orange County
Flags at half mast for the death of General Scott -' will close the
store tomorrow afternoon and visit either Central Park or Greenwood
BOX IV Section C Letter 9
To: Mary Place: Brooklyn -
From: George Date: July 5, 1866
w. envelope
Topics: About her visit -wants to see her badly
His ,trip - a switching accident to the train at Mineola - 2 hours late in
toto-because of this all the passengers descended on'a local grocery
store to pass the time near Hunters Point
Good view of the New,York fireworks
Rockdts at City Hall and Union Square - it was too damp to celebrate last night
BOX IV Section C Letter 10
To: Mary Place: Brooklyn
From: George Date: August 6,1866
Topics: A letter from her started July 26 but actually written August 2
Elijah has returned
Tillie went to the Island
Expects to 'go to Hermitage on Saturday
BOX IV Section C Letter 11
TO: Mary Place: Brooklyn
From: George Date:August w22,1866
W. envelope
Topics: Arrived Tuesday morning'
Called at Elijah's store and heard of Uncle Osborne's death
Went to the funeral where I met Mr Adams
Purchased the cotton and will send itby Mr Heath who goes to West
Hampton and then Hermitage
Enquiring at local boarding houses for accomodation -plans for their
wedded life - difficulties of sharing a house with a friend
Let him know her plans for the ceremony
BOX IV Section C Letter 12
To: Mary Place, New York
From: George Date: September 25, 1866
Topics: Arrangemnts for the ceremony
Mr Whittaker with Mr Adams to assist
Difficulty with a brother-in-lawto be a parson re protocol
John has not been well enough tohelp in business till yesterday
Buying kid gloves for the wedding party
She will come to finish off
He had removed to Clinton Ave. thinks it is better than
Lawrence St.
BOX IV Section C Letter 13
To: Mary Place: New York
From: Georege Date: October 16, 1866
Topics:Regrets learning the sad fate of Goldie (?)
Sending her velvets, gloves and sewing silk and the dress goods to be dyed will
be ready ( list of dry goods next)
Took remnants of quality at Arnold Constable
Took tea with John who is better
Saw Mr Reeve who will ship the sugar he had forgotten
Elijah bot well, and had not been to the store
Schedule changes on the LIRR
Thinks they might take the Husdon River cars at 4:00 to Albany and see
the River -it will be dark if we use the boat -more travel details
BOX IV Section C Letter 14
To: Angie Place:
From: George Date: April 16, 1867
Topics:Went to rehersals at Mr Pearson's church and saw Philander and Katy Davis
Mother Day wrote the buttons ok for the dress
Looking to see father-hope he will come to the store first -easier to find than
the house
Spring in Mr Blackwell's yard-hears it has not got to the Island
d
BOX IV Section C Letter 15
To: Mary Place: New York
From: George Date: Septemner 7, 1868
Topics: Writes to tell her she will be met at the Manor (?) Thursday if not
stormy -lists alternatives
Been terribly stormy
Sent off MreAdams' package
John's family moved to a new brownstone -he hasn't had the stair carpet all
down yet - they went to church and Mr Thatcher preached- he is from
the West and preached at Allen St. in New York
Mr Wells' family ok except for Marie who has breathing trouble
Hopes his mother ( in-law) will visit
BOX IV Section C Letter 16
To• Angie Place: Clinton Avenue
From• (1) Mary Date: June 7,1869
(2) George
Topics: Bought the things she wanted but could not ship them by Saturday
1 Mary Thorne and I went to New York and visited Day and Horton -Mary was
washing corsetsGilbert was there and by surprise -David - glad to hear
from home
Letter from Mattie ( Martha) says you do .not write as you should
lad all'well at home
Addie Ledyard sews for Mrs Pearson so my work is late
Looks forward to seeing Nannie- please send list of clothes to me
Likes her hat - Angie should send hers for refurbishing
2 They are moving the store and office to 359 Broadway -very confused - so
cannot get her trimming
Would like to have her picture framed and sent for $5.00 but Mr Perkins thinks
it must be $5.50 - will be ready when Nannie goes home -he will meet
her at Janes Slip if she will take the afternoon train
Hopes Uncle and Auntie will come and that Mrs Horton is better
l
BOX IV Section C Letter 19
To: Dear Wifey Place: New York
From: George Date: June 25, 1874
Topics:All about the weather
Will bring cover -for the wagon ( baby carriage) to protect baby
Visit from Mr Lewis and Ozzy
The Eagle repprted Libbies composition- thinks the reporter took it down as
she spoke
Charlie went to Tarrytown - will only go weekends as Hattie gets acquainted
Wants her to remake his summer undershirt and get new when it is not so hot
Pricing baby shoes, nut meg and cologne- will go for Angie's buckle
Wants a letter from her
Hopes Addie did not have the' fever Cousin T thought
BOX IV Section C Letter 20
To: Father and Mother ( in-law) Place:
From: George Date:
Topics:Hopes for a visit from them now it is pleaster
Angie and Emma St. John came to the store today
Angie went to Mrs Mulford at Flushing and will return to us for a visit
Aletter came from Martha
BOX IV Section D Letter 1
To: Mary Place
From: W.C. I. Hall DAt4e:
Topics: Thank you note from her tacher for a gift
BOX IV Section D Letter 2
To: Sister Mary Place:
From: Date:
Topics: Wrote to say I am coming on the Saturday eve ing train - did not
expect to have company - so do not suppose you will have a baggage wagon
List of people and hwere they will stay
Very hot
Uncle 0 says I look well
Nothing bettered by going to Walton
Comment about a wheat fire in the Brooklyn paper
BOX IV • Section D Lettr 3
To: Mary Place: Greenport
From: Cas Date: March 20, 1852
Topics:Wants to arrange a visit before she leaves Greenport for goobut has
-no time -hopes Mary will come to her -cannot go West without seeing you
Thought the Franklinville Exhibition last week was poor
BOX IV Section D Letter 4
TO "Little" Mary Place: Southold
From: Hubbard Date: December 19,1859
TOPICS: No letter came to him
Father purchased the patent for Quwens bd a washing and;:faringing machine
and is traveling CIL
Books he is reading
Sining school -class of 50 and more and G.B. Reeve wanted 30
Charly Case of 16 for him
Exam at the Institute Friday
May Christmas be merry
Angie is in Connecticut - is it Thompsonville
Mr Adams has returned
Sarah Mariella Conklin married Mr Webb ( Weed ?) at Cutchogue
Methodist Church
Elma an d Walter married
Mr Jackson has gone and takne Sarah with him
"Normal" Clark has come ( ? normal school teacher)
BOX IV Section D Letter 5
To: Mary Place: Walton
From: Sister - Date: June 11, 1862
Topics:Watchman article
Dearth of correspondence due to house cleaning season
Any cheese made yet
Riding horses - Trump and Popcorn
Sewing society
Wishes for her green - silk
A feast of strawberries at home
Went to Episcopal, Church
as - a wild flower walk
Tea at Mrs Christ
Mother went to Greenport
Visit to Mrs Christmas
Jack visits his mother in Independenced
Love to Mr Whitaker's family
Mr and Mrs Wickham
BOX IV Section D Letter 6
To;Mary Place: New York (1) Thompsonville (2)
From: Philip (Philizz) (1) Date: March 2,1864 (1)
Mollie (2) Date: March 8, 1864 (2)
Topics:Thought you had left the land of steady habits and hard cider but
1 found you had no-tearrived-at 80 Clark St.
Sorry I cannot escort the Misses Horton to the Sanitary Fair
2 She has opened the first letter to wrtie hers
Martha ( your sister) in bed for a week but now better - Mrs Mcready
is her nurse
Going to Hartford thia afternoon to hear Henry Ward B ( eecher)
A round of goose parties ( ? equivalent of hen) when Mrs HArbison here
Hope you had an escort to the fair
- much private humor-
Encloses a carte de visite photo for Angie- comes home Saturday
BOX IV Section D Letter 7
To: Mary Place:
From: Nathaniel Date: February 7, 1866
Topics: Can you "grant my request " on either Thursday or Friday evening
Please signify as before and oblige
No complimentary opening or close
BOX IV Section D Letter 8 Place: Thompsonville
D
From: Mary L Houston Date: November 10,1866
Topics: Sorry she cluld not come to the wedding but hopes it is not too
late for congratulations
Is writing to Angie who will need all the consolation her friends
can give her ( ?)
6
t ,
BOX IV Section D Letter 9
To: Mary Place: Brobklyn
From: Sister Lizzie Date: July 1, 1883
Topics:Has not written as often asshe thought of Mary
Libbie saw a newspaper with a "birth" suppose that is why you sent, it
Libbie busy at the library and sewing at home -vacatiom on the
coast of Maine in August
"Little" George is going to Speonk and thento you she supposes'
She does not feel well in hot weather so took a sailing trip
to Staten Island
-John has not been well this summer with a sore throat
She reads in.the 'Prk'-, so good for people who must summer here -she is
,reading Shakespeare
Has' she read DUTY yet
,How are your father and Angie'
o ,
BOX IV Section D Letter 10
To: Mary Place: 210 East 18 st. New York
From: SarahE. Hyde Date: December 13, 1885
Topics: Letter of condolence -death of sister Martha - obituary in the Post
Last meeting with Martha in her room at 23rd St.
Father (Hyde) and Flo
BOX IV Section D Letter 11
To: Mary Place; Norfolk
From: Helen Heard' Date: January 13, 1886
Topics: Mrs Horton wished her to write and say that Josie was failing
fast and she may ,die any nnment
ROX IV Section D Letter 12
To: Cousin Mary, Place: Oreint
From: Matilda Date: February 26,1899
Topics: Meant to write soonerand thank you for that lovely visit at
Robins Hollow-housekeeping took her time and being deaf does not help
All the duties that Christmas brings and then Thankyou notes
Mother not well-when she came home -then called the doctor and
has been stuck in her room fof several weeks -glad she was well during
the Blizzard
Alan went to Brooklyn and did not come home -until last week
Gerte did not cross the Sound to New Haven-weather too bad
Thoguhs about death in the family
REmarks about changes in the Robins Hollow house
BOX IV Section F Letter 1
To: Dear Mother and Father Place: Brooklyn
From: 1-Mary
2- Angie
3- Mary
4= George Date: November 8, 1870
Topics: George wrote of our safe arrival -she should have written sooner
1 Enclosing a letter from Martha
Celebrated their 4th wedding anniversary yesterday evening ( guest list)
Grandma Pearson coming home this week
Will be coming home soon but will let Angie decide when '-she has gone
to ride with Lizzie
2 Sorryshe has not written - she has been to the dentist very often
News of Aunt Debbie's death from Mr Neath - suppose Aunt Wells has gone down
Took tea with George's sister
3 Election has been quiet here in Neyw York
Will take the morning train to Hermitage
4 Read Mary's letter on the ferry and saw she forgot to enclose Marth's but
believe Martha is well
BOX IV Section F Letter 2
To: Cousin Mary Place:
From: Nanie Wickham Date; Dec 5
Topics: Opens with travel directions and chat jokes about
Thanksgiving
Sewing Society meeting
Went to Mr Wickham's store and had a rdde with Sturat
General chat about neighbors
BOX',IV Section F Letter 3
To: Mary Place:
From: Maggie Batligste Date:
Topics: Condolences on death of brother-in-law Mr Adams