John Benjamin was born in England in 1823. In 1849, at the age of 26, he immigrated to America with the goal of seeking opportunities in the new world and improving the life of his family. During his immigration and eventual settlement in Hutchinson, Minnesota, John saved many personal letters that were written by and to him. These letters, the subject of this web site, bring to life his immigration and the life of others during this courageous adventure. The most recent letters posted on this sight are on this front page. To see all the earlier letters, keep pressing the “Older Posts” button on the bottom of this page. The earliest letter recorded here is June 20, 1849. The letters…………









April 20,1854 Joseph Garner-1826 to John Benjamin-1823

Holywell
April 20, 1854
My Dear Brother & Sister,
I am sorry I have delayed for so long without an answer.  My reason for not writing was because I had not the means to grant what you requested and did not wish to make an excuse, fearful you should say I could do so, but would not.  I can assure you for the bottom of my heart I would do the utmost for you in any way but my means are now more limited than ever.  Instead of growing out of debt as I naturally supposed I would when I first entered business, I find them growing more upon me.   We have had strong opponents to contend with but one of them is giving up not finding it to answer, but it is when he leaves us we are getting a little around.   
Some new ____ passes here to ___ as Margaret is still at _____ but am offering she will be here soon.  She is not so well in health as usual.  Richard is well.  Robert will be leaving soon.  He is not very well now.  Margaret is at home today with her old complaint.
Hope both of you are quite well as I am with the exception of food being so high spoils our trade and depresses my spirit at times.  My kind regards to you both, Mary Ann Ellen (I think) & the next longer when it comes and hope that I shall not trespass on your patience in future.
From your affectionate brother,
Joseph Garner


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