Dec. 3,1854 S Shattuck to John Benjamin-1823

Cedar Rapids

December 3, 1854

Mr. Benjamin, Sir

Knowing that you have had a notion of coming west and that you would have done so had you not been disappointed ,  I have presumed to write you , thinking that still you would like to come west, if you should proper inducement.  I know of an opportunity which I herein describe that might be to your advantage if you should incline to come.  My partner Mr. Carter is now erecting a water mill some fifty miles from this place.  He will have some part of it in operation probably in January next.  He intends, as soon as he gets the wheel in, to have a saw and turning lathe in operation and he wishes then to employ some competent man for a turner and will give good wages.  I proposed to him that I knew of one east, and had you in my mind.  He thought favorably of it; this is the sum and substance of the matter.  Now if you wish to come west, this I would recommend as an opportunity.  Perhaps the more wages for a few that you would get would be in itself no great inducement.  Still, you have an opportunity of seeing the country and opportunity of employment at once to pay your way.  Mr. Carter is a fine man whom I think could not help but like.  The town is named ____ was ___ out of him some few years since a pleasant place and very healthy location.  If you should visit it might to an advantage to you in future in the way of business. 

Them are the facts of the case summed up in few words, which without details I submit for your consideration.  If you should conclude to come ___ could be made for you to come this winter.  I am in good health, business good.  You will please answer this at your earliest convenience.  You can write to me here if you please.  Give me regards to Mr. Russell Fulks and all enquiring friends.

Very respectfully yours,

S. A. Shattuck

Address:

Cedar Rapids, Linn Co, Iowa

S. A. Shattuck