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…………









Oct. 2, 1862 Addison Boyden to John Benjamin-1823

Boston, Oct. 2,
Mr. John Benjamin
Hutchinson, Minn.
Sir,
Enclosed pleased find B/L for one box clothing which is sent to the care of Temple & Beaupree at St. Paul.  The different train companies will only receipt for goods to St. Paul, therefore you will have to send there for the box and send the B/L at the same time.  You will have to pay the freight on the box as it could not be paid here, they refusing to accept the same.
Also, we have notified Temple & Beaupree to inform you immediately of the arrival of the box in order that you may receive it as soon as possible.
You will also please find a check for $30 drawn by Jeremy Drake, cashier, Freeman’s Bank, Boston, on New York Bank, payable to your order.  You can write your name across the back of said check and procure the money at any bank in your vicinity.
Mr. Price will give you particulars relative to the friends who have contributed the clothing and money to assist you in your time of need.  I have simply attended to shipping the box by the most expeditious route and obtained the check in order to protect you in the safe arrival of each. 
You have my sympathies and kind wishes for both your temporal and spiritual prosperity.
Yours truly,
Addison Boyden

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