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 29,1857 Elizabeth Benjamin to John Benjamin-1823

April 28, 1857
Belvidere, Illinois
Dear John,
As I was going to send Mrs. Howard to the post office I thought I would drop you a line or two for ___ folks are so busy with their plowing and sowing oats that they don’t get time to go to the post every day.  It is a good day and I thought I would let Mrs. Howard go for a walk for she seems lonesome.
I hope that this way of living is not going to last long, for I am far from being happy.  I try all I can, but it’s of no use whatever.  I feel miserable today.  I have had a hard cold some way or other.  Dear John, I don’t know how to spare you on Sunday.  I am sure baby cried after you about an hour and a half on Monday.  I could not pacify him anyway.  He is quite ____ altogether.  Sissy’s full of play altogether. 
The boy has not been here as yet to saw the wood, but we are not short.
Write as soon as you can.  I don’t know but what I shall have to write to you again in a day or two.  I feel so miserable today.  Anyway, call at the post office in haste, dear john.  Excuse all imperfections for you know who this comes from, and believe me to remain,
Your fond wife,
Elizabeth
My love to Edwin.  Buy some blue and white ___ for sis’s stockings if you can.  Write soon.  EGB 
Be careful and not hurt yourself or take cold.  Goodbye.  EGB
 

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