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…………









Feb. 21,1850 Edward Jones to John Benjamin-1823

Holywell
Feb 21, 1850
Dear John,
I have the pleasurable opportunity afforded me through your Father’s kindness of acknowledging your kindness in sending me “Brother Jonathon”.  When I received it I was quite amused and delighted with its illustrations and its large size, how everything grows so big in America.  I immediately concluded that it was yourself that sent it, and I assure you I felt it gratefully.   It came as well at a very nice time for we had a very heavy storm here at night and we were up the best part of the night in no good humor, however such a fine display that “Brother Jonathon” made set us all to right -  and wish we could there and then return thanks.  If papers can be thus transmitted I shall be very happy to send you one very opportunity – I will see about it.
Well, I hope you are happy.    I had not the pleasure of speaking much with your father when he called with us as I was very busy at the time so I did not hear much how you enjoy yourself under a republic government.  I can fancy you breathe a freer air, and feel prosperity surrounding you if you will extend your industry to grasp it.  I can easily fancy that you wonder how anyone can remain in this heavily taxed country, and especially in such sick corners of it such as Holywell, Bagillt, or Flint.   I am sure you would feel it transportation to be sent back had you no tender trip left behind.
Most likely your father sends you all the small news of this dull neighborhood.  I will just tell you that young Rick ___ the shoemaker was buried this week after about 4 months illness.  And Eder and Evans driver from Penyfflodd was killed today near Bagillt by a ___ smashing his head to ___.
I am happy to tell you that all of our family are well.  It is a great blessing, but like everything else, it is only our sufferage for we don’t know the __ __ __ __.  We have only to hobble on and feel thankful at each year end that we have sailed so far on our journey so well.
Well, I must conclude my hasty work this time, and please accept all our kind wishes for your future welfare, and my mother and sister beg to be kindly remembered to you , and you may feel assured such is likewise is the sentiments of your correspondent , one of the same “gwaed”.
Edward Jones

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