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…………

July 14,1854 Selden Church to John Benjamin-1823

Rockford, Illinois
July 14, 1854
Dear Sir,
I.A. Holland, Esq. has just handed me your letter of 28th.  Letter in relation to room & power for carrying on your business in the shop of the Water Power Company of this place, and I would reply that the company can furnish in their shop the necessary room and power for that purpose at the time you speak of.  They are also erecting another building over the race which will be 30 by 80 feet in size, 2 stories high, that they expect to get in operation this fall.  That will there before rent.  That may possibly accommodate you better at any rate.  There is no doubt we can accommodate you with room & power satisfactorily.  Our population and business are rapidly increasing and there can be no doubt that the business you contemplate engaging in can be extensively carried on here very profitably. 
Respectfully yours,
Selden M. Church                 
Secretary of WPC
 
J. Benjamin

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