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…………









March 2,1857 Joseph Garner-1826 to John Benjamin-1823

Holywell, March 2, 1857
Dear Brother & Sister,
It’s now some time since I wrote to you and I must crave your pardon for being so long about it.   What kept me so long was I wanted to write to you in a comfortable strain and not to harp on the old string, hard times etc., etc., but still it’s the same.  But one thing I have to rejoice in this year is that I have been blest [sic] with a good state of health, which has enabled me to push through difficulties amazingly.  But I have even this month some formidable bills staring me in the face, but that I shall under a kind providence be enabled to meet them. 
In the paper you sent me I noticed the plan of your town, which I consider as a very compact one and well laid out.  I also noticed amongst its thriving inhabitants the name of Benjamin & Macbeth, which I trust are well to do men and manufacturers of the first class.
You find enclosed a letter from cousin of a date far earlier than mine.  I promised her that I was writing the week she sent it but you find it was a promise made to be broken.  I really am sorry for her and under present circumstances am unable to lend ___ a helping hand. 
Richard is rather ___ with me and for that reason I intend him to go to Manchester to get a first class polish.
I am still unmarried and guess I shall unless I meet with a suitable partner.  I have lived long enough shabby and as the saying is “I have lived in difficulty long enough, I should just like to have a little ease; however one thing or t’other a gold watch or cork leg.”
My kind regards to nephews and nieces and accept the same yourselves and a letter soon, and am your affectionate brother,
Garner

No comments:

Post a Comment