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…………









Nov. 27,1856 Joseph Garner-1826 to John Benjamin-1823

Holywell
November 27, 1856
Dear John & Sister,
The old maxim says that delays are dangerous, so I seized the present opportunity to write off hand, that is, as soon as I received your letter.  I must certainly beg your pardon for causing you any unnecessary alarm as to my safety.  I have thought of you daily but never could muster courage to write.  I don’t know how it is.   I suppose I must be a curious subject that can only write to complain or boast, however it is an exception to the rule this time as I am in the middling way.
Trade quiet, neither can we expect it any better as provisions are exceedingly dear : best flour only 4 lbs. for a shilling, common brown sugar ___/lb., in fact everything dear with the exception of potatoes (thank Providence this year), they are cheap and good.
John Parey and his governor has been over here from New York .  They have returned & I find have arrived safe.   Shall be expecting you here after a while as Christmas is approaching.  I suppose I must wish you a merry one and a happy new year when it comes.
Here is a __ __  for my niece.  I also enclose you a locke of sister Margaret’s hair; also one of my little daughter Ann’s.
I have sent your note to the Bayers.   Uncle has left the Eytons.   I am afraid it will be worse for ___ now.  I am very sorry for ____ condition, but as for him , it is only what he deserves.
Rita, myself, the family at Brynfer Hale as of your friends are quite well,  Robert is in a situation in Coventry.  Thomas is a conservative traveler in the Thauel Fave,  I am a ___ young widow and looking out for a wife.
This from your ever after brother,
Joseph Garner
PS – Let me hear from you soon.  I promise that I will not retain you so long in suspense again.

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