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. 8, 1863 Edwin Benjamin-1833 to John Benjamin-1823

Chicago, November 8th, 1863
Dear Brother John,
I have delayed writing to you this time on account of not having these likenesses to send you.  I had to go and sit two different times for them.  I shall have to be brief with my writing this time. 
I have been to work all day today.  One of the joints on the engine gave out yesterday,  consequently it had to be fixed today.  It is Sunday .  I bought a book the other day which you will receive with this, but, John, I don’ t want you to think that I send you these things because I think you are never coming here to Chicago to work with me.  If you say that you will come right off, let me know on the receipt of this and if you want the money to come with I can send it to you; whatever you want.  If you make up your mind to come, the sooner you let me know the better, and I will make the arrangements for you to go to work right off.
From your affectionate brother,
Edwin
Frances unites with me in love to you all.  We are all well, hoping that this will find you all the same.
I’m going to send some likenesses home this week.

No comments:

Post a Comment