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…………









Jan. 13, 1870 Asa Hutchinson to John Benjamin-1823


Chicago, Ill
Jan. 13, 1871
Dear Dr. Benjamin,
Your good letter came duly to hand.  This was the day I had planned to see your brother and it rains so I can’t get out I fear.  If it clears away I’m going out to see him.
Chicago is a stirring city, but business is very dull and many houses are failing. 
We are going into Wisconsin from here.
I hope you will be able to realize a good sale of our pork.   If not, obtain barrels and have it packed down.  Have you had any snow?  If not, will you see that John and the Bohemian cut and pile up snuggly all that wood pile?  Then when snow comes, John can be hauling logs to mill and haul off grain to market. 
You can address us for present at Chicago, Ill.  I think we should try and work home in February.  To whom can we let our farm successfully?  We want to go evict next summer. 
Can’t our community __ on with the church?
I write this short letter to let you know that we are still well and moving.
Regards to your family,
Yours truly,
Asa B. Hutchinson
I shall try & final allowance for our mill.  Shall try 2 see your brother again before I leave.  Pay my share of note in Minneapolis Bank.  Take some of the beef & pork money to do it with.  Hope loan to here five year again.  A sloppy day.
Yours truly,
Asa B. Hutchinson

 

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