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…………

June 30, 1871 Asa Hutchinson to John Benjamin-1823

White Water, Wis
June 4, 1871
Dear Dr. Benjamin,
Yours of 16th inst was duly received and gave us all great satisfaction to once more hear from dear Hassan Valley. 
We are in the midst of rain & sunshine, big & growing crops of all kinds of grain, corn, hay, etc.   The Lord smiles on this part of Wisconsin this year.  Well it may, for three years the crops here have been small and the farmers are on a braced grin everywhere, and I hope that since your letter was penned that you have had bountiful showers and that all of Hassan Valley blooms again.  I have faith in the Lord’s giving us a good harvest after all. 
Our business is dull though signs of improvement.  The Negro minstrels & circus lap over our corn cuts and smother them, but we are pushing on in bright hopes. 
Dear Dr., we want you to advise with Mr. Case and if possible dispose of the oxen.  Old Kate etc. and if the pigs are very cheap, we better hold on to them till they rise in value.  What say you; see how the plans are laid for successful haying and for economical harvesting.   Can’t we have some exchange of help on harvesting early because the hands at less rates than even last year.  I can’t come home at harvest of fear and I want you to look over at our premises every two weeks at least, and report fully to us the progress of things, pros & con. 
Please write me the news and general progress of farm, home and village and write fully as your time will admit directing to us by return mail to care of Root & Cody, Chicago, Ill.  Shall try and see your brother next week or 1st of week after. 
The weather is cool here and July right at hand.   Celebrations everywhere & great times ___ everywhere.  Are you to have any celebrations on the 4th?  How progresses the church?  What sort of H. Pennergast note did you turn to the church etc.   Advise me what to do for the success of the farm. 
Remember us in kind regards to Mr. Sweet.  Shall do something for him when we get out of the present hard spot.   Please report things as you find them.  Kind regards to your family & believe us truly yours,
Asa B. Hutchinson








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