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. 17, 1875 Richard Garner-1838 to John Franklin Benjamin-1857


Islington, Liverpool

Nov. 17, 1875

Dear Nephew,

I received your kind letter all safe in another from your dear mother.  I was very glad to learn that you are so industrious on the farm.  I am sure you are a great help to your loving parents.  It is very manly on your part to do the very best in your power to help them, but it is only your duty.  Remember that they have been kind and loving to you and now you are going to pay them back with interest. 

I am right glad and proud to know that you are treading the proper path.  Do not leave it.  Keep on in your industry; it will pay you best in the long run.  I know many fine strong healthy young Englishmen “to my sorrow” that as soon as they left the path of virtue have gone headlong to an early grave, all through bad companions.  Adversely in this country it is the drink that spoils all our young men.  But I know it will never be your lot, young Frank, for you have good precepts shown to you at home.  Your good father will guide you safe and clear.  At your age I had no proper guide.  My dear sister, your mother, was the only one that seemed to care for me for we had been left when I was very young without father or mother.  But God has not left us, oft that I have left Him.  And, Frank, in this town of all others there are such a great many young men that give way to drink, and that is ruin.   I wish I could fly at once to you, for the drink element is carring [sic] all before them here.  But we have sent a Lib. & G.T. in our ward, St. Annes, that was always represented by publicans and brewers.  I am much pleased, yes truly pleased, glad, etc. that you are such a dutiful son and hope you will always remain as such.

I am very tired, am writing after all have gone to rest.  Your Aunt M.A. said da you must write to Uncle Frank tonight without fail, so I have complied with your Aunt’s wish and also discharged a debt with you and trust it will not be the last epistle before we meet.   Your little cousin says her cousin Frank will not let the dog bite her for she is cousin Franky’s English cousin.    Your little cousin boy is too young to talk or say anything much but he can say John Bull forever.

With kind love, dear Frank, to your father, mother , sisters, and brothers.  Also same from your Aunt, myself, Marion and our boy.   I remain your affectionate Uncle,

Richard

Enclosed photo Marion.  Got two papers from you now today.


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