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…………









April 4, 1878 Mary Anne Benjamin-1852 to John Benjamin-1823

Chicago, Ill.
April 4, 1878
Dear Father,
I received a letter from you and Ma yesterday and was sorry to hear that you heard from Uncle Edwin that I was so helpless, but I haven’t been so bad but I could dress myself as yet.  I have had my right hand swollen up once and my left leg swollen so that I could not put my shoes on for three days.   I have it on today for the first time.  I have a corn on my little toe that hurts some.  Couldn’t I get some ___ to burn it?   I wish you would tell me how to prepare it.  I have forgotten I have the rheumatism in my knees.   They are very sore.  I hope & trust it may leave them & not go anywhere else.  It is two weeks today since I first came down with it.  I am so sorry for I had fleshed up so you would hardly know me.  I had a double chin but you would be surprised to see how I have lost. I only wish I had had my picture taken.   
You said that Robie wrote to me.  I got letters from everyone but Robie & Louisa.  Didn’t you make a mistake; thought it was Robie when it was Frank? 
Aunt Frances got a letter from Uncle this morning from Minneapolis.  I am so glad you can get the money from Mr. Belden to send me for you won’t have go to so much trouble.  If I hadn’t taken sick I would have had enough.  I am so sorry the most of my calculations are a filier [sic].   I must write a few limes to Ma.  From your affectionate daughter. 
Dear Mother,
I am so sorry that I am taken sick from home.  I haven’t seen any place like home as yet, especially in sickness.  And you musent [sic] worry for me.  When I get strong enough I mean to start for home.   Aunt C has not come with my things as yet.  I am so sorry for I want to get in my trunk.  If I only knew where to write I would write to her.  Aunt Frances thinks she won’t come at all for she said she wouldn’t carry them.  Aunt C said she would and I know she will for she will do what she promised.   I think she must have had a time to find a place.  I must close for I written more now than I thought I would when I commenced. 
My love to all.  From your affectionate,
Daughter [Mary Anne]   

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