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…………









August 5, 1877 Joseph Garner-1826 to John Benjamin-1823



Holywell
August 5th, 1877
Dear Brother, Sister,
Here is another attempt at letter-writing which I intend ending.   I sent one also to Richard which I trust will find you all well. 
So far we have not drifted into war and I trust will escape it but there is no doubt it interrupts travel to a great extent causing things to be very quiet here.   I am sorry to find by your papers that the railway strike is doing you no good but trust that it will be over soon and trade revive both here and with you.  
The two elder boys have gone this afternoon to their Aunt’s at Holywell and Alfred, Maggie and Ma are now going to church and wish to be kindly remembered to you.   Bagillt seems to be thriving about the best place in this neighborhood, the employ upwards of 700 men but then there are plenty of shops without these coming to Holywell.    Unfortunately everything seems to go wrong with Holywell.  We are up to our ears in debt with the market and have not got out yet.  Flannel mills do not turn out as good as expected and our water works have been taken charge of by the bailiffs.  But in spite of all I think that trade will come someday but it seems very long, the best part of one’s live having gone by .    
I trust that you are all well with a plentiful harvest before you.  I do not know which is ___, yours or ours. 
So with kind love to all I remain,
Your affectionate brother,
Joseph Garner





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