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…………









Dec. 3, 1876 Joseph Garner-1826 to John Benjamin-1823


Holywell

Dec. 3rd, 1876

Dear Brother & Sister,

On Friday last I received your letter and was glad to find all well with the exception of rheumatism, troubling one and a terrible down the cellar troubling the other.  The cellar act in this country we generally attribute to looking after the beer barrel, but to an American I suppose he must be looking after the substantials of his next crops, but by now I hope rheumatism has vanished & John’s arm is all right.   

I hope Richard has done well in removing from this country.  The trade here is unaccountably quiet with no prospects of improvement.  Indeed, we all have come to the conclusion that it will not be better until we have a change in the government.

Mary is getting herself ready to go to Pendre Chapel this evening.   Maggie is busy at the table writing a letter to you, which I enclose.  Walter is at her side assisting her.  I only wish you could peep in and see us in the old crown kitchen .  Richard or Mary Ann will be able to give you a description of the room.

There seems very little hope of my visiting you.  I am afraid my mining ___ has gone to the wall.   It was my first trial and I am sure it shall be the last.   

It is not the thing for bad letter writers to give advice to others but, dear sister, as my eyes are a little more dim than they used to be, please don’t write across in your next.  I trust you still continue to have the Observer sent.  If you do not, let me know in your next.  In a week or so I will write to Richard.  Remember us kindly to them and accept the same for yourselves & family.  I am yours affectionately,

J. Garner


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