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…………









May 14, 1876 Richard Garner-1838 to John Benjamin-1823


77 Islington, Liverpool

May 14, 1876

My Dear Brother & Sister,

Was very much pleased to receive a letter from each of you this morning.  I was just on the point of sending the enclosed off for I had missed the mail of the 12th and I am very sorry, exceedingly disappointed, in not being able to be present at your silver wedding for we for we had been sure to be with you some time before that interesting quarter century anniversary.   I do assure you that we are very much annoyed that it could not be avoided but you know the reason, and our medical advisor has counseled us to be very circumspect and watchful over our boy.  We never can be too cautious.  He says must use every care for him to regain his strength.  I have sent such in all the papers sent you lately.  Shall continue to do so. 

I only saw Joseph for about ten minutes the other day.  He got home by the 6:10 train from Limo St. Station.  What do you think of my coming via Boston?  I think it will be a saving to me and suit us better on a/c of the children.  Tell Frank I shall do all I can to bring two guns, one for myself, the other to be at Robert’s disposal to lend to Frank and rest of family but to be in Robert’s keeping just to keep us together.  We will not want to go sporting every day but take our turns.

Dear brother, if there is any particular newspaper you would like more than any other in England, let me know and I will send.  Keep writing.   If I can come sooner than time mentioned I will, but I will write you a final epistle before we start.   All your forms, instructions I shall comply with.  I am glad you all are in good health.  I think that your government is giving you, brother, a deal of trouble for you seem to be very often in the jury.  I hope you will get a good honest President[1] this next time and that we shall have no more fraud

Marian is delighted about her calf and dog, quite wild with excitement.  Poor child, she never knew till lately that she had Uncle, Aunt, and cousin in America.  She has got all your names off quite pat.  So with kind to all, I remain your affectionate brother,

Richard
[1] Rutherford Hayes beat Samuel Tilden in a very controversial election.  Ulysses S. Grant had been the prior President.

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