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…………









June 12, 1890 John Benjamin-1823 to Arthur Benjamin-1868


[This is the last of John's letters which were saved.  He died about two years later]
Roseland, La.

June 12, 1890

Dear Arthur,

I forgot, when writing the other day, to say anything about Howard’s colt, which I wish you or Robbie would trade off to someone for a Champion mower and a two-horse corn plow, even if you have to give a calf to boot.  Those machines are very much need, of course, and shall want when the time comes to use them.   Howard & myself are agreed about this, whatever you do with the colt. 

Am glad to hear such flattering news in regard to the crops.  Your long letter, Ma, came to hand two days ago, also Mattie’s nice letter too.   We were all very much pleased to hear from you all.   I hope & trust that you, Ma, will soon recover your usual good health as it grieves me very much when I hear that you are ailing at all.   Mattie is a jewel to come over to assist you when necessary, or not necessary, and her willingness that tells big in her favor.   Many thanks to you, Mattie, for your kindness. 

I must cut this short as I have several other letters to reply to.  Our united love to all,
Father

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