Thomas Nelson Haskell Papers, Box 1 and 2, Folders 1-10 and 14-19

Haskell family letters transcribed by Marianne Rigdon, San Leandro, California, 2003 - 2008.
In date order.

[not dated]

I did not see the letter you wrote to Pliny till since Mr Sheldon came here. Remember mw and the rest of us in your prayers receive this from your unworthy Sister Abby P Haskell

Ever Dear Brother

I sit down to pen a few lines to you in my hand writing you would probably like to know what I have been doing this winter. I have been attending school in our district. James Lewis Morgan was [?] teacher. I have been a studying-Grammar and Philosophy and Arithmetic. I liked him very well. [?] you very much for that Olography I have studied some in it he d[?] not have us begin untill school was most out so t[?] we did not have time to go through with it. [crossed out ] Cousin Hannah has been attending school down at the south part of Bristol Sarah has been a teaching school in the same district that Brenice taught last summer Mary A Baker has been a teaching school in the center of Bristol [?] Baker has gone to Virginia Brenice has been a living at Josiahs this winter she talks of teaching school this summer if she can get a school I hope you will write to us as often as you can receive this from your sister Lucy P Haskell

[note: the letter fragment below, also undated, was attached to the one above; the writing resembles that of Abby Haskell]

on those that obeyed his voice and kept his covenant fearing his wrath if they disobeyed I have taken much pleasure in examining the word of God. What a contrast between the righteous that served him and the wicked which served him not who fought in their own strength regarded not their all-wise Maker the author of their being when the wicked rule the people mourn on the other hand when the righteous sway their septre the people rejoice the inhabitants of the land are made glad. I often think of those in Ireland who are starving no doubt who not for want of food and ^ many of them ^ who have ^ been enlightened by the Gospel of the Son of God. There is a going to be a meeting here for to send provision to that starving people we can do all that is in our power here but cannot go to them to administer to their wants I trust we all will lend a helping hand in sending provisions to them. I have taken to much of your time already I have not heard from Ellsworth this winter heard from Fathers people when Henry & Pliny were down buying cows Henry said he never saw Father appear to feel so well Adaline is very homesick down there, is a coming to live with me again this summer, they were all well. I do not know what business Lemuel calculates to follow this summer. Eliza had been to school all winter has got to reading in she is spelling everything she hears or sees readings ^ Olivia reads in words of two and three letters she only went two weeks. Pliny Nelson you would not know him he can say almost any thing he hears any one else say there is a pair of stockings here that was left to Sister Martha I have sent them by Mr Sheldon I should have knit you a pair to sent is I'd had yarn I could not think what there was that you needed most so we sent you a little piece of money you may receive it as a present from us. Write soon for we want to hear from you write how you get along for clothing [page 3] Brother we would be glad [missing]?end you some thing in way of clothing [missing] have not any thing convenient to send this piece of my is $2.50 Brother if you get straitened for the want of money write and let me know it and not suffer for the want of it I will help you write without fail and let us know how you get along what your expenses are pray much pray for us that we may live more [ink blot] Chri [blot] G H Haskell

[not dated]

Dear Sister

I have neglected answering your and Mothers mor [sic] than welcome letter until this time and I hope both of you pardon my negligence in so doing and not folow [sic] my example but apologies are not worth room on paper to write them and so I will [?] upon any other subject you [?] in your last to give up all hopes of my returning to B but if our lives are spared and and [sic] I have my health I hope to enjoy the society of my friends in that place once more and spend many hapy [sic] hours with them home has undergon [sic] such a change that I expect it would not seem like the same place Some of our Brothers and Sisters are married and some [are crossed out] have left home and some have grown (I suppose) out of my knowledge but I have the same strong desire to see them and the same anxiety about them that I have should had had they all continued in their former cituation [sic] but the importance of our meeting in this world can not be compared with that of meeting in the next where sighs and sorows [sic] will be no more O Sister let us strive to live in such a maner [sic] that we may meet the aprobation [sic] of the judge of quick and dead and receive the welcome and hapy [sic] applause well done thou good and faithful servant thou has been faithful over a few things I will make the ruler over many things enter thou in to the joy of the Lord : We ougt [sic] to write more often and much for nearly all the [illegible phrase] I [crossed out] have nowadays is perusing letters from my friends do as soon as you receive this remember from your ungrateful and affectionate Brother in the bonds of affection

to Miss Martha Haskell
C D Haskell

as it respects the letter Sister M wrote me in may I have not received it nor heard anything respecting Mr N I hope my friends will all write I have [never crossed out] not received a word from T N since I left home and Lucy must bee [sic] by this time all most schollar [sic] [illegible word] to write
C D

Capt Geo Haskell
North Bloomfield
Co Trumbull
Ohio

A few lines from my aged Father w[missing] come very exceptable. The last I have [missing]ived from him if I mistake not in [missing] in [dec crossed out] Dec 1838 and have written [missing]al times to him [and crossed out] and received answer and if it would not be and surmountable task I wish he would favor me with a letter I received a letter from cousin H. G. H. a few days since which infor[missing] one that our friends [wer crossed out] in Alton we will likewise [?]
From T H D they too were well.

[additional notes that were attached to the copy of the letters to his mother and sister]

I think of not joining until then Pliny if I do return unless you join before we can both join together how I long to meet you you are you but not to young to be a christian O that I had [?] more of [?] time

you must form a firm and solid resolution that let others [?] they ma[missing]
you will be for the Lord I beg you do not look at the faults of professors but look at Christ and his [?] [illegible words] directions do you [illegible and missing words]

NOT DATED

Friday A M
Bro Haskell
I have but a moment to write & will tell my business "right off" I am to be married about the 20 of Dec. & I wish to ask if it will be consistent for you to be present & act as groomsman- My sister Louisa will be the bridesmaid If it will be consistent for you to come I will let you know the precise time. Soon by Mail. I know it is asking a great favor of you . & I do not wish feelings or interests. Perhaps you can answer by the Bearer. if so do -- & I will know what else to do. if you do not come over in haste
Truly your friend & Bro
Wm C Savage

[Addressed to:]
Capt George Haskell
North Bloomfield
County of Trumbull
Ohio

Quincy [crossed out] 1835

This letter has been mislaid and forgotten until the present time Nov 6 1835

Dear Father

I will now take my pen and endeavor to answer the letter we received from you some time since and must imparte [sic] the negligence to myself for not answering it we received it about Independence time when we had a great [?] in our minds as the inhabitants of Quincy celebrated the day by having an oration delivered in the meeting house and immediatily [sic] after returning to a pavillion erected for the occasion when we laid a table for three hundred and fifty [for?] when we preparred [sic] the dinner and my health not being good at the time d[?] everything beside form my mind you informed me of your ill heath when if the distance had been less I should have been tempted to have started to have the pleasure of visiting the home of my Father but my cares and my family are so great I [?] not think of leaving home [?] the time it would take to accomplish so long a journey you wished me to tell you about my children I will begin with George he is a great boy takes after the Haskells is taller than his Father and bids fair to make a smart man but rather tinctured with the Haskell Blood for he [?] [?] Henry labours [sic] under the disadvantage of being [?] D[?] always has been rather delicate as is respects to his health he has left home last spring to get the [track?] of a boot maker he likes the work as yet very well I believe and I hope his heath will permit him to continue. Mary Ann is now almost fourteen years old. I think she will not go to school anymore she has been from home twelve months attending a Ladies school where there was nothing but Misses she attended the solid and ornamental [Branches?] and made very good [?] all the Branches she took lessons in music in the piano

Joseph Charles Francis and Daniel are not large enough to say much about at present and we have one more which I have not mentioned at all we have a little Hannah Adelaide which was born the Twenty second of April which I think is my Fathers birth day she is a fine promising babe and very fleshy after her birth I was very sick one of my limbs swelled from my hip to the end of my toes so that I could not bear my heft for some [?] alone and indeed it is quite troublesome when I stand much my family is all well at present and join in respects to the unknown Grandfather give my respects to all inquiring friends as I [?] your [?]full Daughter

H K French

Upper Alton August 21 1836

Ever Dear Parents and friends with a trembling hand and acheing [sic] heart I shall attempt to write a few lines to you O that I could tell you that our little family Were all [?] in the land of the living but God in his providence has ordered it otherwise he has seen fit to take our Dear little Artemas from us and waft his little spirit to the eternal worlds O my Dear father and Mother if you ever pray pray for us now that we may be reconciled to his most holy will and be brought to feel that the Lord have and the Lord has taken and bless his holy name it seems as tho we could not give him up to lie here in a land of strangers but thus the Lord has seen fit to in infinite wisdom to deal with us he died at half past three yesterday morning and was buried in at five in the after noon he had been sick so long that it was not thought prudent to wait till to day he had been sick ever si[?] since late January the first of June he was taken withe the billious fever and brought so low that we thaught [sic] that he could not live but the Lord had marked him for greater sufferings he was taken with the disentary [sic] five weeks ago it lasted four days when the bloody flux set in and continued one week [pg 2] Dr Long attended him twice a day the first week and them brought Dr Geo Haskell they stoped [sic] the bloody flux and then the [on the side of pg 2] inflammation [faded] in his head set in and when not forgetting sister B [?] that was checked the disentary would again set in then for a day or two he would appear better ['for a day or two' crossed out] till the last week of his life and that was marked with one continued sufferings when I his greatest sufferings he would cling to me and Cry O ma ma as tho he thought I could help him he tried to nurse a great many times after he had not strength to draw one swallow he appeared to have his senses and watch me with his little eyes till the very last about ten minutes before he breathe his last I called him by name he reached his little hand and held on to mine till ['almost' crossed out] the last breath he was in a diing [sic] state for nearly ten hours but alas his sufferings are over and we have performed the last sad office Oh pray for us pray for us my dear parents and all the rest of our our Christian friends pray that we may [missing word (be?)] reconciled to the hand dealings of God tow[missing] us altho we are in a land of strangers and [missing] ly afflicted yet we have found in evry [sic] direction Mr and Mrs Green live in the same house with us and have renderd [sic] us [pg 3] assistance in their power Dr Long has been our physician ['and' crossed out] Christian friend and adviser Brother Artemas has gone up to the Wisconset Territory town of Birlington and gone into the mercantile busines together with land speculation he thinks he can do better there than here we expect him here on business next month now my ['Dear Do not neglect' crossed out] Dear parents Brothers and Sisters Do not neglect to write to us as soon as you receive this father you used to neg lect to write to Hannah but you and Mother will not neglect to write to us in this our day of trouble the inhabitants showd [sic] us great respect there could be no minister got on the account of other appointments but Deacon Lomis came and gave a short exorta tion sung there is a house not made with hands ['made' crossed out] made an appropriate ['pray' crossed out] prayer after that he led us to take the last look of our little babe he had been sick so long he was wasted to a skeleton there was quite a [crossed out] prosesion [sic] ['followed' crossed out] follow [missing] the grave many came out of there houses and [joined?] the prosesion I received mothers and Brother C letter and should have answerd [sic] it sometime if it had been possible I remain your sincere friend and Daughter E H Nims Geo Haskell and Eliza Haskell Brothers and sisters [pg 4] now I am too full of trouble I shall send you a lock of his hair with a piece of his shroud as the only memorial I can send

Mr George Haskell
North Bloomfield
Trumbull County
Upper Alton }
Ill Aust '2d } Ohio

From Sister Elizabeth Nims
T N H

the rest of our family are all will Mr Greens likewise they join in love to you this appears to be a healthy place when I write again I will tell you how we get along [?]

Fayette Feb 24 1837
Worthy Parents & Brothers and Sisters through blessings of a kind providence my life and health has been spared and I now take my pen in hand to write you an answer to your last which I received some days since was more than welcome you cannot tell how I want to see you all but though we are far from each other our prayers can mete at a throan of grace if our hearts are right before god prayer is that which nourishes the soul and that which cultivates the heart and fits it for the blessings of heaven For the fervent affectual prayer of the righteous man availeth much and if Christians would pray as much as it is their duty and pravalege to do they would not have so many dark hours would not be complain so much of a hard hear and would not be so easily cought and led away by [?]
[page 2]
and how much it becomes us to watch our selves and our closets and to wrightly feel our depend anse upon God for our Spiritual thoughts for we of our selves can do not hing acceptable to him or it is the lord which worketh in [?] to will and to do of his good pleasure and when we once consider what have we done or can do that merits eternal live if there is a good work wrought in us we aught to give God that praise and if there is not the fault is in us Mary I feell quite interested and concerned about your spiritual welfare Jesus when upon Earth had the power to forgive sins and he has the same power now that he had then and is still wateing to be gracious ar you willing to to give up all and follow him and to open the door and let him in he has been knocking long and is knocking still he bids you come to him and live Angels are inviting you to come Christians are inviting you to come and who[?] Satan for

[letter ends here - handwriting is Charles Haskell's]

Alton Dec 9th 1837
Ever dear Brother
Through the amazing mercy and goodness of God my [?] unprofitable life has been spared to the present moment which I now improved in writing to you O my dear brother you cannot immagine
[line is missing]
and hope and trust that [missing this edge the Lord [?] to my soul of letter] will you not come and I hope that I am going thar Pleasures never die I feel I have just commenced live not immagine the comfort th the enjoyment of religion. morning was the first time that bowed the [?]plient knee before God to beg pardon for my amazing how I have lived the [?] Heavens blessings how much easier it would for God to cut me down [?] [ ?] hope and mercy could than [missing]have born with way [missing] has my penn can my feeling [missing] the comfort which the m[missing] of the time for I wished at first wth praying friends
[page 2]
Yet appear quite regardless about their Eternal all O Henry you cannot immgine How much I think about you I flee to Christ as for your life for he is the only source from whence live cometh will not all the preyers and kind entreties of your friends convince you of a reality there is in religion Henry depend upon it our anxiety are more than we can express so for once reflect that you have a [?] dying Soul to be either Savior lost that for us Christ both suffered and died that we through his deat might be saved are you depending upon your own righteousness remember that in the day of judgement it will be as fit[?] ngs. or [?] you intend to harden your heart against all entreaties. He that hardeneth his heart and suffereth h[?] [?] shall surley be destroyed and then with out remedy. I must now draw to a close give my respects to all inquiring Friends
this your anxious Brother
C D Haskell

To G H Haskell

Were our friends having an opportunity to write a few lines to you I will in[?]
[last line missing]
[page 3]
that ever say the praries lay rather rolling and look verry handsome and there is some most beautifull farmes on them the timbers [?] not look as I expected there timber is in[?] oak I would say a few words to Pliny I think that our prayers have been answered [rest is missing] [missing] that Charles has sought for religion and has obtained I think that we have great reason to be thankfull for what the Lord is doing for us I have written some letters to mother the fore[?] I shall not write any more yours affectionately yours to all the family tell mother that I expect to go to work for Cobb three months any [missing] and if he can get work I shall stay nine months give my respects to all inquiring friends with a good share to mother and yours from your unworthy friend T H Daggtt please to write the whole particulars about the whole so good bye Dear Friends as C & T have written to you and they have not filled this sheet and as I am happy to say a few [?] to you I will do so Charles is working in Fayette as I suppose you have heard already Thomas and my self started Tuesday last [?] to Fayette to see him and Mr Cob (his Boys) as I have not [missing]
[page 4]
your Salvation but what shall I say to those if any those be among you who have not an interest in the Saviour I can not find words to express my feelings for you Oh let me say to you prepare to meet your God I intreat you by all the joys of Heaven and all miseries of that world of woe turn to God and seek your Souls [?] deliverance is my Prayer Fare well my friends J. N. Brown {to all my young friends in Bloomfield}
he says it seemed as though he could not weight for an [?] were to this letter

[letter ends here - handwriting is Charles Haskell's]

[note: letter is from Charles D Haskell; no date is given but it had to be prior to early 1840-he drowned in March 1840]

[opening page of letter is possibly missing]

time the deck passengers hard at work and did not get even a thanks on the 11 our boat ran ground on a land bar at the mouth of the Cumberland river wher we wer detained about five hours and from that time on nothing very special occur until we arrived at St Louis on the [?] after a delay of 8 hours we took passage on board of the Ark and about [?] on the 14th we landed at Lower Alton where we stoped about 2 hours and about three in the after noon we entered the vilage of Upper Alton and in a short time found the way to Brother Nimes and found all in good health and we are well at the time [crossed out ' I have be'] [crossed out 'at work'] times in this country are verry hard ['as well' crossed out] in the [?] money verry [?] and wages very low a common laboring hands geting only 1.00 a day carpenters are [?] 2.00 and board them selves which is worth 3.00 a week Brother Nimes keeps from 8 to 11 Board ers and is getting 2.00 a day for his labour Sister Betsey gets from five shillings to 1.00 a day for washing. So you can judge how Eliel is paying 15 a month for house rent they are a[?] Sister B has written respecting A situation and an [?] conduct I shall write nothing respecting him________________________________ I think of home every day but do not feel sorry that I have come to this country give your selves no uneasiness about me for I am in good health and can get a dller a day as long as I am a mind to work and think I shall a until I can get in to better business I have worked 5 days and expect to go to work to morrow provided the Gentleman will give me enough so I can board my self for they as is styled here si??or fashions and to this as yet I have nothing extra ordinary I have seen but little except along the banks of the river and be tween here and the river which the the land is about like the township of ??tintown but think the soil to be much richer and unless I find some part that suits me better and do not get in to other business it may be that I may be in Bloomfield for good but not this some years until I get enough to pay for a farm there are as I have as I have been told there are farms in about twenty miles of this place that can not be obtained [?] of twenty dollars an acre I think for [?] that if a ma?? man has a good stay there than to move to any part of this country that I have seen I must now draw to a close give my respects to all inquiring Mr F Proctor and wife J M Knapp and wife in particular [missing] all your asociates this from your [missing] Brother C D H

Capt Geo Haskell
North Bloomfield
Co of Trumbull
Ohio

Jan 12 1840

Dear Mother

[?] Some days since received a letter from you and Sister M and was very glad to hear from you and your good health which is the greatest blessing of a tem temporal [?] [blessing is crossed out] we can enjoy and with gratitude "to him who is the author of every good and perfect gift. I know inform [?] that my health is again restored to its former state and that I am now enjoying as good health as I ever enjoyed in my life. I received a letter form Sister [?] H G about two weeks since which informed me of Brother G H marriage and Rs having [?] and going to live with Mr A P Spaulding fi it terminates with him as it has with me he has seen his hapeist [sic] day but I trust he has a good home and will be well suited with both his employer and his employment and will be steady but regreted that he altered his caculation [sic] about going to school. I hope that my being absent from home so much longer than what was expected that Sister M will not be discouraged and give it up too and folow [sic] the example of our older Brother and Sister and find a lover and join in [hyrmonels?] bonds and launch into the Ocean of matrimonial life and be encumbered with the cares of a family and the perplexing anxious thoughts of futur well fare and the bustles of worldly affairs and deprive herself of of that hapy retirement the prevalege [sic] of only those who are at liberty and enjoy the freedom of body and mind , the hours are gliding swiftly away and I must proceede to an other subject of more infinite importance
I now have a [fuirer?] prospect as it [?] the affairs of this world than I have had here to face but the prospect for future hapiness beyond this life are but small and appear very dim in comparison to what they once were at the time when when [sic] I first thought I first saw the [something is crossed out-illegible phrase] the light of the smiling countenance of the redeemer shining on that straight and narrow way that leads to heaven but little did I know what awaited me.

I know not the frail and depraved nature of my own heart nor the rugged way of the folower [sic] of the land but all the trials which I have to encounter have been justly lent upon one me and I have often had to explain that Affliction tho [?] [?] Are oft in [?] sent and that I [have is crossed out] am one of the most ungreatful [sic] creature that was ever permited [sic] to profess the dcipleship [sic] of Jesus Christ my example before [illegible phrase] such [?] my daily duty is performed in such a way it often brings many douts [sic] and fears that I have no part nor lot in the matter that I am still in the gall of bitterness and bonds of iniquity. I have been in this place about nine months and during the time I have herd [sic] only one sermon and have met with but very few christian friends with whom I could converse upon the all important of subject subject of the wellfare of some never di[?]ing soul whose views [core?] the [?] with mine: not with standing the change that has taken place in my Fathers family since my absence I long to be once more [crossed out] one of the number that shall [crossed out letter] compose the family circle and enjoy once more the society of my dear Parents and Brothers and Sisters who are bound to me by natures ties of affection [illegible phrase] strong to be broken while time is with [?] and mortal life shall continue to exist and what is more than all to be one of that number in surounding [sic] the family alter and mingle our prayers to a thron [sic] of grace which was mad [sic] accessible by the beloved and only begotten Son of God [that I must crossed out] and enjoy and have the advice of a Father and the council of a Mother: I must now write a few lines of Sister M, I wish you to write as soon as you receive this and write all about unkle [sic] A s family and cousin [?] is a geting [sic] along with with [sic] all the dutys [sic] he is encumbered with likewise our Mina friends. This from your unworthy son
C D H

to E Haskell

March 16th 1840
From A.H.H.

[missing]n Haskell

I have sad news for you. Brother Charles in attempting to cross English river on Monday the 2nd of this month for the purpose of securing some timber that was like to be swept away by the flood and was copeised in his canoe and instantly drowned. Thus ends the life of a young man who was beloved and respected by all who knew him in this county.

I have but one thing more to write. Why don't you write to me? It has been years since I have rec'd a line from you. But however I remember my father instructed me never to urge myself into company where there was the least appearance of my presence not being wanted.

I should not now have written; but I thought my duty called me to inform you of the mournful accident.

I remain yours truly forever

A. H. Haskell

Farwell

to his beloved Father though altogether neglected by him.

(March 16 1840)

Washington Co Iowa Teritory Oct 8 1840

Dear Madam

Your Letter of June 23rd was [?] by the Post Master of Washington he being unacquainted with the circumstances attending the death of your son gave the letter to my husband to answer I therefore take it upon me to give you the information you desired; we are [?] nearest neighbors of Mr Haskill and live about 1/4 of a mile from the place where Charles was drowned; Artemas and Charles came here in the spring of 1839 and made each a claim Charles has 16 acres broke and fenced he also with a Mr Owens Claimed a mill site which he was engaged a work when [?]-ed they had the timber for the frame and [?]am hauled out Charles and Owen had built them a cabin and were keeping house by themselves the waters were very high and still raising They had crossed the river to secure some timber on the opposite bank they were returning when the canoe capsized and Charles was drowned Mr Owen made every exertion he could to save him but Charles [?]ing unable to [?] and the ice [?]iming very thick he had to quit his hold and make for the shore himself he was very much b[??]ed and almost speechless when he got ashore my husband was the first person who got to him the canoe in which they w[]e was made of green black walnut and sunk at once it was the only craft on the river there was no possible means of getting to him he had then sunk to ice no more I was acquainted with him about 10 months was a young man of very stready moral habits and always appeared to respect religion very much his remains have never yet been found alsho every exertion has been used; he left property we think to the amount of about four or five hundred Dollars including his claim Artemas administered on the Estate and part of the property was sold his claim is not yet sold it is thought there will not be much of the property left long------Artemas is in quite low circumstances expect to move to Iowa City in a few days Mrs has been sick all summer her health is some better now-
if you write to Artemas you had better direct to Iowa City

Yours with respect

Sarah J D[missing]

Mrs Eliza Haskell

Well Brother Henry after so long a time I have received a letter from you and was glad to here that you all that are alive and well but regret verry [sic] much to learn that our beloved Hannah is dead I received your letter not more than 10 minutes since and I answer it fourth with [one?] expect that you will do the same when you get this my self and family are well and doing very well at present you tell me that sister Susan wished to here frome [sic] me do she expect that I will write her a letter by [?] mail and never get an answer from her if she dose [sic-does] let her be disapoi= nted [sic-disappointed] for I have writen [faded] 7 times to her and uncle R since I moved to the west and have not received a line from one of them since even I have been in this county therefore I think it about time for me to stop writing to that quarter and save my paper for som[?] and [?] but I will say to those of my friends who neglect me they must expect the same from me but now I will endeavor to answer your [?] expecting brother Charles affairs [sic] the appraisal of his estate amounts to seven hundred and fifty three dollars and seventy and a half cent and it was sold on the 14 day of may last public sale agreable to law [pg 2] expecting ['what was apprised' crossed out] [faded words] [faded] claim that was apprised at $129 which has been sold at $100, agreeable to law and I have [faded] to settle his business accountings [faded] and I do not believe accounting to the best [faded¼..] I ca[faded] [faded] that there will be more than $75 [crossed out] left when the estate settled I attended probate cort [sic] last week and there was an account [faded]oven in that an[faded] [?]ted to three hundred and ['thirty dollars' crossed out] eighteen dollars and [?] [?] and seven [?] [?] and then is [?] al acts [accounts?] that I know of that have not yet been [?] ted his property did not come up to the appraisal [?] a considerable at the sale and the only reason I can ascribe for it is because [faded] apprisal to [?] he and Abm [Abraham] Owen were engaged in building a mill as [faded]tated [?] previous letter and cha[?] and until this time [faded words] ably fortunately his property would have been worth no [faded words] five or six [faded] dollars but his death just at the time it [?] when it [?] his land was not out of the [rest is faded] in [?] and debts contacted for the [?] of completeing [sic] [?] and not profit realisd [sic] and being obliged to sell the property to wind up and settle his affairs just at this time leaves but little as to that charge against you on his books I think [faded] [pg 3] [?] it he to me six months before [faded] death that you [?] some way [?] his] sheep which Daggett gave him on the [stee¼s?] that he was to have in there room as to the charge against Mrs Daggett I would like if she ecknowledges [sic] it to have her [?] it to your other and send me her receipt for the some [any?] if you [?] from your self indebted to the estate to like wise I would propose to the [?] [?] the property of laying out the [?] [?] part of the estate as well as to the then heirs as the [faded] be so small to erct [erect] a monument to his me[?] and if you conclude to do so write and let me know and as soon as it is possible for me to asertain [sic] the precise amount I will have it done and if any of you have any inscription that you would wish to have engraved on it write it to me and I will have it engraved then on your mother wishes me to write to her she must excuse me this time for it is now 12 Oclock at night and my paper is full give my love to all who [?] [?] the trouble to enquire after [?] tell the [?] formerly that we shall be glad to here from them after they get reddy [sic] to make [faded] you enquire after our children the oldest go to school evry day we have 3 the youngest is about a year old call her Ann respectfully yours

A H Haskell
Iowa City Dec 31 1840

[pg 4]

how can any of you expect that I will write you without you answer my letters

Mr Geo H. Haskell
North Bloomfield
Trumbule Co

Dear Brother I have not time to write but a few words but I must let you know that I have not forgotten you and the rest of our brothers and sisters noindeed but I am tell you there has not been a day passed since the death of our dear mother but what I have thought about them all and purticulurly those who are yet in youth and unsettled in life and I hope that I often try to pray for them I hope and trust you all put your trust in the Lord and go to him for direction O what a comfort it is to think we can cast all our care and ourselves in the arms of our blesses Savior and through his all atoning blood find acceptance with God and access to the throne of grace O that we might be faithful in duty fervent in spirit serving the Lord and grow in grace daily. I heard by Brother Amos that you are teaching school in Warren I shall be much disappointed if you do not come and see us bfore you leave there [?] we want to see you, I think A has been more engaged in religion this winter than I ever knew him to be so long a time bfore since he first thougt to experence it. if you see any of our bloom. friends give my love to them. I want to see them I want to write much but I must stop this from your dear but unworthy Sister. E. H. S. T.N.H.

[from Eliza Spaulding date was given as Jan 1843]

[letter of recommendation]

Bloomfield Oct 11. 1843

This certifies that we have been personaly acquainted with Thomas N. Haskall and we believe him to be possessed of a good moral character and the requisite qualifications to teach and manage a school and have the fullest confidence in recommending him to any district which may wish to secure his services in the important & responsible business of teaching

S. H Bushnell
A. Hartman M. D.

Bloomfield Sept 23 1844

Dear Friend

I rec'd your kind letter in due time and should have answered it sooner but have found no leisure until now O was very happy to receive a letter from you and to learn that you are so well satisfied with your situation that it is so favorable to the acquirement of scientific knowl= =edge: and that the influence which are brought to bear are favorable to growth in grace O am glad that you have a student prayer meeting and I hope its interest will continue and that those among you who are unconverted may feel its influence-O how many considerations there are why we should pray why we should be led out in prayer to him who is the source of all the benifits and blessing that we enjoy-because we are dependent and because of our lack of wisdom-but I cannot enlarge-I am quite busy at present packing church etc and I expect to before a long time to come There is not much that is new that would be of interest to you in this vicinity there are some few cases of sickness-Mr Wings little girl is quite unwell Mr Rice has a fever -The school here is as prosper -ous as could be expected some 2 scholars I believe [page 2] Mr Pitkin does not spend much of his Time in it I understand. and I suppose B(?) is capable of taking the charge so far as knowledge is concerned.

Spiritual things continue about the same as where you left and I do not expect much change until the present political campaign is passed-We have a Mr Leslie and a Mr Mattbey for Methodist Ministers on this circuit-both very good men O should think they appear to preach as if etrnal things depended upon their instructions I hope they may be enabled to do great good amo- ng us-but they cannot do much unless the people cooperate and neither can effect anything without the blessings of God-I am acquainted with Mr Mattby's Parents and some of his Brothers-and they are very highly esteemed--You want I should tell you something about Eli Penniman-I do not know much about his state of mind (?) to his last confinement as I was not intimate with him he was not at the store very often I was with him some when he was quite sick but he was deprived of his reason for nearly a week previous to his death so that we could not say anything to him I watched with him the night but one before he died-his Mother says she feels as though he was "gone but not lost" she brings together a train of circumstances his feelings his expressions his state of mind all going to show that he was changed-but we cannot [page 3] tell the searcher of hearts a love knows-but I would not take away the hope of his mother for all the gold there is in the mine-they all appeared to love him tenderly as Parents and Brothers and Sisters always love this Brother But he is gone his Spirit has fled to him who gave it and his body will return to the dust as it was-those tender ties are severed and the silver cord is loosed---and we (?) (=?) in our probationary state to act our parts and to go where he is gone-I have thought much lately of Death the thought that my soul will not always be filtered by this clapy(?) tenement is infinitely consoling "I would not live always" Brown Penniman arrived at home a few days after Eli died-sick with a fever I have seen him several times but he is so sick that I could not converse with him much he does not know whether he shall go back as not this fall he says if he waits till spring that he can have (?) situation again ---we are all immersed in Politics here as you had supposed and I shall be glad when it is passed- I have thought much lately of why it is that so little is done for the salvation of man in such times and I fear that it is because good men often espouse the cause of bad men and act from considerations of expectancy and not from principle and thus they are shorn of their spiritual strength please excuse this long (?) of words as I have [page 4] written it without much thought or consideration and I have written much more than I expected give my kind regards to Mr Osborn and let him read this if you choose If you have time write me again soon your Brothers people are all well

[address]

I think of nothing more to write you -I thank you again for your kind letter and am thankful that I have so kind a friend

Yours affectionately

Wm. C. Savage

[not dated, same sender]

Friend Haskell

If you can make it convinint to come down to the center this P.M. I wish you would I want you should go down to Esq Smith and take tea with me I expect my two sisters then and Miss White who teaches the select school in Bristol-------I should be very happy to have your company down there In haste

Your affectionate Friend Saturday Noon Wm C Savage

Ellsworth Nov 8 1844 Dear Brother

I received your kind letter sometime since and perused it with feeling a deep interest in the sentiments it contained and grateful to hear from you. I have been trying to get time to answer it but have not found it untill the present moment for you know brother that I have care upon care, duty upon duty, and great respons ibility resting upon me as a mother who is surrounded with a family of [?] children who not only want the comforts of the life but whose intellectual minds are expanding and need culti vating and whose souls need training up for heaven, O that we their parents may be enabled by the grace of God to lead and point them to the Lamb of God which taketh away the sins of the world. when I realize the worth of their souls and the importance of their being trained up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord; I am led to explain one is sufficient for these things? I feel that it needs a great deal of grace, and wisdom, and understanding, and faith, and patience, and love, and meekness and humility, together with firmness perseverense and resolution, to faithfully perform the duties of a parent and particularly one who professes to be a follower of the Lord Jesus. Nov 9th Do pray for us, how much we need to pray that we may live, how true the language of the God when he say long as they live should christians pray for only while they pray they live, o how sweet it is to meet our Savior in the closet to come boldly at the throne of grace to cast all our cares and sorrows on Him who was wounded for our transgressions who was bruised for our iniquities [page 2] and by whose stripes we are or may be healed if we truly bring unto him the sacrifice of a broken heart and a contrite spirit, but o the or my heart is so deceitful so prone to every sin I dare not trust my warmest vows I feel today Then tell me gracious God God Is mine a contrite heart or no? And if it be not broken break and heal it if it be; I often think of you Brother and ever endeaver to remember you in my feeble petitions at the throne of grace, I hope that you will persevere on in the strings of the Lord, in the spiritual welfare Nov 17th I do feel particularly interested in the spiritual welfare of my Brothers & Sisters I am anxious to hear from those in Iowa. Jeremiah went to Iowa in July has not returned. Sister Jerusha has had one of her limbs amputated was getting along quite well the last we heard, our family and friends are in usual health my health is better this summer that for some time. Partin[?] has a daughter they are well Moses family comfortable they have another daughter H and M expect to commence going to school this week we have man teacher engaged our little children often speak of their uncles and Aunts and want to see them as I also do Brother Pliny made us a short visit this fall, give my love to all our dear friends Dec 15 Nothing special has occurred since this was communicated the good hand of the Lord is still over us in spiring our lives [page 3] and preserving our healths while others sicken and [?] die our Minister Mr Hoyt is lying very sick and it is considered very dangerous the Lord only knows what is best for him and his people. I have been reading the life of Rev I Pierce in whom was found a great portion of holy zeal and genuine candor, spirituality and rationality, talents & that [?] almost universal applause; and yet the most anffected modesty; faithfulness in bearing testimony against evil, with the tenderest compassion to the soul of the evil doers, fortitude that roused encounter any difficulty in the way of duty; without anything boisterous or noisy or overbearing deep seriousness with habitual cheerfulness; and a constant aim to promote the highest degree fo piety in him self and others, with a rediness to hope the best of the low lowest; not breaking the bruised reed nor quenching the som[?]ing flux.

Dear Brother I hope you will forgive me for being so long writing this letter and excuse poor writing and mistakes, and receive this from your ever affectionate yet

unworthy unfaithful Sister

Eliza H Spaulding the children are much pleased with their school, do write or visit us soon, Augustus and the children join with me in love to you.

The last I heard form brother Brooks he was not expected to live through the winter.

Thomas N Haskell

Mechanics Lodge

Palmyra Sabbath Evening Dec 1st 1844 Dear Brother With pleasure I seat myself by my writ- Ing table after returning from the evening prayer meeting And closing the public labors of another hallowed day of the Lord I do address a few broken ideas/rambling almost as they revolve in my mind; To our beloved and unforgotten I think I was never before made more sensible of the depr- avity of the human heart that to day. This day has been one of deep self examination & I trust the Lord has been with me while honestly endeavoring to [?] my darkest corners and most secret receses of the heart. Never be- fore I think did I experience a more heart searching & Soul
humiliating [?] since my first [?] to him whom I trust my [?] loveth; Since the day of the union to my be- loved. I find my heart to be all vanity, all depravity. I find also "a law in my numbers waring against the Law of my mind and bringing me into captivity to sin.-That when I would do good evil is present with me, and the things which I would those so I not & the things I would not, those do I" O that I could continue with the apostle and say "nevertheless is not that I [?] it but sin that dwelleth in me.-O wretched moan that I am, who shall deliver me from this body of this death? I thank God that through Jesus Christ our Lord even this most unworthy of the unworthy my have hope. You dear brother have don [?] experience similar scines. After having for a time soared aloft in self exaltation when the Lord kindly showed you the depravity of your heart by calling to mind broken resolutions, neglected duties, frequent and numerous commissions of sin, the least of which unrepented of would cloth the soul with consternation and [?] that great [?] notable day of the Lord, when all the earth shall be gathered together when thousands of thousands and ten [?] thousands shall stand before the judge of the quiet and dare to be judged according to the deeds done in the body.
[page 2]
For if the Lord has called you lo?blow the gospel ? and sound the alarm of death to a dying world, he will qualify you for that purpose. And where personal experiance is necessary you will learn in the ['So' crossed out] it things that you would not neither could you learn from books or the experience of others. Yes brother you will be called to many trials & humiliating seasons that you may learn the deception and corruption of the carnal heart & be enabled to teach others the way of holy living. The Lord [?] all things will, blessed be his name. How humble should we depraved finite mortals full in his presence, how debased in our own eyes. Lord prepare me a proper seat at the bottom of the valley of humiliation and self-abasement, while I over more attempt to introduce myself as a theme for the pen in this epistle. Sometimes I find my Father to the joy of the inward man. But Ah! how soon as I thrust him from me, how soon do I grieve him. How firmly do I bar the door of the heart against my beloved who has all the night been knocking whose locks are wet with the drops of the night and with the dew of the morning. O my love my door stay yet a little space and may the holy Spirit induce the heart to prepare the room. The contagious dis- ease of political strife hath truly desolated the land, and laid waste the cities of our God, and made of the most fruitful fields of zion baren which present a heartrenching scene, a dismal and gloomy aspect. O where will the Lord return to his people? When will they take their harps from the will- ow and sing a song of zion. When will the good Shepherd lead his sheep out to green pastures by the side of still waters, and case them to rejoice where will they learn from the bitter harvest of their rebellion, to cleave to Christ. How long will professed Christians continue to crucify the Son of man afresh. While engaged in prayer this evening it seemed as though my cup was overflowing and yet as though my heart would break for the desola- tions of zion. But I must for close for retirement it is [?] ten o clock. In the morning I must change the subject & give you a detail of temporal circumstances. (Monday Evening/ Dec 2nd) You perceive that morn- ing has changed to evening or any time for writing has changed. But to the subject I am enjoying most excelent health & had been Since about the first of Sept & have got as the English call it quite fat. I weigh 159 lbs. [?] not think I live in the midst of plenty where
[page 3]
the land floweth with milk & honey. where the crib is not shortened and the stream is not dried up. I think so, if you don't. I am still work- ing with Spaulding & Spooner, enjoying the time spent at work well. I board with uncle Spooner [?] pleasantly, except that Old Mother Spooner says I don't know no better than to invite a friend to see them when they are washing I own it & say I am sorry, but can't help it, we laugh & part. So you see I live in the midst of friends and temporal happiness O what reason to rejoice. The family is pleasant loving family & well. Mr. Spauldings family is usually well. I have firstrate neighbors, especially the Old Ladies, almost all of whom treat me as a Son. I don't go [?] or verry [?]. I feel brother that I am verry pleasantly situated at least I know no better than to think so. As to the young ladies I leave them out of the question. however they are pleasant & agreeable whenever I see them which is not verry often (Tuesday morning 3rd /44) I arise quite calm this [?] gifted rather old but in good heath. I must now tell you about my visit to B. I started on Saturday the 7th (or 9th) of Nov at 6 A.M. called Brother Brooks found them well except A.B. who seemed to be fast declining with the consumption the prospect is our sister is again to be left a widow O that the Lord [?] evidence of a preparation for death. After waiting 1 ½ hours I [?] [?] my journey, arrived in B. [?] past 3 called [?] Mr Colmstocks & sold him some leather a part what I had with me & again started, fond Henry at cousin M's gate, and called with him to see them, then started & soon arrived at H's rather tired. Found them well, also cousin Henry Knapp & wife with a verry pleasant visit with those there but he will of heaven be done Brother I think I never wanted to see you more than it that time, but did not expect to when I left P. I gladly received your letter of the
4th Oct & made my calculations to meet you at B. & spend some time with you but was disappointed. I hope you can come and see me this winter I intend to trouble you a little if I can leave. but it is doubtful I have not heard for the west. Eliza called on us about a week since was [?], she hoped she should see you this winter. Breakfast has called I must lay down my pen. Do all the good you can, Live faithful, Pray much, watch carefully, Live near of Christ. Pray for me & for the church & the world Adieu
T.N Haskell P. F. Haskell

Sabath afternoon

Andrew March 2th 1845

Very Dear Brother

Nelson Time has gone by and this day accomplishes [four?] years [since?] the expiration of one of my beloved brothers this day brings peculiar sensations which causes me to desire communication with my neglected but not forg gotten [sic] brother Oh what changes are we subject to what berevement and disappoin tments and how often are we led by the way that is dark yet in the end our path is lightness and we see clearly that the Judge of all the Earth will do right and that he does not willingly afflict the child of men And may we be still and know that he is God submit to his [will?] and learn lessons of wisdom from the dispensations of his providence___ Not one of the affections dear brother which we have been called to pa throng? Is the result of accident. And are the effect of caperse [sic] or tyranny Not one but was ordered in evry[sic] circumstance by infinite wisdom [restitude?] and love________Dear brother could our loved Parents and friends who ['are in years' crossed out] past years have shared with us in all our joys and griefs and in all our plans and ['who have' crossed out] counsels ['us' crossed out] and prayers ['for' crossed out] return to us again how thrilling would be the scene Much however as we [?] to their memory and much as we imagine we should profit by such a visit we would not for a moment withdraw them from enjoying the full beams of a Saviors glory Still as we recount the list of their names and think of by gone days spent in their sweet society we would encourage ourselves by their example and their final triumph to persue[sic] the course which our Savior has pointed out so that we too may finally triumph in [?] love When I turn my eyes within all is ['black' crossed out] dusk as midnight and surely if I saved at all it will be through the mere mercy of God._______________ I am yet liveing [sic] in Andrew as Horace has not returned yet am expecting him evry [sic] day He has made him a claim about eight miles from this place which we ['shall' crossed out] are expecting to move onto in the course of 2 or 3 weeks there is no improvements on the place I expect H will [?] [crossed out word] on it this spring He has paid for the lumber and mechanic work enough to finish it with the exceptions of what he can do himself We like[?] the county very much it answers all our most sanguine expectations there are here some of the most beautiful picturesque sceneries that my eyes ever feasted on Think had it been explored at an earlier period that Ohio would have been left to ['for' crossed out] the savages and wild beasts for an habitation unmolested by the white man Think it a very healthy Our healths are very good have not been so good there eight years Little George is very hearty has grown much talks very plain is not near so troublesome as ['he was' crossed out] when you knew him think we shall send him to school this summer Mr Nimes and family were well last thursday they live ['about'crossed out] 8 or 9 miles from this place about 8 from where H. has his claim They are in comfortable sirc= umstances [sic] have a beautiful situation and live in a very agreeable neighbor hood. Elial very much the same as when you knew him ['sister' crossed out] Betsey the same kind generous hearted hospitable sister ['Nathaniel is a' crossed out] I should known them both had I met them in the streets of Washington Nathaniel is a great boy of his age a great help to his father in [improving?] his farm and in many respects much like him Elizabeth is a very slender girl [crossed out] is very womanly for a girl of her age Charles L. is a very interesting child in many aspects reminds me of his uncle Charles Theodate is a very still quite child of 2 years Osker Betseys you [youngest] is the most troublesome child I ever saw in my life is about 18 m old Our friend would have been amply repaid for the sacrifice which [missing name??] made in sending those articles of cloathing [sic] could they have witnessed the joy which the reception of them occasioned The rest of our [missing part 'friends?'] ds in this place are all well. I supose [sic] you would like to know w[missing] ous religious priviliges [sic] are [?] have preaching allmost [sic] evry Sabbath [illegible word] Methodist and baptist within a quarter of a mile take the [crossed out] [?] al large there are but [?] that profess the name of Christ in compar ison to the many which do not. I have often thought of you Dear brother and wished your studies were completed and you were here for there is a wide field for labour and but [few?] labour hope you will make up your mind to come {'here' crossed out] as soon as you [crossed out] com[missing] them and shall treasure it up amongst one of my most agreeable exp[missing]tions hope they will not ['disappoint' crossed out] prove [?hy??ical]. Dear brother may the Lord fortify your heart against the temptations the false pleasures the aluring [sic] vanities the contaminating examples of an evil world Endow thee richly with spiritual gifts give thee the learning of this world and divine wisdom to use this learning and these abilities t the noblest of purposes the illustr[illegible] of his will his love to sinners of mankind Make thee a faithful mind of Jesus Christ_____humble holy and self denied Make thee able to [?] the whole ['will' crossed out] counsel of God and while thou art faithful and sound in doctrine in he [?] thee to be eloquent annimated [sic] and accibile [sic]________ Do write with out delay and let us know how you have prospurered [sic] in your school this winter and when you intend spending the summer Give my best respects of enquiring friends I wrote of Pliny some weeks ago but have received no answer likewise to Pliny This from your sister Mary in bonds of affection

Mary K Culver
March 1845

Andrew, Iowa
March 3d

Thomas N. Haskell
Bloomfield
Trumbull Co.
Ohio

My Sister Mary/45

Bloomfield May 23/45 [5/23/1845]

Dear Worthy Friend

I was very happy to receive a letter from you although it was so very short I am sorry you had not time to write me more ----but it was a great deal better than none at all I hope you will find time to write me about the state of the church & society in your vicinity and what the Mormans are d doing &c &c &c Henry has left a letter here to send to you by Mr Bushnell and I suppose he has written you all the news about our S School-we get along very well Esq Jno Smith is Superintendant and Misses Sophronia Osborn & Maria Morgan are Secy= & Librarian-The teachers are much the same as last year only more of them-A. B. Penniman is with as this summer and teaches a class-his health is much better tho he has not entirely recovered I have a class in the S S. of quite large boys-and a very interesting class they are I assure you I find it not quite so easy a task to prepare to teach such a class as it was to teach smaller and less advanced ones-but perhaps I can do them more [page 2] good and there you know I have all the benefit of the extra investigation the reflex[?] influence upon a teacher from the investigation of Scripture: vastly more than examination-So that I would rather be a teacher that not for my own benefit The Spiritual state of the Societies is very much the same as when you left-I fear we are doing very little in the cause of our Savior-myself in particular-O! if I was more impressed with the worth of a Single Goal O it seems as if I should be more alive in the cause of Christ O Pray for us Nelson - and for me in particular that I may walk worthy of the high vocation where =with I am called How often lately we have been reminded of the shortness of time- The necessity of a preparation to meet our maker God has come very near and spoken in our very ear " be Ye also ready for in such an hour" &c I suppose your Brother has written you about the case of suicide that occurred in his family-It was in deed strange How applicable is the prayer "lead us not into temptation" Mr & Mrs Pitkin are now on a visit to her Parents and will return in about two weeks There was a donation Party at their house [page 3] A few weeks since-The Young People went in in the evening and we spent it very pleasantly I should think--- I have got some help in the store: A Mr Knowles from Chardon- (Mr Brown has employ -ed him as he does not expect to spend much time in the store this summer--) A young man, He is not (I am sorry to say) A professor of religion I invited him to go to church with me last Sabbath and he remarked that he had a Novel to read=This is enough for a character[?] and you can appreciate my situation. I hope I should be enabled to set him a Christian example[?] --- I am as busy as I wish to be and get not very much humid(?)-Mr Wing has got dismissed from the Post Office-The reason I suppose is because he demonstrated against licensing a Garern[?] here---- J E Clark is appointed in his place O take the "Advocate" this year (I did not succeed in procuring subscribers) and find it very interesting I would send it to you but my Sisters wish to read it and then it goes home--- I have two sisters in Bristol-They are millinering at present and the youngest expects to attend a school soon A Miss White (from Oberlin) is about opening a school there-I am very thankful to have my sisters so near me although I cannot see them very often I think of nothing more that would be of interest [page 4] to you - You must not confine yourself to your studies so closely as to injure your health I have written you in a great deal of haste and you will probably find much to excuse

[addressed to Thos. N Haskell in Kirtland Ohio Politeness of Mr Bushnell]

Give my best respects and kindest wishes to Friend Osborn. and accept the same for yourself

From very truly your affectionate

Friend

Wm.C. Savage

Albany July 19th 1845 Respected though neglected friend- It is with many reproaches to myself that I commence this epistle. I hardly know how to excuse the neglect with which I have treated you; but when I relate to you something of my history for a few months past perhaps you will forgive the indifference which I have exercised toward you.

When I received your first admonition to turn from my evil way, and seek the way of life I was teaching a small school, and as it was the firs that ever I taught I had many trials which seemed very severe. For a long time before this I had been meditating on my souls salvation, and sometimes was almost resolved to be a servant of that Mighty One who laid down his life to redeem his enemies from endless ruin, but I concluded to put of all farther concern on this subject till a more convenient season At this time however when in the midst of trials how gladly would I have tasted the sweets of redeeming grace, but even then satan followed me whithersoever I went; when I bowed my knees in secret as I sometimes did he filled my mouth with blasphemies; if I read God's holy word he gave a translation to please him self; wherever I was or whatever I was egaged in he was present Finally I was persuaded that no mercy was lef for me and such was the state of my mind when I received your [page 2] letter that I after having read it determined to commit it to the flames, and was only prevented by some one entering my room. Having given up all hope of salva tion I resolved that if eternal misery was to be my [?] hereafter this life should be a merry one But alas; where was merriment? ; gone as the day vanished with the setting sun. Sometimes I resolved to believe in universal salvation, then again in I tried Atheism, but I could not convince myself that either of them was true. The words "he that believeth not shall be damned" rang continualy in my ears. About this time the spring came and with it I returned hom, but the sweets of home were more bitter than the poisoned bowl; the day was joyless and in the dark still night when sleep fel down on others, I slept not, but mingled my sighs with the sighing wind. In a short time study engaged my attention though not to the exclusion of the thoughts that previously occupied my mind. I often wished for death, for utter death. In this state of mind I addressed a few lines to you and soon received an answer in which you faithfully admonished me to flee from the wrath to come but I heeded it not. I was going to destruction as fast as the wheels of time could carry me. (The next winter I was again employed as a teacher, and felt that perhaps the very instruction which those young minds were receiving might be the cause of their future happiness or misery.) [page 3] In February it was announced that a meeting to continue some days would commence the next sabbath. When I heard this I poured forth my heart to God in earnest prayer that he would bless many souls, and that those who now took his name in vain might lisp forth his praises; though I expected no mercy could remain for me. Well my prayer was answered; and more than answered; many bowed at the foot of the cross. and confessed their sins received pardon; yes; free pardon from Him whom they once hated. I was with them and when I heard salvation proclaimed for the vilest sinner through the blood of Christ, when I read of the crucifixion where Jesus of Nazareth, the Creator of all things died that we might live I got on my knees and surrendered myself wholly to Jesus, and resolved to become his servant whether he should receive me as one of his children, or should send me from his pres ence forever. The language of my heart was, do what thou wilt with me O Lord. How did my soul rejoice when I saw him come in mercy even to me a poor lost rebellious and unworthy creature My joy was greatly increased when many of my scholars, those der? young minds-came and bowed with me before the throne of grace. The few rema- ining weeks passed joyfully, and sorrowful was the day on which we parted. Now I can with you draw blessings unnumbered, and great promises from the word of God. Satan often tempts me to do wrong; but while I trust on Jesus I will fear no evil. [page 4] I am now attending the state Normal School at Albany. My health is very good at present. It is unhealthy here this summer the friends well When I last heard from home they were al [missing] Hellen and her husband have gone to Iowa I still remain affectionate nephew G. H. Collier

P S direct to G.H.C. State Normal school Albany N. Y.
G H C

[Thomas' nephew George H Collier, son of Thomas's sister Susan Haskell Collier]

Ellsworth April 1 Very Dear Brother

with much gratitude a we received and perused your kind letter on the eve of the 27 with thrilling interest and mournful hearts did we receive the solem news it contained, we can only weep with those that weep and mourn with those that mourn and pray that he who has wounded will heal, that he will bind up the broken hearts and support those who guide to those motherless ones. O that we will all learn righteousness from this sore dispensation of God's Providence, give our best love to cousin Mallie and his little ones, we sympathise with them in there sore bereavement and if it were in our power would be glad to render them comfort.

Brother with regard to the [missing]ture there has been no such here this spring to [missing] knowledge and we think your offer would meet with no objections but be acceptable, we should like to have you come; monday or tuesday evening on account prayer meetings would be most conven ient; and perhaps week after next, but we wish you to write again and give us notice of the time most convenient for you and we will have it given [?] the sabbath previous

give our best love all our dear Brothers and Sisters we want to see them all and to hear from them Augustus to G. H. in [?] and I to all our brothers and sisters and think they have not got it for we have had noanswer give our love to all friends. teel Pliny I think [page 2] I think he must be verry industrious or mute this winter as we have not seen or heard from them I am anxious to know of his health our family and friends are in usual health except myself I have had a considerable pain in my side and shoulder and now cough quite hard but hope it is not more than a hard cold.

[addressed to Mr Thomas N Haskell, N Bloomfield, Trumbull Co Oh] {?] our minister has requested a dismiss ion and does not preach to us [?] he delivered several education lectures to us last fall;

in consequence of which I have written briefly just got a letter from H & M K Culver they were well. I remain your affectionate Sister E H Spaulding

[note: address shows date of April 2, 1846 to Mr Thomas N Haskell / N Bloomfield / Trumbull Co /Oh]

[letter from Thomas Haskell's brother George Henry Haskell and his wife Abby]

Bloomfield Dec th 20 1846

Worthy Brother After returning home From meeting my thoughts often wandered to Oxford wich oftentimes they have done since I last saw you in Warren we arrived safe home at eleven O'clock found all safe Pliny received a letter informing us of your safe arrivel at Hamilton was glad to hear from you your general epistle came safe to hand the fourth inst[?] the contents of your letter was read at Dr Joslin's where we was a visiting they all appeared much pleased to hear from you the neigbers often inquire if we have heard from you and how you get along and wether you are homesick or not [crossed out words] but, enough of this I will wright the news Mr Bushnell received a letter informing them of the death of Selding he died in the city of Natches with the couges tive fever although in a strange land they have great reason to believe that he was watched over with par[?]tal tenderness and so[?]ide his remains were brought in to the hall of the institute where an appropriate discourse was delivered by the Rev. Mr Doremus in presence of the pupils and teachers and four or five hundred citizens his funeral was conducted by the Odd fellows of wich he was a member there was a funeral sermon preached here in this place on the death of Selden by the Rev Mr Pitkin Nancy Cibby died since you left B Jenette Cibby is verry sick with the fever Josiah is a teaching in Orwell Mespotamia and Farrning wich take up all his time except Sunday evening Pliny and Spaulding

[note: written on the left edge of the first page] we had an election and John Smith (has been reelected) & E.P. Morgan has been elected Justices of the peace

[page 2] have settled up and desolved pardonship Pliny is to work on his own(?) hook he thinks that he shall be able to get on to his place in the spring; we received a letter from Sister R Brooks informing us that Sister Mary had ben verry sick was now better Eliel and Betsey had both ben sick but now better Eliel is deacon of the presbyterian church is verry stedy the rest of the friends all well in that count: try the friends here all well we have had a verry wet fall and mud a plenty of it James L Morgan teaches our school like him well. Brother I hope you will write as soon as you receive this write all how you get a long and what your expences are and how your bording is and how you like the school how you enjoy your mind Brother you are not forgoton by us in our prayers and I hope that you will remember us in your devotions I must close aand give room for Abby to write this from your brother and well wisher Geo H Haskell

[note: this letter is a continuation of the Dec 20th letter from G H Haskell]

Often thought of Brother With the silent language of my pen I will take the liberty to intrude upon a few precious moments of your time. I call it precious for it is fast passing away hurrying us from this world into eternity. Some have gone since you left their state is now fixed forever. Soon it will be said of us that we are no more. It demands of us to make rapid progress of prepare for an exit from this world to enter another I hope to have grace given me that I may duly appreciate the hours as they glide along whether they be few or many Almost daily are there [page 2] something to remind us of our vows which we have vowed and of our living nearer to our Savior's feet calling for him to assist us in whatever we undertake and feed us with manna from heaven which is the word of God which if we take as the man of our counsel it will direct us aright to the Celestial City. There I hope we shall all meet when the last trump has sounded and the nations awake to judgement there we shall meet to give up our accounts either with joy or with grief there we shall see each other face to face there shall we meet friends and acquaintances those that are far from us and near by changes are daily making its appearances among us some families their children in the narrow house while others have married them a wife and enlarged their families. I will write you the deaths since you left that Henry has not written Obadiah Crowel has lost his only son he was about sixteen sick but two days he died with the Qu[missing] there are quite a number sick in Orwell. There w[as] a man in Bristol that got his limb broken just above the knee someway in the mill he is brother to Hannah Knapp's beau Hannah is teaching school in the south part of Bristol Uncle Knapp's people are all well and all the rest of our friends I suppose you would like to know who has been married since you left old Mr Eddy has married the widow Atwood Mr Blood to the widow Bigelow Henry Green to a lady in Pittsburg there was a great parade made when he and his lady came there is strong talk that William Ograna is going to be married before many days Marinda M Bellows is married to a Mr Holcomb this we see that time is not permanent with us, it is changing our courses almost daily, the present time is ours we know nothing of to =morrow you are daily in our rememberance the Children often inquire why Nelson does not come and see us they are all well Eliza goes to school with Lucy we would all be glad to see you in it seems good to get [page 3] a letter I hope you will write soon write whether you are sick of the place or the people or if you are perfectly contented write how you succeed in your studies finally write every thing you think we would like to know about and every thing that is good and profitable we wrote a letter to Horace & Mary a short time ago we have not heard from Ellsworth since you left a pair of your stockings was found to sister Martha's it was the pair that Aunt Knapp knit you your vest has not been found remember us dear brother in your daily devotions with your Maker give us an account of the state and feelings of the people and the state of religion

[address of Thos. N Haskell at Oxford, Butler Co Ohio]

Mr Thomas has been around with books from the American Tract Society we purchased Baxters saints rest and pilgrims progress besides a number of tracts[?] Henry signed for a paper called the Aerican Messenger I believe I have written all the news that I can think of at present write to us as soon as you can after you receive this we are all well and enjoying good health receive this from your unworthy sister Abby P Haskell

Bloomfield Feb 21st
47

Ever Dear Brother Being detained from meeting to day on account of the storm, as well as inability arising form a sever cold I take great pleasure in making use of a part of the time to answer your letter which we received some four or five weeks since It was indeed a welcome little messenger, although I had had access to, and had read with eagerness all the intelligence which had been received by our friends from you, still it did not seem so good as to get one ourselves. I resolved when we received it to answer it immediately, dear Brother, that I am not a student now, but am almost entirely engrossed in domestic affairs, consequently the pen and myself are strangers, & I cannot compose , arrange and transmit thoughts to paper with as much facility ['as much' crossed out] qui[missing] as I once could, which makes it appear like a great task for me to write a letter out I guess you think by this time my preamble is of sufficient length to begin to write some news and so do I________I will commence by informing you that [?] as a family, by the kindness & tender mercy of God, though not enjoying perfect health, are comfortable Henrys Plinys Malibi[?] Uncles people all well. It is a general time of health in the
place quite a contrast between this & the preceding winter; but we have not had a note of warning sounded in our ears from the rotting bed, and I think a death has not occurred in town since you left except a very young child of the Brazie's.. A general state of apathy seems to prevail in the churches, and we all seem to forget that this is not our abiding city and that a night of death a day of judgement and a long eternity awaits us

[pg 2]
still we do not know how much fervent effectual prayer is offered up in secret. I hope there is much and that we shall [?] long see answers to it, and that we as proffessing [sic] christians shall arise and let our light shine, convincing the ungodly that we are and that we do believe what we profess. I think I had at times for a few months past enjoyed sweet peace in believing have realized more that my time is short & the necessity of [?] faithful in the performance of every duty. I feel as though I have enough to do, to cause me to be active and vigilant, to sus[missing] will all the social and domestic relations of life, certainly it is [?] fraught with interest and responsibility to train up in the [?] And admonition of the Lord & to prepare for usefulness and happiness for glory and immortality, two such little boys as God has given us incompetent to perform, but I hope I shall be aided by heavenly wisdom to do it in an acceptable manner________________ Feb 23 There have been some weddings among your acquaintances since you left the first I think was Old Mr Eddy to Mrs Atwood soon after Mr Blood to Mrs Bigelow Dr. J. Morgan of Orwell to Maria Tinan Mr James Mo[missing] was married last week to Mrs Brooks of Rustom (Mrs Hoadly's mo[missing so you will see Maria's place as a housekeeper is supplied Pliny has shut up shop, has been south & purchased 19 cows is now [dtriving?] about building his house, so you can imagine where they wil[missing] soon he and what they will be doing. Henry intends pur[missing] the same course he has done years past
As for ourselves it uncertain where we shall be most probably in Orwell [missing] our farm, don't know though how much we shall farm I suppose we shall have to do as much as we can and get along some? way. Josiah is quite successful in teaching this winter [missing] teaches in the adjoining towns so that he is at home twice in the course of [missing]

[pg 3]
week which is quite pleasant to me. [Perenice?] does not teach [?] The winter with us, so you will see that I am provided for company There is now singing school here, the gallery is deserted & the singing don[missing] as suits many (by the congregation) others say it is a pity and a shame to Bloomfield, but no one takes the responsibility of doing anything upon themselves, consequently nothing is done presume it is best there should not be for some time. I presume you would be interested to know something about our district school. It has turned out almost as might have been expected. Lemuel was so unsuccessful in his labor that he was dismissed when his time was half out Mrs Thompson employed (they have moved back here to live with Mrs Peck) she became worn out and left sick in about two weeks the task being too great But this was not enough to convince Messrs. Latimer & Smith, who are both very parsimonious, you know, that their cheap plan was not a good one & that the task was too great for one individual but still persist in their economical plan by hiring James L Morgan to go on with it alone; he has taught but a few days the result is uncertain yet he may do well [illegible] We have had no intelligence from our friends in Iowa for some time the last we has there had been considerable sickness among them. The P.O. address to Horace is Andrew Jackson Co. Iowa whether it is the same to the other friends I do not know Mr Savage, I am informed expects to leave town soon, if he has not already, was going to Ashtabula to stay a short time & thought then of joining his brother on the Ohio river some, though uncertain She that was Marthe Brooks died a short time since with the consumption the last of a whole family, ['how' crossed out] with the same disease. How strange! I received a paper from you- thought it a good one-read it & sent it to Mary. I should judge, Dear Brother, from what you have written from time to time, that you like the Institution & the place well that God had blessed you, by raising up friends among "strangers in a strange land" which is very comforting to me be assured that I feel much anxiety about you-think sometimes I know a little how our Dear Mother would feel if she was alive-yet I know I do not for a sisters live [?] anxiety cannot equal a mothers-but I believe that God has called you & that He will take care of you [missing] you are careful to follow the leadings of his spirit and do his will [pg 4] I hope you will remember that it is your duty to take care of your health and not so hard we all think of you much here that God will bless and prosper in all your undertakings Remember us in your prayers do write to often we sigh & think so long a separation from a dear Brother almost intolerable still we must submit if it is for the best

From Sister Mrs. Martha Smith
Feb 1847

N Bloomfield Feb 24 Mr Thomas N. Haskell Oxford Burke Co. Ohio I presume you will be disapointed because Josiah did not write he excused himself for the want of time sends his best wishes to you I like to write much more if I had time and room but I must cl[missing] hoping brother P. F. H. will write more general Epistles before long
From your unworthy Sister Martha

Bloomfield March 18-1847

Worthy Brother

Having returned from meeting I sit down to pen a few thoughts to you the friends are all well with with the exception of Eliza Knapp she is quite threatened with the fever Mary Jenette(?) Blood is sick it has ben a general time of health this last winter here there has been but one funnerel [?] B since you left Susan Smith died March (?) th with the lung fever she said that she was [withering] to die she felt that it would be well with her her Parents took her death verry hard we hope and pray that this stroke of affliction [?] be attended by the blessing of God to the conversion of that family there is a state of coldness and lukewarmness among us as a people about the subject of religion a subject which ought to be the nearest the heart and to fill the soul with that meat which endurere (?) unto everlasting life. If we let the world and the things of it be uppermost in our minds we must expect to reap the same the spirit of Christ and the worldliness of men will not work in one vine we cannot serve two masters we will either love the one and hate the other the widow Smiths family are a quarrelling among themselves Wm. Smith sued Hadley they had a jury trial they bought in a verdict of 12 in Hadley favour Wm. has gon as far as to lock up his well bucket, so Hadley should[?] not draw any water Hadley has bought all the water they use from Capt Orsborne since last fall Messrs: C J Pitkin: John Smith esq Horace

[page 2] Flowes visited two evenings with them in order to pesuade them to settle their difficulties but to no purpose such a sene Mr Pitkin said he never wanted to witness again it was you lie and you lie was the common tack(?) throuht the family

the cause of temperance has got to a [?] (?)ate in Bloomfield at this time it has ben decreasing since you lefet while the cause of intemperance has increased the temperance men are a go(?)ing to make another effort to stop seling liquor by the drink it is to be by the vote of the town Pliny has bought twenty [?] has got [?] a house raised 18 by 26 feet thinks to move in to it by the first of May

Geo W Haskell

Ashtabula March 19th 1847

Dear Friend

I take great pleasure in occupying a few leisure moments in writing to you. I feel that you made no small sacrifice in leaving your friends in B. and going so far away, among strangers. But it is a consoling thought that wherever we are: we are still under the protecting care of him who is every where and who can hear the prayer and regard the interests of his people, though they may scattered among the nations of the Earth. I left B. about 3 weeks since and have been spending the time principally at home since: though I have visited some. Hea?er is a sweet place to almost everybody, but I feel that mine is a peculiarly so. My Parents and Brothers & Sisters: are all that is included in those terms in their widest sense. It seems so long since I have had the privilege of remaining more than a few days at home. that it is quite a rest for me. We are so near the Lake and there is so much ice in it still. that it is colder than it is farther from the latter part of the past winter in this vicinity and there is much more ice in the Lake at this season than there is usually. From present appearances the Lake will not be navigable its entire length for a month to come As you are not acquainted up in this vicinity I do not Know of anything that will interest you ---Perhaps you [page 2] have heard me speak about the state of the Prs.n chch. [church] with which our folks are connected here. A part of the numbers are pleasure party going people- and the others are much opposed to such gatherings and it is a great grievance and stumbling block to them These differences have been the cause of their losing several valuable godly ministers. For upon all other matters the belief of the numbers is as much the same as in any chch with which I was ever acquainted They have lately hired another minister whose name is Pomroy. He is from the East-but I do not know what place. He has attended [?] of the pastu[?] and that portion of the chch now consider that he is committed to their views. I do not hesitate to say that in my humble opinion there will never be union among them. for the difference of opinion in that particular is heaven-wide, and they are all very conceited in their opinions. it is a sad spectacle to see the professed followers of the meek and lowly Jesus: entertaining such hard feelings towards one another. My prayer for them is that there eyes may be opened so that they may see as in the light of eternity. what their real state of heart is before God I felt almost homesick upon leaving B. I had lived there so long and have become so much attached to the people that it was almost like leaving home. How these apparently necessary changes ought to teach us the floting, transitory nature of all that is earthly As I was expecting to be out of business when I left B. [page 3] I spent several days visiting in different parts of the town-I spent one night at your Bro. Henry's and learned many things about how you was situated in O. and I was much gratified and not at all surprised to hear that you was well and quite agreeably situated and that you had found kind friends. And I hope your stay there whether it be longer or shorter may be both profitable and beneficial to you-I have heard from my brother South since I came home. Edwin is in Tennessee. The Elder Bro is in New Orleans. I do not expect them home very soon. They met with very bad fortune last fall. And they are about broken up as well as very undecided as to what to do in future As to my own whereabouts in future I can tell you nothing-I have made some effort to get a situation in this vicinity, but have not as yet succeeded vacanc[missing] are very scarce. It is possible that I may go back to B. if I do it will not be before next May- And I do not like to wait so long for a situation if I can do any better.---- If your time is not too much taken up I would ask a reply to this.-but as it is a poor apology for a letter. I will only say that I should be very happy to get a letter from you at this place and if I am not here my folks will have it forwarded to me With many wishes for your future welfare I am very affectionately your sincere friend and well wisher Wm. C. Savage

[addressed to Mr Thomas N. Haskell at Oxford Butler Co Ohio]

Sabbath day Bloomfield march 28th 1847

Much Beloved Brother But not forgotten. no! nor could we forget the family, or some warm hearted friends or neighbors scarcely are we answering any of them But that the question is asked have we heard from you All seem to have an interest in your welfare and we dear brother did not know how to appreciate thy society when thou was with us until in had taken its plight the society of friends is worth almost any thing your Savior had friends all that were his followers were his friends if they did whatsoever he commanded them to do you know doubt have those among you that take a deep interest in anothers welfare we have been greatly[?] this winter with health, there has been know snow here of any consequence out west they have had good sleighing all winter we had a letter from Joseph a few day ago he stated that it had been very sickly there since they arrived in that Territory he does not reccomend the country as high as some do considers it a better place for a poor man than here Joseph visited Eliels a short time since found them all well Eliel had been quite sick his health was better then than it had been for sometime Sister Ruth's health was some better Thomas has buried his little boy it was about thirteen months old died with the canker he wrote the last they heard from Artemas he had buried his oldest son he lives near Iowa City he did not write any thing about brother H or Sister M only that Otisy had been going to school there in the district where Horace lives. Pliny received a letter from Sister Susan they were all well Haskell is away attending school at Albany She mentions that the state of religion was very low there at the present time thy want some and all of us to write they wished to know where you were so that [page 2] they could hold correspondence with you. The rest of the friends there were well. We have had two visits from Mr. Thomas his heath was not very good he is appointed agent of Trumbull County to sell books and to visit every family. His family is living in (?)ustenburgh he inquired very particular about you. I believe I have all but the home news Eliza ann Hunter was married to Wm Chapman a few weeks ago. Uncle James Morgan was married to Mrs. Hadley's Mother the widow Brooks a few weeks since the children seem to think a great deal of their Mother she is now sick with the fever Pliny thought she appeared like a person in the last stages of consumption this place has been highly favored with health until quite lately what is before us we know not only Death that we are sure to meet gladly will we welcome it if our hearts are right with our Father the cause of Christ is very dull there has been no revivals of Religion amongst us we hear of places round about us where the spirit of the Lord has been work =ing with them I know not why it is so there must be some lack of duty or some hindering cause that I know not of at present five have taken deep interest in reading that which is profitable. five are now reading Baxter's saints everlasting and the pilgrims progress rest ^how excellent it is to have books that we can peruse and derive instruction such as will lead the mind zionward and make it better prepared for usefulness here, to dwell amidst the unconcerned where there is a great field for labor and but a few to labor in it, I never felt that it was so necessary that we all should be up and be doing all that was in our power and exert our influence toward the cause of Christ as I do at the present time. I have enjoyed myself better this winter than I have done for some time before have not had the care of dairy crowded upon my mind, spent some considerable time in read =ing which has afforded me great pleasure. Since I have heard so much about the war I have been reading the book of Samuel am now in Kings it shows that the Lord had mercy

Bloomfield March 29th [1847]

Beloved Brother

I regret very much that having you so go[missing] an opportunity of sending to you, that I have not ['sure' crossed out] ['to' crossed out] something more valuable to send. But I know you will appreciate gifts, though trifling from a sister. It is not done up nicely as I would have had it, had I known the exact time when Mr Sheldon would have been along-It is a fine spring day- which brings associations of the past; especially of a year ago when you were amongst us- but those days are gone and we would comfort ourselves with the thought that you are not alienated & estranged, but that endear tries still bind us to you though separated by time and distance-we would like to know how you are by this time we have not heard directly for some time from you -hope you will write soon & let us know how you are in health & spirits this spring-I wrote to you some two months since---- when you write to us direct to Orwell-do write soon -tell us when you can come & see us, if it is not too far in the future-we expect to [?] Wednesday I have much to do consequently can write but little---- Josiahs schools are nearly all out I have been with him on the circuit one week attended the concert ha[missing] good times----But I must close by subscribing myself your affectionate sister

Martha H. Smith

Washington May 25th 1847

Mr Nelson Haskell Sir

After a long space of time I attempt to address you withe that instrument when in former times has often conveyed news to friends far distant and is the very way by which we can express our desires and affections for those we in former times have formed and attachment which will remain while we ['remain' crossed out] supply? a place on earth and our mental faculties remain after a journey of fourteen days we arrived in the state of Iowa we found the friends all well I was some what disappointed in regard to the newness of the peace I found it to be a much older looking place though I had anticipated it is generally well wattered for spring and and [sic] cricks the watter is verry clear it is mostly hard the prarie [?ays] verry roling we had some verry hot weather after we arrived here last ['fall' crossed out] sum mer the hotest we I experienced had a verry pleasant fall verry dry we had a verry cold winter good sleighing the [?] of the times some verry cold weather the themometar stood as low as thirty degrees blow zero being the coldest I ever before known since inhabited by white p[missing] [pg 2] we found Thomas in much better circamstan ses than I expected we spent the winter with him he had laid claim to one hundred and sixty acres of prarie and had forty acres entered he has a god [good] frame house and forty acres fenced well wattred by a spring and [?] We live within three miles of Dubuque a place about the size of Warren there is more busin ess done there in two days that thare is in Warr in a week on account of its being in the center of the mining district H Culver and wife are well at present he has ben out of health the grater part of the winter his sid has ben worse this spring than it evr was before he has ben doctering and Clark from Orwell he is in verry good circumstances he has no land entered but has a good farm fenced and under cultivation uncle Elile Nims people are all well and doing well we had a letter from uncle Artemus some time since himself and family wer well at that time he lives at Iowa city something lik one hundred and eighty miles from this I think of writing him this summer Mothers health was not verry good for some three months after we arrived she had a verry severe attack of the [?] complant which lasted her for some [pg 3] four weeks which reded her verry much she then bgan [began] to recover she did not get her health again until about the middle of the winter her health is better this spring than it has ben for som years I think the climit agrees with her we received a letter from H. Haskell & wife soem two weeks since they ware all well at that time direct your letters to Dubuque Dubuque Co Iowa write as soon as you receive this [crossed out] this from your unworthy nephew Joseph Daggett Thomas and wife and Mother sends there respects and Otis days he would have

[addressed to:] Mr Thomas N. Haskell Oxford, Butler Co Ohio Joseph Daggett June/47

Bloomfield June 2 1847

Dear Bro Haskell

As I sit down o Answer your kind letter in which I feel that you flatter rather too much, I am exercised with many pleasing emotions. As I think of your friendship for me and your many kind words of sympathy I feel that I have been benefited by enjoying your correspondence and also your more intimate friendship. I hope that we may be of some use to each other in future. Although we may be widely separated: I do not expect that my correspondence will be of any benefit o you though or very little at least. The reason why perhaps you do and perhaps you do not fully understand. You can see though that it is almost impossible for one who is engages in business: and who has been almost all his life: to have a sufficient acquaintance with general literary and scientific subjects to write a very interesting letter to one who is engaged in such pursuits. The thinking of a business man upon such subjects is almost now at all. His habits of thinking are exercised in an entirely different direction, and he is not in the habit of holding his attention upon [page 2] any abstract subject. He may and if he attend to his businesses he must know much of the business trade actions that are transpiring in the world around him. This is necessary to his success as a business man. And he may also be a very good politician in the ordinary acceptation of those words: because business men usually read some political newspapers. And his Editor will do all his thinking upon that subject for a small compensation. With very little m?tol exertion on his own part. But you can see that an acquaintance with your own pursuits are very different from all this. And this is what I plead in extinuation (if any can be admitted) of my own poor epistles--------------------I hope you will be strengthened to do good in the society and circumstances in which you are placed. And I hope you feel also that you are just when you had ought to be. I do not think we can be thrown into any situation or condition in life in which we may not grow in grace ourselves. and in which he may not do good to those around us-I think also that the reason why we do no more good than we do is because we do not embrace every opportunity that comes in our way. How many opportunities that I have had to do to some one a kind act: or to utter a [?] or kindly to a man, have [page 3] I let slip I feel as though the reason why my life is continued to me is that I may do good to my fellow men. And to glorify my Father who is in Heaven. and I join you in hoping tha tto this end I may "be good" Perhaps you would like to know (if you have not already learned) how I happened to get back to B. Mr L. G. Foster requested me by letter to come down here and see him as he wished me to come and live with him as a C?k in a store which he was about to put in operation here. I theirfor came down about a month since. and we have been quite [?] engaged since. I can hardly express an opinion about the success of the concern You know far better than I do. what Mr F's disposition is. I have heard you say some things about him. before I had much acqua= =intance with him. that I find are very characteristic. This will not be an interesting letter to you I know. & I have not time as yet to write you a letter that will do justice to my own feelings at all. I hope I may share after. Friends here are all well There is something of an antislavery agitation In th chch here. of which you may hear more here after.-Write the soon & tell me how your & also Bro S get along-remember me to him. And a[?] the kind wishes [page 3] of very respectfully you sincere friend W. C. Savage Mr T. N. Haskell

Bloomfield Oct 24th 1847

Much loved Brother you may think that you are for goton this is not the case we think of you daily when we come around the family after and anticapate the time when we shall meet again to converse with each other face to face we all want to see you verry much we received your letter baring date July 15 the contents of which was perused with much pleasure and deep intreat the friends are all well I shall leave the news for Abby to wright I visited cousin Henry Knapp in Rochester he is a ship carpenter is a through man in business has a fine woman for a wife and verry pleasant place is doing well Brother I send you a little money in this letter and would have sent more if I had it Mr Amos P Spaulding is no more he was taken sick on wedn esday and died sabbath morning his loss will be deeply feld in that place his remains was carried to Ellsworth for burial- I must close wright without fail G H H You probably would like to know the state of the people and of the church, the people are not inquiring what shall I do to inherit eternal life? They are not willing to give of their goods to feed the poor! not willing that Christ should be their all in [?] cold as we are free still hope for a revival amongst us; we hear in many places that the Lord is carrying on his good begun work; And many souls are born into his kingdom truly may it be said of us that we have entered into the work. I hope the Lord will purify and purge us; so that we can lie passive in his hands and know no will but his, then we will be prepared for his service and not untill we are cleansed. so long as darkness and dullness coeist amongst us we shall do any thing. But I trust the cloud of righteousness will arise and over shadow this place. I must close by requesting you write without fail write soon we are well receive this from your sister Always in the bonds of love Abby P Haskell we have the life of the Rev Dr Nettleson a reading now excellent

[page 2] Bloomfield

Much neglected but not forgotten Brother I take the Liberty to intrude upon a few leisure moments of yours and improve a few of mine. You will not wonder why we have not written to you before. when you hear all that has been doing since we last wrote you. We have been to Mina to see Brother Colier's people, they were all well And doing well. The children were all at home except Helen and Haskell. they were looking for H the next week after we were there his intentions were to teach this winter Helen is in the South part of Iowa Susan was at home she had been teaching the past summer in the old district were Father used to live she is a very steady fine likely girl. And David appears to be as well disposed as the girls they have good instruction given them their Father after he returned from meeting and the necessary chores were done gathered his family together and questioned those that attended services about the sermon and those that remained at home had to repeat some portion of scripture and he would ask questions and explain it I was much pleased with the way he trained up his family They appeared very glad to see us And they inquired very particular about you and wanted to see you very much. Then thought that they should be out next sum =mer. We went to Cousin Hartwell's they have 10 children and in rather low circumstances they were well. Visited at Hayden's they appeared to be doing well we visited Elisha Morse. Henry's old school teacher they are very neat and fine people appeared very glad to see us we could hardly get away from the old man. We went from Brother C to Alexander and there [crossed out lines] We found two of Uncle Vandebogart Sons at the village one of them went with us to Uncle [missing] and there we found Aunt Lois. They appeared [missing] to see us Uncle Kings health is very poor

[page 3] not able to labor much, Aunts health is as good [missing] for one of her age she is 71 years old Their children have all left them except one and have gone to Michigan, Cousin Uriah The eldest he stays at home and takes care of the old people. They have lost two children in Michigan They can feel for those who have parted with friends you probale would like to know how Uncle get along he has 95 acres of land and gets a comfort- -able living from there we went to Uncle Vandebogart found them all well the children were all at home except one he lives near by his name is Francis they have one child his wife appears like a fine smart woman for business a person that will help to get a living. Isaac his is at home thinks he shall visit the friends here this winter. Henry he was a going to start for Michigan in about two weeks he thought he should visit Bloomfield on his return home which he intends to do in the spring or fall. Joseph he is married and a going to stay with the old people this winter. Uncle [?] raised a likely family. All boys he is just the same he was when he was here. They are doing well they have a very pretty pleasant place If I could see you I could tell you much more than I can write. We went to Uncle Samuel Benedict the one you have heard Father tell about he owns [?] no property is living with the widow Boulch on the old place. We saw a number of cousins which if I should mention them all would more than fill my Letter We had a very pleasant visit were gone from home 3 weeks We took Eliza with us and the babe which is about 4 months old we call her Mary Alma Olivia [?] went home with her Grandparents Pliny stayed with Adeline and Lucy. Sister Martha has a little daughter about 2 weeks old quite smart as could be expected when I last heard Pliny and Maria are well and doing well. I must mention some that got married lately Lucyette is married to Benjamin Markell Ezra's wife brother he is about 26 years of age Marilla Bushnell is married to Lawyer Palm of Warren. There has been a few deaths which I will mention Mary Jenette Blood is no more she had been sick all summer did not expect to live ling Amelia has gone to the East before she died

[page 4] [addressed to Mr T. N. Haskell at Oxford, Butler Co. Miami University return address: No Bloomfield Oct 27th G. H. & Wife]

Ellsworth Nov 14 1847

My Dear Brother often do I think of you and often would I write to you but the real necessary cares of my family press so hard upon me [?] that I can hardly get time to writer a letter once a year. Brother Nelson is often in my thoughts and oh that I could see him oftener but as Providence has ordered it otherwise I think it all for the best, and I hope that he will find friends wherever the Lord directeth his steps. nov 30 Dear Brother we received your kind letter soon after date and was much pleased with its contents, also to hear from you though at the time I was too weak to read it through at one time, but through the blessing of of God my health is as good as usual, now our family and friends are well at present our friends in B were all well two weeks ago as we heard be a letter form sister Martha & Josiah S. he is here teaching singing school in Ellsworth Poland and youngstown. he seems kind and pleasant like a friend and brother now. we see him every week, they have a little daughter, about two months old. The Lord has visited this people the summer past with an afflicting fever which has been the means of calling a number of our friends and neighbors into Eternity, among whom was Old Mrs Huxley, her eldest daughter Mary and her husband and some others [page2] it is a solemn thing to die but I think it is a more solemn thing to live for to live is Christ and to die is gain, if we live in the exercise of living faith and love to God, but alas how far short of keeping all the commandments I come and in many things I offend all and was it not for the hope of pardon through the blood of a crucified Savior I should dispair, but he is an all sufficient Savior able and willing to save, and I desire to trust in him and O that I may be more faithful more humble more like Jesus Christ, O my brother when I think of the grave responsibility resting upon me as a professed Christian Mother I am led to exclaim Lord who is sufficient for these things, my help is in thee, to thee would I bring these precious souls than best entrusted to my care [?] leave them at the foot of the cross praying that those will early convert them to the religion of Jesus Christ O pray for us that we may be a family for God [?] world for the Children land I close they are well send much love to Uncle. Henry is going to the academy to school. do write as soon as you receive this and let us know how you get along all about it we want to see you. excuse all inperfec tions and receive this from your unworthy yet affectionate Sister E H Spaulding

Dear Brother

I take my pen in hand to wrote a fewe lines to you and I hope that you will excuse my for not writing to you oftner for I Seldom write to any Body but it is not because I donot wish to hear from my friends for I am allways pleased to receive letters from our friends I hope there may find you in good health and enjoyin g the love of God in your heart. for when the light God's Countinence Shines upon us then we can enjoy life and in keeping the Commands of God there is great reward O the importance of living for God for our friends are often called from time to Eternity and leve us to mourn their lose and how soon we may be Called auay is only Known to the great head of the Church the Lord has greatly afflicted us in Calling our Dear Brother Amos Phelps from time to Eternity who Died August 15 O how glad I should be to see you write as soon as you Receive this please except these few lines form your Brother A Spaulding

Bloomfield Nov 15th 1847 Dear Friend & Bro

I rec'd your last in due time. Several weeks since. and as I have it not now before me. I cannot directly reply to it. but will write you a few dull thoughts after my own peculiar fashion as they may suggest themselves to me. I have been home and made a visit of several weeks since I last wrote you. It seemed very pleasant to be where I had spent so many of my earlier years, to pluck the fruit from thes which I had planted with my own hands when they were but twigs. to ramble over the fields. And to view the same scenery that I used to look upon with pleasure when a childish Boy: but above all to enjoy the society of my Dear Parents & Brothers & Sisters & Nephews & Nieces-I hope I am not as ungrateful as I might be for all the numberless blessing, I am privileged to enjoy-But many things had changed much-Some forests had disappeared,-- Some friends had gone away-a few have passed from this state of probation to and untried state of being: and others had thrown around themselves the silken tie of Matrimony- -----Besides I had the company of a Brother who we had not seen for seven years -our Eldest Bro-H[Henry?] had engaged to take charge of S. Boat running from [page 2] Cincinnati to New Orleans and as it was not in a condition to start immediately. he came up and visited us a few weeks. Edwin did not come up as he was engaged I expect he will come up and visit us next fall. But never expect he will come to remain long. He had lived so long at the South and become so acclimated to their Society that we will never have him for a resident At the North. Our Friends L.G. F. sold off his stock Of Goods to a man who has taken them to Morgan & he is now out of business. & I know not what he will engage in for the future. My engagement with him was not very pleasant on my own part-He is not a very stable business man. and not strict enough in his integrity. Nor steady enough to ever succeed as a mercantile man. at least this is my opinion-The store we occupied had been bought by Wm & Geo Howe. and they have filled it with foods and I am here in their employ. & I think I am quite pleasantly situated. Wm H is a man of principle so far as business is concerned and of strict integrity-The causes that led Mr Geo H. to leave the preaching if the Gospel-I am not acquainted with. He will make a very good business man I shall think. Our Friends here are all well I believe. The chch have engaged Mr Pitkin another year. & are about raising the means for his support Old Mrs Thayer (Wife of Chas Thayer) died last Saturday Of the dropsy-You know she was a Campbellite or Disciple-I hope she was a disciple indeed [page 3] I see your brothers & their wives often, but have not visited at their houses for some time they are well P.F. is much immersed in cheesemaking & money making I should think I hope he will not become c[?] to[?] which is Idolatry the Bible says. Our Mutual friend R. H. Osborn is teaching a select school at the center of Southington & I think he intends to teach the District School then the coming winter. I do not Know whether you are corresponding with him or not --Sophronia is at home. though she is expecting to teach soon. Miss Murray is teaching in Parkmon Miss Baker is teaching in Warren. Miss Murilla Bushnell & A Leaver[?] Palm of Warren have committed Matrimony So ultimately as to have got Married Miss A Latimer is expecting to teach in the South District. S.A. Bushnell is teaching near Kirkland. Buel is studying Law in Cleveland. J L Morgan Is teaching the school here at the center & had no assistance C. J. Bellows is in Missouri. what he is about I know not Josiah has returned to Tennessee preparatory to engaging the grafting business. A B & Wm Penniman have been home visiting this fall & have both been sick. They are now in O. but I believe they both intend to teach the coming winter. Excuse this long hurry of matters which may be of no moment to you-I hope & believe you enjoyed yourself much in Colportea?ing for I think is would suit you & I think you would have good success [page 4] I do not think I should for I am so worldly I hope you enjoy yourself in your study & are preparing to be eminently useful in your day & [?] to your fellow man, to this end I hope you will grow in grace & in the knowledge of the truth as it is in ch[missing] You promised me that you would write me about antislavery &c &c in your vicinity -I wish you would do so I would like to know much-I hope the time is coming when slaveholders as a body will be excluded from Christian fellowship and when the chch of Christ will be purged of all such heinous sins against God & I hope also that the time may come when the chch of Christ shall so provide for the temporal wants (as well as the spiritual) of the numbers that they will see no necessity of uniting with Oddfellows or any other such societies. for fear that they will lose their [?] while the chch will take care of their souls It appears to me that Christianity as it was intended by its author fails to come up to the ideal which He I am in the future.---"Seek first the kingdom &c &c-what does "these things" mean? Should not the chch provide in some permanent way for the wants of indigent members?----But I have no time now to discuss this matter as it. he's before my mind---Excuse mistakes of all sorts write soon as convenient-about Sheldon &c &c and accept the love & best wishes of your sincere friend Wm C. Savage Respects to friend Sheldon

March 10 [1848] Dear Nelson you will see by the 1st date of this letter that it has been sometime written and the reason is that while we had gotten it written we knew not where to direct it untill your pamphlet came to hand which we gladly received and the wrapper of which gave us the desired information, and as nothing naturally different[?] transpired some of the writing of this L venture to send it now as we have not time to write another [faded] and trust you will excuse me do write soon we have had a slight account of your sickness, and I think of you daily and want to hear from you . Josiah's school closed here the first of [?] Henry hes done going to school for this winter. our family, friends, and neighbors are usually well at present Dear Brother I rejoice to tell you that the Lord is here and has revived his work in the hearts of his children, and we trust this [?]the [?] of a number of our youth from the power of Satan unto himself, Henry and Mary think they are among the number, dear N I know you will rejoice with us, I rejoice yet I do it with tremblings O pray for them that they may not to a purse hope, [letter ends] [space above was where she placed the address]

Nov th 29 1848

Ever Dear Brother

The Lord has permited me to address a few lines to you to inform you of my feelings I feel to give my heart to God and I have faith to believe that he has heard my prayers it is with regrett that I look back on my former years that I have spent in sin aganst the holy God and how many times have I caused you so much distress Oh if I had my life to live over agane how different would I spend my time. few of the neighbors collected to gehter here last sunday and we had a short pray= er meeting we had an excelent time we indeed feel that the Lord in great mercy is a comming very near us. Afferd(?) Skiner seemed much distressed and we hope he has given up his heart to God Mary Palmer seemed much distressed about her soul she seemed willing to give up her heart to God but David still seems unpenitent but we hope not without feeling all though he does not manifest it. we all want you should wright a letter to David and direct it to him Brother G and Sister S thought that the letter you wrought to Haskell was the the instrument of his conversion it may have the same effect on David. I am very sory to say that ther air some very hard hearted sinners in this place but the Lord is able to convict and convert theme Oh Dear Brother remember me at the throne of grase [page 2] I enjoy my self better than I ever did be fore I have not felt homesick at all I am well only I have not ben abel to sleep much fore two or three nights past I was very glad to recei- ve youre letter denoting that you was well pleased with the plase I think that I shal be able to go some wher [?] school next sommer if my life is spaird you spoke about pay= -ing the postage I would rather pat it on bothe of th- -e letters than not to receive any from you Mr Morten and wife are well Brother G and family are well except Sister S her helth is quite poor I expect to go to school as soon as it begins I must draw to a close this from youre Sister

Lucy P Haskell Dec 1 Dear Brother It would take a whole day to write a letter so I prepare to write a few lines. And first I would express my gratitude to God for leading Luch and Mary earnestness to seek his pardoning mercy and that I hope he has in his infinite goodness heard their cry and sent peace to their souls which is like a river O how true it is "he is rich(?) to all who call upon him" How strange it is that so few earnestly seek his free seeing life lys in his favor, and his faving kindness is better than life I hope my Dear brother you and I will ever esteem the enjoyment of God's favor & approbation about the pleasures of sense or the esteem and applause of men, Well in order to please God we must deny self and take up the Cross and follow him, The cross sometimes seems hard to lift, but we always find when carry it steadily that in sted of being a burden it becomes a staff and a stay, O why should I knowing what I do, ever than the Cross of Christ, Let me be fastened to they Cross rather than loose thy right. Geo. Collier

[George Collier married Susan Warner Haskell, half sister of Thomas; their daughter's name was Mary.]

Mina Dec. 1st 1848

Dear Uncle.

I now take the oportunity to write a few lines to you hardly knowing what to write but would say the Lord has had mercy on me I have felt to give up my heart to God hopeing and trusting that he will be my guardinan and guide ever more. Oh Dear Uncle do pray for me that dear brother and sister which are left. I trust that God's holy wors will not stop here Oh that they may prosper in all heathen lands and spread through the whole world. Lucy has been able to do scarecly any thing this week on a[missing] of a felon which she has on her finger I do not [missing] of any thing more to write and being somewhat in a hurry now draw to a close I hope you will excuse all imperfections Yours affectionately. Mary U Collier

Mr T N Haskell
Brookfield Jan 30 / 49

Dear Sir,

I received a letter from last Saturday, date Jam 23, which I should have received on Tusday if I had not left quite as early in the morning, so you will se that I am exuseable for not answering you last week Y conversed with Mr Hase about the matter on Saturday E L and he told me that he had writen on wednesday ['that' crossed out] and not vary favorable as regards coming up to your exibition, but after reading your letter we came to the conclusion that we would try to come up and se you that was the conclusion on Sat ev, of corse we could d nothing more untile Moy Ev [Monday eve] last ev it was so bad that it was impossible for some of our scholars to att end, of those of us that were expecting to attend your exibition though by that the roads would get so bad that it would be impossible to get teams to take us, evrything last night was unfavorable, those of our singer which we depend much upon are school teachers and they thought that the roads would get so bad that it would be impossible for us to go not but what they were all very anxious to attend the exibi tion, but they thought that to dismiss their school's for to prepare and then not go that thay could not run the wrisk, ['of' crossed out] and you no how hard it is to get [pg 2] to leave their school's and to make my story short which I must we cannot come. I am very sorry that it is so, for we all were very much pleased with the idea of a good visit at Wane & nothing but the bad roads ['coul' crossed out] would have discouraged us in coming. Still they may be better by that time, but you no that I am situated so that I woul be under the necessity of making my arrangements some two or three days previous I hope that you will excuse us for disappointing you ( if it should prove to be any ) for we have tried to fix it evry way we could to comply with your request. Dr [dear?] Brother I must close by saying to you that I have a vary bad headache but hope that I am not going to be sick I get along about as usual with my school's I hope that you will be able to visit Hartford before I leave I am spending my sabbath there now I shall untill I yet through which will be some time in March yours in much haste Tho. N. Haskell Josiah Smith

Bloomfield Oct 10 1849
Bro Haskell
Bro Pitkin handed me a letter from you this morning. (as he was on his way to Warren & said he would not have time to write now) & wished me to day that they had engaged a Teacher for this District & also for the District in the North part of the Town. He (Bro P) will write you e? long. This is all that he wished me to write. I believe for him--& I have not time this morn to write you a letter. G W Howe is East. Wm has a little Daughter & is at home all the time & I have no leisure at present. No particular news is town. Your friends are Well & it is a very healthy in town at present
Sincerely Yours
Wm C. Savage

Bloomfield Decr 15 1849 Bro Haskell

One week ago last Monday I replied by Mail to yours by Mr Latimer. & as I have not heard from you. I fear my letter was miscarried. I wrote you that the evening decided upon was the evening of the 20th & I asked you if it would be consistent for you to defer your Lecture to the students &c for a short time. I wrote you that I thought if you could not be here that we should have no person to wait on us- as I dislike to ask a person who I might not call on-I feel the more anxious about it because I would like to know a short time beforehand whether to expect you or not If you could write me so that I could get it vy next Thursday morning please do so & if you cannot write. come if you can consistently. Truly Yours Wm C Savage

Amherstville Dec. 24, 1849

Dear friend Haskell
In the greatest haste I am seated to scribble a note to you, and on account of this haste I trust that you will pardon it brevity and abruptness Since you left Oberlin I have heard
nothing from home, though I have written several times. Now if you visited our people as you anticipated or have heard any thing from them, or can explain the reason why I do not
hear from them, please write immediately and inform me I am having a very pleasant [?] though not a very large one Fear I shall not be able to return to O in the spring. Desiring an immediate answer permit me to close this epistle as it is time for it to commence its
journey
Yours
G H Collier

[Thomas' nephew George H Collier, son of Thomas's sister Susan Haskell Collier]

Lindenville Jan 18 1850

Never Forgoten Brother It is now Saturday night and I steal a few moments to answer a kindly letter I received from you just before new years I was glad to hear from you once more but would be happier [?] I see you. I hope the time will come when we may be blessed with the [?] of enjoying each others society. I feel that I ought to be thankful that the Lord has blessed me with kinde brothers and Sisters I thank you [page 2] for the kindness you manifest towards me if it were not for you and brother Pliny I should be blessed with the privilege that I now am [?] am trying to improve it to my best advantage Don't be afraid to give me advice any time for I need it I am young and many temptations surround my path

Dear Brother remember me in all your prayers that I may be a true and humble Christian
I have a letter I received from you bearing date May 27/49? that contains some exelent advise that I would not part with for anything [?] is worth more to me than gold it has been [?] companion when away from home I need not [?] from home for I have none.
I have not been to Bloomfield or Orwell since I left for Wayne or have not seen any of our friends I enjoy my self first rate moste of the time I like the young people [?] Wayne very well some of them first rate I had the privilege if attending a large donation party [?] Revrend T E Leard last Tuesday we had a very pleasant time [?] hopes you would like to hear how the sch= [other half of page 2] ool is prospering it is a geting along it is rather small I believe it en[?] forty scholars. is the moste the students persue are Arithmetic Wellis[?] Grammar Reading and writing. The term is h[?] The time has seemed very short so y[missing] I have not received a letter from Mina Haskell received one from Helen [missing] staiting that they were all well I [missing] hear from Bloomfield well.
cuz I ha[missing] I left. There is a singing school here in a week held by Mr John Tülch I can think of but little to say to m[missing] [?] that I have two lessons that [missing] be learned. I have a piece commencer[?] that I must finish before long we have and Editress
Mr D brother Miss Maria Maria seems to be a good Christian. Oh how much need there is for a reving of in all parts of the earth especialy in Or[missing] field I often ask myself the question is do I do as I had ought as on that profess [missing] [end of letter]

[from youngest sister Lucy]

West [illegible] May 20th 1850

Dear Brother

Nelson I often think of you with a wish that you may be in possession of evry [sic] earthly blessing which is necessary to make you comfortable and ['happy' crossed out] your spirit fed constantly and daily with that Heavanly [sic] many which cravings of the alone can fully satisfy the immortal mind Brother I have a strong desire to hear from you as it has been some three or four months since I have received any communications from you; we then received a cold formal letter which was all that your circumstances (I supose) would admit of. Your studies and teaching, together with so much of the busy world around you: must take up most of your time, to think of your absent-friends. Since you were here Horaces brother Charles has returned from Stulen? very homesick and Horace has let him have his popperty [sic] back again; we have moved into a house standing on the opposite side of the road from the one we formaly [sic] lived in What we shall do or where we shall go I know not expect most likely we shall go back to Iowa again by the first or middle of Sepptember [sic] next [?] some door will open that it will seem best for us to stay in this county should dread the young [crossed out] and beginning a new again very much Horaces limb is worse that when you were here swells very much and is very painful at times fearful he will not have the use of it long the children are all well George and Isaac go to school: the rest of our friends in this place well as usual Had a very pleasant visit from father Spenser last week. It has been very sickly in the vicinity this spring a great many very sudden deaths have occurred near us I received a letter form Martha and Lucy some 2 or 3 weeks since our friends in Ohio were well [?] Henry Cook Mrs Nelson Works and Esther Tuckerman is no more. Josiah has bought the place that Mr Hunter owned when Martha taught school near Mr Barnses Pliny has moved to Geneva and gone in company with Eliza an James Luis Morgan Brother you can hardly imagine how much we
all wish to see you; but^ when can ['you' crossed out] we pleas let us know by the way of friend Joseph and Rachel Tabor who is to be the bearer of this to you hope you will see them {'while they' crossed out] during their stay in the city They are a very wothy [sic] couple have been very kind to us seem like a father and mother to me, seem deeply interested in our welfare (on account of Gb.? lameness I supose) Nelson ['I' crossed out} if we should go to the west again hope that providence would open the way for ['for' crossed out] you to come in that way that you would feel that you was sent by your heavenly father There is a wide field for labourers much good need to be done which cannot be done by ignorant preachers without a Miracle by God: for there are many ungodly well educated men who onely laugh at the illitterate [sic] preachers w____________ I must close for it is a getting late and I must carry this to father Tabors to night fo [sic] they expect to start early in the morning Excuse all imperfections in this for I had company ever since I began and had to talk and write at the same time

This from your affectionate sister [crossed out] well wisher
Mary K Culver

Nelson Haskell

N B Have you seen any old aquaintances since you have been in the city : hve you seen that Miss Tilden____ do come and see us if practible this summer Horace joins in love to you

Mina October 2nd 1850

Dear Uncle,

I will try to write a few lines to you in reply to yours dated 20th Sep. as Aunt Lucy is not able and the rest are so engaged as not to be practicable for them to write. Lucy has been very sick but today is a little better, She was taken two weeks ago last monday with a diareah, for a week it troubled her but little. One week ago this morning was the last she has been about the house. She has been very sick and if it had not been for close attension of both Physician and friends I do not think she would have been living now for three days and nights Dr Jennings was here nearly all the time when he left here this morning he thought her symptoms were considerable better and thought it would not be necessary to visit her again until tomorrow morning unless she was worse. Her disease is quite a [?]dignant [?] mix raging in the vecinity Lucy says tell Brother Nelson she thinks it would not be propper for her to go to Oberlin this fall as it is getting considerab[missing] advanced in the season but would be much pleased to enjoy your society this winter if consistant Brother G.H. has been very sick with the Bilious Remittant fever but now we hope is gaining slowly. He is not able to write his own letters and therefore will not be able to write to Mrs. Clark Ma's health is quite poor. Pa's is far from being good the rest are as usual. G. H. Has not ben able to leave his bed now for nearly four weeks. Prospects of Religion are very discouraging. From your friend

M. Urghart Collier Mr. T.N. Haskell.

Mina Sep 14 1850 Dear Brother T N

I now seat myself to inform you the reason of Lucys not comming as you expected G H arrived two weeks yesterday intended to return last friday. but god saw fit to order it otherwise G was taken the sabbath after he arrived with fever has not ben dressed for a week is now some better what it is best for a Lucy to do I do not know we would like your mind about it she is not here now and I have put a few moments to write as the Dr will carry this to mail and is wating the rest of us are in usual health

this from your affectionate sister

Susan W Collier

Mina, Oct. 29, 1850

Dear friend T.N.

Since we last met I have passed through for different scenes from those anticipated. As you have already learned, for a long time I have been stretched upon my bed; but as Lucy has told the whole story before th[missing] I hasten to the main object of this letter No intelligence has been received from Wayne since my arrival in Mina, and though David wroth thither for me a long time ago, no answer seems to be coming. Now if you have heard anything from Wayne of late, will you inform me immediately. Lucy left us about two weeks since for Ohio. Doubtless you have seen her before this. My own health is slowly improving Since first I was able to walk, have been fastened in my room a week by lameness which has been very irk- some. The rest of the friends all well. Would write more but am weary

With great respect yours

GH Collier

Orwell November 26 1850

Dear Brother

In great haste I now address you to let you know how I have finally concluded to spend the winter I did not get to school last fall but one day I was taken sick the next day after you left which disapointed me about going. They had got a teacher engaged in that school that Sister Martha spoke of I think of starting for Wayne the fore part of next week Brother Pliny and Henry said they would pay the other half if I wanted to go there so I have concluded to go counting it a good chance feeling thankfull that I am blessed with Kind Brothers Brother Horace and Sister Mary arived here nearly three weeks ago Sister Mary is here with us and Brother H and George is at his Brothers in York State George has got to be a great boy Sister M sends her best regards to you and says she wants to see you very much she expects to stay here till spring we hope to meet you then I have but little time to write more as I did not know as I should go to Wayn till saterday the friends in Bloomfield are all well I must now draw to close by [?] [?] goodly [?] your Sister Lucy in the bonds of affection.

I have forgotten where you requested me to go to board perhaps you can write the Lady in Wayn yourself and then she will know

Wayne Dec 10 1850

Most Affectionate Brother

At the request of both Mr and Mrs Parker I now attempt to answer a letter they received from you last evening. As it regards boarding place I have found one that I think is quite pleasant it is at Mr B P Wards the same place where Miss L[?] and Miss Krum boards we room toge[?] which makes it very pleasant for me I think they are boath ex celent assoates. Nephew G.H. and David Collier board here allso I came here a week to morow with strong realations not to be home sick in the heart those resolutions I fear have been broken in a measure but I feel more contended than I did I often think of the kinde home I had and the kinde instruction I received while at Brother Geo Collier. I fear I did not appreciate it as I had ought Oh may the Lord reward them for it. Where is the comfort to be found that will occur last like that those comforts that are found in serving God who is the Father of us all he who we can cast all our burdens [?] In the time of trial and trouble and affliction I feel that I should Need the strong arm of the Lord to strengthen me I feel it my duty to unite with some church and be buried in between with our Savior who grouned? and suffered that I might live and I would wish to ask you advise about uniting with this church here in this place I hope that it will not be a great many years before we can

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enjoy each others society I feel very greatfull for the interest you seem o manifest towards me and the kindness in helping to attending school this winter and may I so improve the priviledge of this winter that they may so me much good there ever my to? may be cast Dear Brother I often think of the trouble I caused you the last term you taught in Bloomfield ?will you forgive me. The Teachers at present seem to be a getting a long well met with no great dificulty as yet tomorow the students are requested to have Essa or Oration The friends were usuly well in B. and Orwell when I left Sister Mary feels quite ancous to see you and I hope we may see you in the spring if not before the reason why Sister Mary did not write in my letter that I rote to you was because she was very busy helping me prepare for Wayne I can think of but little else to write I must draw to a close by sayin May your life health and strength be spared and may the Lord help you to do much good in this world of wickedness is the humble prayer of your affectionate sister

L P Haskell

Lindenville Feb 28/51

Dear Brother In great haste I now attempt to Address you fearing you would not get my letter I sent before I received yours I regret that if is a going to be so I shall not be able to see you before leaving for Oxford. H my board was at one dollar and ten cents per week for eleven weeks I have worked for it since school closed during the meeting I ow one dollar eighty four cents to Mr. Wicks stour. I feel very thankfull that our heavenly father has provided me with brothers and sisters that careth for my good. [?] has been my father and guide while moving from place and while being with strangers more or less brother Collier eloped his school a week ago to day but have remained here for the purpose of attending meeting Daved felt very ancious last saturday to start for Oberlin but did not go he attended church Sunday Sunday evening they called the ancious forward the first one that started was David he consecrated him self to God before leaving the house he came home rejoicing [end of letter]

[from youngest sister Lucy]

Bloomfield Apr 17 1851
Dear Bro Haskell
I was gratified to hear from you for our correspondence has been broken off for some time-- I will tell you what I recalled about it last. you wrote me at one time that you would write a little to our Sabbath School Children-if [?] would be glad to have you. I replied that it would please me much. & that I would have anyone read the letter, that you might choose But I did not get any letter for the School. nor any to myself in reply. I will not be positive but that you wrote me after that [?] [?] my impression is that you did not. You seem to acknowledge some obligation to explain to me the reasons why you left Oberlin [?] rather why you did not return there from Sandusky [?] [?] to O. I am not aware Bro H. that I assume any Guardianship over you, [?] that you ever gave me any authority of that kind Among the other reasons that you give for going to O. I notice two which are in my opinion all=sufficient They are these-You say that you are "when I get most to myself, & 2nd "when I impart most to others" Doubtless knows like these ought to settle the [page 2] question of "whereabouts with every individual You speak of the unpleasant things at Oberlin last year. I am somewhat aware of them. & think the whole affair was unfortunate. though I am not certain that the parties were willfully wicked. Differences of judgement have existed in the Christian chch ever since. Paul withstood Barnabas face to face. because he [?] to be blamed You know I have always sympathised with Oberlin & have known [?] or lies about them for the last 10 years. & have taken the [?] [?] for almost that number of years. I am not certain but that it would be strange if I did not think that Oberlin is about as near right as any of the Institutions of its kind. You say that there seems to be more of Antislavery in the University than you had expected, I am glad of this. I hope there will be antislavery enough then to neutralize the Proslavery influence that was [?] [?] exerted by it. I believe it was a Dr Junkin who wrote and argument purposing to be drawn from Scripture in favor of Slavery. I do not recollect his logic very distinctle ; as it was several years ago. However the University cannot now be to blame for a former pro slavery President and I hope that the Institution will yet do good service in the cause of humanity I am glad that the Missionary cause(?) [?] apostle in The sympathies of the Institution and I believe it [?] pay [page 3] [?] use a commercial phase for the Missionary Society of our Lord to make a special effort to evangelize the Slaves of the Southern States. If the Southern people are to be believed, there is no people on Earth who may need the light of Life & the Ele[?]alion growing out of Christian Institutions than the Slaves. & if the [?] Properly attended to with how much more hower might the Missionary there go to other Lands. Now the Heathen may say (with how much propriety I will [?] Discuss) Physician: Heal thyself; I do not know who your Pres't is-I am glad you are able to speak so well of him. Al the time that there was a vacancy in the chair [?] Methodist Paper at Cincinnati (Western Chr Advocate urged there claims of their denomination to fill the pl[?] because they thought it would infase some life into the dry Bones & because that Presbyterian had so long had the management, & also that as it was State Institution that they has as good a right as any other sect; which I suppose is true Your People here are usually well. Maria has given birth to a son within a few days. all doing well There is some sickness here now Our Dr Judds died April 1st. There was apparently hope in his Death. There was upon this ground that with God all things are possible. Perhaps you are aware that I have almost no confidence in Death bed repentance where an individual has all life been surrounded by the light of the Gospel We have no regular preacher now & I cannot speak [page 4] favorably of the State of Religion among us now I suppose that I am most to blame for this-I am engaged here until next January- I think I shall leave 1 year from this Spring-If I should live- I have not heard from Brother John lately-I suppose he is at home now as he had written home. the last they wrote me that he would be at home about this time Is our friend Sheldon at Oxford now, & What is he doing?-write me As ever Chauncy [W.C. Savage]
Brother Haskell Agreeably with your request together with my husband's invitation I consent to write you a few lines. Although I have nothing of importance to communicate. neither am I in this habit of addressing his correspondents directly save through him. We were indeed glad to hear from you again. Though somewhat surprised to learn that you had returned to Oxford. but your reasons for so doing were good, and sufficient. [?]ared in such a world as this. we ought not to live for our own pleasure and gratification alone? but also for the good of others. So numerous and narrow are the opportunities for doing and receiving good, that none can plead a sufficient exeuse for remaining inactive. By the words of Inspiration and the works of [?] [?] [?] exfor[?]= eel to diligence. The Apostle [?] his Epistle to the Hebrews says "do good and to communicate, forget not

No more now, but kind regards
From a sincere friend
M. L. Savage
P.S. Miss Helen Murray was married a few weeks since to
a Mr Baxler. His name it good, & I hope he is a good man.

[letters of recommendation]

This certifies that Bro. T. N. Haskell is a member of the First Congregational Church of Sandusky City. And he is [?] reccemmended to the kindness and sympathy of any Sister Church where his lot may be cast~

Sandusky City} C. J. Pitkin
March 26, 1851} Acting Paster~

This certifies that I have been acquainted with Mr Thomas N. Haskell for the past ten years and have known him as a Successful teacher in public and private Schools_and as well calculated to attract the att[?] there and enlist the energies of those under his care~ I can most cordially commend him to any who may wish to secure his services as a teacher in a School or family-

Sandusky City O.} C. J. Pitkin
July 14. 1851.} Acting Paster of the 1st Cong.l Church--

Washington Iowa
June

Dear Uncle

I have been intending to write to you for some time past, but have neglected it until the present moment, having never re'd any letter from you I scarecly know how to address you. When last I saw you in Bleu~~~~d, [Bloomfield] I did not think five years would pass away before I should see you, or at least, passed through many changes since we parted, the changing scene, of my life, have been varied & many Not a year has passed without bringing with it sorrow & disappointments for me, but being satisfied that every soul of Adams race is born to sorrow & trouble, I am willing to submit myself to the care of a just God, who is the giver of every good & perfect gift, & who is continnualy showing mercy unto thousands of them that love him, & keep his commandments, I have been out of health more than a year, but at the present time my health is gaining I think I shall be able to resume my studies this fall, had my health been good I should have entered

[pg 2]
College this fall but on ac-----t [account] of my health I shall not enter under a year from this fall. Iowa College doubtless will be a good institution, but at the present it is young, & is not fairly under way I think I should go through the Freshman Class, & then if possible go to some other College & finish my course. I wish to ask you concerning eastern Colleges what chance there would be for me [?]. When you rec'e this, I desire you to answer it without delay if you please. The friends in Iowa are all well at present. I do not think of any more at present. Mother joins in love to you. She is very anxious to hear from you.

Except this from your nephew Otis Daggett

Tho N. Haskell
Otis Daggett June/51
May 24 1852

Ever Dear Brother

I find myself to hear from you as much so to see you, and often mentally inquire will Nelson, wont he come to Ohio to spend his vacation? If I knew you intended to still we must trust to a train of Providences to bring about so desirable an event for the future in veiled form our vision and life is so uncertain that we cannot know what a day or an hour will bring forth- If it will be apparently as well for you, if no better I hope you will come; your expenses during that time if you remain in the city will be a considerable problem As for what you owe Henry & Pliny, they I know ['I know' crossed out] would rather wait much longer than forego the pleasure of seeing you- And if the sabbath schools all need shiring up and something to excite an interest as much as ours does I think you might be the means under God of doing much good in this section of country---- probably you have decided before this time whether to come or not so that should I present inducements they would avail nothing but I hope if it is best that it will appear so to you and that our lives will still be precious in the sight of Him in whose hands our life is, and that you will ere long be permittedto meet ['those' crossed out] your friends which I need not tell you will be gratifying to us all-----Pliny has removed to Geneva gone into the mercantile business- we remain in Orwell on a farm adjoin ing the one on which we formerly lived lying on the road south

Mrs M. H. Smith Dec/52

Quincy Nov 2d / 52

Uncle Nelson

Mother has employed me as her A[?] to report the arrival of yours of Oct 25th and the pleasure with which it was received and will enclose all I write by her name or mark at the close of this; she has not been quite well the last two or three days and feels unfit to write. Father is much better and we hope it will continue. All the rest are quite well. We are very glad your visit was pleasant to you and Mother expects you with pleasure at Thanksgiving to gather with us around our board, the only God in Heaven knows if we may be spared to meet at again or ever there: but we hope to. Hannah is not School marm yet but will commence soon and anticipates much pleasure from being useful in even a small way: hoping to have the pleasure of meeting you soon I am truly yours (Mother says "she makes pot hooks and trammels Come as soon as vacation commences.)

H.K. French [Hannah K. French, eldest sister (half-sister) of Thomas Haskell]

by M.A. Perkins [Hannah's daughter Mary Ann Perkins, nee French]

Davenport College
Iowa
Dec 24/52

Ever Dear Uncle I rec'd your long wished for letter in due time & rejoice that it is my privilege to correspond with you, often have wished to open correspondence with you but knew not where to direct my letters. It is [?] vacation with us here, & gladly after fourteen weeks hard study of I close my books & turn my mind to recreation & rest. I need not tell you of my situation O, of the Institution with which I am now connected as doubltess you heard from the lips of Mr. Holbrook, Rev. all if interest, & I hasten to a more interesting subject, yet to me a painful one, "vis." the condition spiritually of my family, Mothers hairs are already whitened for the grave, & she is standing on the very verge of the grave, yet she can rejoice in a hope of eternal life. her health is declining: In the last letter I rec'd from her she wished me to give you her love & best wishes. I have two Brothers, wicked yet honest men so for us the world is concerned, both are in search of wealth, the most beggarly element of this world. Joseph is abo[?] starting for California, & ther is hurrying himself to eternity by hard work. Oh! I bless God that I am not thus eager for the things of time. That I could plead more effectualy for them more of the [?] Man with Abraham, I wish you would write to them & warn them to flee the wrath to come_______ Mother is keeping [?] for Jos & lives near Their family.

[no signature, probably Otis Daggett who was at college during this time period]

Thomas Nelson Haskell Papers, Ms 0013
Box 2, Folder 14, letters to Thomas Haskell, 1854 months 7-12.

Saybrook August 25 1854

Dear Brother

I received your letter one hour ago and husle to answer it. You can not tell how glad I were to hear from you. I wrote the last letter but perhaps you never got it I had often wondered why you did not write I suppose you knew of cours that I was always glad to hear from you. Your letter was sent from Geneva to Bloomfield and then sent here. I am now boarding with Sister Martha and attending school here in Saybrook. The school is small but the better chance I have to learn. Latin is my principal study I … it very much so far I have not yet got thoroughly associated in …much of it as yet. I have not been studing it but 5 days and only got to the de..nsions of the …

I am not quite as smart as Miss May L… she completed it in three… She ..a noble woman

My intentions now are to persevere in getting a good education one that is worth …ssing for. I want now to be ready to enter the school at South Hadly another year but can not unless I can get to school all the time ..now and then. But I shall not be able to unless I can get those .. from brother Henry. I want to ask your advise about that would it not be better for me to use it for that purpose that is in helping me to prepare to enter that school, you will write and let me know your mind and that … I have been teaching this summer I had a very pleasant school but rather small however what few there were, seemed … to learn and I tried to teach them according to the best of my ability with divine aid from on high. What could I have done while persuing a calling fraught with such deep present and

And eternal interest both to Teacher and scholars with and the spirit of God to guide and sustain Sister Mary is here with us yet but expects to go to the west in the cours of 2 or 3 weeks, her health is very much better now than when she first came She wishes me to inquire of you if you have sent any letter to Onadanta? for them Sister Martha wishes to be remembered to you and will write as soon as she can find time. You know her family is almost always large and a great many cares on her mind. Brother Pliny and family are well as usual. Maria has a very bad cough but hope she is in the gain. The friends in 'B' were all well when I last heard from there Eliza is now going to school in Orwell. She does not have to milk cows .. cheese and various other things that would make her a perfect ..and no and I am glad of it. I do not think I shall ever ask Par? Ib either for a cent of their money it would be of no use.

Dear Brother

You will write as soon as you receive this wont you it is getting late and I.. to get yet to night. I would not send this on any consideration without ever if I know I should have time…it before the mail goes out tomorrow morning. You will excuse it this time and I will try and do better next -- I remain the same

Your unworthy sister

L P Haskell

PS It is not for the want of interest that your friends have not writen to you but other duties ..pying their time I have just heard indirectly that Miss Jane Pratt of Orwell is dead. I have not learned any of the particulars about her illness (if so)

Geneva Sept 6th 1854

Dear Bro Nelson

Your favor of recent date is duly to hand giving intelligence of your location, labors, & guess at your anticipations. Hope your Strength will be accounting to your day. I congratulate you much in your present circumstances and prospects The dignity of your congregation and your relation to it. The influence and social friendships of such society & associations must be of no small importance, save that of the "political scamps" (which shope will not be very strong with you) you wished me to give you a business answer to your enquiries relation to giving Lucy a situation at Mt Holyoke, To which I would sat that I am not in circumstances at present to pay a great amt to anyone or any purpose As I am not able yet to continue my business & furnish myself & family with a comfortable house of my own for which my temporal efforts are chiefly but, I would gladly assist Lucy if I could without crowding my own necessities. In conversation with I. B. Burrows present Priceptor of Saybrook Acadamy when she is now attending he stated that then was in his opinion more substantial foundation upon which to build by education that any student save our who has been under his tuition for a long time. He is young and of the value of his judgement I could not say, He tho that if She could graduate at Mt H.O. or some other similar Institution She would be able in a few years succeeding say two or three to refund all necessary expences by teaching in some institution as asst.t
We are suffering very much with drought, A company of farmers are now in the store discussing its effects on dairy exclusively Their opinion seems to reduce the average quantity of milk in Ashtabula Co pr cow to be less that three (3) quarts pr day and many dairies are dried entirely

Mary is in Ohio now at Josiah's They are rather necessitated as near as I can judge, She came with her two youngest boys about the first of June Horace & Geo are in Iowa, Her health is not very good Martha & family are well Maria's health is very miserable and has been since last February most of the time. Her cough for two & half mos has been severe Her wt. is reduced from 115 125 down to go lbs. Physicians do not think her lungs affected but attributed it chiefly to inflammation of the bronchal tubes which I am inclined to believe but do not know My general health is good Anna & Charlie are healthy. May Infinite Wisdom direct us all in the various duties before us

Yours as ever

P. F. Haskell

(PS) write a little oftener if it be your pleasure P.

Manchester, N.H

Sept 7th 1854

My dear Bro. Haskell,

I suppose that by this time you have nearly given up all hopes of ever hearing directly or indirectly from your quondam chum. Well, altho it appears an age since I last addressed you I do not know that I have any very special news even now to communicate. My career in one place joins an epitome of my labor as a whole. I have been rambling thro some fine parts of N. England since. I have just come from Nashua in this state, and are now in Manchester, a name so suggestive of spindles & cotton. The Irish Papists are here in force. I lecture to them twice a week and they come out in large numbers to hear me. All is quick. On the Sab. I present the claims of the "Am & F Chr. Union" in the church and take collections. In the intervals I wander "fancy free" Sometimes I "improve" the leisure hours in strolling out of town and over the silent fields till I come to some sequestered nook that a hermit would have

Loved and there I recline and think of you and wish you were near me to enjoy the scene and give to the variegated hues of stream and woodland a still more charming tint from the glorious coloring of your imagination. Sometimes too in the still afternoons I enjoy a walk thru the beautiful glen which echoes back the music of the "Amos-Keag" Falls, with a white armed daughter of the "granite slate " for my companion. Then, you know I'm in my element. I say "My Beautiful, the spirit of this place, you see is smiling welcome upon us. His worshippers, as we enter his leaf-curtained Sanctuary. Listen to the voice around us-it is the voice of one preaching the grand eternal sermon whose subject is Love." We sit down together- but the hours fly too fast and the deefeaning shades of evening drive another pair from their paradise back to the neighborhood of clashing cotton mills. You will surely now reply. "Ah, but Leo, what will Amanda say to all this?" I saw her and Mother talked with them soberly earnestly. The conclusion of the whole matter-to put it in a nutshell was-She had no objection to have me in any capacity in life, excepting as a minister. - She could not-would not be a Minister's wife. "To obtain you then, I must cease to preach the Gospel!" "Yes." I took my hat, "Good bye Miss Buswell and farewell. I hope we may meet in heaven, for it is certain we can never again meet on earth"

Oh, Haskell, 'twas all a mistake-the devils own trap, from which I am truly thankful. How are you? How do you get along in your church? Is it increasing? I long to hear from you. How goes on "that affair" "ye scarcely tell to any." Has your "Star in the East" gone down amid clouds of disappointment, or does it, like "the Star of Empire" take its way "Westward?" I am pretty confident the latte in the case-Amen! with all my heart!! You are worthy of that bright gift of God__ and however bright it be 'twill take a reflected radiance from your native luster. Be happy!! Be what the wishes of your poor "chum" would make you, as well as what your own inclination would prompt.

"Far from the stare of the cold eyed many
Bound in the breath of they dove-souled Annie"

Write to me so that I may get your letter before the end of next week -Direct to-
"Manchester, N.H." Adieu! And

Ever yours. --Leo

Bloomfield September 9th 1854

Dear Brother

Your letter came safe to hand the 8 inst was glad to hear from you As it regards the proposition you made for educating Lucy I feel interested for Lucy but do not know how I could comply with your proposition at this time I have my business matters so arranged that it is close times with me for money at present I have this year lost $300.00 three hundred dollars bought a pair of horses paid two hundred and thirty dollars for them one of them was taken sick and died I bought a lot of (six hundred) sheep and the drouth came on and could not sell them only at a reduced price I lost two hundred dollars in that speculation

Dear Brother you may think that I do not feel that intrset for Lucy that I ought or you may think that I am verry close but hope not I must close for my head aches so that I can hardly hold my pen in hand Abby will write the news write as soon as you get this this from your unworthy Brother

G.H. Haskell

Saturday Eve

Dear Brother

I hardly know what to write my mind is so wandering We were glad to receive your letter and hear of your good health it has been very dry here it seemed as though ever body must be sick. There has not been much sickness in our imediate vicinity as yet God has been very merciful unto us much more so than we deserve But we hear of sickness all around us. I must tell you of Esq. Pratt of Orwell he is dead his funeral services will be attended to morrow his daughter Frances died some two or three weeks ago great loss it is to Orwell. Buel Bushnel is also dead one and another is dropping away Oh what is life why should we cling to earth. I have been a visiting at Mr. Pitkins this afternoon while ther they rec. a letter bearing the Death of Mrs Vroomer her mission is ended here below. The know doubt is reaping the fruit of her labors in a far happier world than this. Mr. Pitkins Father and Mother are with them at this present time. Uncle Knapp rec a letter bringing the Death of Uncle Ebenezer Knapp's wife He is looking some for his Brother out here. The friends in Alesander are in middling health Uncle nor Aunts health not very good. The friends here are well general time of health in B considering so much fire and smoke and drouth put it all together it has not made it quite as pleasant as might be. I have not written half what I wanted to for Henry is waiting to take it to the office Therefore you will have to excuse me I will try it again soon you must write us often as you can

Your in haste Abby P Haskell

Saybrook Oct 1854

My dear Brother

Though great is the distance which separate us still we may cherish the same affections towards each other and manifest as strong a desire for each others welfare as though we were permited to enjoy each others society from day to day but it should seem much pleasanter however if God had ordered it that we might be permited to meet oftener than we now do.

The school closed yesterday with an examination and exhibition it is to commence again in 2 weeks. I liked the school very well I had almost given up going to school this winter it was a going to cost so much but the door seems to open for me to remain Mr Burrows invited me to assist him some in his school which I promised to so for the next term at least by doing so I can pay my tuition which would be 12? dollar or so, Truly God never forgets the orphans in time of need but I am not prone to forget my only parent one that is doing so much for me.

You said brother, that you thought I never had been engaged about going to school before, dear brother you little … What my circumstances have been heretofore. It has never or rather not lately been so I could go to school a whole term. As for studing latin, when I have been to school it would be the last half of the term and the class in that would be so far advanced that I could not join it. I studied it alone this fall. And intend to go ahead with it as fast as I can and get it good. My studies which I persuid? were on my mind while asleep as well as when awake.

Dear brother what and wher shall I go to school, if I go away in the spring. I want to go where you think best for me to go as you are a going to assist me, I have thought of late perhaps I had better go to Oberlin as I could be able to help myself more there, than at S. Hadly, still I do not like to give up going there very well, but I want to go where it would be best for me I feel as though I was greatly indebted to you for the kindness and interest which you have ever manifested for me but a greater debt to my Heavenly Father for puting it into your heart so to do do write wont you before school commences again so I shall know what to do, that is what branch to pursue. Josiah left last Monday for the west he expects to be gone all winter, Sister Mary has gone. Uncle Ebenezer has been here and made us a short visit - I likied his appearace very much what little acqu… I had with him. We are all well at present I have not been to Bloomfield since last spring They were well the last time we heard form them, I shall look for a letter from you as soon as next week. You will receive this as coming from your Sister

Lucy.

Washington D.C.
Nov 3d 1854

Rev & Dear Sir,

Your company at tea with other Clergymen of the City is respectfully requested on Tuesday evening the 7th inst. At 6 o'clock

Fraternally Yours,

G. W. Samson
6th St. No 465

Revd Mr Haskell

Rev Bro Haskell

Dear Bro

I shall expect you to preach for some to night agreeable to appointment. I have so announced it. Bro Sunderland assisted me last evening. there is considerable solemnity in our meetings and some interest manifested Come & take charge of the meeting I am very unwell with …gia. Hours 7½ o clock

Yours Fraternally

John F Cooks

Rev Bro Haskell

Dear Bro:

There is some interest in my congregation. I am therefore holding a series of meetings. Bro. Smith assisted me on Sunday evening. Bro. Carother last evening. Will you not come and preach for me this evening at 7½ o clock? And very much oblige

Yours Fraternally

Nov 7th 1854
John F Cook
Pastor of 15…
Pres. Church
My health is quite poor

Saybrook Oct 1st 1854

Ever Dear Brother

I have never written you from Saybrook and told you of our pleasant home kind neighbors and other agreeable associations in this place not because I did not consider you susceptible of having such intelligence give you pleasure but principally of for the oft urged reason, the want of time, which I can now certainly urge with more "truth than poetry" for since coming here I have had much more to do for the 'looks' so to speak, than I used to have and have had less help than usual The people of this place have treated us with much politeness and I have hardly had leisure to return calls and cultivate such acquaintances as seemed desirable Our nearest neighbors are Mr C Savage & wife he has recently purchased, their house is but a few yards distant, his father & mother are coming soon expecting to spend the remainder of their days with them____ The Methodist Church is ¼ of a mile distant from us, Academy about the same distance, the congregational church is one mile distant, generally good roads to it, these have a respectable society with regard to numbers but no stated preaching no shepherd to keep the flock together, we have however occasional preaching, when we have not, usually have one reading service each Sabbath Mr L always officiates as reader---we have a very good school in the academy Mr Burrows & brother from Geneva teachers, Albert & Charlie both attend------Sister Lucy applies herself closely to study the teacher

says with her present progress she will get through with the Latin grammer and reader the coming winter term which is as far as she is required to go by the catalogue before entering the S.Hadley sem. Latin is a study which is carried through every year of the course there, she recites alone I do not see any thing to prevent her being ready to enter that Institution if she can attend school steadily untill that time one year from this fall---but can she go there without aid from brs H. & P. a thing which I have no faith to believe you or she or I could ever obtain no I believe their purse strings would forever remain drawn if there was no other inducement than a sisters education to drain the filthy lucre out of them-do not be startled at this[crossed out] that they have other ways and many other ways for their money, they do not see things in the same light that you do (I don't say that they ought to) and they have those that are nearer to them than a sister to provide and care for they have both been heard to say they mean their daughters shall have good educations (still I don't think they realize the value of it or know what it is Eliza is now attending school in Orwell boarding out which you know will cost something and Henry has sold to Mr. Creighton the old homestead and taken his farm towards it and bought too the one belonging to Mr. Cutter which involves him some 1000 dollars besides he has recently lost a horse worth from 1 to 200 dollars and lost another hundred in a sheep speculation entered into with L Foster which altogether they say makes him feel rather poor and Pliny is trying to add to his capital by investing it all in the store so that they have no house or land of their own and I suppose he feels poor too I hardly think if he was worth ever so much that he would be very anxious to put a brick in a new church that he was not personally interested in or help very bountifully towards educating a sister under the present influences which are exerted over him Sisters M & L think that he has almost forgotten to be a brother probably I should have had the same occasion to feel so too had I been at all dependent as they have---But however I may be mistaken they may write favorably with regard to sharing with you in her education and making up to her what she was deprived of in early life, but should they not can she go to S. Hadley? would it not be better for her to go to Oberlin where as the catalogue states the long vacations enables the students to help themselves and where she could go in less than a day and where we could help her to defray incidental expenses better than if she were so far off-she might possibly be prepared to enter there another spring Miss Louisa Savage has just graduated from a four years course at that Institution has told L. all about it and furnished her with a catalogue---I think she would prefer going to S.H. but if she cannot would like to go to Oberlin-If she is educated you must be the advisor and director and helper and I trust you would not lose your reward she cannot do it alone a young lady cannot ascend the hill of science with no parents or any one to help them quite so well as a young man can but I am telling you what you already know___If you think every thing considered she had better prepare for Oberlin she will of course know it before long as she will have to pursue somewhat different studies the coming winter than she otherwise would---I am anxious above all temporal things with regard to her that if it is possible she should go through a course of study at some good institution and if there should be anything I could so to aid her it would be done cheerfully____

Mary arrived here the fore part of June, I think it was, since then she with her two little boys have spent the time around among us-she is now in Bloomfield-Horace wrote he should send for her about this time probably she will go soon----Josiah thinks now of starting for Iowa in a few days perhaps he will spend the winter there if he can do well at singing, we may move there at no distant day Josiah is not very contented here and if we must ever move again I am in favor of making a move that will be worth our while---Mr. Charles Pratt of Orwell tarried over night with us not long since his father and sister Frances have both gone to their long homes Frances died of Typhoid fever, …her husband came immediately with all that remained to him of her to Orwell where she was buried at twilight the same day that he arrived he was taken the next day with the same fever Esq. Pratt took care of him till he also was taken down with the same fever of which he died after and illness of about ten days Mr Anderson has recovered and returned to his second time motherless children---Mr. Godin left Orwell last spring has spent the summer with his wife's friends in Talmadge They are intending to move to Illinois this fall____

It is now past 10 o'clock at night, the desire write to my brother has induced me, though exceedingly weary, to sit up untill this time, and now this poor writing and worse composition I should not think could be sent to the pastor of a church in Washington were he not my brother who knows that it is more out of my line of business than I wish it was and who knows to that practice is requisite to perfection in this as well as in other things I shall send this to W. supporting you have returned there before this time I received your last letter written the day you left I have not seen Henry or Pliny since----The children speak often of you-do let us hear from you soon---we are very glad to have you send envelops already directed, then there will be no mistake. From your unworthy Sister Martha

Wed eve Nov 13th 1854

My dear Brother,

Your very kind letter I have read and reread many times and know not how to express my gratitude to you for your unwearied kindness to me. I near can repay the great favor which you have promised to do for me. I can return the money If my life is spared and I am permited to teach which you spend for me to get and education but God will pay you for your kindness May your labors be blessed with many sheaves, which shall live in a brighter land than this.

I have not writen that application yet as you will perceive. I do not know how to do it correctly as I never saw any thing of the kind. and I do not find as it is required of me in the catalogues Will it be asking to much of you, to do it for me I have succeeded in obtaining two certificates of commendation which I will enclose in this letter. I would have got more to sign then if I could have got to Geneva, Mr Burrows did not mention 2 studies that I am persuing in the commendation which he wrote, as I do not recite them at school as he did not like to have any more classes those are

Mitchels Ancient Geography and Wa…the mind. I am trying to get ready as fast as I can, I fear it will be impossible for me to be ready to go as soon as next May-as there are some 4 or 5 if not more branches which I never studied that I should have to be prepared in, in order to get on with the third term of the junior class but I will endeavor to be ready in the fall with out fail. If you think it best for me to write my own application will you send me a form? You spoke of Miss A. E. Edwards who is she that she should be so free in expressing her views to you about my education I should like to have you explain a little in your next, I think of nothing more now to write I will close by biding you good night though the night is half gone, you will write soon wont you -dear brother?

Lucy

PS, Dear brother you did not understand me about my going to school. I did not want your advise about what studies I should persue it was only as to the place where I had better go, I expect to practice penmanship this term or rather a part of it under Mr Platt K. Spenser, …directions.

I Boardman Nov 18 1854

Pardon me Dearest Uncle if in writing to you again I would offer any offense far be it from my desire to crowd my letters on any one to whom they would not be acceptable. As I wrote to you about a year ago and have not yet received any answer I thought I would once more attempt to write to you thinking perhaps you have some reasonable excuse for not writing to me. My date informs you that I am in Boardman where I expect to remain for about three months. I commenced teaching north? the center…weeks ago. I have a very pleasant school so far the pleasanest I taught … is teaching…two miles east of here…I am not here…for this are so near that I see them quite…some times get a little homesick but…will that I should…to be contented trusting in Him for help in every time of need. I do pray Dear Uncle that God may give me grace and wisdom to teach these youth that He has placed under my care for I do feel that of myself I am not fit to undertake such a responsible task. Our folks were all well when I …home Uncle Henry Aunt Mary and Aunt Abby were at our house a few weeks ago: they were all well at that time. How much I should like to see you but fear I shall not soon as I suppose your duties will not permit you to have them I must draw my letter to a close for I can think of nothing more that will interest you. Please excuse all bad writing and spelling. If you deem this worthy of an answer please make it known by writing.

This from your ever affectionate Niece
Mary A Spaulding

Saybrook Dec 31 1854

Dear Brother Nelson

I write to you not because I love to when I can but more particularly on Lucy's account we wish to ascertain whether or not you received a letter from her written sometime the fore part of Nov containing some testimonials whether you thought they would answer or not what should the application …could the have had access to acquaintances in other places she might have explained more and perhaps better ones but this her time as she was attending school would not admit of …had she the way conveniently to go the application she did not know how to get hold of your… I told her I feared too if she wrote it we judged her by that they would be deceived with regard to her real worth if she has not the faculty to recommend herself and gain friends by the production of her…much as some it is made up in ability to gain friends by association this I have abundant reason to know from the many she must have acquired in this

Place and others also--I think she is having a good school now the very place for her where, (permit me to use the expression) she is considered "the biggest Toad in the puddle," I think she is gaining in self confidence self reliance and self respect and independence just as she ought to -If you could have seen the tears of gratitude she shed when she read your generous proposals to aid her in gaining an education and could see how hard she studies you would decide that she was in earnest about the matter you would not wonder that she was very anxious to know whether you received that letter or not whether application was made and what the prospect of acceptance was-
Henry was here a few days since Lucy asked him if he knew of Mr Pitkins receiving a letter from you lately he replied yes and said he guessed he had not answered it yet-He would not try to influence Mr. P. in some things I have no doubt but would..in this is a question------I think if Lucy neglects anything now it is religious exercises it would be for better if the teacher were a pious man---Do you know where Mary is . write comforting to her she has no doubt a thorny path through life I was glad to see that she knew so here….

I want to acknowledge in this the reception of sermon from you some time ago ex-Governor Ford and lady and her mother were here on a visit at the time. Mrs F read it in the audience of her husband and the rest of us he pronounced it a good discourse I have since read it with interest I hope you will never know from experience the sorrow of such bereavement as it speaks of but if you should you will know before than now the value of such consolation as it affords---

Josiah was gone west but three weeks he went no farther than the western part of this state he is now teaching in this section he has a class here of rising 60 scholars

They were enjoying quite an interesting revival in the baptist church in Geneva

You have no doubt heard of the death of the rev. Mr Osborn formerly of Mesopotamia and Mr Lord of Wayne Mr Savages father also was buried one week ago yesterday--------

Write to us soon do-I do not doubt that your labors are abundant and that you have but little time left for correspondence but a brief letter will be better that none I hope when the cause of your attraction towards N. England becomes your own that you will then be attracted towards Ohio in some of your recur…travels … bless you as he has ever done------

I expect L can board here and go to school untill next fall if she wishes to but while she is here I have to forgo having a hired girl so that I am obliged to have her assist me some much less though than we would board any other one for I do not think of what the board is worth but what little assistance I must have in order to get along at all Josiah says he does not feel able to keep two girls I like to have her here but it is really self denial for me to have her stay yet if I can help her any in this way I do it cheerfully though I groan beneath the burden of incessant toil I have to bear and often wish I were not obliged to starve the better part so much---I shall endeavor to help her what I can and try to influence our brothers and their wives to do the same in an outfit of clothing and funds and I should think by next fall she might be ready not preventing providence to go to Mt Holyoke

From your Sister
Martha

Box 2, Folder 14, letters to Thomas Haskell, 1855 months 1-6.

Boston Friday March 9. 1855
My dear Brother,

I have this morning, received your letter of the 6th int. making some "statements inquiries" respecting your church. On Monday afternoon next we have our pastor's meeting for consultation on matters of this kind a… other objects and I will endeavor to obtain the judgements of my brethren to help my own and ….Meanwhile let me say that ..of the …objects to "put through," as I believe ..of business … say, is one of the kind you have in hands. In other words, it is hard to obtain ..subscriptions for building houses of worship. But, do not be discouraged. I will make inquiries as well as I can and write you the results. Trusting that the Lord may be …ishly with you and bless and comfort you in your "public walks" and "private ways" and "scouts your…" I am

Affectionately yours,
M Blassden

Rev. T. N. Haskell

Boston March 16 1855
My dear Brother

I meant to have written you earlier in the weeks, "but was let hitherto" by a multiplicity of appointments. I …with my ministerial brethren, but Monday, as to the prospect of ..you visit Boston. They said as I suppose they …that all that can be done in other similar …namely let you go among the people and do what you may by ..application in this ..as he was..last fall making …for his place of worship …he began under favorable auspicus having the ..of ..a two churchful ..at the head of his list.

He told me if I remember correctly, that it must slowly with him ..eve…that I am. But this is the …that I can…the building of churches has not for a number of years taken a strong hold in the minds of our most …church members, in compos… with other forms of Christian effort. And I know not that they are …with on this account.

If you ..as at …time before July, I shall be happy to offer you an prophets' chambers …your stay; and if the ..of my ..permit, I should be glad to extend the same invitation to Mr Sudnerland, but that is not practicable.

Sincerely yours in Christ
M Blassden

Rev T. N. Haskell

P.S. Please I express to Mr Sunderland my ..and regards.

Kingsville March 22 1855

My dear brother

Are you imagining that your sister is trying hard to… your…and kind offer? If so your imaginations are correct. I have and am still trying so to do I have reduced my hours of sleep to 7 or 8 hours and sometimes less but that sacrifice is I have studied nothing in comparison to the amount of good there is to be faithfuly…My teacher here in Saybrook accomplished by so doing. thought I had made good progress in at. I suppose I have his way of thinking H. is a young man of strong talent but immoral principles; last term …was filled with exhibitions and low…uly …colloquies I did not wish to remain under his teaching any longer so I made my way to Kingsville, here I think good faithful teachers.

Mr. H…rd my teacher in latin is a graduate from …and of…and …exceedingly kind to me and I feel grateful for it. he says my teacher has not …enough with me which has caused me many dark dark hours. I can assume…My teacher told me I could not be prepared …next fall if should study very hard. It does seem to …it I can scarcely endure it after I have been trying so hard to get ready and …I suffered learning what I have learned correct, Now dear brother what can I do; I feel quite discouraged but can not bear to give up striving to obtain an education. I mean to leave the event with God and all will yet be well.

Perhaps you would like to know how I support myself in Kingsville. I can hardly tell. I board myself with a young …from Saybrook…for …a…for …and …providing and other…something …even as ..hard times.
I have been here nearly 8 weeks, one week sick so much so that my teachers …I had better have a Physican , … I reluctantly consented. he told me I had not study for a few days if I did I should have some trouble with my head. I …resting for a short time but can not …to any longer. I am going to school …try my weak brain again.
I have already writen more than I thought had and conclude you would be glad me quite. Dear brother you will write as soon as you get this wont you I can hardly …for an answer I want to hear from you In my … I will …something …funeral sermon which has been …for me and the …my Brother I shall deem it …dear brother remember your orphan sister while interceding at the throne of grace From a sister who never forgets you.

Lucy

Ellsworth March 31st 1855

Dear Uncle

I now sit down to answer your good letter, which ought to have been answered long ere this; and also deserves a better answer that I am capable of sending: but if I do the best I can I trust you will excuse me. We have closed our school and are all at home once more. We have had a very long cold winter; there was good sleighing for about four weeks. It seems a little more like spring today: I think it is now time of year for warm weather. It has been very sickly here the past winter, much more so than any season before in a great while: never the less it is a general time of …now. I intend to teach this summer in our own district. Mary E and myself talk of attending school in the fall: when I do not know for there is no school here at present and no prospect of any. Mr Allen talks of going west, he partly sold his farm and I suppose it is almost certain that he will. His son in law moved to Wisconsin last summer and Miss Joanna went with them. …spent the winter there and …is as home now: he intends to return in a few days. The children wish to be remembered kindly.

Please excuse all errors and write soon

Receive this from your Niece
Mary A Spaulding

Kingville? April 23 1855

My dear brother

The clock has just struct 10 and my room mate has retired but I wished to spend a portion of 1 hour in conversing with you. I have visited the office every day expecting to get a letter from … but was as often disappointed. I wrote a very kind letter to brother Henry stating my situation at present and wished to loan some 40 or 50 $ of him, I thought he would be sure of his pay, if I never get in to pay him but he has not any for me. If I had the interest of the 50$ that which became due …since it would more than pay my way here this term.

I am in a very cramp place at present..are…me for pay…my tuition and I have not a cent to pay them. I have dreamed my purse…going to school so long …ming anything as far as…is concerned.

Dear brother would you be willing to lend me ..$ I will try and you… with good interest as soon as I can. I like the school very much and I think I am making pretty good progress with my studies. The future looks very dreary &not a ray of light penetrates the darkness Providence seems to turn every thing rather mysteriously with me this spring, …it is so I am not able to tell, but it is all for the best…

If you can help your orphan sister at this time I shall feel very thankful & God will reward you for it

I wrote a letter to you and have received no answer …could write I want to hear from you very much. If you can grant me the request which I have made I would like it as soon as next week. I do not know but you will think it rather out of place …call upon you for aid but as H. cannot assist me I thought I would apply to you.

I must …biding you good night and craving an interest in your prayers.

Lucy P Haskell

Rev T. N. Haskell

Box 2, Folder 16, letters to Thomas Haskell, 1855 months 7-12

Andover Mass
October 25 1855

Rev. T.N. Haskell

Dear Sir

Your letter of October 20th was …yesterday. In reply I would say that I am willing to go to Washington look at the field of labor, its prospects & duties, on the condition of having my traveling expenses paid & of being employed at least three weeks by the church now without a Paston. So that it might not be wholly profitless to me because mainly if the church should not be pleased with my labors or if I should deem myself inadequate to the toils and difficulties of such a position.

Mrs. Doggitt sends her love to Mrs. Haskell to whom please remember me

Yours in the service of Christ

T. Doggitt

Saybrook Nov. 12, 55

Brother Nelson

I feel glad every time the subject occurs to mind that you had a scrap of spare time while waiting in the office of another and gladder still that you improved it in writing to me I was very happy to trace you in your travels and labors homeward and to learn of your safe arrival there meeting again with your choicest one and resuming your labors with the apparent smiles of the great head of the church resting upon your field of labor--all this gave me pleasure now to write to you and inform you of our welfare and of Lucy's affairs She was married the 16th of Oct-in the morning, they took the cars and went the same day to sister Susan's returning to Kellogsville the next Sat spent the sabbath there returning here on wednesday they had been favored with fine weather and pleasant visits she seemed very happy and much pleased with her new acquisition not only of husband but father and brother and sisters-I think brother Chancey appears truly worthy-he is, I have no doubt uniformly kind and cheerful while he possesses every other qualifications necessary to make him a respectable man----

They have been here part and there a part of the time since their marriage they left here yesterday taking her little all that she had here expecting soon to become settled in her new home write to them if you can they would prize highly your good wished and congratulations ----Brother Henry & wife have been up once since you left all well there and in Geneva according to recent intelligence
I thank you sincerely for your gift the likeness of our new sister It was called for but Mr. Pitkin chose to retain it awhile said that when I came after it I might have it, so I shall probably get it sometime

I can hardly realize that the last one of our family is married you and Lucy both so near at a time but so it is and by the way you were married the same day of the same month that we were, 25 of April a trifling incident or more happier so, but I have wondered why, it happened so-Josiah has been at home but once since you left but he made a stay of three weeks then I should be really lonely without him or Lucy either if I had not a good intelligent girl for help and the pleasant addition of a nice little boy to our family the care of which takes so much of my time and together with the other children makes such a draft upon my affections that I really cannot be lonely---It is a fondly cherished plan of mine to give this little stranger the name of my youngest brother that is if his father consents which I am sure he will he was and infant of but few days when his father left home and the subject of a name had hardly been mentioned______

Give my love to sister Annie although I have seen more snows, as the Indians term winters and endured the heat of more summers yet I have the present practice in letter writing which I suppose she has consequently I do not feel competent to commence a correspondence or I would write to her I should be very happy to hear directly from her we are all very sorry that you think it so uncertain about visiting Ohio the coming year we are glad to see you any time

write soon- From your sister affectionately

Martha

Saybrook Dec ? 1855

Very Dear Brother

Weeks nearly …r have glided by since I received your … letter the perusal of which gave me a world of pleasure and for which I feel very grateful-I deferred answering it untill my husband came home thinking I might then have some what more to write he came last evening after an absence of 7 weeks, you will not be slow to believe there were bounding hearts and laughing eyes when we had another opportunity to welcome again the husband & father to his home though we expect to retain him here but a few days for providence has given him abundance of employ in and around Warren for the present he spent a night at brother Henry's on his way home, all very well-he has given me leave to name the new star in our domestic sky-wishes me if I name him after you to give him your whole name, Nelson Haskell, which I do … cheerfully I want to …our family name in preference to Thomas and the whole makes too much, does it not? …well…will…the name remains for…, if I say he is very promising you will of course make great alowence for my looking…with a mothers fond and …eyes…I feel as thought my claim upon him …and in comparison to that of Him whose infinite skill and design "curiously wrought " "this harp of a thousand strings," I trust that I shall live to see him grow up and stand upon the threshhold of honor and useful…as our dear mother did …if no more but I fear …to leave the future in the hands of a kind Heavenly Father who numbereth not only our days but even the hairs of our heads-I have not seen Lucy since I wrote you but received a letter a few days since written by her and her husband she was well and happy is anxious to hear from you His name is Chauncey E. Chapman P.O. address Kellogsville, Ashtabula Co. Ohio

Not one word from Mary I think of her much and often should be very glad to hear from her I presume she would take time to respond to a letter from her---with regard to Sister Annie's daguereotype Mr. Pitkin seems to have good reason for visiting to keep it has some claim upon it I shall of course relinquish all claim to it though I should prize one very highly

You spoke in your last of being in Richland? preaching in revivals, what great privilege of collecting more for your church, what …for gratitude-attending a meeting for colored people and the slave mart-how interesting just the account of it was to me and I hope you will write to me again soon as you can conveniently The children all speak often of Uncle Nelson and their new aunt and join with me in love to you both
Martha

Bloomfield Dec _ 1855

Dear Brother

Your last was safely and duly received and spite of my intentions at the time, to answer it imediately, remains unanswered It was the same very welcome messenger that its predesessors were and was perused with increasing eagerness interest and profit _I am happy to tell you that it was not sickness that prevented my responding to it sooner (for we will all write well) but the temporal wants of a household at this season of the year, coming in such fast array is to leave but very little leisure for writing Albert has him duly prepared and with a mothers anxieties and prayers following him gone away from here, for the first time to attend school my husband thinks some of making the winter a season of rest and rendering at home after braving the storm cold and wind of fourteen …ssive winters spent in teaching music_ A cousin of his from New Haven he has been rather unfortunate in his domestic relations has a home with us for the present probably…will ... ant in all quite a family we have which do not…it as much time to think of the vacancy in my arms and heart as I otherwise should have still time ..oves with …ings … the angel that beguiled it …his fright-we have lived here nearly two months it seems almost like as many years each autumn blast seems to wail a requiem and all the emblems of human decry which we see around us at this sad season of the year has a language of unwanted force to me

I dont feel quite at home yet in our tall old red house quite is different inside as it is out, from the one we left, and so …inconvenient that I feel disconnected? at every turn_ But I find many pleasant associations her in Bloomfield which seem like wayside flowers in this our earthly pilgrimage of which I enjoy very much and for which I feel very grateful__

Letter from Pliny awhile ago, stating that he had recovered his health but not his strength Ann was sick with the same fever but was getting better, also that he had received a letter from you …he was going to answer immediately probably you have heard from him __ Henrys people are all well_ it is quite pleasant living near them _ they inquire after you and hear your letters read with interest and Abby who usually writes all his letters for him of late days we ought to write to Nelson but I dread so probably you can guess why, and that is the secret of your not getting letters from them no doubt we shall all be glad if you can visit us with your wife next summer, will excuse you from coming in the spring if you stay long in the summer your county friends cannot of course entertain you in city style but such as we have should be happy to share with you and yours as long as you think it practicable or pleasant to stay

When I read your last I felt a desire to congratulate you upon many things Your field of labor so elevated and important with the assurance that it is where the Lord would have you be, the friendship of Brother Ministers and also the safe return of Sister Annie to Washington in good health and cheer that she is a capital woman has a heart for the work and renders you so much assistance in you labors as a pastor _ may the Lord always bless you in all your practice and private relations as at present with your rest from your labors and receive an unfading crown in the kingdom of heaven

Oh will not that be a happy day when we are bid to 'come up higher' I think I can see now that little Sallies mission to earth was all the work of an angel, and hers "left the pearly gates ajar" and light from that holy land beams through and seems near and his glorified spirit I trust will ever be a star to guide me to its own blissful chime, and all that made him more promising while living, renders him more capable of higher enjoyment in heaven and makes it more desirable to go to him__ I understand full well prof. Wm B. Bradbury when he imagined his little departed daughter was calling him home, and said "the journey is not long, papa will soon be home__I miss thee every where but I'll try and not miss thee in heaven"

Rev. Mr. Pitkin removed to Winchester Scott Co. Illinois perhaps you have heard from him ere this I do not know that my one in this town has

A word about sister Lucy, a letter from her and her husband some three weeks since informed us that they were pretty well she had been… better she is rich and happy in her husbands constant kindness and love his father Dea. Chapman lives with them which they seem to think a blessing rather than otherwise, and I marvel not at this for he really seems like almost a saint__Mrs Osborn widow of the late Rev. Mr. Osborn whose sister married a brother of Lucy's husband, says they all think Lucy is just the one for him__no more this time

Martha

Bloomfield Oct 14 1856

My very Dear Brother

It is with a great degree of pleasure that I essay to write to you though my mind is still filled with scenes I have wittnessed to day having been to the house of mourning where the remains of one of whom our Savior said, Of such is the Kingdom of Heaven, was conveyed to its last resting place while loving friends with weeping eyes and wounded breaking hearts hovered and lingered over the coffin and then over the grave and as I beheld I wondered not for I knew how the source of each tear was the well of the heart whose fountain affection was interrupted by its object being taken away by death and now they must lay all thats …there of …if no more until the resurrection…as I witnessed this and then walked around in that …ll …igh filled grave yard and stood by the graves of dear father and mother and the little …een mound near which covered our own land, taken unlashed(?) untried from …sorrow I felt a calmness a joy that life is short and felt that it would be …to be …too and the thought that I had two children to praise God always who had never sinned was welcome. But I would not be cut off as a …mberer of the ground and while life remains I have a work to do-the questions of the prophet to the Shumanite often occur to my mind, It is well with thee …how can I say it is well with not God have mercy on my husband or is he one who will live on in unbelief untill God shall say "he is joined to his idols let him alone" I want to ask you my brother to remember him when you bow at the mercy's seal that he may be converted and these boys I would that their whole lives might be devoted to God.

Tues. eve I have retired to my chamber and laid my little Hattie in her crib and while I wait for …to get possession of her I will write a little again I have much that …tell you, you will see by the date of this that we are in Bloomfield Reverend here the … we have Esq. (?) Col. Bushnell's Capt. Perry's people and many other old inhabitants for neighbors this is pleasant but we left in my estimation a dear good place and we had a much better home in Saybrook, and such neighbors, I had tried them in sickness and in affliction and many of them have a large place in my heart I don't know as I told you that Josiah was gone when little Hallie was considered dangerous he was expected back to Bloomfield so the word went no farther untill it was too late-we met him after we had started for Bloomfield for burial-This was all affliction-Brothers Henry & Pliny were with my self and children-Pliny was with us the latter part of his sickness, when he died and afterwards helping in every way possible -His kindness if I never repay it I never shall forget. It will be a life long source of grateful feelings-They have another son born last March-they call him George, were all well when we left Saybrook

Ezra Morgans health is quite poor, he has left the store and a Mr. Brown of Geneva has taken his place Brother P. was expecting to go to New York the next week after we left-Mr. Pitkin left this place some time in August has gone to Illinois near Jacksonville The Methodist and Presbyterian societies have united in employing a Methodist minister all the time He seems well adapted to his peculiar station and is liked very well his name is Stearns---

Wednes. eve. I cannot thank you enough for your letter and its accompaniments it was very consoling and came just in time to day the tears of an almost breaking heart so devoid of faith that I needed some thing to see or feel, else it could not be comforted, your likeness coming at the same time added an unusual force to the letter -I consider it though not a perfect likeness yet so good a one that it is very valuable I shall have it framed as soon as practicable The sermon I have read with interest and profit I trust, and shall try to have it do some good-such a Christian pattern as the subject of it is worthy of a world wide …and imitation-you inquired kindly after the children they are all well at present the boys …a desire for knowledge and have make very good progress when we have sent them to school and often speak as though they would like a liberal education but seem to think it a great thing almost beyond their reach I hope very much as they grow older that their thirst for knowledge will increase and that they will grow enlightened and useful…has finished …grammer Geography and Philosophy made some progress in Algebra we expect now that he will attend school at the Academy in Orwell the ensuing …, if so what studies would you think best for him to pursue? Mr Tuckerman remains there, the school is quite flourishing he has this term :50 scholars-Julia's health has been quite delicate during the summer she has been troubled with a spinal affliction but is now better …as well as ever and makes …Hattie talks very plain, is quite active…Annie has joined you in Washington…, our love to her, and will…spring…shall…and acquaintance may our anticipation not end in disappointment Br. Henry and family all comfortable they have a little daughter some 9 weeks old I have filled my little…time but …know as I shall write again unless you answer this. …very affectionately

Martha

Husband and children join in the Savages wife wished to be remembered when I write to you love to you and yours

Thurs. eve … to day heard directly from Geneva Brother Pliny has been sick for three weeks has had a run of the typhoid fever is now getting better of course he has not been to N.Y.

Box 2, Folder 17, letters to Thomas Haskell, 1856 months 1-6

Canfield
Jan 30th /56

Ever dear Uncle and Aunt

It is with much pleasure that I now attempt to address a few lines to you as I have not received any information from you since last fall. I should be glad to receive inteligence from you if at the reception of this you should deem it worthy of a correspondance. May be that you will be surprised at the place this date finds me located My occupation here is one that requires much patience as you doubtless know for you have had experience in the same. Teaching and training the young minds: trying to assume and perform the duties of a School Teacher

Who can tell the responsibilities resting upon a school teacher the training of so many youth for after life all of which are to fill some station ())either useful or useless) in this world. How much that may depend upon a few weeks training who of us can tell. One word one look might perhaps turn the scale for life.

And then when I think each one of these mortal bodies contains an immortal soul that is to be trained and educated for a never ending eternity then I think how far short of my duty I must come and that a great responsibility rest upon me. Lest in that great day when the last trump shall sound, and the judge sat on the throne to judge the people of all the nations of the earth of the deeds done here. Then I fear lest some of them should rise up in judgment against me and say had you done your duty I should not have been what I am now but I must look to him who guides and directs all things for assistance he will give us strength in evry time of need if we cast all upon him, if we love and serve him he will not forget us.

I have not been home for some time our folks was all well when last I heard from them The girls are both at home this winter I believe my school will continue about five weeks yet if all things go right I am only teaching a four month term get only $22, per month like teaching very well have good health this winter and hope you are enjoying the same blessing and will close soon do please write soon to me if so address to Canfield you will please overlook all mistakes as they are numerous

and accept this from your
Henry H. Spaulding
with my best respect to
Uncle and Aunt
T.N. Haskell

Quincy March 4 56

Dear Brother

Not hearing from you since you was here. I will now ask what has become of you have you forgotten your Father has one Daughter in Quincy of whom you used to think; is your time more taken up; or is it your better half that banishes your friends from your mind

Now Brother mine I will tell you Wm French has not been able to do any thing since you was hear, in August he took his chamber and for three months was not dress'd but two or three times, but through the mercy of our Heavenly Father he is able to be about the house and go out into the yard. altho I think he will never be any better than he is at the present time

We are all in good health excepting Wm French. I will tell you some news I have as letter from your Brother in Geneva asking for my lumbrotype(?) think I could send it I think, not for it would not be hardly myself it I did for is has been a very trying winter for me some At times I think I could pray God I might never see another like it.

You know George is in Chicago, Ill went last spring with his family he was at home in the fall made A visit and returned to his new home. Daniel thinks some of going to Quincy Ill if he goes I suppose he will go in about one month Now do write and let me hear from you, God Bless you give my respect to your wife although unknown and may you through the blessings of our heavenly Father be garded and guided for your own spiritual good

H K French

Sullivan PO Jackson Co Iowa May 4th 1856

Dear Uncle

It is with much pleasure that I take my pen to let you know that we are all well father is to work at andrew at carpentry this summer it is very pleasant out here I am to work for a man by the name of Mr F Housser for eight months at eight dollars a month father has bought for acre of land out here and built a house on it we ar about two miles from any meetting of any kind and four and half a mile from Sullivan po and two miles from another po and store and 10 miles from Dubuque you must not feel hard toward Mother because she did not write for she does not write to hardly any one she is a going to teach school this summer she begins to morrow has 63 dollars for 5 months I was very sick last winter

Mother says she wants I should remember her to you write as soon as you get this yours truly

George Culver

direct you letters to Sullivan PO Jackson Co Iowa that you write to us

Washington June 12, 1856

Rev & Dear Sir,
I have been authorized by the trustees of Union chapel Methodist E. Church to offer you for your use or the use of your congregation; our church until such time as you …may be again in a condition for occupancy.

The church is not occupied by us Sabbath afternoon, nor during the week except the evenings of Wednesday or Thursday.

At any other times, please feel yourselves entries at …to conduct your public worship there.

Yours respectfully …
Sam Rogers

To
Rev. Mr. Haskell
Pastor Western Presty. Church

Washington D.C. June/56

Rev. and dear Brother

It gives me great pleasure in accordance with the unanimous wish of my session to acknowledge your recent and marked kindness to my people during my absence and their afflictions, and to give you assurances of sincere gratitude for the same. Your cordial and very acceptable service as a "Minister of the Word" and your generous offer of your own house of worship when theirs was rendered incapable of use by a severe combination of casualties …and mysteriously permitted by our Heavenly Father are favors which are both highly appreciated and will be gratefully remembered by the congregation church and session, and I may add they are affectionately recognized by myself as a …exposition of that golden rule which I hope also to exemplify wherever in the providence of God opportunities shall be presented.

Hoping that they acquaintance the cordially commenced may be a source of mutual satisfaction and blessing to all participating …and honor the name of Christ …we are and whom we serve I am

Sincerely and fraternally
Your debtor in the providence
And love of God
T.N. Haskell
Pastor Western Church
Rev. Mr Rogers
Pastor of Union Chapel M.E. Church
Washington June 24 18
197 Walmont N Ohio
Augst. 5th 1856

Box 2, Folder 18, letters to Thomas Haskell, 1856 months 7-12

Dear Sir

I have concluded & prolong my stay from home until Monday the 18th inst. should there be no particular necessity for my return before that time. My friends are anxious for us to remain a little longer, as the weather has been such as & provide my visiting them all and in no hope of accomplishing this I have complied with their wishes. I think that Mrs. Haskell is well, and that you have been comfortable in your solitude, and in expectation of seeing you soon I remain

Your friend

C L Brook

Saturday Augt 9th

Rev. Wm Haskell

Dear Sir

My sister Martha and myself intend returning to Washington on Thursday the 14th and will be at our house on Friday

If Ann is still in town, will you tell her to come to the house on Friday morning and have it opened for us. If she is not there, have the goodness to leave the key of the front door with Mr Redfern to that we can get it.

I hope both yourself and Mrs Haskell have been preserved in good health through this trying season. I think by this time you must be rather weary of solitude of your own house.

I trust that before long a kind providence will permit us all to meet again in health and happiness With the highest …

I remain your friend

Virginia Brooke

Saybrook Sept 1856

Very Dear Brother

I hope you will forgive me for intruding a letter upon you at this time I want to tell you how God has been dealing with us recently how he has been presenting a dark page of his providence to us which we shortsighted as we are cannot see to read at all-our baby is not -for God has taken him. we had looked upon him with all the love and pride possible for parents to feel towards a child but God in his infinite wisdom saw fit to transplant this spring bud of existence to bloom in paradise and is sparing us to live on a while without him though I cannot tell you how very cold and dull and empty the world seems …of that child I loved more than any other I ever saw he had been winding cord around our hearts ever since the day of his birth God …sent a little spirit …us that …so much like a sacred treasure---it cost a severe struggle to give him up but that being over I have been enabled to feel quite tranquil, though my heart still bleeds, yet I try to "trust God for his grace and believe that behind a frowning providence He may hide a smiling face" I send with this an ambrotype taken after his decease it needs his large expressive eyes to make it resemble him closely but it looks as he did sleeping and gives correctly the outlines of his head and face. I had often heard the remark made 'what a noble boy. he was always from his earliest infancy remarkably observing and thoughtful some of my neighbors have since his death told me they never thought I would raise him, his head was so large-but it was a well balances healthy head and I never had any apprehensions that his life would be brief on that account nor do I think …it was-he was uniformly very healthy untill the he was attacked with croup Sept 4 very suddenly and violently-he was sick about 36 hours the last twelve hours he suffered intensely so that we were glad when his freed spirit took its flight---Why our dear Heavenly Father should cause us to press through the same trying scene again I cannot tell-he died precisely as little Ambrose did except being more vigorous though not as old the final struggle was more …a smile at last played on his lips and he was with the angels-we had given him your name entire T. N. Haskell, intending to call him by the latter-Hally was his baby name which he had long known had just commenced standing alone and we anticipated soon to see him walk would have been one year old the 17th of Oct-he had no natural tendency to the disease as little A. always had the weather had been growing warmer for two or three days when he was attacked, and he had not been…exposed to my knowledge ---The first symptoms of his disease (good medical skill and good nursing both failed to stay…of disease) were inability to swallow his food which produced coughing and then ...nd and labored respiration followed such continued more and more severe until the close of life-I have filled my paper almost full with this subject …so fraught with interest to me and though it may not seem as much so to you I know the native largeness of your heart and that shall have your sympathy and trust that you will write just a few words to your sister in affliction-I know that yours is a high and holy calling and that your field of labor is in a city where wickedness abounds in high places and that your labors are abundant no doubt in teaching preaching and praying for pray moves the hand that moves the world still do take a little time to write to those bound to you by the strong ties of nature and forgetfulness and estrangement when we heard you had been so near us as Buffalo and did not visit us we thought it doubtful whether or not you did very soon, still we hope, you will in company with your wife Lucy & husband are here to make us a sympethising visit both are well My husband and brother Henry visited Iowa the fore part of the season found our friends there all well Mary was teaching for 15.00 per month we expect to change residences again in a few weeks having purchased the Murray farm in Bloomfield The idea of leaving our pleasant location and very kind social and intelligent neighbors here is quite a trial but Josiah thought it would be better for us to live on a larger place Mr. Savage's people lost a little son the fore part of July he seemed to mourn for it very much though it was quite young Dear brother do pray for us that may be sanctified to us and may…the conversion of each member of our family This letter will no doubt be…able to anyone but a near friend and that is all it is intended for

Martha

Box 2, Folder 19, letters to Thomas Haskell, 1857 months 1-6

Tuesday Eve
March 10th/57

Very dear Brother,

I need not tell you for you must feel sure that we here perfectly delighted to hear of the birth of our little niece. The news came a few weeks sooner than I had anticipated, but the dear child is not he less welcome for that. May she be a comfort and a blessing to her parents all her life! May God give you all needed wisdom and strength to bring her up in His fear, and may you never forget to be grateful to the Giver for this precious treasure-

I was rejoiced that Annie passed safely through the trial-I have felt very anxious about her all winter-How is she now? …is little Florence, and does Annie have nourishment enough for her? Do not let Annie get about too soon. She will feel much stronger and better the second week after her confinement that …does the sixth if she is not careful. I am afraid she will try to do too much before she regains her strength. Many thanks for your kind letter, you were very good to write so soon, it returned …of quite a load. I long to see…all-When shall I have the pleasure? You must always feel that …have a "life-welcome" whenever you can come to …Place- I am so glad you have given the baby such a pretty name-kiss the darling for me-I love all the children, but my …nephews and nieces in particular.

Give my best love to dear Anne, tell her my heart is full of joy and good wishes for her and the little one-Justin sends love, but he will add a note at the store to morrow-Let us hear from you again as soon as convenient - Your baby is only six days younger that Fannie's-Walter is pretty well now, but has had a hard time all winter with his teeth-he sends a kiss to "cousin Florence"-Good night with best wishes and much love from your affectionate sister

Jane

 

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maintained by Special Collections; last revised March 3, 2008, jr