1
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9
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Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
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19th cen: Huntington family correspondence
Subject
The topic of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Description
An account of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
These letters are the property of the University Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives. This is an ongoing project and additional letters will be added over time.
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Contact UMass SCUA for permission to publish or reproduce these materials.
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A project of the Amherst College American Studies course "Global Valley" in collaboration with the Porter Phelps Huntington Foundation and University of Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives.
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Title
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1835.03.31 - Mary Huntington to Elizabeth W. P. Huntington, Mar 31, 1835
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Mary Huntington
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
Porter-Phelps-Huntington Family Papers (Box 20, Folder 13)
Amherst College Archives and Special Collections
Date
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Mar 31, 1835
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Public Domain
Description
An account of the resource
In this letter to her mother, Mary is explaining the stressful things in her life. She writes that people do not understand what she is going through, but she also wants to write about the important things that Spring brings. She had been in Oswego for almost 6 months, and she cannot wait to see her mother and sister. Her time there had been so well, that the time and distance between them have not been so bad, making the letter so important to her staying connected. Mary describes the situation of the teaching position that is needed and asked that her mother propose it to a prospective teacher. Even though she misses her mother, Mary still wishes to stay with her sister on the lake until mid-June. She ends the letter pleaded for her mother to write back quickly, implying that it is of great importance to her to stay connected.
Scripto
Transcription
A written representation of a document.
Oswego March 31st, 1835
Can I ever be sufficiently grateful for the treasure I have in you my dear mother? Time and distance instead of weakening, increase my affection, and no one but myself can tell how I long again to see you and converse with you. This at present is impossible; and as letters are next to conversation, I prize very highly your favors to me. Sister handed it to me your letter just after I had returned from school this morning, and by it my “mirits were refreshed”. It seemed to direct the mind forward to a state where the immemorable ills which encompass humanity are refused admittance yes, to that state every
Christian hopes to arrive, through a “Redeemer Crucified.” If it were not for this hope, how desolate would life appear, to those who are afflicted! This thought, at such times, should stimulate to exertions to impart to every child of sorrow the only remedy for woe - the Gospel. Spring, or my complaints, or both have made me for some time; rather nervous or low-spirited, as some would call it. Those who would judge me harshly on this account, must before they [pass] sentence place themselves exactly in my situation, and then perhaps they will not be severe. When writing to you I tell all my that interests me, and feel assured that you will listen with an indulgent ear. But I can say, that in my afflictions I have had at times such views of eternal things as will I hope be profitable to me. Adieu for the present.
Tuesday morn I am sorry to hear that Caroline cannot find a situation as a teacher. Has she returned from Northampton?
Spring is [coming] delightfully with us. The ground is nearly settled, and the appearance of the village is quite lively. The boats are being repaired and the canal I suppose will be open in a fortnight. I can hardly realize that I have been here twenty two weeks. [Time] has [passed] away quite rapidly, and alth’o a great part of the time I have been out of health, yet I must [ ] that I have enjoyed much -- more than I have deserved I am sure.
You and sister B must have been greatly confined, but I am glad to hear that you have gone out occasionally. I hope after my return to be able to relieve you in some measure. Thursday morning yesterday brother and sister and Elizabeth and I took tea at Mr. Swift’s. They are very friendly and agreeable people. Part of the Academy is to be fitted up for a boarding house, and they intend removing there the forepart of most [morith]. We had [ ] in the evening. Mr. Swift is a fine singer and he accompanied his daughter while she played on the piano and sang. In mixed company they say very little of their religious [peculiarities] but when alone with those of the same opinions, it is easy to tell on which side their sympathies are [enlisted].
[hole in page] I am going to propose a plan for Caroline’s [hole in page]. There is no good school here for giving child [hole in page] have been asked if I would after the present time take charge of such [as one]. A gentleman who has a little girl to send says he thinks a school of twenty scholars might be supported, at the rate of 3 or 4 per quarter. I have declined, but [have ____ crossed out] Mrs. Fisher thought Caroline might like the situation. None of us wish to assume any responsibilities, as it might be
unpleasant in case of failure. They wish to have a teacher who would consent to remain some time perhaps two years, or three. I will thank you to propose it to cousin, and should she be willing to undertake it, some farther arrangements might be made.
I find as the warm weather advances that I need more summer [frocks]. If I should remain longer than the [first] of May, I should like to have my French [mirstin] sent, and my [hole in paper] cotton stockings, by the first opportunity. Indeed they would not come [hole in paper] now if I had them here. I am undetermined yet whether to remain [hole in paper] home at the close[] of the Term, but am waiting advice from home. If my health should be perfectly [] I should like to remain with sister until the middle of June, but shall follow your advice in this as I endeavor to do in every other respect. [] [thor/home] on the lake has [conimeired]. This morning there [schooners] [] off. We are waiting to learn more of Theodore’s plans. Please give my earnest love to all. Do not be afraid of writing me too often. If you will answer this as soon as I did your last you will confer, a great favor upon your very affectionate daughter.
Mary
[un-readable writing in pencil below]
Caroline
Elizabeth
health
Mr. Swift
Mrs. Fisher
music
NEEDS EDITING
Oswego
religion
school
spring
summer
teacher
Theodore
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Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
19th cen: Huntington family correspondence
Subject
The topic of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Description
An account of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
These letters are the property of the University Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives. This is an ongoing project and additional letters will be added over time.
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
Contact UMass SCUA for permission to publish or reproduce these materials.
Creator
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A project of the Amherst College American Studies course "Global Valley" in collaboration with the Porter Phelps Huntington Foundation and University of Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives.
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The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
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1833.04.23 - Mary Huntington to Elizabeth W. P. Huntington, Apr 23, 1833
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Mary Huntington
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
Porter-Phelps-Huntington Family Papers (Box 20, Folder 13)
Amherst College Archives and Special Collections
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
Apr 23, 1833
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Public Domain
Description
An account of the resource
Mary explains that she is struggling with her physical and mental health to her Mother. For the first part of her time at Troy, her school, she was struggling to get to her lessons but felt that the only time for her to finish her studies was the present. She has dropped her studies completely, but she is still not much feeling better. She knits to pass the time.
Mary states that she wishes that she was as grateful as her mother, as her letters are filled
with positivity more often than not. She begins to muse about how “we” should look at our
blessings as well as our troubles. Mary believes that when things are bad, it is harder to think of our blessings than when things are good.
She then expresses her gratitude at being granted the ability to return home with Edward but then shows her hesitation towards actually going home. She feels as if the option is too easy, and is leaving the decision for her mother (the reader) and Pa to make. While she is disappointed that she will not be following the path she expected to take, she knows that it is best for her mental health to not continue her schoolings at the present time.
Mary then jumps to questioning what to infer from what Elizabeth wrote. She wonders if Elizabeth has become a believer and if so, she will celebrate that with her. Mary then says that it is important to have “the assurance of faith.”
Although Mary wanted to have written back by that afternoon, she was prevented from doing so by Pauline, a guest. Mary makes sure to mention that Pauline has a plan for when she turns twenty-one that includes living in the country on a farm and doing the
housework herself. Two of Mary’s (teachers?) left the seminary on a journey to Clinton, and she hopes they succeed in what they do. She explains how she feels discouraged about herself and a burden to her friends. She asks her mother to express any cautions she may have, especially since she could do it with kindness.
Mary received Bethia’s letter, and hopes to see her brother in a few days. She ends the
letter by asking her mother to send a prayer for her.
Scripto
Transcription
A written representation of a document.
My dear Mother,
The letter which I received yesterday from you and Father, comforted me not a little. If I caused you much uneasiness by what I wrote, I regret it extremely. But with truth I can say that I expressed no more than I felt either with regard to my mental or bodily feelings. The first part of the time that I was here, I felt that I was hardly capable of sustaining the exertion necessary to getting my lessons, but as I thought it probable that the present was the only time for finishing my education. I determined to say nothing about my feelings but continued my studies till forced to give them up. About a fortnight since, Mrs. Willard advised me to drop them entirely, and since that time I have followed her advice. I do not see on the whole, that my health improves much, though thanks to a kind Providence, I am able to sit up all day and walk about the hall, excepting about an hour before dinner. I have amused myself with working cord, on a little apron for Fanny, (dont tell Helen of it) knitting, and sometimes reading. Yesterday Miss Lee one of the teachers, took me to ride Lansingburg. Our road lay along the banks of the Hudson. The morning was delightful, and getting out into the country, and breathing the fresh air, was quite invigorating. It gave me something of a headache but on the whole I think I feel better for it.
I wish I possessed half as much gratitude as my dear mother. You seem to call it into exercise an occasions when others, or when I at least, should not think of it [crossed out] being grateful. The mercies enumerated in your letter are so common, that we rarely are conscious of possessing them. And if by accident we are deprived of them, we regard it as something quite out of the ordinary course of events, and are apt to think our condition very insupportable. I suppose if we were to think more of our blessings and less of our troubles, we should save ourselves much unhappiness, and add much to our real worth. When every thing looks bright, such sentiments are easily uttered, but when a [crossed out] clouds darken our prospects, (and with me this frequently happens) it is far more difficult to bring our minds to a right frame.
I thank you with all my heart for giving me liberty to return with Edward. I am unwilling
to decide in this case. I think if compelled by necessity, I would remain the other few weeks, though I fear I should not be able to continue my studies I know what course my inclination would lead me to adopt, ^for one out of health is apt to be partial to home. But I do not wish to be directed by choice alone. I have endeavored to let you know all the circumstances of the case, and shall leave it to your kindness and judgement, and to Pa’s also, to determine with regard to my remaining here. It is a great disappointment to me not to be able to follow the path I had marked out for myself, but it is for wise ends without doubt, that I am prevented from doing so.
What do you infer from what Elizabeth writes? Can it be that she has been “brought out”
at a protracted meeting? If she has arrived at what she considers the truth I am sure I shall rejoice with her, and on her account. It is worth a great deal to leave “the assurance of faith.”
Wednesday evening. I meant to have finished this letter this afternoon, but was prevented by company. Pauline has been with us an hour or two, and has [crossed out] appeared to be delighted with my description of what I used to do at home. She says after she is twenty one she will leave the country, on a farm, and do the housework herself. Mrs Willard thinks her ^a much better girl since she returned from Guildford. This morning Miss Stevenson, and Miss Patterson left the seminary for Clinton. Their prospects are good and I hope they will succeed according to their wishes. Some appear to be prospered more than others and undoubtedly, more [word crossed out] for some wise design. I frequently feel a little discouraged about myself, for I fear by my ill health, and irresolution, and fretting, I make myself burdensome to my friends. You must not hesitate to caution me whenever you think it necessary, for I should esteem it a kindness to be counselled by you on this point, and every other [every other crossed out], always when I need advice. Coming from a Mother, it cannot but be well received. In kind parents, I have a blessing, of which many at my age are destitute and for which I desire ever to be grateful.
Bethia’s letter I received yesterday, and was so delighted with it, that I have read it over
many times, and intend answering it soon.
After I wrote you that I intended practicing on the guittar, I was not as well, and
since that time I have not had a good opportunity of speaking to Mrs W. on the subject. I am trying to wait with patience for brother’s arrival as I said before, I shall leave it to you and Pa to decide whether or not I shall return with him. But at any rate I shall hope to see him here in a few days. Give my warmest love to brothers and sister, and present my dutiful and affectionate regards to Father. Caroline sends a great deal of love to all inquiring friends. That the loveliest of heavens blessings may rest up on you my dear Mother is the prayer of your daughter.
Mary
Bethia
Caroline
Clinton
Dan Huntington
Edward
Elizabeth Fisher
gratitude
Guildford
guitar
health
Helen
Lansingburg
Miss Lee
Miss Patterson
Miss Stevenson
Mrs. Willard
NEEDS EDITING
Pauline
school
Studies
Troy
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Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
19th cen: Huntington family correspondence
Subject
The topic of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Description
An account of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
These letters are the property of the University Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives. This is an ongoing project and additional letters will be added over time.
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
Contact UMass SCUA for permission to publish or reproduce these materials.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
A project of the Amherst College American Studies course "Global Valley" in collaboration with the Porter Phelps Huntington Foundation and University of Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
1832.06.23 Mary Huntington to Elizabeth W. P. Huntington, Jun 23, 1832
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Mary Huntington
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
Porter-Phelps-Huntington Family Papers (Box 20, Folder 13)
Amherst College Archives and Special Collections
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
Jun 23, 1832
Rights
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Public Domain
Description
An account of the resource
In this letter, 17-year-old Mary Huntington is writing to her mother Elizabeth Huntington. Mary is away at school in Troy, New York, at the Troy Female Seminary—later the Emma Willard School. Mary writes that she has been unwell. She appears ill, homesick, or anxious, or a combination of some or all of the foregoing. The 1832 cholera epidemic ravaging the region—Mary refers to it as the "dreaded disease" and "terrible scourge in the land"—seems to be driving much of her worry. Mary regrets that she has neglected her devotion to God and things above, and expresses a renewed desire to "honor the Redeemer" and publicly profess her membership in the church. Mary recounts speaking earlier in the day with a physician. He described her as "very nervous" and left her with some suggestions—avoid tea and hot coffee—together with Valerian powder and iron pills. Mary has missed two her music lessons because of her ill health. Mary uses this letter to again request that someone come for her. Because she did not receive a letter that day, she tells her mother that she half expected her father to arrive. Mary concludes by giving love to her mother and the family.
Scripto
Transcription
A written representation of a document.
Troy, June 23 rd 1832
Dear Mother
Thinking I might spend a few moments profitably as well as pleasantly in conversing with you, I have gladly availed myself of this opportunity for doing it.
Since I have been unwell, and since this excitement respecting the dreaded disease has existed, my thoughts have been running in a more solemn channel than usual, and among the many, many, things which I recollected as having left undone, one thing I regretted exceedingly, and that was, that I had not united myself with Christ’s visible family, while there was such a favorable opportunity. It seems to me now that it would be an honor too great for me to belong to his visible family on earth, and to labor, and suffer if need be, in his service. This ought certainly to be my highest aim. But then I am so far from God in my daily walk, so cold in prayer, that it seems to be almost profane for me to desire to belong to his people. If I were to look to my own strength to accomplish the work of salvation, it would never be done. But we read in the gospel of Jesus “that we can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth [sic] us,” and that Christ has died for all who will believe in him. If God should spare my life until I could get home, it seems to me now, that I should delight to give myself to him in the way of his appointment, namely by coming forward to his table. It appears to me as if there would be a sweet satisfaction in doing it. Pray for me that I may be permitted to honor the Redeemer, whether the path lies through pleasure or pain, health or disease, life, or death.
As to my health, it is not very good though I am able to be about. This noon, as the physician was here I thought fit to consult him. He gave it as his opinion that I was very nervous, and wished me to abstain from tea and hot coffee, and drink instead, cold milk and water, and coffee with a great deal of milk. He left me the Valerian powders to take, and a box of iron pills. I hope they will be blessed to me. I have omitted taking my musick [sic] lesson twice on account of ill health. I suppose there is no need of my repeating what of late I have so often said namely that I should like to have somebody sent after me. [Prior sentence was crossed out at later date?] Indeed I some expect pa tonight as I received no letter today. But I know I am not thankful enough for all the mercies that I have received, and wish I had a more grateful heart. Give a great deal of love to all the family, and accept a large share for yourself, from your affectionate daughter Mary D Huntington.
{Sideways Text}
June 26 th I have kept this letter some time in order that I might add anything new if I wished. The trustees give it as their opinion that as there is at present no immediate danger, the school had better be continued. But if you feel as though you had rather have me with you when there is such a terrible scourge in the land, I hope you will send for me by all means. I should like to have your permission to return at any time in case it should be necessary. I desire to be thankful that so far I have been preserved in safety. Goodness & Mercy have followed me all my days thus far. Will you & Father have the goodness to give me a particular permission to come home if I chose.
cholera
Christ
crosswriting
Elizabeth W.P. Huntington
Emma Willard School
God
health
homesick
Iron Pills
Jesus
Mary
medicine
music
NEEDS EDITING
Physician
prayer
Public Profession
Redeemer
Salvation
school
scourge
Sickness
Troy
Troy Female Seminary
Trustees
Valerian
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Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
19th cen: Huntington family correspondence
Subject
The topic of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Description
An account of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
These letters are the property of the University Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives. This is an ongoing project and additional letters will be added over time.
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
Contact UMass SCUA for permission to publish or reproduce these materials.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
A project of the Amherst College American Studies course "Global Valley" in collaboration with the Porter Phelps Huntington Foundation and University of Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
1832.06.23 Mary Huntington to Elizabeth W. P. Huntington, Jun 23, 1832
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Mary Huntington
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
Porter-Phelps-Huntington Family Papers (Box 20, Folder 13)
Amherst College Archives and Special Collections
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
Jun 23, 1832
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
Public Domain
Description
An account of the resource
In this letter, Mary is writing to her mother with a sense of worriedness. It seems that she wants to leave school and is asking her mother if there is anyone coming to get her. She mentions a dreaded disease which she hopes to avoid by leaving the school. Other letters from this period mention fears of a cholera epidemic. Mary questions if friends will refuse to come for her, and then brings faith and religion into the letter by saying that she knows these evils cannot be escaped by running, but knows she would be better at home. Mary then asks her mother to pray for her so that God keeps her safe. Mary says that she encloses the bulletin, and wishes for the health of all those who are receiving her letter.
She finishes by asking her mother to come after her again.
Scripto
Transcription
A written representation of a document.
June 23 rd , 1832
Dear Mother,
Perhaps before this reaches you some one may have started to come after me, but I wish to let you know that I am in comfortable health for which I desire to be grateful and also to wage you to send someone after me. I have resolved to write you at this time. Many of the girls are leaving school, and if somebody should not come after me, I know not what I should do. I shall look for a letter from home today, or for a loving epistle. Yesterday was observed as a day of fasting & prayer, on account of this dreaded disease. Mrs. Willard says she is willing to have the girls go home if their friends come after them, and will friends refuse to come for me? I know that we cannot escape evils by fleeing from them, but then I think and almost all the other girls think, that it is best at such times for children to be with their parents. Mrs. Willard wishes the parents of the young ladies to know exactly how the case stands, and then have them act their own judgement about sending for them. She is perfectly willing that the girls should go home if their friends send for them. Do pray much for me that my life & health and happiness may be precious in the sight of God, and that my soul may have a sure & unfading friend. I enclose the bulletin and wish you my dear friends would take use every means of preserving your health. Come after me if possible, From your affectionate daughter
Mary D. Huntington
cholera
health
Mary
Mrs. Willard
NEEDS EDITING
Sickness
Troy
-
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Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
19th cen: Huntington family correspondence
Subject
The topic of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Description
An account of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
These letters are the property of the University Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives. This is an ongoing project and additional letters will be added over time.
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
Contact UMass SCUA for permission to publish or reproduce these materials.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
A project of the Amherst College American Studies course "Global Valley" in collaboration with the Porter Phelps Huntington Foundation and University of Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives.
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
1832.06.20 Mary Huntington to Elizabeth W. P. Huntington, Jun 20, 1832
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Mary Huntington
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
Porter-Phelps-Huntington Family Papers (Box 20, Folder 13)
Amherst College Archives and Special Collections
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
Jun 20, 1832
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
Public Domain
Description
An account of the resource
In this letter, Mary writes to her parents from school. She is very anxious and hurried in sending the letter. There is no clear danger to Mary’s health, but she is not well. Mary references asking someone to come for her in the previous letter, and she hopes that her parents complete this task without hesitation. At the end of this distressing letter, Mary includes a P.S. telling her parents not to be frightened, as she only wishes to tell them of her true feelings.
Scripto
Transcription
A written representation of a document.
June 20 th , 1832.
Dear Parents,
I write this morning in great haste to let you know that it is my wish to go home as soon as it may be convenient to send for me. Not that I think there is any immediate danger, but my health is not very firm, and if from the account given in my last letter no one has set out to come after me (which I am in hopes they have done) I wish upon the arrival of this you would do it without fail. I know we cannot get away from death, but I think all necessary precautions should be taken. Come as soon as possible. I hope I have your prayers my dear parents, for I am sure I need them. From your affectionate daughter
M. D. Huntington
P.S. Do not be frightened on receiving this letter, as I only wish to let you know the true state of my feelings about going home.
cholera
Elizabeth
health
Home
NEEDS EDITING
prayer
school
Sickness
transportation
Troy
-
https://www.ats.amherst.edu/globalvalley/files/original/af06ca371e495565d26ba52bcd02d0ad.pdf
37261d3d66ca208725f121ccd3da445f
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19th cen: Huntington family correspondence
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Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Description
An account of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
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A related resource from which the described resource is derived
These letters are the property of the University Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives. This is an ongoing project and additional letters will be added over time.
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Contact UMass SCUA for permission to publish or reproduce these materials.
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A project of the Amherst College American Studies course "Global Valley" in collaboration with the Porter Phelps Huntington Foundation and University of Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives.
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1835.03.27 - Elizabeth Huntington to Mary Huntington, Mar. 27th 1835
Creator
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Elizabeth Whiting Phelps Huntington
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Correspondence
Source
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Porter-Phelps-Huntington Family Papers (Box 12 Folder 12)
Amherst College Archives and Special Collections
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Courtesy of the Porter-Phelps-Huntington Foundation
For permissions contact Amherst College Archives and Special Collections
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1835-03-27
Description
An account of the resource
This is a letter Elizabeth wrote in response to her daughter Mary. Here they are making plans for Mary’s visit as well as updating her on news about the town and its members. She shares with Mary how her sister Bethia and her father are currently reading the memoirs of Hannah More, an English religious writer and philanthropist. The reading is too long for Elizabeth, a very busy woman, but she does enjoy it from time to time. Speaking of time, she then goes on about how short life is and how, because of that, one needs to fear the wrath of God when living and she then praises God. After praising God, she goes on to talk about the family business, sleighing, and visits from her children about Franny and Charles who visited her. As most mother’s do, she inquires about Mary’s health and reminds her of the importance of maintaining a healthy diet and adequate exercise. In the post-script, Elizabeth mentions that Theodore was offered employment by Mr. Fisher, but has selected to stay at home in Hadley and farm. She concludes with the celebratory exclamation that J.P. Huntington was elected as vice-president for the Agricultural Society of Northampton.
Scripto
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A written representation of a document.
<p>Hadley March 27th, 1835-Friday evening</p>
<p>Dear <a class="external text" href="https://www.ats.amherst.edu/globalvalley/exhibits/show/pph-papers/people/maryhuntington">Mary</a>,</p>
<p>Mr. Fisher’s letter to <a class="external text" href="https://www.ats.amherst.edu/globalvalley/exhibits/show/pph-papers/people/theodorehuntington">Theodore</a>, reached us today, and yours of this same date, (16th) came last Saturday. Since we received yours, I wrote to you, but I believe I omitted to say as much about your return home as I intended. The time really draws near, and we begin to think it is time to make some arrangements for your journey. Theodore has indulged a hope, I believe, tho’ rather secretly, that he should make a visit to George this Friday; but if he should finally fail, I think you would do well to take the infamy of Mrs. Swift as some other friend who may be coming as far as Albany; and then if you with it, some of the family will meet you and accompany you home. Mrs. Fisher will not think it unkind, though, if we feel desirous of having your company at home. We are not required to love our neighbor better than ourselves. I doubt not she feels very thankful that we have shared you no long; and I feel satisfaction in the thought that my little granddaughter will very soon be all to her, that a fond mother can desire, affectionate obedient attentive to the wishes of her parents, and devoted to her mother.</p>
<p>Mr. Tabin has lent <a class="external text" href="https://www.ats.amherst.edu/globalvalley/exhibits/show/pph-papers/people/bethiah">Bethia</a> memoirs of Hannah More, which your father and sister are reading with eagerness. It is so large a work, that I (page 2) dare not think of reading it in wim. This focused work gives me an acquaintance with many great characters, much as Johnson Garrick Bishop Parteus Cooper John Newton etc. etc. but there are duties which have a stronger claim [for] me, than her ancient worries can urge: so I shall content myself with just taking a glance at them now and then, remembering that the present is not designed as a state of enjoyment but action, and that our reading should be so directed as to qualify us for our several phases of action. My time is far short; the little that remains for one to do must be done quickly- and I am greatly solicitous that my effort may be so employed as to promote the cause of truth and holiness; and yet almost everyday is a witness of my failures, and until the mercy of God prevent it, must witness against me in the day of final account. Thanks be to God that we have a High Priest, not one who could not be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but who was tempted in all honesty like as we are yet without sin. It is indeed comforting to think of our Savior as a man of sorrow and acquaintance with grief, for if the captain of our salvation was made fearful thro’ suffering much more do we need the fear of tribulation to refine and fortify us. Then the same strength which enabled him to overcome and sit down with his Father in his throne, is offered to us, that we also may overcome and sit down with him in his throne.</p>
<p>We have had very good sleighing this week; and <a class="external text" href="https://www.ats.amherst.edu/globalvalley/exhibits/show/pph-papers/people/charleshuntington">Charles</a> and Helen availed themselves of it to make (page 3) us a visit on Tuesday with the children. Franny looked very fresh and healthy; little Charles has no color but enjoys fine health, and is a very pleasant quiet little fellow. Marianne Phelps does her visit the first of April. After that Helen hopes for Bethia’s company a little whole. –</p>
<p>I hope your confinement does not injure your health. If you find that it does, you had better quit at once; and continue to have more exercise. You know that attention to diet and exercise have always been very necessary to your health; and I have had some doubt with regard to the stimulation system. your food ought to be plain of sufficient quantity, nourishing and easy of digestion. But you know all this. I hope we shall hear from you often. Let us know what arrangement you make with regard to coming home that we may be able to appoint if necessary. – I have been trying to persuade your father to write to you, but he has not yet come to the right [indecipherable].- With the kindest remembrance from all to all. I am as ever most lovely, your affectionate mother.</p>
<p><a class="external text" href="https://www.ats.amherst.edu/globalvalley/exhibits/show/pph-papers/people/elizabethwhp">E. W. Huntington.</a></p>
<p><br /> Post Script: Theodore has found employment at home for the present year. He wrote a letter to Mr. Fischer last week to this effect; he feels very much obliged by the kind intent which Mr. F expresses in his welfare, but is not now at liberty yo avail himself of it. I am of the opinion that he has had enough of clerkships to serve him one year at least. The independence of a farmers life can only satisfy him. One piece of news I forgot to mention; at a late meeting of the Agricultural Society at Northampton Mr. J. P. Huntington was elected one of the vice-presidents! </p>
agriculture
Bethia
Charles
Elizabeth
exercise
Fanny
Hannah More
health
J.P. Huntington
Mary
Mr. Fisher
Mr. Tabin
Mrs. Swift
NEEDS EDITING
reading
sleighing
transportation
travel
-
https://www.ats.amherst.edu/globalvalley/files/original/7f5150e8453e6ed2d4100de4c0e7f45b.pdf
890dd30688b1b9c820ef42727e211f33
Dublin Core
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19th cen: Huntington family correspondence
Subject
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Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Description
An account of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
These letters are the property of the University Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives. This is an ongoing project and additional letters will be added over time.
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Contact UMass SCUA for permission to publish or reproduce these materials.
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A project of the Amherst College American Studies course "Global Valley" in collaboration with the Porter Phelps Huntington Foundation and University of Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives.
Text
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text.
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1831.10.14 - Elizabeth Huntington to John Huntington, Oct. 14th, 1831
Creator
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Elizabeth Whiting Phelps Huntington
Source
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Porter-Phelps-Huntington Family Papers (Box 12 Folder 11)
Amherst College Archives and Special Collections
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Courtesy of the Porter-Phelps-Huntington Foundation
For permissions contact Amherst College Archives and Special Collections
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1831-10-14
Type
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Correspondence
Description
An account of the resource
Elizabeth writes to her son John in response to letters that he has written her. She first declares that Charles Thompson from Philadelphia is the author of the “Commentary on Translation”, which another man named Mr. Smith recommended reading. She goes on to say that she recently attended a conference with her husband in Salem. Where another attender notes that she ought to have been invited to preach. She reports on a successful conversation with her child, Bethia. Elizabeth goes on to highlight other developments in the family and her pride in her children. Frederic is driven by academics. They were worried he wouldn’t like school, but now wish he was around the house more often. She concludes by saying that she apologizes for not receiving his messages sooner. Short notes are added to the letter by Mary, Bethia, Frederic and Dan Huntington
association
Bethia
Charles
EDITED
Elizabeth
Frederic
health
John Whiting
Mr. Hall
New Salem
preaching
school
-
https://www.ats.amherst.edu/globalvalley/files/original/d47f1a3920acbf161b2a9a4a85ac1539.pdf
8340dc3f0dac204189c758559420b323
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
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19th cen: Huntington family correspondence
Subject
The topic of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Description
An account of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
These letters are the property of the University Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives. This is an ongoing project and additional letters will be added over time.
Rights
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Contact UMass SCUA for permission to publish or reproduce these materials.
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A project of the Amherst College American Studies course "Global Valley" in collaboration with the Porter Phelps Huntington Foundation and University of Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives.
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1842.10.25 - Elizabeth Huntington to Frederic Dan Huntington, Oct. 25th, 1842
Creator
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Elizabeth Whiting Phelps Huntington
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
Porter-Phelps-Huntington Family Papers (Box 12 Folder 9)
Amherst College Archives and Special Collections
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Courtesy of the Porter-Phelps-Huntington Foundation
For permissions contact Amherst College Archives and Special Collections
Type
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Correspondence
Date
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1842-10-25
Description
An account of the resource
In this correspondence between Elizabeth Huntington and Frederic Dan Huntington, she writes to him on about the travel plans of fellow people in their community. She gives him reassurance in his new role as a minister in the community following his ordination into the church. She also cautions Frederic to take care of his health during the beginning of his role as a minister. Additionally, she acknowledges the engagement of Frederic Dan to Hannah.
Boston
EDITED
Edward
Elizabeth
engaged
Frederic
health
minister
Mr. Bookings
Mr. Holland
ordination
-
https://www.ats.amherst.edu/globalvalley/files/original/03d21de551474a72a9363bebce11f1f3.pdf
bb0df685a533734ff9ad591dd78208ae
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
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19th cen: Huntington family correspondence
Subject
The topic of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Description
An account of the resource
Original documents and annotated transcriptions primarily of letters between Elizabeth and Dan Huntington and their eleven children.
Source
A related resource from which the described resource is derived
These letters are the property of the University Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives. This is an ongoing project and additional letters will be added over time.
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
Contact UMass SCUA for permission to publish or reproduce these materials.
Creator
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A project of the Amherst College American Studies course "Global Valley" in collaboration with the Porter Phelps Huntington Foundation and University of Massachusetts Special Collections and University Archives.
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1842.04.25 - Elizabeth Huntington to Edward Huntington, Apr. 25th, 1842
Creator
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Elizabeth Whiting Phelps Huntington
Source
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Porter-Phelps-Huntington Family Papers (Box 12 Folder 5)
Amherst College Archives and Special Collections
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Courtesy of the Porter-Phelps-Huntington Foundation
For permissions contact Amherst College Archives and Special Collections
Type
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Correspondence
Date
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1842-04-25
Description
An account of the resource
This letter is addressed to Edward Huntington, the son of Elizabeth Huntington, and was written by Elizabeth Huntington on his birthday. She first writes about Dan Huntington’s doings in Northampton, while he attended a funeral she went shopping and heard news of a man who had taken his own life. Elizabeth feels sorrow for the family but hopes for religion to bring them up. Elizabeth then goes on to update Edward on the health situations of some other family friends as well as herself. She says that she is feeling better, but she puts her focus on God and his blessings. Elizabeth briefly writes about what some of her sons, Edward’s brothers, have been doing recently: arrangements in their homes and work on their farm. On the back side of the letter, there is another message that has no formal address or names but states information about Mr. Atwood, the making of butter by the family. Elizabeth requests news of Edward’s garden and describes new plantings at Forty Acres.
Scripto
Transcription
A written representation of a document.
Elm Valley April-25th-1842-[1]
My Dear Edward,
I have been looking forward some time to this day (your birth day) as a starting point, on which to resume my part of our correspondence. I find on examining that your text was dated Jan. 13th I may as well confess the truth and save half the cost[2], as they say in law. But I shall carefully avoid attempting to make an apology - knowing what an utter disgust you feel for these things. Your father was called to Northampton this afternoon to attend the funeral of Mrs. Mann. The aged mother of Mrs. Cephas Clapp[3] and Bethia and I having a little business to do at the stores, improved the opportunity to ride over. while there we were informed that Cooley Wells of Whately[4] had put an end to his own life today by strangling. we did not learn any of the particulars, except that he was missing three hours before they found him. How often and how deeply has Mrs. Wells been called to drink of this cup of sorrow. May she find the consolations of religion[5] neither few nor small.
Mr. Atwood left your letters to Bethia last week, and offered to take one for you this week on his return. Tuesday evening - I am very sorry to find that Helen's[6] health suffered so much from the kind attentions she paid her friends. we must in future be more careful and by making our visits at different times avoid the evil of making ourselves burdensome. you kindly inquire after my health[7] I think it is improving gradually. Instead of complaining, I am sure our hearts should be full of gratitude for His multiplied and useful helpings. Let it be our care, faithfully to improve, as well as to enjoy them. I regretted very much that we missed the opportunity of sending you a little butter[8] by Mr. Smith. should we know of another we will try to improve it. Theodore has been turning about his house on Mount Warner[9], and making sundry new arrangements. this together with the farm keeps him and his boys very busy. Theophilus takes quite an interest in the little stranger, and well he may - for he is a friendly little fellow. your father has been obliged to take charge of the pulpit[10] at Northampton for the last and the next sabbath. in the mean time he is hoping to hear that friends have made some provision for him in the vicinity of Boston. Charles has been planning a little trip to Springfield with his wife for this week and of course a call upon you and Helen, but we found yesterday that little
Mary was quite sick, threatened with the lung fever[11], which may prevent their going. Bethia will give her own account of herself. she is not as remiss in letter writing as I am. It is growing late. The Lord be with you and yours now and ever.
Most truly affectionate mother Elizabeth.
Friday evening - after nine. Mr. Atwood does not call perhaps he has given us the go by - and perhaps he will call tomorrow. We have put into the kettle five pounds of butter. two and a half of which on the top is sent by Theodore. If he is not with willing to take it we shall only be where we are now. Your garden, of which we heard so much, continues to be an object of interest when it is finished. Do give us a correct and minute account of it. we purchased some of the balsam of fir today and Bethia has one set in the center of the circle.
Mr. Edw.. P. Huntington
Cabotville[13]
Mr..Atwood
[1] Edward Phelps date of birth (see Elizabeth's reference below).
[2] Law reference - most likely refers to pleading guilty, as Elizabeth admits that she is late responding to Edward's letter.
[3] Cephas Clapp was listed as the Deputy Jailor of Northampton in the 1829 MA Register that contained Civil, Judicial, Ecclestial and Military lists. Additionally a Mrs. Clapp was mentioned in the novel, Spider in a Tree by Susan Stinson, about Northampton and the Great Awakening
[4] Whately, Massachusetts. Located west of Amherst, between Northampton and Deerfield
[5] The 1820's saw religious revival in which Unitarians, Methodists and Baptists joined the once popular Congregationalist Church. Elizabeth Huntington joined church at 19 and married a reverend, but in 1828 she was excommunicated from Hadley Congrationalist Church after stating that she didn't believe the Father, Son and Holy Spirit were united in the trinity.
[6] Helen Maria Williams, wife of Edward.
[7] It is known that Elizabeth suffered from scarlet fever and passed away approximately 5 years after the writing of this letter.
[8] Butter was an important commodity of the time for cooking and baking. It took much time effort to make because of the churning that went into production. The Huntingtons often tried to send their children butter from their farm along with letters.
[9] Located west of Amherst, Massachusetts between Connecticut River and Amherst.
[10] Speakers stand in a church. In many Christian churches, there are two speakers' stands at the front of the church, the one on the left (as viewed by the congregation) is referred to as the pulpit.
[11] Unlikely to be same Helen mentioned above.
[12] Also known as pneumonia, a disease of the lungs that is characterized especially by inflammation of lung tissue. This disease is accompanied by fever, chills, cough, and difficulty of breathing and often results in extreme fatigue or drowsiness. Charles and Helen Huntington's daughter Mary was born in 1840 so she was just two at the time of this letter--she recovered and lived into her 80s.
[13] No address except the name and town is necessary because resident would go into town to get their mail.
agriculture
Bethia
birthday
butter
Cephas Clapp
Charles
Cooley Wells
Edward
Elizabeth
fever
funeral
garden
health
Helen Maria Williams Huntington
Mary Dwight Huntington
Mount Warner
Mr. Atwood
Mr. Smith
Mrs. Mann
NEEDS EDITING
Northmpton
Shopping
Springfield
Suicide
Theodore
Theophilus
Whately