1832.05.11 - Elizabeth Huntington to Mary Huntington, May 11th, 1832

1832.05.11 - Elizabeth Huntington to Mary Huntington, May 11th, 1832

This letter is from a mother, Elizabeth Whiting Phelps Huntington, to her daughter Mary, who is away, having left home not too long ago. She tells her daughter that the family misses her and thinks of her often, and wishes her well on her journey. Her sadness at the separation reminds her of the loss of her younger daughter Catherine, two years before, though she understands it as God's right and will. Elizabeth casually remarks on the days before, having tea with friends, and the various house duties that have kept the family busy. She expresses her feelings on the separations in the family as new opportunities and blessings to rejoice in, and mentions the upcoming Sabbath day. She encourages her daughter to keep her faith alive by studying the Bible along with her siblings, reminiscing on her own experiences from doing so. Elizabeth then explains in greater detail, John Whiting’s recent health issues, filling Mary in on her siblings. She briefly mentions her other children who are partaking in various chores and leisure activities. Elizabeth concludes by admitting to her feelings of uneasiness accompanied by Mary’s departure, but uses the strength of holy words to keep her going.

Elizabeth Whiting Phelps Huntington

Porter-Phelps-Huntington Family Papers (Box 12 Folder 12)
Amherst College Archives and Special Collections

1832-05-11

Courtesy of the Porter-Phelps-Huntington Foundation
For permissions contact Amherst College Archives and Special Collections

Correspondence