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