1862-65 Civil War Era 5 Letter Lot Aspinwall Panama RR & Sing Sing NY History
Rare 1860s Civil War Era Letter Archive - Panama Rail Road & NY History. This listing is for a significant collection of five (5) original handwritten manuscript letters dating from 1862 to 1865. This archive follows the correspondence of Jennie E.
Case and Elbert Carpenter during the American Civil War, spanning from the Hudson Valley of New York to the tropical transit points of the Isthmus of Panama. Historical Significance: The "Aspinwall" Connection.
A standout feature of this collection is the correspondence addressed to Aspinwall, Panama. The Naming Dispute: At the time, the town (modern-day Colón) was named "Aspinwall" by American interests after the founder of the Panama Rail Road. The Colombian government refused to recognize this name. The "Eve of War" Context: The earliest letters capture the tension and social shifts occurring on the eve and onset of the Civil War, specifically regarding women's roles in business and banking.Invitation to a concert for the benefit of the R. Jennie Case writes to Elbert regarding his business success and his favorable impression on Bank Officers. Note: You were the right person for the place.
August 22, 1862: A defensive letter from "Sarah" regarding Jennie's independence and employment in Sing Sing. Includes a "keep it secret" postscript. June 28, 1863 (Glenham, NY). Detailed domestic report during a severe drought. " Mentions the grain suffering and asks Elbert: "Are you going to Aspinwall or are you not?
May 26, 1865 (Rochester, NY): A post-war letter sent to Elbert in Aspinwall. Authenticity: 100% original mid-19th-century manuscripts. Remains dark, and the handwriting is very clear. Paper: Standard age-related toning and original fold lines. Includes one original postal cover (envelope) addressed to Sing Sing, NY.Letter 1: Social Invitation to Sing Sing. Ryder has just told me that you were intending to give us the visit we were disappointed in receiving last week. I write to say that we would be very happy to see you and if you could make it convenient to come today or tomorrow, it would be very pleasant. There is to be a concert tonight for the benefit of the R. Church, and we would be glad to have you present with us.
Letter 2: Business Success and Ambition. The sight of your letter announcing your probable success in business, was a most welcome message. I was very glad to hear that you had seen Mr. Ely, and that he had spoken so favorably of you.I feel confident moreover that as soon as he learns your capabilities & willingness to do whatever is to be done, that he will come to the same conclusion that the Bank Officers did, that you were the right person for the place. I hope you will be able to get a good boarding place, for that is a great deal towards one's comfort.
Write to me as soon as you are settled. Letter 3: Defense of Jennie's Independence. I should judge from your letter that you were vexed at something, perhaps Jenny for going to S. Now Elbert, I think she has acted perfectly right, and I think you would say so too if you were here. You very well know Jenny is dependent on herself for support, and she must go where she can do the best.
We all thought it best for Jenny to go to S. If only for a month. [Side Note]: Don't mention what I have written to anyone. I don't exactly fancy this-but keep it secret. Letter 4: Life in Glenham & The Severe Drought. Here I sit in the midst of a heavy thunder shower, the first we have had in a long time. All robed in white, the country needed rain sadly for we have had a very severe drought. The grain was suffering very severely. Mother and I went to Newburgh yesterday and I bought me a new hat and a pair of gloves. We had a very pleasant time. Emma and Allard were here last week. Are you going to Aspinwall or are you not? We are very anxious to hear. The Nurse and baby are doing well. Letter 5: Post-War Industry and Family Tragedy. Recipient: Elbert Carpenter (Aspinwall, Panama). Elbert, you can form no idea of the happiness [Helen] expressed as she was about to go to her Savior. She died on the 18th. Elisha will give you full particulars regarding her sickness and death.He will also tell you about the death of the baby. It is a hard blow to us all, but we must submit to the will of Him who doeth all things well. This is not just a group of letters; it is a cohesive narrative of a family separated by thousands of miles of ocean and a brutal Civil War.
It is an ideal acquisition for collectors of. Panama Rail Road / Central.
19th Century Women's History (Jennie Case's business role). Please Let me know if you have a question... This item will be packaged with professional care to ensure it arrives in the condition described.