(Page 1)
Liverpool England. June 10. 1887
My dear friend Amy Post-
Some forty years ago I wrote
you a letter from England and
I do not wish my present tour
to end without sending you another-
though only to tell you that I am well
and continue to remember you
with gratitude and affection. You
were among the first of American
women to give me shelter &
make me feel at home under
your roof- kindness I never forget.
I have now been on this side the
Atlantic near nine months-
I have travelled far and seen
heard and felt much- much
(Page 2)
that I could talk about if I was
seated by your side- but not much
that I can now find time to
to write about. In our travels-
(for Helen was with me throughout
till a few hours ago) we have
taken in England, France Italy-
Switzerland- Greece and Egypt-
we have visited- London Paris Naples
Rome, Athens, Alexandra- Cairo-
and many other famous towns
and cities- which when I consider
my starting period in life,
it is marvellous [sic] that I have
accomplished so much-but
I feel that it has all come
too late in life. I should
(Page 3)
have travelled thus when I was
younger and when my ambition
for achievements was more vigorous-
I came to Liverpool now to see
my dear Helen off to America.
The condition of the health of her
mother has been such of late as
to make Helen feel that she ought
to go home. It was a sore trial
to her to leave me here even for
a few weeks- but she is a strong
woman and she bore it bravely.
She is now well on her way- in a
stout ship and I have no doubt
will arrive safely- I have
something to tell you. I met a
man in the street a day or two
(Page 4)
ago- who introduced himself
to me as Dr. Tomblety- He
spoke freely of yourself and
Jacob. I shall want to know
more of him if I shall be
spared to see you again. He
told me much about himself
in a very brief space, for he
seemed to have more tongues
than ears- I could not get
a word in anywhere- and you
know I am too much in
love with my own voice
to like being suppressed and
overtalked in that way- but
enough of Dr. Tomblety. He
seemed a good fellow after
all.
(Page 5)
I must tell you of another I met
with whom you have been in
other days ag acquainted to some
extent, if not with her, you have
been with her history, for she
has a history. When in Rome at
the Hotel De la Poste- there came
to see me a handsome and elegantly
dressed lady. She was refined in her
manners and appearance- and
made a favorable impression
upon all who saw her- she called
many names of persons with
whom I am acquainted in
America- She seemed a thoroughly
English lady. She introduced herself
as Mrs. Martin- said she had
seen me before- at a public
meeting in Washington- I had
(Page 6)
recollection of her and could not
imagine who she could be- At
last she told me "I am she that
was Victoria Woodhull' I am
now married to Mr. Martin
and live in London- The
announcement was startling
enough for I had no idea of
meeting Mrs. Woodhull. I have
made some enqueries [sic] about
her since and find that she
is lively living very quietly
in London as the wife a
thoroughly respectable Banker
Such is life- You may have
known all this before- but
I did not. I also met in
Rome three of the sisters
(Page 7)
of Charls Charles Remond. It
was very pleasant to meet
so far away from home
these dear people. Like Charles
they detest prejudice of color
and say they would wo not
live in the U. States, if you could
or would give them America!
I told them I found America a
very good country to live in
and that popular prejudice
was on the wane- A few days
ago I saw my old friend Julia
Griffiths. She came to London
to see us and though she,
like ourselves is older than
thirty five years ago- she is
(Page 8)
still quite lively- In Paris I
saw Mrs Elizabeth Cady Stanton
at the house of her son- She is
at work on her woman's Bible
and seems more radical than
ever. She is a noble and brave
woman and has no snobbery
about her- I hope that you are
still well and active though that
is a gooddeal to hope and more
to expect, but you are
an exception to general rules-
Do I pray you remember me
kindly to dear Mary and
Sarah- I love to think of their
unceasing friendship- To Jacob-
Joseph and William I also wish
to be remembered
Always and to the end
yours
Fredk. Douglass
(Page 1)
Washington D.C. Aug 21.
My dear friend Amy
You kindly said come
to me in your trouble. I am
coming to Rochester and will
be there if all is well, on next
Saturday night at ten o.clock
and will come straight to you. My
Daughter Rosa, and her daughter
Annie will come to Rochester
with me, but they will spend
Saturday with Lewes Spraque
on South Avenue but I will
to come to you. I have already so written to Miss Anthony
(Page 2)
how if anything occurs
to make my coming
inconvenient to you please
drop me a [cand]. If I hear
nothing, I shall come
straight to your house.
Please remember me kindly
to dear Mary Hallowell and
your sister Sarah.
Very truly yours
Fredk Douglass
(Page 1)
Washington D.C. 14. 1882
My dear Friend:
Thanks for your kind
and thoughtful word of sympathy.
I am glad to be able to report a
favorable change in Anna’s condition.
The first dawn of hope since her
prostration ^by^ paralysis came last
night. She is not yet out of
danger and is very feeble but
her mind is clearer and her
speech and appearance is better.
All that medical skill and
good nursing can do will
be done. My sons and daughters
(Page 2)
are in constant attendance
How deeply and sadly Mary
must miss William and
indeed you must all miss
him.
I am thankful to you for
offering me shelter should
anything occur to make
my absence from here
desirable. It was like Amy
Post, my friend of forty years
to think of this. Love to
your dear circle and to your
self. Yours very truly
Fredk Douglass-
(Page 1)
April 19 1879
Amy Post.
My dear friend:
I am truly sorry
to know that our friend Sojourner
Truth, is still in need of help
and equally sorry that I am so
little able to help her. I was pretty
well off in Rochester and had a dollar
or two to put in whenever the friends
of brave Sojourner were pleased to hand
around the hat for her. But now,
as I have said, I can do but little
in this time. Washington has been
a financial misfortune. I lost
ten thousand dollars by my
newspaper Enterprise and have ^been^
losing in other directions ever since.
I have now three families to support.
Three of Rosa’s Children, a part of
(Page 2)
of Charley’s whose wife is dead-
and my old sick brother Perry and
his daughter. Brother Perry has
been on the Doctor’s hands all
winter and is still very feeble.
I do not think he will ever
be able to make his own living
again. Slavery got about all the
work there was in him and he
has come to me to spend his
last days. He is a dear old
fellow and I am glad to have
a shelter for him. My position
here exposes me to an increasing
stream of applications for help and
I try to respond favorably to most
of them but I have now about
touched bottom. I bought property
when I came here when it
was dear and have it now
on my hands when it is
nearly worthless except in
(Page 3)
prospect.
Please find one dollar within for
the Sojourner Truth Fund. I wish
it were ten but ^should^ half the dear
old Lady’s friends will do as much
she will have many hundreds
to smooth her declining years.
I too regret that I can not
see and hear more of you. I
am glad to hear from you always
and shall be glad to help you
in any good work which may
engage your hand and heart-
though it be ever so little- for I
know your justice as well as
your benevolence. You say
nothing of Willie. I should be
delighted to see him and his
bride. Your hand writing
implies soundness of body and
mind- and gives me hope that
you may yet live long to bless the
(Page 4)
the needy and unfortunate.
Remember ^me^ most kindly of Mrs. Titus
I should have been glad of
a word about all your
dear Circle William and Mary
Mr Willis and sister Sarah.
I expect to forget many
things before I die- but
never you or the dear
members of your family.
Anna is still pretty well,
and I feel pretty strong
though official life is making
me a little too fat.
With kindest regards
yours truly always
Fredk Douglass
(Page 1)
Washington D.C. July 15. 1878.
My Dear Friend:
I am obliged by your note
assuring me of welcome at 36. Sophia
street as usual. You are likely to be
over crowded by old friends on that
occasion- but remembering that you
were the first to give me shelter in Rochester
in the long ago –you may expect me
at your hospitable home on Thursday
Evening. If I did not come to you, I should
initially go to the home of William & Mary.
They, dear people, have already made
me welcome through Miss Anthony
The thoughts of meeting you and
your dear circle once more is
exceedingly pleasant.
Always truly yours
Frederick Douglass
P.S Please hand the within
to miss Anthony. F.D.
(Page 1)
Washington D.C. Oct 23.
My dear friend Amy Post
I was very glad to get a line
from you. I had almost come to the
conclusion that by becoming an office
holder- I had lost your confidence. You
have not given me even one word
of congratulations even onto this day
and knowing your views about office
holders I will not ask you to give
me any such word. Did my official
duties permit I should be delighted
to attend the Liberty League meeting
in Rochester on the 27th yes: I know
something of this Liberty League and
I most earnestly commend its objects.
My opportunities for speaking are far
in excess of my ability and once
in a while I prefer silence to
speech. It would not be to speak
if I came but to hear and this
I could do- whether a deligate [sic] or not.
(Page 2)
If for nothing but to see you and
your Dear Hallowell and Willis
circle- dear people, whom I
always love to remember it
would give me pleasure to be
in Rochester at the
convention to which you
kindly invite me. But now
all our courts are on session
and I am compelled to be on
hand.
Remember me most respectfully
to Mr and Mrs Mills-
and believe always
yours very truly
Fredk Douglass
(Page 1)
Buffalo. Jany 15. 1877.
My dear Freind [sic]:
After being snowbound, fifteen miles
from Corfu all night Saturday and all day
Sunday, unable to get East or West. I was
able, by the assistance of severe Locomotives to
reach here last night about nine O.clock.
My next point is in Northwestern Michigan
but how and when I am to get there I do not
know. I am now about disgusted with my tour -
and wish my self back under your hospitable
roof; but the idea of duty which has hitherto
commanded me is still my master and will
compel me to go on. I leave here to day for
Detroit and thence to Traverse City. Please
let the dear Hallowells and Willises know this, for
(Page 2)
I had hoped to have spent some time with them
before leaving Rochester during my present tour.
Tell Doctor Tilden that I read every word of his
able letter- and while, I admit that he puts Bishop
in a bad fix, he does not much help the case
of the Markees. I am always so happy to agree
with you generally that I almost regret that I
am not a spiritualist and the same feeling
makes me regret that you are one. Kind regards
to Dear Willie, Mrs M, and a whole heap- or
“bunch” to the Doctor.
Always yours truly
Frederick Douglass
Amy Post
(Page 1)
Damariscotta Maine-
March 17th 1873.
My Dear Friend.
Since the morning I left
Rochester I have been wishing for a
moment to thank you for your
kind note handed me by Willie
as I was getting into the cars
but I have found none till
I reached this queer named
place away down here in
the state of Maine. I thought
much of your advice concerning
the Tiltons- and the more I
thought the more I was con-
vinced that you were right.
But after all I did not go as
I expected to Brooklyn the
appointment there having
been given up- and hence I
did not have occasion to
act upon your wise
advice. It is easy to see that
(Page 2)
that there may good and
sufficient reasons for silence
of which the public do not
know and perhaps ought not
to know- It may be that
the good lady is subject to
moments of insecurity and
in that irresponsible condition
has said things which are
not true and which in
her same condition she
would not be likely to
tell if they were true. There
is ever room for charity.
I had the pleasure
and it was a real one to
see my friend William
Hallowell when I lectured
in Philadelphia last week.
I fear that my lecture
there was not a success
though my audience
(Page 3)
was a splendid one both
as to numbers and character.
Though I spoke two hours I
had to omit some of the
best or what I think the
best parts of my lecture.
The story of my escape
was clumsily told because
I had no heart in telling
it. There is really nothing
exciting in it.
Hoping that this will find
you well- Very truly yours
Fred. Douglass.
Please remember me kindly
to Mrs and Mr Hallowell and
to Mr and Mrs Willis- Time
but revives and increases
my respect and regards for
all your dear circle.
F. D.
(Page 1)
Washington D.C. July 18. 1872
My dear Friend:
I have not forgotten my promise to send you a line. I hope
you are well. I see that the heats of July li in Rochester have been
very trying- and I naturally think of health as the best thing
though among the most uncertain things of life. The heat
in Washington is greater than is remembered before by the oldest
inhabitant, from ninety five to one hundred in the shade for
weeks together. I often sigh for the shade of my Rochester trees
and for the pleasant calls I occasionally made to your
house. But I am in the harness and must needs
work while it is day. My Bonds are yet giving me
trouble. There was a mistake in the numbers and
one Bond that I represented as burnt, has been found in
the Treasury- This of course, casts a doubt upon all
the rest. I can come to no decision about building
again in Rochester while the Bonds question remains.
I am leaving here for Virginia in a few days
to stump for the election of Grant and Wilson
(Page 2)
My line of argument will be, that Grant's position is pure
and simple - while that of Greeley is mixed and
ambiguous. I shall admit that I should on personal
grounds like to vote for Greeley if I really knew what
I am voting for.- and which of the many Greeleys
my vote would elect. For there ˆareˆ a great many
Greeleys. If I could select the right one I would gladly
give him my vote- But just here is the trouble.
This many sided man has been on all sides- One does
not know which will finally control. His going over
to Democracy to get elected president is against him-
Our country wants certainty- and wants the confidence
and repose which only certainty can give- Hence I am in short
I am for Grant. I hope to be in Rochester for a few days about
the 1st of August- All good things to you my friend-
Yours Truly
Fredk Douglass
Amy Post.
Office Womans Journal
No 3 Fremont Place
Feb. 5th 1870
Mrs. Amy Post,
Dear Madam,
We received
this morning a letter from you
containing five subscribers and
$15.00. Accept our heartiest
thanks and believe me.
Yay Very Truly Yours
Sarah G. [Theld?]
For Mr. Blackwell.
Rochester Nov. 5th 1869
My Dear Friend
Lucy Stone
I thank thee most
sincerely for thy kind remembrance
and invitation to attend the
approaching American Womans
Suffrage Meeting to be held at Cleve
land the present month. I assure
thee that it would be a great joy
to me to meet so large a number
of revered men and women in
convention as are appended to
the call, but I find myself asking
the question, have all these wise
Men & Women deliberately agreed to
have this a delegate convention ?
Well be that as it may, allow me to say
that with my present light and
experience I cannot but seriously
regret it, It seems to me like starting
(Page 2)
a grand project with planting the
very seed of death to the movement
What you wish, no doubt, is to
reach the ears and hearts of the
people, and I believe this ^call^ cannot be
done without first causing them to
feel and understand that we accept
them as one with us, and are desired
to come in and work with us, all
alike responsible. I think dear friend
that the spirit of freedom and equality
has grown taken root, and grown
up too tall with the mass of the
people, for them to accept of any
outside position, They surely
will soon grow weary of being seated
out oneside, admitted as mere listen
ers_ no rights_ no vote – no voice
Oh! I do not want to be an
outsider in this glorious cause, I
want to be folded and sheltered in
your beneficent arms and loving
hearts, but now can I go back into
(Page 3)
the bondage of exclusiveness, even
in company with those who I look
up to, as so superior in good word
and works.
Our little Equal Suffrage
association, will meet next Tuesday
when the appointment of delegates
will be presented and considered.
what action will be taken I
cannot say, but we are all quite
tired of the red tape systim [sic] of doing
business.
I trust dear friend, my
freedom of expression will be
received with kindness, as nothing
but my love for the cause, and a
sincere desire to see, and do the right
has prompted me to define my
position.
Very truly & affectionately
Thy friend
Amy Post
Copy-
(Page 1)
Boston Sept 26 . 1869
Dear Friend Amy Post
I have ascertained
that Levi Crozier lives at
32 . Rochester Street
and Thomas Crozier
Piano MaKer 700
Harrison Avenue lives
in Charlestown.
To the present I have
been prevented from
Some enquiries about
them. having among other
matters been on
double duty at the
Post office consequent
upon Vacations of
ClerKs Vc = But I intend
Calling upon them
and will report
(Page 2)
the information (if any)
thus obtained.
I was exceedingly
glad to recieve [sic] thy -Letter
convincing me that
my name was Yet in
the Record BooK of
Amy and Isaac Post at
36 Sophia Street.
Many are the Questions
occurring to me in
reference to familiar
names in Rochester
too many indeed for
the limits of this
brief note. but I
Shall improve
another occasion
to get Post ed.
(Page 3)
I am at last rejoicing
in Double Blessedness
and am quite
pleasantly Situated.
I can hardly
believe it when
remembering past
associations =and
Conversations with the
Circles in Rochester
and elsewhere .
-
Louisa will return
from the White Mountains
within 2 weeKs .
FranK Cleggett and
Little Daughter who
Came on in April to
the Reception is Yet
here Visiting her
Friends.
(Page 4)
I presume You have
Seen Samuel J. Mays
BooK . He has Sent me
a Copy = He has had
the perusal of Several
of my Bound Volumes
of Liberators . and
now Hon Henry Wilson
is using them .
Mrs Putnam has removed
from Worcester to BrooKlyn
N.Y. where her Daughter
Georgiana is Teaching
Leaving much
unsaid and
tendering Kind
regards to all I
remain
Fraternally Yours
William C. Nell.
(Page 1)
Detroit Mich.
Feb 7 8th/69
My Dear Friend Amy.
Your
letter of the 24th I read and
should have answered before,
but I had given my letters
to a friend to read, think
ing I had sent Jonathan
Walkers letter to you.
Sam ^P^Mumfred obtained
for me the use of the Uni-
tarian Church. At first I
expected to Lecture in the
basement, but before I got
there, the, basement of was
not only crowded but half
(Page 2)
the church so I filled the
“pulpit” for an evening
Mr Mumfred was surpprised ^rised^
that we could not have the
Unitarian Church in R.
He was very kind and succ
ceeded in raising $60 by
collection & selling Photo’s,
for me.
Now my friend Amy, I
wish you would have Jon-
athan Walkers letter, which
I enclose in this, published,
in the Standard, with an
assurance from me, to the
Public that no one [sic] has in-
fluinced [sic] me to give up the
use of Tobacco. But I felt
the time had come for
me to lay aside the pipe
(Page 3)
for ever [sic], and I assure you
I have no inclination
whatever to resume it. And
I do not wish my friends
to think it a sacrifice or
that I feel any bodily or
mentel [sic] inconvenience
or depression. I was not
tempted to smoke at all, at
all. I had a letter
from Mrs Titus, and Hester
has not yet returned, and
my children are all well.
I will look for Walkers
letter in the Standard &
please have it understood
who Walker is. “The brand-
ed hand.”
This day I ^am^ spending
with Mrs Barns, whom I
(Page 4)
met years ago in Washing-
ton. At Col: Daniels. She
is a great admirer of [Cora’s?]
and would be glad to hear
anything concerning her.
I expect to go to Battle Creek
soon. I hope you will drop
me a line now & then.
With love to all inquiring
friends I am truly
Sojourner Truth.
N.B. Mrs Cochran’s son has
got quite smart. I do not
know but I shall go to Lan-
sing before I go to Battle Creek
S.T.
Dear Lady- If you can
give me any information
concerning Mrs Daniels you
will greatly oblige
Mrs Henry Barns
Detroit Mich.
(Page 1)
Detroit Jan 18th 1869-
116 Elizabeth [Str?] East
My dear Friend-
I want to Say to you
that altho [sic] I was sorry not to bid
you “good bye”- yet all was done
that your son & your nephew did
all that was necessary for my Comfort.
& I Came along safely- and when
I got in Detroit- I went to Mrs
Cochran’s but her son George
was very Sick and I went to
Mr Footes and staid [sic] a week-
& then I had a good meeting at
the Unitarian Church- & took up
a collection over 60 dollars- if I
had as good a meeting at Rochester
it would have help’d [sic] to have paid
for my home in Battle Creek I then
came in Leroy to Mrs Leggetts-
Well at Mrs Leggetts- many Friends
(Page 2)
have call’d [sic] upon me- one evening the
house was open- & many call’d [sic] then and
on the days following- last Sunday
I had many calls- I us’d [sic] your
letter enclosing the one from
Johnathan Walker. I was very
glad to hear from you. and very
glad and thankful to Mr Walker
for his letter and invitation. I
return to you your letter from
Mr Walker. Mrs. Post when you
write to me can you tell me
what little girl it was that
Came and bid me good bye when
I was Coming away and gave
me an orange- I remember her
kindly- I think her name was Clark
She kiss’d [sic] me good bye- & gave me
the orange – A gentleman one
Mr [Mugan?] call’d [sic] upon me
here & he presented me with a
very comfortable pair of
woolen shoes all lin’d [sic] norm
(Page 3)
and heavily soled- I want you to
have Johnathan Walkers letter
published in the Anti Slavery
Standard- & I want you to let it
be known that it was of my own
will and desire to quit Smoking
it was the Spirit that spoke to
me to give up tobacco, and I long
had been wishing to do so, but
could not and I pray’d [sic] to God
that he would make me feel the
necssity [sic] to give it up- and he did
and I have had no taste of apetite [sic]
to taste it again, tell Miss Coleman
that was all of my own power or the
power that God gave me to give up
tobacco & the dear Lord has fill’d [sic]
the part that long’d [sic] with his own
love and Spirit & now my great
prayer is that all who Smoke
may have the Spirit that spoke
to me to work in them to destroy
the drive for Tobacco-
(Page 4)
Sojourner will pray the big
prayer of her heart that the
wicked love of Tobacco may go
out of the longing of the people
& wont that be a big prayer
to ask the Lord to work this
Evil out of the People?-
Give my love to Isaac Post
& tell him I have a warm
Corner here at Mrs Leggetts &
I want him when he sits
where Sojourner tried to Sit
to think of her- for she has
about Such a Chair & such a
Corner to sit in & give my
love to Betty and Mary &
to yourself & to all of your
family tell Betty ^Addy^ that when I
go to Washington She must make
ready to go along , your friend
Sojourner Truth
Sojourner Truth, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Detroit, presumably to fellow activist, Amy Post. Battle Creek is in Michigan. Eliza Leggett and her family were abolitionists. Jonathan Walker was an abolitionist and former slave. The Anti- Slavery Standard was an abolitionist newspaper. Lucy Coleman was an abolitionist and woman's rights activist. Mary was Post's step- daughter. Betty was Mary's daughter.
(Page 1)
The Revolution
No. 37 PARK ROW. (Room 17.)
NEW YORK, Sept. 15th1868.
To, ^the^ Working Women’s association of Chicago
of Rochester-
By the enclosed you will
see that all organizations for the
ameliorriation of woman’s labor ,as well
as mans, may send delegates to the working
mens National Congress to be held the 21st int. -
next Monday- Steps are being taken here
to send appoint delegates- I hope Roches
ter will be represented- your suffrage
association’s object is the elevation of
Woman- therefore fully competent –
It will be a great thing to secure
a good word for woman in the
world of work from this National
Convention of working men -
Sincerely yours
Susan B. Anthony
(Page 1)
[Three lines of text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 1]
In reference to the Womens Rights Champions
affiliating with Train . . I never thought
well of it.
Boston May 10. 1868
Dear Friend Amy
Your Kind favor
of February 4th calls oudly for this
response. which Your characteristic
indulgence will I Know excuse the long
delay. I was exceedingly gratified
to hear from You and as sorry not
to have the LiKenesses [sic] on hand required
for Abigail Bush of which after vainly
endeavoring to obtain I informed her
of promptly by mail promising to
exert my utmost to find and
forward. = of my own Phiz .
transferred to Card You and Her
are both BooKed for early copies.
It is within a few days of one Year
Since my last visit to 36 Sophia St
where I would be now and often
if circumstances did but permit.
It afforded me much Satisfaction
to learn of You of the Friends in
(Page 2)
Rochester and in particular from
the Home Circle . To each and
all please feel commissioned to
tender my Kind and Fraternal
remembrances.
I am yet in the Post
office and my Nephew Ira Nell Gray
has Just commenced in the Same
department with myself. The
interior of Post office Building
has been so altered that my
Friend William R. Hallowell would
not easily recognize his whereabouts.
a New Post office You Know has
been decided upon . but how Soon
to be completed Deponent is now
unable to testify .
at the time of the
Spiritualist 20th anniversary Celebration
at Music Hall I had intended by
all means to be present but was
prevented by a combination of circumstances
much to my regret. I Saw
Andrew JacKson Davis during the
(Page 3)
Day on Bromfield St going into the
office of Bela Marsh. _It was a
grand and memorable accasion [sic].
Who would thinK So long a time
had elapsed Since my first acquaintance
with the – “Rochester KnocKings “
at 36 Sophia Street - now
its believers are counted by millions.
-
I shall not reach the New YorK
anniversaries =and dont Know when or
where my Vacation will be . I desire
Very much to see Washington at Some
time. but my plans are Yet to be made.
I was quite interested with the
Standard Obituary of Deborah BunKer by
Sarah D. Fish = It brought to mind my
Acquaintance with the “BunKer Girls.”
Tuesday
Yesterday called to see Louisa who had Just
finished a Letter for You . in which I discovered
an expression relating to my self [sic] and the
Old Story Vc my being married.
Well I have this message to
(Page 4)
Communicate to Amy Post on that all
important [sic] subject . You remember last May
Suggesting as preferable a Young Woman and
one who had never been married _ as best
calculated to adapt herself Vc -
I stopped at Worcester en route to Boston
and at my Friend Mrs Putnams and her
Daughter Mrs Gilliard met a Young Woman
from New Hampshire who I had never before
Seen but Often heard spoKen highly of
by some of her relatives Special friends of
mine. = the acquaintance has thus far
proved Satisfactory and the choice is
that at this the eleventh Hour –
if I marry, it will be this Girl
from New Hampshire. = So much
to You with whom so much talK has
been indulged through a series of Years
on the So long deferred event.
This mornings Papers more Clearly
than ever before indicate treachery
enough among prominent Republicans
to defeat Impeachment =I have but
no room for the comments which would
liKely be identical with yours – Wm C. Nell.
Love to all from Yours Fraternally
[Text aligned along left margin of Page 4]
Is Mary PitKin Yet in Troy?
(Page 1)
Akron. Jan 26. 1868-
My dear Friend: You manefested [sic] so
much of your old time interest
in me when I called at your house
to say farewell, that I cannot do
less than to send you a line at
this my first opportunity. I had not
travelled far from the sunshine of your
home, before I met the chilling frosts
of that prejudice which has been
the bane of my life. I was positively
refused a berth in the sleeping car from
Buffalo to Cleveland- and threatened with
an old fashoned [sic] "drag out" if I refused
to go out peaceably. High and angry words
passed over me- and for a time, I was
preparing my body for the bruising
in store for me. The loud talk
(Page 2)
between the conductor and myself
brought to the scene a number of
the passengers. Most of whom stood
up manfully for my rights- and this
with my own firmness, brought the
conductor to his senses- He at last
gave me a bed and I slept about
as well as a man can when his
temper has been sorely tried- You
will not regret, my dear friend, when
you review your past, that your life
has been a constant and an earnest
protest against this vile spirit of
caste- I am speaking every night and
travelling every day- I have but little
time for letter writing- Kind Regards to
my friend Isaac- This is a selfish
little note: All about myself-
Truly yours
Frederick Douglass.
(Page 1)
Battle Creek Mich. Nov. 4th 1867
Mrs. Amy Post
Dear Friend
I want to have written to
you before but I did not
get around to it. I never
have recieved [sic] any thing [sic]
for the transportation yet
although I have written twice
I have bought a house ^lot^
here in town and I have
Mortgaged it and I have
not got enough money
to make it comfortable
I have mortgaged every
thing [sic] I have got and I
have not got enough
yet lacking my body and
a few rags are not
mortgaged yet I wish
you and Miss Stebbins
(Page 2)
and Mrs Watkins would
get up a contribution
so that I can get my house
[down?] so that you can
[go live?] and see me but
you must bring your
rituals it is so cold I
cant go around and sell
my photographs. I want
you to come but bring
something along to eat
for I am to [sic] poor to get
anything to eat. Tell Mr.
Willis to [reach?] out
to me for I shant be
here long. I have been
at work at my cellar
myself carring [sic] the dirt
out, it was so heavy that
could not shovel it out
so I would carry it out
in my apron it was
in the ^Standard^ to send me
(Page 3)
something but they have
sent me but very little
I cant pay the $5 now
but I shall be there next
spring if I live do try and get
me something from the
ladies as soon as possible
for I have to live among
my neighbor now My
lot has got a barn on it
and I am trying to get the
barn fixed over into a house
Gerrit Smith sent me
$10 that I am gratiful [sic] for
Very truly yours
Sojourner Truth
Direct to Sojourner Truth
Battle Creek
Mich
Care of Mrs E.. M. Rhoades
(Page 4)
45 Montgomery St Syracuse
Mrs. Howe formerly Mrs. [Morison?]
Sojourner Truth, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Battle Creek, Michigan to fellow activist, Amy Post. Mrs. Stebbins most likely refers to Catherine Stebbins, who was a Quaker, and a member of the Western New York Anti-Slavery Society. Mr. Willis could refer to Edmund P. Willis, Post's brother-in-law, or Nathaniel Willis- an abolitionist. The Anti-Slavery Standard was an abolitionist newspaper. Gerrit Smith was an abolitionist. The note on the fourth page seems to have been written by a third party.
(Page 1)
[Toledo?] August
25/67
When I got home to Battlecreek [sic]
I asked Mrs Titus to write
to you and tell you I had
got safely home, but
whether she did or not I
cannot say.-
How is Aunt Mary and
the women I brought you
getting along, and the
rest of the women, I do
want very much to know
and how is the little
baby of Mrs. Willis’s, it
was so poorly when I
came away, did it live or
die?- I've bought me a
lot with a farm on it and
I’m going to fix the farm
into a house and think I
(Page 2)
shall be very comfortable &
then I shall want you to
come and see me.-
Have you heard any thing [sic]
about the money I paid
for those colored people
from Washington to
Baltimore- I wish I had
the money, do write to me
about it as soon as you
can and please don’t forget
my other questions and
direct it to the care of
Richard Merrit Battle Creek
I went to [Adrin?] to try and
raise a little money and
come down here to see what
I should do- I brought my
grandson Sammy hoping to
find a place for him tho’
I hope to have him with me
again by & by.-
(Page 3)
I want you to read this to
Aunt Mary, tell her I
would write to her, but I
have hard work to get
so manny [sic] letters written-
did her nephew come yet
I have had one sick,
time, trouble with my
bowels but am quite
well now and hope to
keep ^so^ - I hope you are
all well and want very
much to hear from you
With much love to you
all from
Sojourner Truth
Sojourner Truth, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing mostly likely to fellow activist, Amy Post. Battle Creek is a town in Michigan. The members of the Titus family were relatives of the Post family. Aunt Mary may refer to Post's step-daughter. Mrs. Willis could refer to Post's sister, Sarah Willis. Truth refers to her work with the Freedman's Bureau in Washington D.C. The Freedman's Bureau was founded after the Civil War to help former slaves find food and housing, education, health care, and employment.
(Page 1)
Boston June 23 . 1867.
Sunday Eve 9 . O ‘ClocK =
all alone in my Bachelor
Sanctum
My Kind Friend Amy
I have too
long deferred the pleasing duty
of penning a line in the attempt
to acKnowledge the reviving
influence imparted by my brief
Visit to 36 Sophia Street. -
The presence of Yourself and
Isaac. the trio of Post Boys_
and the pleasant hours
with William and Mary
Hallowell . Sarah and
Edmund P. Willis constitute
a Chapter from which much
Solace will be derived
to cheer my otherwise
lonely Seasons. I need
not Say how I regretted
the Circumstances which
allowed me so Short a time
for Rochester Associations.
(Page 2)
But I must not forget to
be grateful for the rich
treat it afforded me
brief as it was .
I found
FranK and her Six Children
well and apparently
comfortable. I left there
Friday Evening and reached
Worcester Saturday afternoon
Spending Sunday with
Mrs Putnam who and
Mrs Gilliard ^who^ are pleasantly
Situated-
Louisa was
delighted to hear from
You . She is now in daily
expectation of leaving
for the Profile House NH
and is either looKing
for ^a letter^ or getting ready to
write You herself.
(Page 3)
I. found but little opportunity
to attend the New England
Convention or the
Spiritualists Meeting =and
Knew nothing of the
Colored Medium Mrs Wilson
it may be Some one [sic] of my
acquaintance = Andrew T.
Foss presided = but of all
this and of the other
Convention You will learn
from the Standard and
Banner -
a few evenings
Since Wendell Phillips
delivered the lecture
before the John Brown
Division ( of which W.W. Brown
is President-) that He was
to have delivered the
Evening Mr Hallowell
and myself called at
his house 26 Essex Street
[Text aligned vertically along right margin of Page 3]
on the 19th went to
[Text aligned upside down along bottom margin of Page 3 and continues on Page 2]
the Fraternity Picnic at Walden
[Text aligned upside down along bottom margin of Page 2]
woods , Concord . =a beautiful Spot
[Text aligned vertically along left margin of Page 2]
and a delightful time . Ralph Waldo Emerson . A Bronson
[Text continues along top margin of Page 2]
Alcott F . B. Sanborn and other
[Text aligned horizontally across top margin of Page 3]
choice Spirits.
(Page 4)
I had the pleasure of
accompanying him Home
across the Common after
the lecture -
I met Sallie Holley
and Miss Putnam at the
Convention .-
Mr Wetherell formerly
of Rochester and myself
have been for Years in the
habit of meeting and
recently at the Post office
and only a few days Since
did he learn that it was
in Rochester we often passed
each other on the Streets
He speaKs well of the People
there.
A Letter has reached
here from Indiana for
Frederic [sic] Douglass which I
will forward to Rochester -
Please distribute my Kindest
regards to the Rochester Circle
I remain Ever Fraternally Yours Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Jacob, Joseph and Willie were Post's sons. William and Mary Hallowell were Post's son-in-law and step-daughter. Sarah was Post's sister, and Edmund P. Willis was her husband. Frances was one of Nell's sisters. Mrs. Putnam and Mrs. Gilliard were both abolitionists. Louisa was one of Nell's sisters. Nell refers to the Spiritualist movement. Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Andrew T. Foss was a lecturer for the Massachusetts Anti- Slavery Society. The Standard and Banner could refer to two newspapers. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. John Brown planned and led the attack on the federal arsenal at Harpers Ferry in 1859. William Wells Brown was an abolitionist, lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. He was born a slave, and escaped to the North in 1834, where he wrote the first novel by an African American, title- Clotel. Ralph Waldo Emerson was a writer and Transcendentalist. A. Bronson Alcott was a social reformer and a Transcendentalist. Franklin Benjamin Sanborn was also a Transcendentalist, and he helped to fund John Brown's raid. Sallie Holley traveled as an anti-slavery lecturer with Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone and Sarah Remond. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave.
(Page 1)
Wash March 26. /67.
My dear Sojourner & Mrs Post
I have delayed writing hop
ing to be able to answer you that the people would
come as desired by you. But I cannot yet say
certainly in regard to any thing [sic] about it. We are
moving Heaven and Earth, to speak figuratively
to inspire the people to go - But all the causes
that you rember [sic] to here Existed last year.
Sojourner are still Keeping them here. Then
the Southern Ag’ts have been here for men, and
have said so much against the climate
and character of the North that that also
helps to indecision. The Bureau is now giving
us all facilities for getting them where they
can support themselves. And no stone is left
unturned that promises to influence them
to go- where I see I can do any thing [sic]. We do
send some almost Every day [sic], but cannot
get the women to go without the men &
indeed cannot get many sent now of any
kind. Dr Glennon writes me to day [sic] that
[Text aligned vertically along left margin of Page 1]
Sojourner I enclose to you a dollar that Miss Jackson of Providence sent
[Text aligned vertically along top margin of Page 1]
you in a
letter to me
you Know she
is my best
Friend & the
best of the
Freedom friends
there – Excuse
this
hardly
letter
with
great
love
children
[forever?] us
love to
you also
J.C.S
(Page 2)
there are fewer persons in the Hospital and
very few who are able bodied- whenever
there is he will get them to us that we may
send them to homes.
I have been to Alexandria today & find
many there who should go -but am not sure
that they will go- I go over to talk in their meet-
-ings next Sunday- We shall try to send up
a company as soon as we can- Miss Wilber
came to the Office a few days since & has written
you on a certain point & we shall be glad to
hear from you as soon as possible. One thing
I wish to Know – can we send a company
of such as we can find perhaps two thirds men
& one third women – can we find a man & wife
and two children –who are young – nearly all
our applications say – no young children as though
Black Babes were 12 years old when they were born
-Is Mr Balors in good feeling toward your work
- or not- I see he is out of patience with us for not
sending him the people he sent for. But we could
not do it. He cannot see our difficulties. We have
three thousands application for laborers, & cannot
send all to one place-&only a few to Each.
with much love- to you both- your friend J.S. Griffing. Agt.
Josephine Sophie White Griffing, an abolitionist from Washintgon, D.C., is writing to fellow activists, Sojourner Truth and Amy Kirby Post. The Freedman's Bureau was founded after the Civil War to help former slaves find food and housing, education, health care, and employment. Dr. Glennan was Truth's nephew, who worked at the Freedman's Hospital in Washington D.C.
(Page 1)
Farm, Monday P.M,
Dec. 24, 1886
Dear Friend Amy
The house-
hold of Daniel will be
happy to see thee & thy
husband at the Farm
tomorrow (Tuesday) P.M.
And Susan B. in
particular will be very
happy to see thee & both &
plan about Anti Slavery,-
as well as visit -
Yours Truly
Susan B. Anthony
(Page 1)
Dear Friend Amy Post
Here is the Call for
our National W. R. Convention. I know
you will rejoice in it, if not another
woman in the country- Now we
mustn’t draw on the thousand dollars
the Committee have set apart for the
work of the N. york State Constitutional
Convention- to pay the expenses of this
National Convention – Can’t you get
something from that Mr. Watson now?
I hope you will be at the Convention,
We shall need every woman & man who really
believes now is the hour for woman to demand
the ballot – I think of William & Mary &
all of my Rochester friends – but writing
them is out of the question
The nation waits some move of
Congress now, as they used to for McLellan
then Burnside, then another –
(Page 2)
Hoping to see you in May
I am Truly yours
Susan B. Anthony
(Page 1)
Washington Oct 1st, /65
Amy Post- My dear friend
I have heard nothing from my
children for a long time, neither
from my grandchildren since
they left me. I take this occasion
to inquire after their whereabouts
and health, as well as your own
prosperity, and to inform you of
my own. I spent over six months
at Arlington Heights, called the
Freedmen’s village, and served
there as Counciller [sic] for my people
acceptably to the good but not at
all times to those who desire nothing
higher than the lowest and the vilest
of habits. For you know I must be
faithful Sojourner everywhere.
I have generally received the kindest
attention from those in Authority.
even to the President. But I see
(Page 2)
dark spots still in the great cloud
that leads us by day, and occasional
angry flashes in the pillar of fire that
guides through this long dark night.
Yet my comfort in all this is in
the thought that God rules.
A few weeks ago I was in com
pany with my friend Josephine S.
Griffing, when the Conductor of a street
car refused to stop his car for me, although
closely following Josephine. and holding
on to [sic] the iron rail they draged [sic] me
a number of yards before she succeed
ed in stoping them. She reported the
conductor to the president of the City Rail
way. who dismissed him at once,
and told me to take the number of
the car, wherever I was mistreated by
a conductor or driver, and report to
him and they should be dismissed.
On the 13th [illegible] I had occasion to go
for blackbury wine, and other necessities
for the patients in the Freedmen’s Hos
[Text aligned horizontally along left margin of Page 2]
Mrs [Hanilands?] on business and will remain a week or ten days
longer, she does the reading and writing for me while here
(Page 3)
pitals in the City where I have been
doing, and advising, for a number
of months under sanction of the Bureau
tis they had often refused to stop for
me, I thought now I would get a
ride without trouble as I was in com
pany with another Friend Laura
S. [Haniland?] of Mich.. as I ascended
the platform of the car, a man just
leaving it, called out “Have you got
room for niggers here!” as the conduc-
tor then noticed my black face, push
ed me, saying “go back—get off here.”
I told I was not going off, “then I’ll
put you off.” said he furiously, with
clenching my right arm with both
hands, using such violence that he
seemed about to succeed, when Mrs
[Haniland?] reached us. and told him, he
was not going to put me off, placing her
hands on both of us. “Does she be
long to you! if she does, take her in out
the way” said he, in a hurried angry tone
[Text aligned horizontally along left margin of Page 3]
Tis ever I am your friend Sojourner Truth by L.L. H.
(Page 4)
she replied “She does not belong
to me, but she belongs to Humanity.
and she would have been out of
the way long ago, if you had have let
her alone.” The number of the car
was noted, and conductor dismiss
ed at once upon the report to the
President (Mr. Gidean) who advised
his arrest for assault and Battery as
my shoulder was sprained by the
wrench given by the conductor in
his effort to put me off. Accordingly,
I had him arrested. and the case tried
before Justice Johnson who refered [sic]
the case to the Grand Jury of the United
States, and placed James C. Weedan,
the conductor under bonds for his
appearance to court which appears next
Wednesday, My shoulder was very
lame and swollen, but is better, but
I sometimes fear it will trouble me
for a long time. if I ever get entirely
over it. It is hard for the old slave
holding spirit to die. But die it must.
Write immediately, tell me where
my children are, and how they are.
Direct to me in care of Dr. [Glennan?]
D. S. A. Freedman’s Hospital Washington D.C.
[Text aligned horitzontally along left margin of Page 4]
P.S. I think I shall be there in 4 or 5 weeks but I want to I am anxious to hear
from you*
(Page 1)
Sanctum, where indeed now
most of my time is occupied
when not in the Post Office
I am hard at worK upon the
new edition of my Colored Patriots
which in augmented chapters
of 1776 and 1812, will contain
a record of Colored american
Services in the present rebellion
I desire to maKe it instrumental
in promoting Equal Suffrage
for Colored citizens throughout
the United States. when
finished I shall feel like
an emancipated man.
and Shall resume perhaps
visiting and public meetings
for this together with some
other considerations have for
many months past kept me
almost a recluse.-
at Post Office
July 27, 1865
Louisa is at the White Mountains with her
Husband=the Nephew Ira= has until
September to serve on board Sabine
now at New London or New YorK
He was at Boston a day a few weeKs
ago. Benjamin Cleggett is now in
(Page 2)
Boston Harbor on board Vanderbilt
I have not Yet seen him though
hardly expecting to. He has never met
Louisas Husband or son.
Harriet and Louisa Jacobs have left
Alexandria and in a few weeKs are expected
to reach Boston : -
My position at the
Post Office is as agreeable as ever
have had recently some reciept [sic] signing
to share will other clerKs= despite
the Dred Scot decision = but You
and Isaac have long since been
aware, that the world does move
some, even though there is Yet work
for the faithful = a struggle
ahead. but Victory just over
the border = press on - Hope
on, Hope ever-
I Knew very well that Isaac & Amy
were still in the enjoyment of thier [sic] Honey Moon [sic]
Somewhat apropos is the following [scrawl]
Robert Newton and Wife
The Rochester Papers mention
David Cunningham corner of Spring and
Fitzhugh Street of of John Browns
men = recently died
Did he Join the Company at
Harper Ferry ? I dont remember
any special account of him.
can tell me any thing? [sic]
[Newspaper clipping pasted onto bottom right corner of Page 2]
A Happy Married Life.
There would be fewer divorces in our world
if all married couples had the spirit of the one
alluded to in the following paragraph:
When Robert Newton, the Wesleyan pulpit
orator, married, he and his bride began the
married life by retiring twice each day to pray
with and for each other. This practice they
kept up, when opportunity served, to the end
of life. Mark the result! When an old man,
Mr Newton remarked: “In the course of a
short time my wife and I shall celebrate the
jubilee of our marriage; and I know not that,
during the fifty years of our union, an unkind
look or an unkind word has ever passed be-
tween us.
[Handwritten text underneath newspaper clipping]
Please remember me
kindly to the
whole Rochester
circle and believe
me ever Fraternally
yours William C. Nell
(Page 1)
Geneva May 15th
Dear “Friend Amy 1865.
I have been
most provoKingly disappointed
in not being able at this
time to reach Rochester.
And the next best thing
attainable is to talK with
to You with Pen InK and Paper
but what a poor substitute
for the Viva Voca = and meeting
You and the Rochester Circle
in Propriae Personae-
I left New YorK on
Thursday Evening 6. O’ClocK by Erie train
of course I Should have taKen the Central
and I thinK Geo Willetts told me So
Soon after leaving Jersey City a Violent
Storm overtooK us . The Lightening
Shattered Trees . breaKing Car windows
and obstructing the tracK by
which were detained Six hours
and by mistaKe or negligence of the
Conductor was carried to Corning
and had to return to Elmira
remain there till 614 . ther [sic] by Car
to Jefferson = Staying there all night
and leaving in the Steamer in the
morning at 8 : reaching Geneva
at Noon Saturday instead of
Friday.
(Page 2)
I should have run up to day [sic] and
remained in - Rochester an hour or two
( being engaged to address the
Ladies Soldiers aid Society )
but unforeseen matters
prevented = and I leave
here tomorrow Morning to be
at my Post office duties =
Having but 8 days Vacation.
I have heard from Louisa
with grateful Satisfaction the
Hospitality and Kindness
She recieved [sic] at 36 Sophia St
and oh how I do long to
be there myself –
How is Mrs Sarah H . Willis
and Mr Willis William & Mary
Hallowell. Jacob. Joseph
and ‘Little Willie” but who
now Judging from his LiKeness
Shown me by Louisa =Little
Willie no longer , Yes
Some longer and thats
Just the long
and Short of it .
and Mary PitKin I want
to hear her play and Sing –
I was Sorry to hear of Isaac
Posts indisposition = tell him
I protest against any Such
arrangement .
[Text aligned vertically along left margin of Page 2]
Those Flowers of Your arranging –very handsome.
(Page 3)
I go for an amendment
of his Constitutions
My remembrances to Mary Johnson
I met Mrs Mary Curtis in
New YorK. and with
Chas Lenox Remond was
carried bacK to Days
Lang Syne in Rochester
-
Come to thinK
I am in an encouraging
State of health and
am Yet a Bachelor .
-
I must defer other
matters = being called to the
meeting
Do send me
a line to Boston.
With Love to all
I remain
Fraternally Yours
William C. Nell.
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. The Latin phrase "viva voce" means lively voice. "in Propriae Personae" translates to in person, or personally. Louisa could refer to either one of Nell's sisters or Louisa Jacobs, the daughter of abolitionist and former slave Harriet Jacobs. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Sarah Willis was Post's sister, and Edmund P. Willis was Post's brother-in-law. William and Mary Hallowell were Post's son-in-law and step-daughter. Jacob, Joseph and Willie were Post's sons. Mary Pitkin took care of Willie as a young boy. Mary Johnson was an African American woman, who worked for the Post family for a period. Mary Curtis was a woman's rights advocate. Charles Lenox Remond was a lecturer and abolitionist. "Auld Lang Syne" was a Scottish poem written by Robert Burns in 1788 and set to the tune of a traditional folk song.
(Page 1)
Boston August 20 . 1864.
Dear “Friend Amy Post.
Is my
name erased from thy BooK of
remembrance ? It is indeed
many a day Since I have been
favored with a line from
Rochester over the familiar
and much respected Sign
manual of Amy Post.
I . have a great number of
questions to asK about the
past and present Circle of
36 Sophia St and other localities
in Rochester. but will forego
that purpose in this preliminary
epistle . desiring specially now
but to Know if the old
House remains where it did.
and possessed by Same
accupants [sic] as when Known to
Deponent.
(Page 2)
The Bearer of this Sheet
Maria S . Page . resides in
South Danvers Mass is well
Known to ParKer Pillsbury and
Susan B . Anthony .C. Lenox Remond
and others of antislavery [sic] repute
and is one of my No 1. Friends .
I taKe great pleasure
in the anticipation of an
acquaintance being formed
between her and the
Rochester Friends . . only
wish it was to be my
privilege of being present
at the meeting .-
My health has been
Somewhat out of tune
the past two Years - but I
am Jogging on quite
Comfortably now- as well as
Can be expected under my
(Page 1)
Anti Slavery [sic] Office- Beckman st.
New York Apr. 13. 1863-
My Dear Friend,
The enclosed will
tell you that we have resolved to make
an opportunity for woman to speak
her thought on the war-
I hope you can be present -
Mrs. Stanton has an address to the
women of the Republic in type, in the
Tribune Office – if only it shall ever
be published, you may get sight of it –
I have been with Mrs. Stanton
five weeks tomorrow- we shall
prepare an address to the President, to
be adopted by the meeting –
Lucy & Antoinette, & Mrs. Rose will be
(Page 2)
on the spot – Anna Dickinson
and Ms. J. E. Jones too I hope –
It seems a long, long time since
I left Rochester – but I see no chance
for me to return until after the
Anniversaries- I think of you all
very often – and of my own
lovely farm home- but it can never
be made whole again -
Truly & affectionately
Susan B. Anthony
[Text aligned vertically along left border of Page 2]
P.S.- Your brother Joseph
is just come in- reports
all well at home – looks
as fresh & joyous as ever
Susan B. Anthony, a woman’s rights activist, writes from New York City to fellow activist, Amy Post. Elizabeth Cady Stanton was a woman's rights leader. Anthony refers to the newspaper, the New York Tribune. Lucy Stone, Ernestine Rose and Anna Dickenson were fellow woman's rights activists. Antoinette Brown was one of the first female ministers in the United States. Anthony could be referring to the anniversary of the emancipation of slaves in the British West Indies, which took place in 1833.
(Page 1)
Boston June 10th 1862
Stopping en route at
Pennsylvania Progressive Friends Meeting-
My Valued Friend Amy Post
What are You
thinKing of me for not before this acKnowledging
Yours of So long ago that I am ashamed
to be particular about the date ? Well ,
the truth is I could and Should have
put away procrastination and talKed with
Your penwise [sic] quite soon after its
reception for now I can never expect to
even glance at the hundred and one .
topics . which are engraved upon my tablet.
of intention = . I allowed myself to
indulge a hope of meeting Some
representative from 36 Sophia Street at
the New YorK annual meeting- where
through much tribulation I succeeded
in reaching but the only Rochester
face that my Vision greeted was
Susan B. Anthony .I was glad to meet
her. but oh how sorry not to
meet You and others of the
meetings You have been informed_
that they were very interesting and
encouraging . as were also the
New England Conventions = the latter
Spiced with a greater Variety of Free Speech.
(Page 2)
Your determination never to grow
old is Just in accordance with my
own. and indeed very few people
thinK me as old as indeed I
happen to be . You need not tell how old
that is =. but then if ^You should it wont harm this old Bachelor.^
Of my situation in the
Post office I have as Yet no progres [sic] to
report except the maKing friends
with most of those in the Various
departments with whom I come in
Contact = the effort of Mr Sumner
and others in Congress to remove
the proscription has thus far been
unsuccessful. People sing the
Same old Song to me.
“ Hope on, Hope ever.”
Francis JacKsons = House is now accupied [sic]
by a Boarding Establishment. Mrs Eddy
has removed to Edinboro Street
How Strange it seems now to pass
31 Hollis Street. and thus call to
mind past associations .
Peace to the memory of the Just.
-
Your Kind invitation to Visit the old
familiar place stirs up many fond
(Page 3)
recollections - _ and as You say = the old arm
Chair [sic] Still Stands in its wanted place behind
the Stove = - ah = That old Arm Chair [sic]!
“ I Love it . I Love it = and who Shall dare
To chide me for loving . that old arm Chair [sic] ,
instead of now writing or attempting to
of the clustering faces and reminiscenses [sic] -
now it suggests . I will waive the
recital until ( I hope before many months)
I may be there in Propriae Personae . to
recur to them Viva Voce with Amy and
the Rochester Circle.
F. D.’s First or Fraternity Lecture = -
Pictures and Progress walKed Very much here
but did not do him as much Justice as Some
other efforts especially his other and later
one. who on the Black Mans Future in the
United States = before the Emancipation League.
Wm W. Brown myself and others had a
free and early Criticism with F. D. in
reference there to .
Mrs Chapman feels that
the worK of Abolitionists = specifically is
done = in that the Nation is aroused to
the question this if I understand
her is the position She now accupies [sic] -
Not but what these are many bunches
of usefulness for antislavery [sic] reformers to worK in
(Page 4)
but thier [sic] main mission is completed.
and hence She retires from active .
participancy [sic].-
Harriet A. Jacobs has left for
Washington with some things for Contrabands
V= also with a view to Selling BooKs.
I thinK She told me. She had not heard
from You or Isaac whether a letter
Containing money from her Brother
ever reached You. -
Louise Jacobs is now at
the White Mountains with Mrs Willis -
By the Bye. glad to hear from the
other Mrs Willis =whom I first
Knew and Shall always remember
as Sarah L. Hallowell .
My Sister Louisa has been Since April 3d
almost inconsolable for the loss of her Little
Girl Gertrude Louise aged 5 Years .
a remarKably bright and interesting Child
She had taKen part at my 5th of March Tableaux
and was preparing in a new Character at the
repetition April 2d. but the Malignant Scarlet
Fever terminated her bodily existence-
My first Exhibition Cost me 80 dollars. Reciepts [sic] 85.
my Repetition Lost me 20 ”
Please distribute my Kind regard to all the
Circle . (oh How I would LiKe to see them).
and believe me Ever Fraternally Yours
William C. Nell.
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. The Progressive Friends meeting refers to an organization dedicated to preserving human rights. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. The New York annual meeting could refer to an abolitionist or equal rights meeting. Susan B. Anthony was a woman's rights leader. Charles Sumner served as Senator from Massachusetts during the Civil War, and as a leader of the Radical Republicans. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist from Boston, who was affiliated with the Boston Vigilance Committee. Mrs. Eddy was Jackson's daughter. The Latin phrase "in Propriae Personae" means in one's own character, or personally. "Viva Voce" translates to a lively voice.
Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave. William Wells Brown was an African American abolitionist, lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. He was born a slave, and escaped to the North in 1834, where he wrote the first novel by an African American, titled- Clotel. Marie Weston Chapman was an abolitionist, who worked with the American Anti-Slavery Society. Harriet Jacobs was an abolitionist and former slave. She wrote the book, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. Louisa was her daughter. Cornelia Grinnell Willis and her husband helped Jacobs escape from slavery and employed her for a time. Sarah Willis was Post's sister.
(Page 1)
Boston Oct 26th 1860
Dear Friend Amy Post
There are a few
matters mostly personal of which I now
feel liKe communicating in substance to You:
and first I have at last accepted a
business engagement outside of the antislavery [sic]
office ( a department in Dr Louis’ New
Gymnasium for Ladies and Gentlemen ) and
hence my relations to the scenes and
associations of 20 Years’ past. will ^be^ but
nominal. You Know how such a
remove must be regretted by me . Yet
So far as I can see the circumstances
Justify me in doing or trying to do
Something to improve my pecuniary
condition._
Last Sunday Saml J. May SpoKe
at Music Hall and alluded to its being the
25th anniversary of the Boston Mob.
Mr Garrison and Several of the family
were present= I also on that day
contributed to the Albums of FranKie
and Fannie Garrison =. writing at the
anti slavery [sic] office and in his BooK
(Page 2)
noting many pertinent reminiscenses.
In Fannies BooK. I quoted from a
Liberator Letter of mine written at 36
Sophia St Rochester Feb 1852. = and
winding up with the fact of Your
Sarah Hallowell and my influencing
Sallie Holley to Join the New England
Abolitionists = ( which of course is fresh on
Your tablet of memory.-
A few weeKs since for the first
time I engaged in public discussion
in advocacy of Spiritualism in which
as You may readily suppose I secured
attention by Culling largely from my
Rochester Chapter of experience and
observation = I had Some hard ones
opposed and many who favored
and sympathized = It was a
regular Fraternity Discussion and
accupied [sic] two Evenings. Once in a
while some of us participate [sic] in
Sitting Circle = last Sunday Evening
at Louisas with Geo T. Downing
Ira and Louisa Mrs Oliver and
myself all Spiritualists and had a
Satisfactory time.-
(Page 3)
[Two lines of text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 3, extending across to top margin of Page 2]
You will recieve [sic] a Copy of Dr Louis Monthly / The Institution is a few doors from
Wendell . Phillips House .
Harriet Jacobs BooK will be
published in November by
Thayer and Eldridge Title
- Incidents in a Slave Girls Life
or Seven Years concealments^ed^
in Slavery ( I . believe ) -
Louise is Yet at Dr Birminghams
doing well.-
I suppose You recieved [sic]
a copy of my New YorK Suffrage Pamphlet.
I shall be obliged to pay more than
half the Printers Bill out of my own
pocKet = Gerrit Smith has subscribed
5 dollars and Saml J. May bought
two hundred.-
But I ^have^ done with Public
matters of this Kind at least.
My experience has been indeed a
dear bought one. -
I wish it was my
good fortune to Spend a few days
with You and the Circle in Rochester
this fall. But really I dont Know
when that pleasure will be mine.
(Page 4)
when next You write please
tell me news of all.-
-
Mr Phillips is Yet feeble -
Francis JacKson has been sicK
for Several WeeKs -
Mr Garrison is in rather poor
health = does not attend
meetings out of the City -
Saml May J is also unwell
Spends most of the time at
Leicester.-
I am myself ordinarily
well. = and trust this
will find You and all in
exellent [sic] Spiritual and bodily
health. Please distribute my
love after Your own approved
method and believe me
Fraternally Yours William C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Samuel J. May was a radical reformer, who advocated for women's rights, access to education and the abolition of slavery. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator. Nell refers to the mob of October 21, 1835, when the Boston Female Society announced that the British orator, George Thompson would be addressing their meeting. Pro-slavery forces threatened violence and Garrison spoke in Thompson's place. On the day of the event, a lynch mob formed and tried to drag Garrison away, but he escaped.
Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Sarah Hallowell was Post's sister. Sallie Holley traveled the anti-slavery lecture circuit with Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone and Sarah Remond. Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. George T. Downing was an abolitionist. Louisa was Nell's sister, and Ira refers either to her husband or her son. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. Harriet Jacobs was an abolitionist and former slave. Louisa was her daughter. Gerrit Smith was an abolitionist. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist from Boston, who was affiliated with the Boston Vigilance Committee.
(Page 1)
Sunday Night } all alone in my BacheLor Sanctum
10 .O. ClocK No 20 Grove St
Boston July 8th 1860
Dear Friend
Amy Post
I was delighted on
recieving [sic] Your Kind favor of June 23D and
would have been exceedingly happy if I
Could have Visited Rochester from Geneva
Last May. . for I want a Long talK
with You on matters and things
Old and New. I had an impression
by the way that Several boarders now
domicilled [sic] at 36 Sophia Street . but Your
letter intimates that the Household is
now more than ordinarily Small.
So “our Mary Ann = returned
quite soon home to her Post.
I was anticipating the pleasure of
Showing her the Lions in Boston
when the Sequel of Your letter
announced. Presto Change.
the Wanderer had returned her
^her steps^ to pour forth her musical notes
to an audience of Amy .
Isaac Post and. Co -
To day [sic] Emerson held forth at
Music Hall. next Sunday Geo Wm Curtis
(Page 2)
discourses = = and then the Hall will be
Closed for six weeKs probably.
How I do wish You could
see our new antislavery [sic] office - = nearly twice
as large as the old one and every way a
handsome apartment = please Call in
You and Isaac as You pass this way
Be sure and not pass on the other side
When You do come to Boston We Shall see
to it. That no mistaKes or shortcomings of
hospitality shall attend Your path.
I am Sorry that Rochester Free
meetings are discontinued = but thier [sic] influence
lives and is active -. the seed planted
by faithful hands has germinated and
the fruit will Yet be so abundant as to
Call down blessings on those who
^sustained them^ So long through good and evil report
Mr Garrison has deferred his
Visit to England = his health seems renewed
Mr May who intended to accompany him is
in rather a feeble State of health Just now.
Mrs Phillips as Mr Phillips says
is very poorly. and is now at Billerica for
the Summer. =
I was present at the
Womans Rights Convention and indeed
there as at Boston was one of the Ticket agents
(Page 3)
I appreciate Your Views in regard
to the platform and hope for the
“restoration to freedom of speech predicted
by You.
Wm Wells Brown is quite pleasantly
situated in a nice little Cottage . beside
[his?] Father in Law = = Mrs Brown is a nice
little wife . I have Known her from
early Childhood = = they live in
Cambridgeport Just out of Boston.
You _ask about my intended
I cannot answer definitely .
I have Just recieved [sic] a letter from
Caroline Remond Putnam dated London
June 20th intimating quite Soon the return
Home of herself and Mrs Sarah L= Smith .
More anon.
[Two lines of text aligned vertically along left margin of Page 3]
Louise Jacobs always reciprocate [sic]
Your Kind expressions.
You asK If I often see Louise M. Jacobs
I do. . She is well and doing well
as ClerK in a Large Indian Botanical
Drug establishment = She is Justly
esteemed very highly = I have not
written to her Mother for a long
while . but Keep promising myself
to do so . I hear that her Son
Joseph is quite sicK in Australia.
(Page 4)
I really hope nothing will prevent
my Visit to Rochester as anticipated
my impression now is that it
will be in September . but I
am not sure = as it depends
Somewhat upon my arrangement
for meetings Vc but You shall
hear from me -
Dr Trimblety = has recently
left Boston . - he remained here
about eight months = and created
quite a sensation with his Hounds
His Indian Signs Vc
Monday Eve
at anti Slavery [sic] office .
We have to day [sic] been honored with
the Company of John Brown Jr.
Barclay CoppocK . and Thaddeus
Hyatt ==
Please distribute my
Kind regards among the entire
Rochester Circle = My Sister Louisa
Sends greeting = Her Son Ira
progresses finely in learning his trade
as Card Engraver and is quite aspiring
Much more to say. but will reserve it for next time
remaining Fraternally Yours
William C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Mary Ann could refer to Mary Ann Pitkin, who lived with the Post family and took care of their youngest son, Willie, or Mary Ann Johnson who was employed by the Post family. Ralph Waldo Emerson was a writer, Transcendentalist and an abolitionist. George William Curtis was a Transcendentalist and a political leader of the Republican Party. The Rochester Free meetings could refer to an abolitionist group. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator. Samuel J. May was a radical reformer, who advocated for women's rights, access to education and the abolition of slavery. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. His wife, Anne Terry, was a member of the Boston Anti-Slavery Society. Nell refers to the Tenth National Woman's Rights Convention, held on May 11, 1860. William Wells Brown was an African American abolitionist, lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. He was born a slave, and escaped to the North in 1834, where he wrote the first novel by an African American titled- Clotel. Caroline Remond Putnam was married to Joseph Putnam and was the sister of abolitionist, Charles Lenox Remond. Louisa Jacobs was abolitionist and former slave, Harriet Jacobs's daughter. John Brown Jr. was the son of the late John Brown, who led the raid on Harpers Ferry in 1859. Barclay Coppock participated in the raid. Thaddeus Hyatt helped to support the Brown family after John Brown was executed.
(Page 1)
2 sheet
I have therefore been compelled
to do a good deal of preparatory
work- in the way of making
appointments. I find my
war views decidedly objected to
by my old Garrisonian friends
in England. This is the more
rediculous [sic] since the Garrisonians
in America are so deeply
interested in the whole Brown
invasion- now. I have no doubt,
that Dear Isaac- your husband,
stands his ground well on the
peace question – armed all the
warlike utterances of his
Garrison friends.
(Page 2)
I have not yet found
time, though I have often
had the inclination to write
to our mutual friend Mrs
C. She must be much engaged
just now with the movement
of the American Antislavery
Society in Western New York.
I desire to be very cordially
remembered to William Hallowell
and Mary- his wife. It was
very kind of him to make
a call when at the
bridge- The hight [sic] of him
was very refreshing to
me- and look back to the
time spent there
(Page 3)
all the more pleasantly because
his visit to me.
you would have smiled
if you had been in Leeds
a few Evenings ago- when
Sarah Remond- and Caroline
her sister- and myself appeared
upon the same antislavery
platform- I think it must
have been imbarrassing [sic] to
Miss Sarah- though she did
not rebel- we both spoke-
she with her accustomed
calmness- and I- whatever
you please- The audience
was much pleased with
the two blacks from America
(Page 4)
I am- now stopping with a
family of much intelligence,
wealth and refinements. The
Lady of the House is the daughter
of the celebrated Dr Arnold- and
her husband Mr W. H Forster
is the son of the Wel Forsters
who came over to America
to heal the difficulties
among friends at Richmond
Indianna [sic]. Mr Forster the
son is not now a quaker
but is quite a militery [sic]-
I was out with him
yesterday shooting at
a mark- He is a capital
shot and is prepared to
(Page 5)
defend his country from the Friend
French- and from any body else
who may be disposed to
make an attack. I found
my old friend Julia quite glad,
of course to see me- and
what was of equal importance,
her husband too, That is
Theires [sic] is one of my homes
while I stay in England-
indeed it is my main home-
though I have many homes
here- where I am regarded
and cared for- The life however
is high- full of intelligence,
faith and dignity and is
(Page 6)
at sometimes a trifle
more reserved that I
like. But you know
that I am so amiable
that people will sometimes
allow me a little more
freedom- than they allow
to most men. I sometimes
make even the dignified
quakers to laugh and feel
funny just like other people,
which you know is very
unfavorable to stiffness.
I should like to know that
you get these flying lines
and for this purpose- I
(Page 7)
you will write to me- Care
Rev. R. L. Carpenter
Halifax Yorkshire
England.
I am under the necessity
of making all my correspond-
ents pay double postage
for I cannot in the
present condition of
funds do else.
Remember me kindly
to Mrs C. and all inquiring
friends yours Truly
And affectionately
Fredk Douglass
(Page 8)
Give my love to Isaac-
and tell him that he is
always affectionately
remembered-
I wish you all
a most happy New year
Excuse this miserable
scrawl-
F.D
(Page 1)
[Text aligned horizontally on top of first page]
Thy good son Lewis is the
only one of the family
that I have seen
since my return
they seem to be all well
and as far as these
honouring [sic] their father
by well doing- do
write me again
immediately, and
I shall again be
inexplicably
grateful
I shall
want to
hear of
this come
to thee
safely
Rochester Feb 13th 1860
My Dear Friend Frederick Douglass
Last evening about nine oclock [sic]
my heart was made glad by the reception of a
letter from thy hand, and I hardly knew how
to let the night pass without improving the privilege
of replying to it, it seemed to me it had been long
on its way, and I had been hoping some time, that
the time for the promised letter, was not much farther
in the distance, the time seemed very long before we
received the tidings of thy safe arrival ^in England^ and then I have
been from home two months, and did not even have
the privilege of reading thy letters in Frederick Douglass
Paper, until some time after they ^it^ were published, therefore
after such a death thee will not wonder that thy letter
was especially welcom [sic], and my heartfelt thanks may
be understood by my immediate response, if in no other
way. I am truly thankful to thee, dear friend for what
thee said on the first sheet of thy letter, But I do not know
(Page 2)
what to say myself- only ^looking on the brighter side to say^ that I am so sorry, that
we have lost five years of beautiful joyous friendship.
and my strongest wish is, that thee may return just
what thee was when we last parted. How dearly
I love to recur to the many many pleasures of our friend
ship dear devine [sic] friendship and especially to the few
hours of charming- holy hours of that day we spent last
together there are several spots, more thinking in the
recollection than the rest- but I need not now name them.
“The end crowns all” in that case, is a solacing saying.
I have been sad- very sad over many errors of my life, but I
believe them so mixed with good, that I am very hopeful
but Oh if I had as much good to look back upon- the
result of my labours [sic], as thou hast– did as few errors
I should think I had always been a blessing. dear Frederick
be no more sad about all the scenes of the past, so unspeak
-ably painful, we will all resolve to be unspeakably good.
and happy again, when we must. Well- when will
thee be home? I never forget that high way of holiness, which
I promised to help thou up for thy safe footsteps ^on thy return^, I assure thee
if prayers will do anything towards it, it will be in readings for
thee in less than six months, thy aloted [sic] time of absence, only think ^if^
(Page 3)
just half the time has passed, I sincerely hope there will be
neither need, or desire on thy part to protract the time
ofor thy visit, I presume thee watches with so much anxiety,
and gets with the same accuracy, the proceeding at Wash-
ington- Virginia, &c as we do. Therefore I need only to say that the
signes [sic], favoring thy safety, here are favourable, hopeful. I am
happy to hear of thy kind and cordial reception from thy
old as well new friends, of which- I have ^never^ had a doubts,
for great and good people, generally find it easy to make
friends, sometimes, even out of former enemies, but how is it
that ^thy^ friend Foster should have been a Quaker, and not have dis-
covered, that to be a peace man, brings so much more happi-
-ness to the soul- I hope thee will, be true to the promptings of
thy own nature, and labour [sic] to show him his error. I have
no objection to your amusing yourselves by shouting at a mark
provided the mark is not a man.Frederick, the [sic] never saw
my Father. I had hoped that thee would, but it is to [sic] late now
he has passed beyond the vail [sic], As soon as we received Tidings
of his increasing illness, I made haste to get to him, Willie and I
took the first train, which left here at six oclock [sic] on the evening of the
John Brown, sympathy meeting, which I was anxious to present at
and move but did not like to delay, but father had peacefully
(Page 4)
closed his life here, two hours [on?] we could reach there
I experienced no regrets, no sorrow- ^for I know he was happy in the change^ but it brought a sad
and lonely feeling to see both parental chairs empty- and
the thought of hearing their paternal- loving greetings
no more sounding on my ear, produced many serious
reflections, as well as recalled many joyous and interesting
recollections, His age was ninety four years and four months
he and our mother lived 64 years together, and 5 lonely
years he has passed without her- but now they have met to
part no more. Isaac came down and spent two weeks
and then left Willie and I in Jersey City, between which
place and New York we spent three weeks, I stayed for the
purpose of medical treatment , having been much out of
health, previous to my Long Island visit= and ^I ^kept Willie for
company, George Willitts and many others made affectionate
enquiries for thee. I stayed most of my time with ^at^ Daniel
Underhills, who has married the eldest daughter of the
Fox family- she has a delightful home of their own, a
good husband, with wealth and refinement, I never saw
her as happy as now- she is not before the spiritual investigating
public now, though her medium ship [sic] is the same, now dont [sic]
let me feel as if thee is casting the lip of unbelief, Through their
(Page 5)
introduction I made one very agreeable, new
acquaintance, a gentleman and his wife- living
at New Rochelle- about 20 miles east of New York.
We accepted an invitation to spend a day or two
with them, and set out in a most dashing shower
of blessed raine [sic], but as the Locomotive waits for no one
after set times- and we were anticipating too
much pleasure to be disappointed, we went on,
trusting to the good sense of the gentleman to meet us
at the Depot. & behold he was there with his fine sleigh
and horse; and we were soon safely landed under their
pleasant and hospitable shelter, every eye brightly beaming
well childrens [sic] hands claping [sic] with delight. In the
night the rain ceased, and by mornings dawn the clouds
had all dispersed, and every tree and street looked
as if an Angel had passed by that way and left its
beautiful frost blossoms upon them all, but to be
brief- in all this splendor, and iceseckle [sic] glitter ^driping [sic]^ in a sun
-shine of almost summer mildness, we took a charming
sleigh ride- Oh! The highways and winding byways [obliterated]
(Page 6)
almost canopied with those beautifully decked trees, leading
to the Long Island Sound- and the many neatly ornamented
and some both neat and magnificent dwellings, made it
a ride of more than common interest, when we arrived at the
grave of Thomas Paine we all alighted, so as to press our
feet upon the soil this gifted man, so oft had trod. but I
shall grow tedious or I would tell thee of the superstition, after
all ^sects^ refusing to give him a burial, the purchaser of his farm, upon
which he was buried; years after, refused to let their friends pass
over his land, to erect a moment of his memory, though the
space was only three feet from the highway- so there stands the
moment as near to the grave (as the highway) as they could place
it. Thus it stands there a moment, not only of the genius of
one man, but of the ignorance and superstition of many.
Frederick, I wish thee could have been with us, but, at once,
I think, how many places of greater beauty- and more
thrilling interest, thy feet will press- thy eyes behold and thee
emotions of thy soul enjoy- well, please remember them all
and if I do not get the benefit of them previous to thy return,
then, live them on again, by repeating them to me-
Thy friend Susan Humphrey stayed here through my absence
and is still here, her friend from Chicago came last evening
(Page 7)
he is quite a dashing beau, elegant- and polished, just
such an one as I should suppose would take her attention
but whether he would continue to fill the void in her
soul, Is the great problem to be solved- she says that altho’
thee did not mention her, she doesn’t believe thee has forgotten
her, and wished me to say that she often thinks of thee kindly &
admiringly; and wishes thee a safe return. I have not seen
our mutual friend Mrs Colman since about the middle
of November, she has been busy, as thee anticipates, but I am
sorry to say, not as thee supposes in the Anti Slavery ranks, but
under the less desirable auspices of Wendall- Lucy & Susan
she is “alone, at present I believe, but she so seldom writes
either to me or her children, that we are left to wonder
where she is- I believe she must have arrived in Jersey City
the very day I left there, she was ^their^ [sic] with thy German friend, the
last letter ^[from announced?]^ I was very sorry to miss of seeing her, and I thought
too of trying to call upon Miss A-- but I did not feel myself quite
well enough acquainted, I assure thee I did smile right
joyously when I heard of Miss Remond, and thyself upon the same
platform, ah, I hope it will make way for many other reuni-
ons, of old friends who never should have been separated. Isaac
desires his love to thee, and says tell Frederick that it seems to him
(page 8)
as if he will not wish to stay very long away, and from all
the evidence yet adduced thee can return with safety as soon
as thee chooses, and he says tell thee that John Brown was a
great man, viewing him from Moses, and his own stand
point. but how is it when compared with the life of Jesus?
but I must not argue this question with thee now, but Oh dear
what a hurry I am on to see this relick [sic] of barbarism pass away
from some few minds, in the circle of my friends! Thee may tell
thy friend Foster, that we had the honor of the company of William
Foster company under our roof some three weeks, when he was in
this country- he was engaged in visiting the families of friends
in Scipio Monthly Meeting, I presume he was an Uncle of his.
Willie thought then, that there ever would be any family reciproci
-ty ^excuse me for classing this as one of our family^ I have had no opportunity to deliver thy message of love & to Willies
and Mary, but I know they would wish to return a similar message to
thee- William has spoken of his time spent at the Falls with thee ^a thought^ as the
most pleasant of his life. They as all others amongst thy friends
I believe are in usual health- Asa & [Halda?] have called and wish
us to come and spend a day with them this week, Cate Stebbins is
expected this week- I well know how to sympathise [sic] with her in the
loss of their darling little daughter. Girty has just called and
seems well and in fine spirits, though wishing much to see her
mother. Please give my love to ^Miss^ Julia Croffts, tell her there is
much which we have known, to make us love each other
and the rest should forgotten- I think thee will say when thee
opens this letter, well here is a job, but I shall not feel bad
about it, for I know thee knows better than to undertake to
read it when thee is in a hurry. I hope I shall get more
letters from thee if the [sic] has not promised to write more than one.
Mary Ann dreamed last night, that thee was here in our parlour [sic]
I have twice dreamed the same- I thought thee said six weeks was long
enough for thee to stay in England, Oh how much I want to say, but
dear Frederick adieu true always
Amy Kirby Post, an activist, is writing from Rochester, New York to Frederick Douglass, an abolitionist leader. Post refers to Douglass's arrival in England, which followed John Brown's raid on the armory at Harpers Ferry. Pro-slavery factions charged that Douglass had conspired with Brown to raid the armory, and Douglass fled to England. Post mentions Douglass's newspaper, formerly called the North Star, then called the Frederick Douglass Newspaper.
Post continues and refers to Shakespear's play Troilus and Cressida, with the phrase "the end crowns all".
Post mentions their mutual friend, Stephen Foster.
Post refers to her husband Isaac, and their youngest son Willie, and their relative George Willetts. Post mentions Daniel Underhill, and his new wife, Leah Fox. Fox was one of the founders of Spiritualism- a religious practice, whose believers spoke to the dead through mediums.
Post mentions Thomas Paine, the great American writer and orator, who wrote Common Sense in 1776. Post also mentions Lucy N. Coleman, a fellow abolitionist, Miss Remond- the wife of abolitionist, George Lenox Remond.
Post concludes and passes on the best wishes of her husband, Isaac, her daughter and son-in-law, Mary and William Hallowell. She mentions abolitionist Catherine Stebbins.
Post sends her best regards to Miss Julia Croffts, who lectured with Douglass.
(Page 1)
37 Maiden Lane
Albany Jan 28/ 11
Dear Amy
I left with
you my petition with
the few signatures, with
you- Will you get as
many more names as you
can, and send it it on
to me certainly by Monday
nights mail ? – I wish you
could get the names of a
few prominent business men
lawyers, judges, etc- there would
(Page 2)
be no difficulty in
obtaining them, so only,
some one [sic] will present the
petition to them- as yet
there are very few petitions -
of you go to those prominent
men of the Press & the bar,
take a new copy of
Petition- that their names
may be together & head the
list- Thus the Legislature
will be more strongly im-
pressed, than merely with
our “fanatic” names-
But don’t fail to forward
me all you have by Monday
night-
Antoinette left for New-
(Page 3)
York yesterday A.M
her meeting at Auburn
very small- not one hundred
people- barely paying hall
rent- but Mr. Wright in
sisted on paying the adver
tising & Poster bills- hence
she paid no money out-
We had delightful visits
with Mrs. Stanton & Mrs.
Wright- Find Lydia & Jane
& Phebe Jones & the [Fopps?] all
well- had a very pleasant
social gathering at Phebe’s
Wednesday evening for An-
toinette- Met the English
friend Phillip D. Carpenter
(Page 4)
who has made so
valuable a contribution of
of [sic] California shells to our
state Geological department
Letter from P. Pillsbury this
A.M says the Boston Festival
numbered 12 or 1400- was the
grandest gathering of talent
wit & beauty - & they the say
the receips [sic] equal those of
their best Buzar[sic] success -
- the whole a triumph-
M.W. Chapman must feel
proud of her wisdom-
I wish you all could
be at the Albany Convention-
Phillips to speak Monday
night - Yours Truly
Susan B Anthony
Susan B. Anthony, a woman’s rights activist, writes from Albany to fellow activist, Amy Post. Antoinette Brown was one of the first female ministers in the United States. Francis Wright was an activist and the husband of woman's rights leader, Paulina Wright. Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lydia, Jane and Phebe Jones were all women's rights activists. Parker Pillsbury was an abolitionist leader. Maria Weston Chapman was also an abolitionist. Anthony refers to the National Woman's Rights convention, held in Albany, New York on February 12, 1861.
(Page 1)
My dear friend you will
please let no one see those
letters I am pledged to
Mrs Child that I will
tell no one [sic] what she
has done as she is beset
by so many people
and it would spoil
effect the Book it must
be the slaves own story
which it truly is
Yours always
H
Harriet Brent Jacobs, an author and former slave, is writing to Amy Post, a close friend and benefactor. Lydia Marie Child was an abolitionist and author. She served as the editor of Jacobs's slave narrative.
On behalf of abolitionist and former slave, Sojourner Truth, Eliza Leggett is writing to Amy Post. Mary was Post's step-daughter. After the Civil War, Truth worked for the Freedmen's Bureau in Washington, D.C. to help former slaves find jobs. She encountered racism on the tram cars throughout the country, as she traveled. Leggett refers to Truth's work with the anti-tobacco movement.
(Page 1)
Idlewild
Dec 8th
My Dear Friend-
I found your most
welcome letter on my re
turn to Boston- it was
like looking into the face
of a dear old friend when
the seal was broken- how
much I should like to drop
in upon you- but I must not
write you all that I am
trying to plan- if ever
I craved more than one
pair of hands & money
it is now not for myself
my friend but to assist
those that are so much
worse of [sic] than myself-
I expect to go to Washing
ton this winter next month
to remain through the win
[text written along left margin of Page 1]
do all they can for ^the^ poor Slave Gratfully [sic]
&
Lovingly
Your
Harriet
(Page 2)
ter- my health is better
than it has been for years
the good God has spared
me for this work the last
six months has been the
happiest of all my life.
sometimes my sky is darken
ed but my faith in the
omnipotent is strong- our
prayers & tears have gone
up as a memorial of our
wrongs before him who
created us- and who will
judge us- Man may
desire to stand still but
an arm they cannot repel
is leading them on they
may stop to worship the
Idol that that is making
desolate their hearthstones
a just God is settleing [sic] the ac
count it is fearful to think
what Man will Suffer
(Page 3)
before he is willing to
do justice to his fellow
man- I have often read
the sentence- they are Gods
poor I have learned its
comprehensions-
I must tell you some
news my Brother is mar
ried I will tell you all
about it when we meet
the Blockade ran him in
to New York he was here
three days he refused to go
into Charleston & reported the
Ship was obliged to return
directly back to England I
hope to see him when we
have a free Country I would
rather he had married here
but he must be the judge
of his own happiness-
give a great deal of love
to Willie tell him I expect
to find [him?] quit [sic] a gal
lant- in the little wee Boy
that called me his Dah-
remember me kindly to Mr
Post tell him I pray
to live life has just begun
and I pray God to spare
all the dear good people
like himself that have labor
ed so faithfully- to see
the fruit of their labor ga
thered in-
let me my dear friend
ask of you a kindness a
friend of mine Mrs Louisa
De Martie expects to be in
Rochester in a few days Miss
De Martie will give readings
in behalf of the Contrabands-
she has talent is a worthy
superior woman- anything
you can do to help sereve [sic] her
will be most gratfully [sic] remem
bered- I know you will be
glad to help the cause- re
member me to all my kind
friends tell them I am coming
Harriet Brent Jacobs, an author and former slave, is writing from Cornwall, New York to Amy Post, a close friend and benefactor. At the time she wrote this letter, Jacobs was living in the home- Idlewild- of her employer, Cornelia Grinnell Willis and Nathaniel Parker Willis. The Willises had paid for Jacobs's freedom from slavery.
Willie was Post's youngest son.
Jacobs asks that the Posts allow her friend Louisa De Mortie to stay with them while lecturing in Rochester. De Mortie was born into a free black family in Virginia and became an orator and author acclaimed for her powerful voice.
(Page 1)
New York
June 18th
My Dear Friends
I have just recieved [sic]
as [sic] letter from my Brother
and one enclosed to his
friend Mr Post- as it
was not under cover I
read it myself I then
read mine which was
only a few scolding
lines- because I had not
sent ^my Book^ to different people
in England- in the first
place it cost too much
to send then while in
debt, and in the next
I did not care to give
it a circulation there
before I tried to turn
it to some account
(Page 2)
so I have taken
it very patiently-
but I dont give up as
I used to, the trouble is
I begin to find out the
we poor Women has [sic] al
ways been too meek,-
when I hear a Man call
a woman an Angel be
hind her when she is out
of sight I begin to think
about poor ^Leah^ of the Bible
not Leah of the Spirits
I told our spirit friend
it was better to be born
lucky than rich-
but to my letter I read
mine and a part of yours
to Oliver Johnson he wanted
me to take some notes
from it- with your per
mission may I give them
(Page 3)
for the Liberator
no the Standard, what
my Brother says about
me is true, in his letter
I am going to Statten [sic] Island
to morrow [sic] for the first
time, I shall register my
Brother letter there is fif
teen pounds enclosed
in it- I meant to write
you a long letter but they
are waiting for me I
am so tired, I long to see
you kindest rememberance [sic]
to my friends
with much love
Harriet
(Page 1)
May 18th
My Dear Friend
I must
send you a line to let
you know how disappoint
ed I was- and how much
you lost- we had a glo
rious time I only needed
you to fill up the measure
I saw Mrs Coleman and-
expected to see here again-
the day after the meeting
was over but when I saw
Mr Nell- on Thursday mor
ning- and made enquiry
where I could find Mrs
Coleman- he said that he
heard that she left Thurs
day morning- I was very
sorry I wanted to hear
from you- and I had
[Text written along left margin of Page 1]
I shall not do anything with the Book until
(Page 2)
some Books that I
wanted to send to Willie-
but I hope I may have
another opportunity before
long- I regret very much
not seeing you- what
I want to ask you I could
talk it over with you so
much better than I could
write it. I have thought
that I wanted some female
Friend of mine- to write
a Preface or some intro
ductory remarks for my
Book- and there is no one
whose name I would
prfer [sic] to yours- you know
me better than most of
my friends I know my
dear friend it is a great
deal to ask of one whose
time is so [obliterated] invaluable-
and can be so much bet
(Page 3)
ter spent- you must
not hesitate to answer
exactly- as you feel about
it as much pleasure as
it would afford me
and as great an honor
as I would deem it
to have your name
associated with my
Book- Yet believe me
dear friend there are
many painful things
in it- that make me
shrink from asking the
sacrifice from one so
good and pure as your
self-
June 8th My Dear friend
since writing the above
I have been quit [sic] ill-
threatened with another
attack of congestion of
the lungs- but much
(Page 4)
[Text written upside down along top margin of Page 4]
the latter part of August
slighter than the
attack that I had
a year ago- in the
midst of it all Mrs
Willis gave Birth. to a
little Boy Baby- all doing
well and I feel better
to day [sic] than since my
attack- have been up
nearly all day I expect
Lulu up to see me next
week that will cheer me
up- she is living in Brook
lyn govenss [sic] to a little
girl twelve years old-
how I wished you could
have heard Mr Douglass
and Mr Remond we saw
the latter who spoke very
kindly of you dear people
give my love to all the
dear good people whom
I wish I could see and be
lieve me sincerely HA Jacobs
Harriet Brent Jacobs, an author and former slave, is writing to Amy Post, a close friend and benefactor. Lucy Coleman was an abolitionist and woman's rights activist. William Cooper Nell was an abolitionist and former slave. Willie was Post's youngest son. Cornelia Grinnell Willis and Nathaniel Parker Willis had paid for Jacobs's freedom from slavery and employed her for a period.
Louisa was Jacobs's daughter. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave. Charles Lenox Remond was an American orator, abolitionist and military organizer.
(Page 1)
March 1st
My Dear Friends
I had thought
to have written you be
fore this. but as my
movements were uncer
tain- I waited to tell
you what I had de
cided upon- it had
been my intention to
get away by the first
of April, but in this
I have been disappoint
ed but have settled
to sail on the 26^of^ May-
[Text written along left margin on Page 1]
what is right excuse this scrawl Yours HJ
(Page 2)
under the protection
of Mr Mosses Grinnell
I expect to meet my
Brother who is sailing
out of London- I think
that he will return
home with me Louise
recieved [sic] a letter from
him , in which he asked
her to write to you and
Mr Post, for him- I ex
pect to go to Bostun [sic] in
April- I shall be there
several weeks when I
shall have time to
do all that you wished
(Page 3)
in regard to the
Book- Mrs Chapman
told me when I was
there that she was
acquainted with you
through correspondence-
if you should have
occasion to write to
her- please say a c kind
word, for the interest
^you take in^ toward my poor humble
self- I trust that I shall
see you before I go away
I think that I shall be
on my way from Bostun [sic]
about the time of the
anniversary- will you be
(Page 4)
there I hope so for
I have a great deal
more to say than I can
write do let me have
a line from you -now
and then I hear of you
through W Nell -
please remember me
to all the good people
give my love to Willie
tell me him that I hope
to come and see him
before he is a Man-
as the time draws near
I hate to think of going
so far from Louise per
haps- it may be for the
best- at least I shall not
let my expectation run
high I only hope to do
Harriet Brent Jacobs, an author and former slave, is writing to Amy Post, a close friend and benefactor. Prior to the time she wrote this letter, Jacobs was living in the home of her employer, Cornelia Grinnell Willis and Nathaniel Parker Willis. The Willises had paid for Jacobs's freedom from slavery. Mosses was Cornelia's uncle. John was Jacobs's brother. Louisa was her daughter. Maria Weston Chapman was an abolitionist elected to the executive committee of the American Anti- Slavery Society. William Cooper Nell was an abolitionist and former slave. Willie was Post's youngest son.
(Page 1)
Oct 8th
My dear Friend
I might begin this
letter with a long pre
face filled with apol
ogies for my long silence-
but for the present I
shall dispense with
it all-- by simply
telling you the truth-
in the first place I
am truly ashamed
of it –- and but too
glad to write you
again when I returned
home from Europe, I
said that I would not
mention my M S. to my
friends again until I had
done something with
it- little dreaming of
the time that might
elapse- but as time wore
(Page 2)
^on^ difficulties seemed to
thicken-- and I became
discouraged. I felt that
I had cut myself of [sic] from
my friends and I had
no right to ask their
Sympathy- my numer
ous undertakings must be left
until we meet- my
M.S. was read at
Phillips and Sampson
they agreed to take
it if I could get Mrs
Stowe or Mrs Willis
to write a preface
for it- the former I
had the second clinch
from & the the [sic] latter I
would not ask and
before anything was done
this Establishment failed
so I gave up the effort
until this Autumn I
(Page 3)
sent it to Thayer- and
Eldridge ^of Boston^- they were
willing to publish it
if I could obtain a
preface from Mrs
Child. they had no
Objection to the one I
had- but that it must
be by some one [sic] known
to the public- to effect
the safe of the Book. I
had never seen Mrs Child
past experience made
me tremble at the thought
of approaching another
Sattellite [sic] of so great
magnitude for I have
learned that the courage
of old age is not equal
to youths but I tried
to fan the flickering
spark that was left
and resolved to make
my last effort through
(Page 4)
W C Nells ready
kindness I meet Mrs
Child at the A. S.
Office Mrs C is like your
self a whole souled
Woman we soon found
the way to each others
heart- I will send you
some of her letters which
which [sic] will better describe
her than my poor pen-
I gave her my M S. to read
you introduction- I told
her of the feeling that had
existed between us- that
your advice and word
of encouragement- had
been my strongest promo
ter in the writing of
the Book she recognised
Mrs Post and kept the
introduction to have
published in the Standard
with a criticism of the
(Page 5)
Book I wanted to have
it brought in as a letter
but she Mrs Child said
it would do more good
in the Standard and it
will be in the Liberator.
a letter that I had for
the Book written by
a friend from home
to substantiate facts,
Mrs. C will send to
the Anglo Affrican [sic]-
Mr Wendel Phillips
has agreed to take
one thousand coppies [sic].
I take four hundred
at the wholesale price
to dispose of myself-
the Book will be out
1st November I have
ten per cent- I hope my
dear Friend that you
will like my arrangements
it was the only alterna
(Page 6)
tive I long to see you
I went to the City with
the hope of meeting you
the first Convention after
my return home and
was so disappointed I
must beg a line of you
although I know that I
doo [sic] not deserve it tell
me about about [sic] yourself
and family lots of love
to all my friends I shall
try very hard to get
to Rochester this winter
and I have a hope of seeing
my Brother this winter-
Louisa is still in Bostun [sic]
I am going to the city this
week to see how much
Antislavry [sic] I can find there
I will write to you again
after my return remember
me most kindly to my dear
oldd [sic] friend Mr Post and
believe me the same always
[Text written vertically along right margin of Page 6]
H J
[Text written upside along top margin of Page 1]
will you please send me G W Clarks address
Harriet Brent Jacobs, an author and former slave, is writing to Amy Post, a close friend and benefactor. Louisa was Jacobs's daughter. Philips, Sampson and Company was a publishing house. Harriet Beecher Stowe was and abolitionist and the author of Uncle Tom's Cabin. Prior to the time she wrote this letter, Jacobs was living in the home of her employer, Cornelia Grinnell Willis and Nathaniel Parker Willis. The Willises had paid for Jacobs's freedom from slavery.
Thayer and Eldridge were another publishing company. Lydia Marie Child was a writer and an abolitionist. William Cooper Nell was a mutual friend of Jacobs's and Post's. He was an abolitionist and former slave. The Standard and the Liberator were two anti-slavery newspapers. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist leader. Louisa was Jacobs's daughter.
(Page 1)
New Bedford August ^9th^
My Dear Friend
I recieved [sic]
a letter from home with
yours enclosed- which have
been sometime coming- I
now hasten to answer you
as correctly as I can it
troubles me that I have asked
so much of you when you
already have so many cares
and so many looking up to
you- but do not hurry for
I shall be here until the sec
ond week in September and
I shall leave Mrs Willis for
a while after we get home-
and be away until after I
dispose of the Book- if you
are ready by the Last of
September it will do- for
(Page 2)
I know that I shall
find many obstacles- to arise
after I get home- to prevent
my leaving for that length of
time-
To your enquiry dear Friend
I went to Rochester in March
1849- was an inmate of your
nine Months– or nearly a year-
perhaps it would be more
correct I know it was that
long but how much lon
ger I could not correctly say
I left Rochester September in
1850 I had been thinking of
of [sic] running up to Boston to
see Mrs Chapman- while I
am here if I can make it
out- if I cannot I shall
send Louise– as she is going
to visit Boston- during the
present month I should love
to come and finish up my
(Page 3)
work near you if it would
suit my plans as well but
I am so tied down that I
cannot decide on anything-
until I have time to look
around for myself-
I have four of the Children
here and expect Mrs Willis-
on about the middle of the
month-
please remember me kindly
to Mr Post- hoping that you
and all the dear houshold [sic]
are well-
with much love I remain
Yours Truly Always
H A Jacobs
when I have seen Mrs C. I will
write and let you know the
result-- of her advice as to the
Sale selling the Book this Autumn
your
(Page 1)
Cornwall June ^25th^
My Dearest Amy
I stop in the midst
of all kind of care and per
plexities to scratch you
a line and commit to you
a breach of trust which
I have never breath to
any one [sic] therefore I cannot
ask the favor of any one [sic]
else with out appearing
very Ludicrous in their
opinion I love you and can
bear your severest criticism
because you know what
my advantages have been
and what they have not
been when I was in New York
last week I picked up a
paper with a piece alluding
to the buying and selling of
(Page 2)
^Slaves^ mixed up with some of
Mrs Tylers views I felt so
indignant [obliterated] with the
impulse of the moment
I determined to reply to
it were to leave next
day I had no time for thoug^h^
but as soon as every body [sic]
was safe in bed I began to
look back [and] that I might
tell the truth and every
word was true accept [sic] my
Mother and sisters it was
one whom I dearly loved
it was my first attempt
and when morning found
^me^ I had not time to correct
it or copy it I must send
it or leave it to some fu
ture time the spelling I
believe was every word cor
(Page 3)
rect punctuation I did not
attempt for I never studied
Grammer [sic] therefore I know
nothing about it but I
have taken the hint and
will commence that one
study with all my soul
this letter I wrote in reply
I sent it to the Tribune
I left the same morning
the second day it was in the
paper it came here while
Mr W was at dinner I glanc
ed at it after dinner he took
the paper with him it is
headed Slaves Sold under
Peecliar [sic] Circumstances it
was Tuesday 21st I thought
perhaps it might be co
pied in the North Star
if so will you get two
and cut the articles out
(Page 4)
and enclose them to me
I have another but I can
not offer it before I can
read over the first to see
more of its imperfections
please answer this dear
Ammy [sic] as soon as possible
I want to write you a long
letter but I am working
very hard preparing the
New house Mrs W cant
give me any assistance she
is ^so^ feeble give a great deal
of love to all my much
loved friends kiss dear-
Willie for Dah and a
heart full of warmest
and happiest congratuala
tions to Dear Sarah and beg
you to give them for me
I must stop god bless
is my prayer Harriet
Harriet Brent Jacobs, an author and former slave, is writing from Cornwall, New York to Amy Post, a close friend and benefactor. At the time she wrote this letter, Jacobs was living in the home of her employer, Cornelia Grinnell Willis and Nathaniel Parker Willis. The Willises had paid for Jacobs's freedom from slavery. Abolitionist and former slave, Frederick Douglass published the North Star. Willie was Post's youngest son. Sarah was Post's sister, who had recently married Edmund Willis.
.(Page 1)
Boston Dec 12
1859
Monday Morning 11 ’ O ClocK
The anti slavery [sic]
Board are now in
Session = present
Samuel J. May of
Syracuse = _
It is a glorious sight
- Wendell Phillips
Francis JacKson
Wm Lloyd Garrison
Wm J. Bowditch
R. F. Wallcutt
C. K Whipple
Saml May Jr
(Page 2)
Theodore ParKer has
been in for a
moment= and was
invited to a Seat
-
Here comes Peter
Still =. Says He has
Seen only two of Your
Sisters in his life
Mrs Howell of Portsmouth
and of
Mrs Peter Morrill of
Portland = their
Kindness to him
(Page 3)
always remind [sic] him
of You= He wishes me
to express his grateful
remembrance of You
He has Just come from
Woburn where he got
50 dollar [sic]= ‘He says
he talKed in goods stile [sic]
He has obtained a
loan of $600 from
Fall River –
FredericK Douglass
has been talKed of
Some = this morning
of which I may have
(Page 4)
Something to Say
by and bye_
Do You remember
what course the
Rochester American
tooK relative to
Geo Thompson when
here last –
If You have any facts
please forward them -
_The Boston Times has
Just copied from its
Columns a comment on
the Douglass Controversy
W. C. N.
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston, possibly to fellow activist, Amy Post. Samuel J. May was a radical reformer, who advocated for women's rights, access to education and the abolition of slavery. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist from Boston, and affiliated with several anti-slavery groups including the Boston Vigilance Committee. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator. William Bowditch, C. K. Whipple and Samuel J. May Jr. were also abolitionists. R.F. Walcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby. Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and a reform minister of the Unitarian Church. Peter Still was involved in the Underground Railroad, and gave lectures to raise money to buy his family out of slavery. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave. George Thompson was a British abolitionist, who lived in the United States for a period. The controversy Nell refers to could relate to the split in the anti-slavery movement between Douglass and Garrison. Douglass no longer believed that the United States Constitution was pro-slavery- unlike Garrison- he believed it was anti-slavery.
(Page 1) Clifton, Canada west . 27. 1859
My dear Friend:
I am sincerely thankful to you for your two kind notes. They
seemed like good news from a far country. Your face here w.d
be quite a benediction, but I cannot urge you to come. I am stopping
at a low Dutch Tavern, the very opposite of your taste &
that of my own. I bear it for the moment as the best I can do-
for to change boarding place would be to make enemies – and
I happen to be quite sufficiently blest with these already. No:
my friend Amy- you must not urge me to remain on this
side the water. It will take many months to blow this heavy Cloud
from my sky- and I can not consent to an inactive exile.
I am very sorry not to have been able to send you a line
Dear Aunty W. last night. Both Brothers have
shown themselves true and valued friends in my present
trouble. Had I gone down to Rochester- with our mutual
friends, the other night, I should have walked into
a trap. Make my kindest regards to Dear Isaac
and your kind household.
I am dear, Amy, very Truly,
your friend.
Frederick Douglass-
over-
(Page 2)
I have just received your
note sent by Lewis
with one from Dear
Lucy N Coleman expressing
fears in regard to my
property- I am about convinced
that nothing is to be feared at
this point. It cannot be lost
unless I am convicted. I cannot
be convicted, if I am not tried. I
cannot be tried unless I am
arrested:- I cannot be arrested
unless caught; I cannot be
caught while I keep out of
the way- and just this thing
it is my purpose to do.
Again. Yours Truly
F.D.
(Page 1)
Boston Oct 25th 1858
Kind Friend
On leaving 36. Sophia Street
that rainy afternoon I was sorry to leave
So many friends without interchanging a
ShaKe of the hand .. but events hurried me
on = = I reached Geneva in almost a hurricane
during the most violent thunder and Vivid
lightening I remember to have seen = stopped
with FranK and her Babies till next day
12. O.ClocK and tooK the second Class Car to
Syracuse = reached there Just as F. Douglass
left. remained about Gays Hotel = with
W. F. Johnson the Blind man of Ithaca
and who I met at Canandaigua when there
with Sallie Holley and the Fosters –
on taKing the midnight train had for
Company T.W. Higginson (who preached
a weeK Yesterday for Theodore Parker .
Samuel Johnson of Lynn Yesterday –
Mr ParKer is supposed to be convalescent.
[Text aligned along right margin of Page 1]
at the Social meeting of the Fraternity Last Friday Eve we a variety of exercises Music and
[Text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 1]
and elocutionary tooK place = ( I gave the Frenchman and the Rats
2 of the officers are those members of the Mercantile who
Seconded my bringing up the matter of excluding Colored
men from the FranKlin Procession two Years ago –
(Page 2)
I reached Boston Sunday Morning
quite well =-
Louisa was very sorry not
to have Known that Edmund P. Willis
visited Boston = indeed Mr Wallcut
Knew not of it =- perhaps he called
In at 21 during his absence .did not
maKe himself Known. had I been
present. I would have taKen much
pleasure in introducing him to the
Boston Lions . = I see a Mr
Hallowell has removed from Philadelphia
to Boston. - I met at the
Fraternity Lecture Oct 5th A. J. Davis
we had a few words concurring about
the Rochester Home 36 Sophia St
3 . Cheers for Amy and Isaac
Long may they wave = Hurrah
-
a few Evenings since I was invited
into a Spiritual Circle among some
Colored friends Some of whom enjoy
these sittings under protest from thier [sic]
Pastors.
(Page 3)
Several interesting manifestations were
were [sic] made = 2 excellent mediums
through whom many friends made
themselves Known one preaching a
long discourse = many reminiscenses [sic]
were brought up.-
C.F. Hovey is now
Confined with the Rheumatism -
Mrs Phillips seems now more of an
Invalid than ever = He has a bad
Cold = = and has in consequence of her
illness curtailed most of his usual
winter list of lectures-
What a time You
have had about . Rochester Capital
punishment = well so the powers
that be murdered Ira Stout-
But the recent cases in the
Several States = Magee in Massachusetts
and Stout in Rochester will much
accelerate the downfall of the
Gallow = at least So I. thinK .
(Page 4)
I have been down to Salem once since I
returned . and Very liKely may again.
I always enjoy myself there=-
J. H. P. has a long seated cough . which
accasions [sic] his friends some apprehension -
I . Shall have more to say of
Salem associations by and bye
I have secured a situation for Ira
to learn the art of engraving which
promises well for him -and my
mind is at ease on that matter.
Tell Mary Ann I. have not forgotten
the promise to send her some
Music = though I also remember
that She did not Sing for me
Please distribute my Kind regards
to the entire Circle and
believe me as ever
Fraternally Yours
William C. Nell.
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Frances was one of Nell's sisters. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave. Sallie Holley traveled the anti-slavery lecture circuit with Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone and Sarah Remond. The members of the Foster family were abolitionists and women's rights supporters. Thomas Wentworth Higginson was the editor of the Atlantic Monthly and an abolitionist. Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and reform minister in the Unitarian Church. Samuel Johnson was a clergyman and an abolitionist. Louisa was one of Nell's sisters. Edmund P. Willis was Post's brother-in-law. R.F. Walcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet by Reverend Bleby. Mr. Hallowell could refer to Post's son-in-law, William R. Hallowell. Andrew Jackson Davis was a Spiritualist leader. Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Charles Fox Hovey was a businessman and an abolitionist from Boston, who established the department store C.F. Hovey and Co. Anne Terry Phillips was a member of the Boston Anti-Slavery Society and married to Wendell Phillips. Wendell Phillips was American abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. John H. Putnam was an abolitionist. Ira was Nell's nephew. Mary Ann Pitkin took care of Post's youngest son, Willie.
(Page 1)
My dear Amy,
I am coming to
see you and will, I think,
remain with you a few
weeks. I shall wait
until I hear from
you. I wish that you
my dear Mrs. Post would
name the day that
you will be at the depot
for me, or if you are
not there I will take
a carriage and come
to you, do write by
return of mail, and
(Page 2)
I will come immediately
please give my
love to all and
believe me
yours devotedly
Margaretta Fox
No. 146, Tenth Street
two doors from Broadway,
May 2, 1858
P.S. dear Amy I wish
that you would please
rent a piano for me
I think you can get
one for five dollars
a quarter. I will have you
the money when I
come. I should not like to
be so long from my music,
but if you can hire a
(Page 3)
piano while I am
there, then all will
be well - if you want
me to come I shall
surely expect to
hear from you by
return of mail,
do not disappoint
me, and I will come
immediately-
- Maggie Fox,
[Page 4]
do not mention to Mr
Robinson [obliterated]I am
expected there. [Illegible]
146, Tenth St. 2 doors
from Broadway.
(Page 1)
Boston March 24.. 1858
Esteemed Friend
Please accept my thanKs
for the Kind letter forwarded from 36
Sophia St . March 2d and which would
have been sooner acKnowledged but for
the press of Head and Hunt matters
which as You have seen Kept me so busy .
Well I am Just beginning to
have a breathing Spell a brief one
and when I review the past month
and its accupations [sic] . I really wonder
How I have succeeded through
to the end .= I cannot detail to You
the experiences = encouraging and
desponding hints from the too Sanguine
as well as the timid and Vetoing_
persons = but the Faneuil Hall
meeting was a success and
I feel will produce good results.
I was so fortunate as to clear
all my consequent liabilities many of
them quite heavy. but though with
a small surplus = I could not
help hoping I should realize enough
to lift my outstanding debts . but
(Page 2)
long looKed for day is Yet further
delayed= How I long to be
emancipated from the slavery of
debt.=- Well let me at least
Keep hoping for that Jubilee
Are You to be at New York
anniversary = ? I hope to meet
You there . indeed have been
indulging a glimmering expectation
that I may go on from
there and Spend a day each
at Geneva._ Auburn and
Rochester = but this is a
world of disappointments so I
will only say what I would
liKe to do . instead of what I
will = so dont let any one [sic]
expect me = but Wait for the
wagon-
I have a batch of letters to
answer at this time . including
Dorcas Collins Abby Chase
Harriet Jacobs and others
I am quite busy . with our two Clubs
Histrionic and Social -
both of which have Literary Exercises
at thier [sic] weeKly meetings –
(Page 3)
I being President of one and Secretary
of the other = imposes upon me some duties
which they acKnowledge as beneficial -
our Dramatic Exhibition was
a grand affair = Scenery .- Stage -
- Properties ._ Music _ Acting _ Dresses _
Audience _ and all _
Mr and Mrs Webb arrived from
England Just in time to be present
-
ParKer Pillsbury is now in the office
much improved . but not Yet well.
Wendell Phillips - has Just been in
and promised to call with me upon
two Colored Young men (artists)
Mr Garrison is not Very well
The abolitionists are Just now
revelling [sic] in thier [sic] triumph of
removing Judge Loring ,
Pro slavery is Venting its rage
gnashing its teeth and howling
but the . : Deed is done ”
I want to see the Rochester Circle
Very much and could asK many
questions about them all and each
but will defer . satisfying myself
with the consciousness that as You
come in contact with them . You
will apprise them that they –still live in my
memory
(Page 4)
Mrs Helen Putnam Gilliard is
about moving to Boston . and opening
a Ladies Clothing Store -
-
Louisa and family are well
her Baby is one Year old on the
27th is well . hearty and
ambitious even now walKs a
little. -
Ira Junior progresses
well = = promises to be a smart
man . _ _ _ _ _ _
I am glad to say that
my health is quite encouraging
little better . than when I
left Rochester for Mrs Trevor
at Lockport
Hoping to hear from You
Soon I remain
Sincerely Your Friend
William C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. The New York Anniversary may refer to celebrating the year 1833, when England abolished slavery in the West Indies. Harriet Jacobs was an abolitionist and former slave. Mrs. Webb performed in a play, Black Siddon during this period. Parker Pillsbury was a Minister, abolitionist, writer, women’s rights activist, who served as Vice- President of the New Hampshire Suffrage Association. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator. Ellis Gray Loring was lawyer and abolitionist, who was involved in the New England Anti-Slavery Society and helped to finance the Liberator. The members of the Putnam family were abolitionists. Louisa was one of Nell's sisters. Ira Junior was one of her children.
(Page 1)
Boston Nov 10 . 1857
Dear Friend Amy
Many thanKs
for Your Kindness = allow me to
trouble You once more in having
the accompanying letter put into
FranKs’ own hands = matters
with her and family appear
now to be under a cloud
indeed most every body [sic]
is so pecuniarily at least
but let us not give up
hope = Hope on . Hope ever
I have Just had a letter
from Harriet Jacobs.
her BooK is probably
Suspended for the present
She has recently had a
letter from her Brother
(Page 2)
John - = He would
liKe her and Louisa
to cross the Atlantic,
perhaps he will be
over here Soon
but only for a brief
business (even this is
confidential .
The portrait of Mrs Rose
is one dollar. please
tell me whether one
Shall be forwarded You
by mail or by some
other conveyance.
(Page 3)
and when You favor
me with that line
do tell me Something
of the various members
of 36 Sophia Street
Circle . I will not
Specify a Single name
I would hear from
all.-
and by that time
I shall have on
hand Some matters
(Page 4)
to write about which
if we were setting down
and talKing over
would prove quite
interesting = but
please wait for the
wagon -
My health and
Louisas is good _
Wish I had could wing
through the air and
have a sitting with You
and Isaac =
I remain Fraternally Yours
Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Charles Lenox Remond was a lecturer and abolitionist. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Members of the De Garmo family were abolitionists. Sarah Burtis was woman's rights activist, Susan B. Anthony's second cousin. Harriet Jacobs was an abolitionist and former slave. Louisa was her daughter. Maria W. Chapman was an abolitionist and a member of the American Anti-Slavery Society. Nell refers to Jacobs's book, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. Jacob was one of Post's sons and Jennie was his wife. Sarah Birney was a mutual friend of Post and Nell. Mary Pitkin took care of Post's youngest son, Willie, for a period. Mary Johnson was an African American woman who worked for the Post family. Joseph Post was one of Post's sons. Benjamin was one of Nell's brothers-in-law. Frances was Benjamin's wife. Louisa was one of Nell's sisters. Nell refers to the Spiritualist movement. Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. R.F. Walcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby. Mrs. William Ives was President of the Female Anti-Slavery Society of Salem. The members of the Putnam family were abolitionists. Nell refers to his nephew Ira.
(Page 1)
Boston August 26
1857
Dear Friend Amy Post
Yesterday I mailed a
letter to You = which has
been a long while Your
due = but Your indulgence
is equal to any emergency
and Your old friend
W.C.N. Stands acquitted
of any intentional delay
or neglect = my Vanity
prompts Saying this much
This morning Mr Garrison
favored me with a glance
at Your letter to him
I really wish as does
(Page 2)
Remond and Brown
(both of whom were here
Just now ) that Rochester
would be Selected for
the Disunion Convention
but I gather that
Abby Kelly Foster and
Mr Garrison for certain
reasons incline to
Syracuse = of course
I only intimate this
the decision may be
otherwise! -
(Page 3)
[Typescript flier enclosed following Page 2]
The Histrionic Club
respectfully announce their first presentation, on the
EVE OF TUESDAY, APR. 7, ’57,
at the rooms of
MaMadame Carteaux, 365 Washington Street.
-
the curtain will rise at 8 o’clock precisely.
-
Messrs THOMAS S. BOSTON and GEO. WASHINGTON will alternate at the Piano.
MANAGER, - - - - - - WM. C. NELL.
-
the entertainment will commence with the parlor dramatic sketch of
LOVE AT SIGHT.
Dramatis Personae
MR. BARTON, (Father of Anna), ……………….………………Mr. Thomas S. Boston
MR. INGOT, (A Rich Merchant), ……………………….……….. Mr. Ottaway West
COUNT CRAPAUD, (A French Gentleman), ………………... Mr. Jacob R. Andrews
COLONEL THUNDER, (A Military Hero) ……………………. Mr. George L. Ruffin
MR. THESIS, (Principal of an Academy), ……………………. Mr. Robert C. Davis
MR. DASHVILLE, (A Stranger), …………………………………... Mr. Wm. H. Simpson
ANNA BARTON, (An Heiress), …………………………………… Mrs. Louisa Oliver
LOUISA, (Her Friend and Companion), ……………………… Mrs. Rachel Rose
URSULA, (A Domestic), …………………………………………….. Miss Anna Cambell
-
SONG, - - - - - - (STAR OF LOVE), - - - - - - GEO. WASHINGTON
-
the whole to conclude with the following tableaux:
FAITH, (Represented by)…………………. Miss Harriet Ceasar
HOPE, (Represented by) …………………. Madame Carteaux
JUSTICE, (Represented by) ……………… Miss Anna Gray
-
BRIGANDS AT REST!
by
GEORGE L. RUFFIN, GEORGE WASHINGTON AND WM. HOPKINS
(Page 4)
[Text aligned vertically along right margin on verso of flier]
Amy Post
-
(Page 5)
Please not mention
to Sarah P. Remond
when She Visits Rochester
or indeed to any one [sic] else
what ^that^ I whispered the
^statements^ Concerning the Daughter
ofWWB = _
No one [sic] need Know who
told You .
-
though Mr Brown
himself has Just now
for the first time SpoKe
on the subject to me
I am Very sorry = he feels
Sad about it -
and deserves
better-
-
(Page 6)
I really wanted to see
Jacob this season.
but it is no use to
fret = I cannot
Control destiny
-
Wishing You and
all the friends
every blessing
I remain
Fraternally Yours
Wm C= Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator. Charles Lenox Remond was a lecturer and abolitionist. William Wells Brown was an African American abolitionist, lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. He was born a slave, and escaped to the North in 1834, where wrote the first novel by an African American, titled- Clotel. Abby Kelly Foster was a radical abolitionist and social reformer. The "Disunion Convention" refers to a meeting held in Massachusetts in 1857 to explore the possibility to separating the free states from the slave states and form two countries. Jacob was one of Post's sons.
(Page 1)
Sunday Evening 9 . O . ClocK _all alone in
my Bachelor Sanctum
Boston August 23d 1857
My Kind Friend
Amy Post .
I trust You have
not erased my humble name from Your BooK of
remembrance because of my long silence.
until within the past few days I have
been anticipating a Journey west with
Charles Lenox Remond touching at Rochester
but as this has been for the present at least
abandoned. I must if for no other purpose
than to maintain my reputation at 36
Sophia Street pen a few lines preliminary
to more at an early opportunity.
Just now I am quite lones ome [sic]
Louisa is at Chelsea Beach with her
Husband, Son and Baby = and I have
but Just returned from a [sic] Eleven days
Visit to Salem where I have enjoyed
myself most capitally I can assure You
the usual agreeable company there was augmented
by some friends from New YorK and Philadelphia
we went to Lowell Island = Marblehead
Nahant . Danvers antislavery meetings
had blending-Fishing = Bathing = Pic Nics [sic]
Parlor Concerts and other social and mental
recreations –
(Page 2)
Louisa Jacobs is now here on a visit and Harriet
Soon expected from New Bedford - by the bye
the friends of Wm Wells Brown are pained at
what seems to be the degeneracy of his
daughter Josephine = She has lost her good
name = please ( as I Know You will ) make Judicious
use of this which I am afraid is more than
idle rumor. He has appreciated much money
and devotion upon his daughters and I grieve
for his feelings = but She may Yet redeem
herself = -I fondly trust I shall have the Joyful
news to communicate in an early letter-
At an antislavery [sic] Picnic recently . Charles
Remond and myself had a pleasant Rochester
Chat with ( Miss Money ) if that is or was the
name = a Lady whom I met at Sarah
Burtis on the first occasion of my meeting with
the Ladies Sewing Circle = the old guard -
She gave us a polite information ^invitation^ to call upon
her in Boston and I intend soon doing so
I wish I could learn something
definite from Benjamin and FranK
they are so very negligent in writing
I Know not whether good or bad or
indifference, lucK or merely procrastination
may be the cause . but I am very
anxious to hear from them-
(Page 3)
The fact that the New Organized Womens anti Slavery [sic]
Society in Rochester have secured Rev Geo B. Cheever
to lecture for them induces my belief that some one [sic]
among them wears Julia Griffiths mantle .
when is she to return from Europe ?
Mr Garrison abandoned his Western tour
in consequence of his Aunts severe and protracted
illness . = He Labors hard though = ever
faithful and earnest -
Susan B. Anthony is highly appreciated
by the friends here = She is an excellent
Agent = I am rejoiced that her heart
is so engaged = You speaK of Andrew
Jackson Davis and wife. they were here
some weeKs since and I listened with much
interest to his . conversation with Mr Garrison
Dorcas Collins last letters
speaK of Phebes prospective recovery
Poor Girl. how She has suffered = I trust
She will Soon be free from Doctors and
Continue well = She certainly will revel in
Such a change transition -
Abby and Husband are in
Kansas : = in that region where King Slavery is
anticipating a triumph . and it really looKs
as though he had not counted without his
host = = . I presume Abby will bear
a faithful anti slavery [sic] testimony -
(Page 4)
How I do wish for the opportunity of
often meeting my choice friends in Rochester
I want a long free and easy talK with
the entire Circle = I want to See Jacob
and his Wife = Sarah and Mary Hallowell
I never can forget the former was my
room mate [sic] and the two latter Very
instrumental in securing my sojourn at
36 Sophia Street
To Isaac William
Edmund Joe = Sarah Birney .Mary Johnson
Mary PitKin = Willie . Post = the Burtis .
Anthonys . Fishes . De Garmos . are all
Murrays – V= ^Lucy Colman -Giles & Catherine^ are all remembered with
them
This is indeed a poor
apology for Your interesting letter
but I will try to do better next
time . in the meanwhile
Monday Noon ^21 Cornhill^ I am Truly Your
Mr Foss is now in the office
expecting to be at
Rochester Obliged and Grateful Friend
Sunday next
tho [sic] he may be Wm C. Nell
disappointed
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Charles Lenox Remond was a lecturer and abolitionist. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Louisa was one of Nell's sisters. Louisa Jacobs was abolitionist and former slave, Harriet Jacobs's daughter. William Wells Brown was an abolitionist, lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. He was born a slave, and escaped to the North in 1834, where he wrote the first novel by an African American- titled Clotel. Sarah Burtis was woman's rights activist, Susan B. Anthony's cousin. Frances and Benjamin were Nell's sister and brother-in-law. Julia Griffith was a British abolitionist, who supported Frederick Douglass's newspaper, the North Star. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and published a newspaper, the Liberator. Andrew Jackson Davis was a Spiritualist healer. Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Jacob, Joseph and Willie were Post's sons. William Hallowell was Post's son-in-law. Edmund Willis was Post's brother-in-law. Mary Johnson was an African American woman who lived with the Post family for a period. Mary Pitkin took care of Willie. The Anthony, Fish, De Garmo, Murray families were all abolitionists in the Rochester area. Lucy Coleman and Giles and Catherine Stebbins were also abolitionists. Andrew T. Foss was an abolitionist lecturer for the Massachusetts Anti- Slavery Society.
(Page 1)
Dear Mrs. Post. You will do me a
kindness by sending me your copy of
the Standard for Last week. My
copy has been mislaid. There is an
article in it- which I wish to publish-
Provided you can allow me to have
the paper for that purpose.
Very Respectfully
Frederick Douglass
Rochester August 5th 1857
(Page 1)
Sunday 5 . O . clocK P.M
alone in my Bachelor sanctum } Boston June 7: 1857
My Esteemed Friend Amy Post
Your long looKed for and Very
welcome communication of April 28th
has constantly been appealing to me for acKnowle
acKnowledgement_ = but I will neglect it no
longer = though I need not waste time or
paper in stringing out apologies for my
delay You are always indulgent and I
will looK upon myself as already excused
I was really beginning to wonder
what had happened at 36 Sophia St .
If sicK I supposed news would have
reached me = but no matter I was
fortunate to . at length recieve [sic] the letter
and in the plenitude of my gratitude
therefor [sic] will preserve silence on that
theme at least for the time being
New YorK and Boston
Anniversaries have occupied much of my time
as You can well imagine = I did wish Isaac
and Amy had been present at one or both .
for Your enjoyment as I thinK would have
been ample . of which Let Susan B. Anthony
give You her opinion = if She has not
already done so .
(Page 2)
Some weeKs since T. C. Hallowell came into
the office when I was alone to renew his
Liberator subscription = I never met him
before . but we soon found out each
others relative position to the Rochester Circle.
At New YorK I was pleased to meet
Susan B. Anthony Lucy Coleman in company
with A.T. Foss whose belligerant - slite [sic] of
Speech seems not commendable to Your
Non combative Spirit. = I also met
FredericK Douglass at a tea party at
Young Downings = present Dr Smith
Charles Remond et al = we got along
Smoothly = I happened in on Broad St
at Downings Saloon one evening early
when who should I be pleased to sup
with but F.D. and Geo Willets-
the former tooK occasion to inform me
that he Yet read the Liberator and was
much interested with Mr Garrisons
recent address on temperance -
at some public meeting he alluded
favorably to my BooK= Services Vc
Remond has done much good by his
debates recently with Douglass. = He
engages the coming weeK in Providence
and may at other places.
The people got hold of facts and
(Page 3)
arguments of the Garrisonians that they
might not otherwise - and on reflection
they are in many instances adopted .
Is Miss Griffith as You suppose
Seriously sicK? If she does not
recover = the loss of her Services will
be signal and heavy to F . D -.
I was interested though not much surprised
with the speaKing interview between You and
F.D. -
I have a little Baby neice [sic] =
about 3 months Louisa and Ira are quite
proud It is a healthy fine Child .
I am surprised that FranK
does not call and see You = why She
Keeps So close at home I really cannot
understand. =
When You write do give
me Some items of information = concerning
Sarah Hallowell Willis and Husband
William and Mary Hallowell . _
The Fishes = Burtis . Anthony . Murrays Vc
of Jacob and his Bride = Sarah P. Remond
gave me an interesting account of the
pleasant Scenes at the Wedding -
How I would have enjoyed it-
(Page 4)
Joseph and his responsibilities –
Sarah Birney = Mary Johnson
Mary ( Wait for the Wagon ) PitKin
Willie Post = = Does he remember
Mr C . Nell ? - I. Know not when to
anticipate being again at Rochester
but would be Very happy if this
Summer Such an opportunity could
be mine -
Remember me to Isaac Post
and the entire Circle as
the chance occurs. _
[Four lines of text aligned vertically along right margin of Page 4]
Please accept
the accompanying
group of
Representative Women….
I meant to have told You that
Harriet and Louisa Jacobs were in New YorK
and SpoKe much of the Rochester friends
I have Just had some pleasant times
at Mount Auburn . _ - Nahant -
Bunker Hill V= with Salem friends
including Carrie Wise and Martha Mendenhall
from Philadelphia = they hoped to be present at
the Waterloo meeting with Oliver Johnson-
I am in tolerable health = hope this will find You all
Number One I remain Ever Yours
Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. The New York anniversaries refer to abolition of slavery in the British controlled West Indies in 1833. Susan B. Anthony was a woman's rights leader. T.C. Hallowell could refer to a relative of the Post family. The Liberator was a newspaper that radical abolitionist, William Lloyd Garrison published. Lucy Coleman was a woman's rights activist. Andrew T. Foss was an abolitionist lecturer for the Massachusetts Anti- Slavery Society. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave. Charles Lenox Remond was also an abolitionist. George Willets was a relative of the Post family. Julia Griffith was a British abolitionist, who supported Douglass's newspaper- the North Star. Louisa and Frances were Nell's sisters. Sarah Hallowell Willis and Edmund P. Willis were Post's sister and brother-in-law. William and Mary Hallowell were Post's son-in-law and step-daughter. The Fish, Burtis, Anthony and Murray families were also abolitionists living in the Rochester area. Jacob, Joseph and Willie were Post's sons. Sarah Birney was an abolitionist and a mutual friend of Post and Nell. Mary Johnson was a black woman who lived and worked for the Post family for a period. Mary Pitkin helped to take care of Willie- Post's youngest son. Harriet Jacobs was an abolitionist and former slave. Louisa was her daughter. Oliver Johnson was an abolitionist and newspaper editor.
(Page 1)
Albany June 2/57
Dear Amy
At the earnest
suggestion of Mr. Gar-
rison, Aaron M. Powell
will attend the Waterloo
Progressive meeting
meeting – Mr. Garrison
is highly delighted with
the Pensylvania [sic] meeting
and hopes the Waterloo
will pass equally strong
Testimonies on the subject
of Peace & Anti Slavery [sic]
(Page 2)
and it is ^to^ bring
those questions before
the meeting that Mr. G.
urges the attendance of
Mr. Powell-
I hope to meet you
there, and many more
of our good friends.
We have had, most
excellent meetings at
New York & Boston, but
have no time to write –
I leave for Seneca
Falls in a few moments
hope to get Mrs. Stanton
waked up to attend &
(Page 3)
give her strong ^word^ for
Woman- I shall go
to Rochester, immediately
after the meeting-
Elias & Rhoda and
Asa & Huldah I hope
to meet there –
The Bell Rings &
I must go- Do let the
light of countenance
Shine upon that Meeting
Truly Yours
Susan B. Anthony
(Page 1)
Boston Jan 19. 1857
I have a somewhat vivid recollection
of meetings as often as once in
Rochester a certain friend-
and Abolitionist Known as
Amy Post . nay more I
ventured to address said
individual a letter several
weeKs since . = which to the
present time has not been
acKnowledged:-
Can You tell me where
the aforesaid Amy Post is
whether sicK or well?
-
Why was there no Box from
Rochester for the Boston Bazaar?
perhaps there was = but I heard
no mention of it -
(Page 2)
I desire very much to have a
line from the Circle at
36 Sophia St. I want to
hear something from every body [sic]
resident under that notable
roof - = Do oblige me.
Charles Lenox Remond writers
me of his pleasant Visit to
Rochester . W. J. WatKins who
is in this region now tells me
of the advances made by F. D. to
C . L . R at the Rochester Fair
-
Does Isaac Post Yet
reside in Rochester.
presuming You to be acquainted
with him . I asK for information
I wish I could now grasp his
friendly hand .
You see I am collecting on the Garrison
Homestead - Rhoda De Garmo will
I presume Let You Know some of the contents
of my letter = Love to all from Yours
Fraternally W .C. Nell
(Page 3)
[Typescript circular enclosed with letter]
THE GARRISON HOMESTEAD.
For the last twenty-five years, the opinion has been repeatedly
expressed by individuals and circles, that WILLIAM LLOYD GARRI-
SON, the pioneer and uncompromising champion of immediate
emancipation, should possess a Home for his family, independent of
the annoying cares incident to leasing and hiring.
Some years since, a few personal friends invested a generous
fund, which has been appropriated towards a dwelling-house [sic]. This
has been recently augmented by the efforts of friends in Salem, but
an additional amount is needed to consummate this long-cherished
desire.
This Circular is addressed to you, with the confident hope that
you will make immediate application to the congenial hearts among
your acquaintances, that they may avail themselves of this golden
opportunity to make that offering, (be it great or small,) the
remembrance of which will be a perennial fount of gladness to
each contributor, and a choice legacy to his or her children, who
may live to see the day when the last chain shall fall from the last
American slave; a jubilee which the truthful of all parties will
be ready to proclaim as signally hastened by the life-long devotion
of WILLIAM LLOYD GARRISON.
Please forward an accurate statement of names, donations and
localities to the undersigned, by January 20th, 1857, who pledges
himself to a faithful report.
WILLIAM C. NELL, 21 CORNHILL.
BOSTON, December 10, 1856.
(Page 1)
Ohio
Oberlin, Aug 7. 1856
Kind Friend Amy
I have heard
nothing from You since the
May meeting in New YorK
I left Boston ten
days ago and Shall probably
remain this month in Ohio
hoping to pass through
Rochester during the second
weeK in September -
I have seen Mr PecK
“Elizabeth ^Mr Avery^ Burtis Husband
and expect soon to visit her
As I shall attend
Several ( Equal Suffrage )
meetings in the State
with John M. Langston
(Page 2)
I Shall have many
Ohio matters to tell You
I. hope to find all
the Rochester Friends
well-
You will of course
remember me Kindly
-to them all.-
-
I had an excellent
letter some time since
from Rhoda and Elias
De Garmo- before they
left for the West
also one from Catherine
Stebbins to whom You will
please deliver the
enclosed-
(Page 3)
I have not heard
recently from Harriet
Jacobs -
Joseph H. Putnam
arrived from Australia
July 3d in British Steamer
having ^visited^ England and
France and seen all
the Lions He brings
home I think a
handsome sum of money
This week the Father and
3 absent Sisters return
to Salem where I should
LiKe to have been
with the family gathering
But I cannot be
in two places at once
(Page 4)
If I reach Rochester
and find You home
I shall have many
matters to talK of
Love to the entire
Circle and
believe me
Sincerely Yours
William C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Oberlin, Ohio to fellow activist, Amy Post. Member of the Burtis family were relatives of Susan B. Anthony and lived in Rochester and were abolitionists. John M. Langston was an abolitionist, attorney and educator. He was the first African American elected to Congress from Virginia. The De Garmos were members of the New York Anti-Slavery Society. Members of the Stebbins family were abolitionists. Harriet Jacobs was an abolitionist and former slave. Joseph H Putnam was an abolitionist.
(Page 1)
Boston April 29 . 1856
Dear Friend Amy
You will see
the enclosed delivered to
Mr Webb . - I learn that the
Mrs Webb has a reading at
Rochester next Friday Eve
Just now - Lydia Maria Child
Henrietta Sargent , Sallie
Holley and Miss Putnam
were in the office
Remond has Just returned
from Providence in good
Spirits where but for a
disappointment- I should
have accompanied him to
thier [sic] grand antislavery [sic] meeting.
[Text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 1]
Mrs Webb will tell You of
Mrs Ives in Salem .
(Page 2)
Anne Weston was in Italy
at last accounts -
an [sic] spiritual friend
Here comes John M Spear
and I have secured his name
to the new petition for
removal of Judge
Commissioner Loring .
The abolitionists never
grow weary in welldoing
-
Now here is Wm F. Channing
He too signs the petition .
I. have published a
pamphlet edition of the
proceedings of our Equal
School Rights Presentation
Meeting . = and it will
probably be wanted in
New York, Philadelphia -
(Page 3)
Providence . Cincinnati
perhaps also in Rochester
But You can see them in
New York =
Fail not to
be on hand for a
grand time is anticipated
Harriet Jacobs was
unwell when last heard
from = but for all that
I hope to meet her in
New York -
A Remember me to all
at home and believe
me
Ever
Hope to meet Yours Faithfully
Your other half Wm C. Nell
also in New York
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Robert D. Webb was an Irish publisher and abolitionist, who founded the Hibernian Anti-Slavery Association. Mrs. Webb performed in the play Black Siddons during this period. Lydia Marie Child was an abolitionist and woman's rights activist, as were Henrietta Sargent, Sallie Holley and the Putnam family. Charles Lenox Remond was an abolitionist lecturer. Anne Weston was an abolitionist. John M. Spear was a Universalist Minister, who became associated with the Spiritualist movement. Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Ellis Gray Loring was an abolitionist. William F. Channing was a Unitarian Minister and a social reformer. Nell refers to the Equal School Rights Movement, whose advocates argued that schools that educated black students should receive the same amount of funding as those that educated white students. Harriet Jacobs was an abolitionist and former slave.
(Page 1)
Boston April 12 1856
My Kind Friend Amy,
I resign hearing Allen Putnams
Lecture on Mesmerism , Witchcraft and Spiritualism
and a Visit to a nice Young Lady friend
that I may say a few words acKnowledging my
reception of Your long looKed for but all
the more welcome letter of April 1st -
for I had indeed began to wonder if sicKness
had not prevented Your writing -
Wendell Phillips told me of the grand time at
Rochester. I am glad it was so satisfactory to
the friends. = My own sentiment towards Miss
Wilbur has been one of distrust = the position
she occupies of Close fellowship with Your enemies
materially unfits her for Confidence of Your
Circle = and I have queried much on the
amendment of her being an inmate at W.R.H.
but only for the reason . that she must hear
many things not intended for = the ears of the
New Organization = aside from this I have
no opinion to express = She may not give any
occasion for her friends to find Fault . but
she certainly has a wide field for
annoying both parties -
[Obliterated] Mr Garrison has the Same opinion
(Page 2)
John M. Spear : Daughter is dead = he gave me
an account of F.D. at Rochester Free Meeting
-
On Fast day I accompanied Theodore ParKer to
Leominster where we both talKed antislavery [sic]
Mrs FH Drake liKe Mrs Ives of Salem are
women after Your own heart -. I would delight
in seeing the Trio together -
returning next morning we were Joined by
Wm Lloyd Garrison and Wm Wells Brown who
had been to Fitchburg 5 miles west You
Know of course = we had a pleasant time
ParKer had before met Garrison at the antislav [sic]
office Since the Liberator criticism upon
the sharps Rifle Sermon = Mr ParKer complimented
Mr Garrison for his fidelity to principle and
took occasion to maKe quite merry on the subject
Francis JacKson is now rather indisposed
but it is hoped he will be at New YorK
I learn from Dorcas Collins that Phebes
health is very delicate = the family have
been much afflicted of late -
-
I have been much surprised that the friends
in Rochester have not taKen my BooKs.
I don’t believe Dewey has sold any -
I would pay some agent a handsome commission
[Text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 2. Sentance begins upside down along top margin of Page 3]
last . December . He is expected home in June.
(Page 3)
[First line of text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 3]
Joseph H. Putnam has sent me a letter dated
to taKe them round =in Rochester - I Know
they will all be sold in time. but it is very important
that I should maKe early sales : especially to
promote .future plans - = If You can recommend
me the right person ( perhaps a woman is preferable
please do so . ( Sallie Holley volunteered to do
Something for me in New YorK State - but when
She can commence -I have not been advised of .
Harriet Jacobs is now unwell = She
was expecting to be at the New YorK anniversary
So is Mary E. Bibb - _ H.H. Gannett and Wife
C. L. Remond W Wells Brown et al
the anticipation of meeting You and Isaac
there is very pleasing to me - Will my
valued friend Sarah Hallowell Willis also be
there = I hope so = Louisa was very much
pleased with Edmund P. Willis -_. and will
never be tired talKing of You - William & Mary
Sarah Burtis and others -
So Joseph has a
little responsibility =running round the house
He is ahead of me = I. Jacob most ready
to tie up - Why need he wait for the
wagin [sic] of Bachelor Blessedness?
I presume the two Marys . Johnson and
PitKin are in the . Same place = 36 Sophia St
(Page 4)
Little Ira progresses very well at school -
and as Amateur Drawer and Musician
His Father has Just presented him with a
Splendid Guitar -
I am glad You find so much satisfaction with
our mutual friend Mrs Colman = .
Mrs Webb though expected East all through
March has not Yet arrived from her Western
trip -
. You may congratulate Yourself proper
the successful course of antislavery [sic] lectures
in Rochester . I need not say to You
Never weary in well doing -
I meant to have told You of the interest
recently felt by Louisa and our entire
[Line of text written vertically along right margin of Page 4]
Louisa Sends her love.
Circle of acquaintance in spiritualism
. I never since coming from Rochester made
any special attempt to proselyte any one [sic] here
only as opportunity offered stating my experience
and observation = a Young woman of our acquaintance
has recent been developed as a Speaking . Tipping
and Trance Medium . and the communications
and manifestations have been abundant
Various and convincing = Louisa is very much
interested = but more of this anon -
Hoping to meet You in New YorK and finish up our talk
I remain Ever Fraternally Yours Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. The members of the Putnam family were abolitionists. Nell refers to Spiritualism, whose followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. W.R.H. or William R. Hallowell was Post's son-in-law. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator. John Murray Spear was a Universalist minister, who became active in the Spiritualist movement. F.D. or Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave. The Rochester Free Meeting may refer to a local abolitionist meeting. Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and reform minister in the Unitarian Church. John P. Hale is noted as being the first Senator, who campaigned as an abolitionist. Mrs. William Ives was president of the Female Anti-Slavery Society. William Wells Brown was an African American abolitionist, lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. He was born a slave, and escaped to the North in 1834, where he wrote the first novel by an African American titled- Clotel. Francis Jackson was a Spiritualist. Sallie Holley traveled the anti-slavery lecture circuit with Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone and Sarah Remond. Harriet Jacobs was an abolitionist and former slave.
Mary Bibb was born a free black woman and became active in the abolitionist movement. Charles Lenox Remond was a lecturer and abolitionist. Sarah Hallowell was Post's sister. Edmund Willis was Sarah's husband. William and Mary Hallowell were Post's son-in-law and step-daughter. Sarah Burtis was a mutual friend of Post and Nell's. Joseph and Jacob were two of Post's sons. Mary Pitkin helped to take care of Post's youngest son, Willie. Mary Johnson was a black woman who lived with the Post family for a period. Nell refers to the family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Ira was Nell's nephew. Lucy Coleman was a woman's rights activist and abolitionist. Mrs. Webb performed in a play titled Black Siddons during this period. Louisa was one of Nell's sisters.
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. William Wells Brown was an African American abolitionist, lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. He was born a slave and escaped to the North in 1834, where he wrote the first novel by an African American- Clotel. Brown’s youngest child, Josephine, attended school in France and returned to the United States in 1855 to complete a biography of her father. The members of the Remond family were abolitionists. Reverend Antoinette Brown was the first female minister of a recognized denomination in the United States. She was also a women’s rights activist. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper titled, the Liberator . Mrs. Webb performed in the play Black Siddons during this period. Nell refers to the Boston anti-slavery office, located at 21 Cornhill. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and a reform minister of the Unitarian Church. John P. Hale is noted as being the first Senator, who campaigned as an abolitionist. Nell may be referring to the 1855 National Woman's Rights Convention, held in Cincinnati. Abby Kelley Foster was an abolitionist and women’s rights activist.
Nell uses various last names of mutual friends on Page 2 as puns. The Post, Willis, Hallowell, Webb and Stowe families were all involved in various social movements of the period. Samuel J. May was a radical reformer, who advocated for women’s rights, access to education and the abolition of slavery. James Freeman Clarke was a Unitarian Minister and social reformer. Lydia Mott was woman's rights activist, Lucretia Mott's sister-in-law. Jacob and Joseph were two of Post's sons. Jeremiah B. Sanderson was a free African American, who moved to California during the Gold Rush and advocated that public schools that educated black children should receive the same amount of funding as those schools that educated white students.
Nell uses the Latin phrase "ad libitum", which means "at one's pleasure". Louisa was one of Nell's sisters. Reverend Henry C. Wright was a member of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society. The Chapman sisters were abolitionists, who worked with various organizations in Boston. Deborah Weston was one of the founding members of the Boston Female Anti-Slavery Society. The De Grasse family were mutual friends of the Post family and Nell. Frances was another of Nell's sisters. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Both Eddy and Francis Jackson were Spiritualist mediums. Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. William R. Hallowell was Post's son-in-law.
(Page 1)
a large and elegant variety of goods have arrived
for the Bazaar which opens on the 19th -
wish You and Some other Rochester friends were
to be with us.
Boston Nov 30th 1855
Kind friend Amy
Yesterday was our
ThanKsgiving = I passed a portion of the
day here at 21 Cornhill = all alone in my
glory of hammering out some Jobs
on my mental anvil = which may
turn up Yet somewhere else -
Rev Theodore ParKer had a good
audience who in turn of course had a
good Sermon = I dined with
Louisa who as were ^were^ alone narrated
a graphic account of her pleasant times
in Rochester for a great part of which
She acKnowledges special indebtedness to
You . = Ira the Elder was engaged
Ira the Younger was parading with a
Juvenile Military Engine Company of
which he has for Some time been an
active member - among his School
mates [sic] he was Selected as Drummer
in which capacity he executed StriKing
Service if not for his Country
certainly to the Sheeps Kin -
(Page 2)
On Wednesday Eve met Wendell Phillips at the Depot
and learned that he spent some very pleasant
hours at Rochester . hoping during the Season
to revisit and lecture there -
I called last evening upon him to get his
answer to the Committee for my presentation
meeting - . He has abandoned for that evening
a Lyceum lecture =and with Missr Garrison
Theodore ParKer et al will be on hand
It will probably taKe place on the 17th of Dec
of which You will hear more. -
Mrs . Chapman has Just sent me from
Weymouth by her Son a handsome letter of
acKnowledgement for my BooK . = which She
Selected for her ThanKsgiving reading -
I recieved [sic] the Rochester
American containing a notice but have
not Yet Seen the Democrat though I
Sent for it and am very anxious
for to get It. - ^as a means of promoting^ its Sale -
I did not Know
until Henry Collins wrote me
that my letter had not been
forwarded = Its all right now
I presume Dorcas is on the
recovery -
[Text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 2]
child . Parker Nell Bailey -
[Text aligned upside down along right margin of Page 2, text originates along upside down horizontally across Page 3]
that ence to past
[Text aligned upside down along bottom margin of Page 2]
Mrs. Webb had -a magnificent
audience last night and
acquitted herself finely -
(Page 3)
Mrs Webb is to be at Washington
Christmas WeeK = and I presume
will in a few weeKs pass through
Rochester - I did not learn the
precise time = I hope when She
does come a good audience may be
Secured for her - and as I have
SpoKen to her of my friends You
Mary Sarah William et al
will find her very agreeable
(Confidential ) Mrs Stowe has written to
F . D . protesting against his
misstatements about her promising
funds for the College = She has also
written to J . G . in England about
Some erroneous doing there (in
character) = and I Learn Mrs Stowe
will through the press disclaim
what F.D. has Said -
I really think She owes it to
herself to put this into execution
especially when considering the
pecuniary bestowments She has
made F.D-
[First line of text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 3]
John B. Bailey ( a relative of W.[J.?] WatKins = has named his
[Additional material inserted upside down along the lower margin and between several lines of text on Page 3]
F.D. met me Yesterday as he was Dec. 7
coming out of Lewis Haydens= Says He How do you do Mr. Nell!!!
W.W. Brown also met him but tells me
he did not return F.D. - greeting .
Did I err on the right side in acKnowledging his civility with referen[ence] the
(Page 4)
Clarissa Brown is not coming
immediately to this Country.
-.
next weeK a Social party comes
off here where If present I
Shall remember our dance at
36 Sophia St = = though I exhibited
my not my best foot on that
occasion . -
I was very sorry not to have
Seen more of Jacob as indeed I was
not at all seeing Sarah and Edmund
and Joe - But I am so glad that
Louisa enjoyed - so good a Visit
She will have stores of pleasant
recollections to beguile my Bachelor
hours with = I protest daily
against my Singleness = I am
afraid that in this particular I
shall die a Protestant -
I wanted also to have seen
Mary Cooper but it is no use to
Complain now = especially as such a
pleasure may be mine Yet - .
[Text aligned vertically along right margin of Page 4]
Love to all
Yours Fraternally W. C. Nell
[Text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 4]
Jeremiah B. Sanderson has been appointed Teacher of a Public ( Colored ) School in California !
[Text aligned vertically along the left margin of Page 4]
Mr Mays Father on ThanKsgivg Eveng = Reflection was Served up in
Tableau = as was once you remember it George Willets-
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. 21 Corn Hill refers to the anti-slavery office in Boston, where Nell worked. Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and a reform minister of the Unitarian Church. Louisa was one of Nell's sisters. Ira was her husband and their son’s name was also Ira. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, a Native American advocate and lawyer. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator. Maria W. Chapman was an abolitionist. Both the Rochester American and the Rochester Democrat were newspapers. Mrs. Webb performed in a play titled, "The Black Siddons" during this period. Mary was Post's step-daughter, and William Hallowell was her husband. Sarah was Post's sister. Harriet Beecher Stowe was an abolitionist, who wrote Uncle Tom's Cabin. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave. Julia Griffiths supported Douglass's newspaper, the North Star. William Watkins worked with Douglass. Lewis Hayden was an abolitionist and former slave. William Wells Brown was an African American abolitionist, lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. He was born a slave, who escaped to the North in 1834, and wrote the first novel by an African America- Clotel. Clarissa was one of Brown's daughters.
Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street. Jacob was one of Post's sons. Edmund Willis was Sarah's husband. Joseph was another of Post's sons. Jerry B. Sanderson was a free black man, who settled in California during the gold rush and advocated to get public funding for schools that educated black students. Samuel J. May was a radical reformer, who advocated for women's rights, access to education and the abolition of slavery. George Willets was a relative of the Post family.
(Page 1)
Boston
Sunday Eve Nov 11. 1855
10 . oclock
Kind Friend Amy =
When You write do tell
me the latest from Dorcas = Phebe & Abby
Yesterday I called on Francis JacKson
and then met William Lloyd Garrison
We found Mr JacKson down stairs [sic]
dressed and appearing quite
comfortable = having enjoyed an
excellent ( comparatively ) nights rest
and enjoying an appetite -
Conversation animated = but expressive
of perfect resignation as to whether
He should remain in or leave the
body = a little hope is now indulged
of his recovery.
I hope Mr Phillips -
will be with You as expected.
Joshua R. Giddings was in the office
Yesterday = and was disappointed because
of Mr Parkers absence never having
heard him preach -
(Page 2)
Mr. Garrison while walKing with me
from Francis Jacksons stated that
J. G. had issued Circulars at the
Glasgow meeting Soliciting aid for
F. D. Paper on the ground that
It was not an Infidel Paper Vc
- - -
Wm. W. Browns Daughter Clarisse has
lately married a Young Swiss
Watch Engraver in London =and
will probably soon return to
America
Josephine is about
SeeKing School Teaching-
-
I am delighted with the idea
of Louisas meeting William and
Mary = and Sarah = How is
Edmund -
Should there appear any
notice of my BooK in Rochester Papers
please forward to me = that I may be
Sure of them. and thus
oblige Your Sincere Friend
William C. Nell
[Text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 2.]
When Mrs ^Webb^ Webb comes to Rochester
I shall give [her?] letters to You and Mary Hallow[ell?]
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist from Boston, who was affiliated with several anti-slavery groups. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and a reform minister of the Unitarian Church. Joshua R. Giddings was an abolitionist and served in Congress. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and a former slave, who published the newspaper, the North Star.
William Wells Brown was an African American abolitionist, lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. He was born a slave, and after he escaped to the North in 1834, Brown wrote the first novel by an African American- Clotel. Josephine Brown was Brown’s youngest child. She attended school in France and returned to the United States in 1855 to complete a biography of her father. Louisa was one of Nell's sisters. William R. Hallowell and Mary Hallowell were Post's son-in-law and step-daughter. Sarah Hallowell was Post's sister. Mrs. Webb performed in a play titled, "The Black Siddons" during this period.
(Page 1)
Mr. May has Just read to me an excellent
letter from Benjamin Fish =on presentation
of Fruit Trees for Boston Bazaar.
Boston Nov 6th1855
Kind Friend Amy
Louisa has given me
a graphic and pleasing account of
her sojourn at 36 Sophia St -
Wish I could be in two places
at once = how soon would You
See my ugly phiz popping in
to [sic] that Circle So associated in
my memory with bright and
happy experiences-
Louisa has Seen Jacob I hope
She will also have the satisfaction
of meeting my other friend Joe-
A few days since I came across
an old file of letters in the office
wherein I found Asa Anthony -
(Page 2)
Henry ^Bush^ Burtis, Elias De Garmo
John E. Robinson and others
of Rochester also one from
Your Isaac Post = Yes and my
Isaac Post too ) Sending on for
the Liberator of Mary Johnson.
-
Dr Boynton is delivering his
Geological Course here and I
have derived much satisfaction
from the three I have heard
The Sparious Tremont Temple is
Crowded. - . I remember Sarah
Hallowell speaKing of the Course,
in Rochester -
How sorry I am at
the news of Dorcas Collins illness
I so much desired to Visit
the family with Louisa
I have Just heard from Louisa Jacobs
herself and Mother are quite well
(Page 3)
Last Friday Eve FredK Douglass passed
me on his way from Charles Sumners
meeting in Faneuil Hall-
Mr. May has Just recieved [sic] a
letter from R.D. Webb . in which he
States . that Anna Richardson
declines a Visit from Julia G
and a Cousin of his although
opposed to the American A.S Society
on Orthodox grounds , Yet desired no
association with her - You need not
let outsiders Know from whence this news
was derived - - -
I hope Wendell Phillips
will speak for You on the Sunday Eve
preceding his Lyceum Lecture as he is
ready to do - - his wife though very
seldom out of her room Yesterday Visited
Francis JacKson now dangerously ill
from a Tumor in his stomach-
Theodore ParKer Visited him last Sunday
and asKed him if he did not believe that
by a strong effort of will his disease might be
(Page 4)
arrested ? Mr JacKson replied that he did not
Know but it might. but he had rather not
interfere - Mr Phillips hoped he would
endeavor to stay with us as long as possible
and that he would not be frighten
alarmed by the Doctors = He smilingly
replied . that the Doctors could not
disturb him = He has arranged his
business and is ready for the event -
which perhaps after all may not
immediately occur -
Mr Garrison has been unwell but is now
Convalescent = The Miss Westons Father
has Just died at Weymouth = and
Maria Weston Chapmans arrival from
Europe-is daily expected-
Sunday before last I presented Mr ParKer
with my BooK and last Sunday he reciprocated
with his Defence = not given before the
U.S. Courts- He is now on his
lecturing tour = Pulpit to be supplied by
Samuel Johnson of Lynn and Danl A. Wasson
of Groveland formerly an Orthodox Preacher
Tender my Kindest regards to the whole
Circle of friends = Write soon =and
believe me always Yours
- Sincere Friend
Sallie Holley has
promised to Sell my BooK. Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Samuel J. May was a radical reformer, who advocated for women's rights, access to education and the abolition of slavery. Benjamin Fish was woman's rights activist, Sarah Fish's husband, who was an abolitionist and a Quaker. Louisa was one of Nell's sisters. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Jacob and Joseph were two of Post's sons. Asa Anthony was a cousin of Susan B. Anthony and a founding member of the Rochester Anti-Slavery Society. Henry Bush and Elias De Garmo were also abolitionists. Mary Johnson was a free, African American woman living in Massachusetts, who assisted many fugitive slaves- including Frederick Douglass. Sarah Hallowell was Post's sister. Louisa Jacobs was the daughter of author and former slave, Harriet Jacobs, who wrote the slave narrative: Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl.
Charles Sumner was a radical abolitionist and served in the Senate during the Civil War. Robert D. Webb was an Irish publisher and abolitionist, and one of the founders of the Hibernian Anti-Slavery Association. Anna Richardson was a British abolitionist, who bought Frederick Douglass’s freedom. Julia Griffiths financially supported Douglass's newspaper, the North Star. The American Anti- Slavery Society was formed in 1833. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist from Boston, who was affiliated with several anti-slavery organizations. Maria Weston Chapman worked with her sisters in the anti-slavery movement. Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and a reform minister of the Unitarian Church. Samuel Johnson graduated from Harvard University and Harvard Divinity School and worked as a clergyman and abolitionist. Sallie Holley spoke on the anti-slavery lecture circuit with Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone and Sarah Remond.
(Page 1)
Monday Morning - Sunday, } Mr Phillips will write Soon to
3 oclock PM } Mr Hallowell –But tell me that He
can lecture for him on Sunday Nov 18thpreceding
the Lyceum Lecture
at antislavery [sic] office Boston October 28th1855
Kind Friends Isaac and Amy
One week ago this hour I was
basking in the sunlight of Your conversation
at my Rochester Home 136 Sophia Street -
Let me give a brief SKetch of my happenings
Since Thursday 10.40 A.M. when I left
You in a Snow Storm [sic]. = This continued
until we reached the Mohawk Valley
where no snow was Visible except upon
the CatsKill Mountains- I met in the
Cars Mr Baker Editor of a Free Soil Paper in
Detroit = who with his wife were interesting
themselves over Mr Douglass.’ Bondge [sic] and
Freedom = also Geo W. [Bungay?] greeted me
en route to Little Falls = another Springfield
Gentleman readily availed himself of my BooK
to read and complimented the author
Dined at Syracuse Globe Hotel
in honor of its proprietor Ira G
Garrison
(Page 2)
arrived at Albany about 7= walKing on
Broadway met W.H. Topp to whose
House I was despatched [sic] meeting a
cordial welcome= and where I remain
until daylight = ^Lydia Mott & Phebe Jones had gone to New York^
when after Some mistakes
all ending right side up I pushed on
my way = Saw Snow on the Hills of
Berkshire = met Gerrit Smith in the
Depot at Springfield =who told me
he left Boston before the closing
meeting of the Radical Political
Abolition meeting = Dr Smith did
not fulfil [sic] his promise made to me
in Philadelphia of coming to Boston
to give us fits = = The Convention
was thinly attended and despite
F=D. bitter speech has left no
very tangible impression = and I found
Faneuil Hall and the State House in the
Same Spot where I left them and
William Lloyd Garrison Still lives
Some of the reliable Colored Citizens
told me they hope Gerrit Smith will
(Page 3)
influence Mr Douglass to modify
his speeches or they will injure him
and his cause more than he is aware
his trying to winK out of sight the
Old Society is ’‘ [too big a bow for?]
too much of an undertaKing in
fact impossible -
Sallie Holley laments much his
State of mind= She heard his Speech.
Last evening I accompanied her and
Miss Putnam to the Salem Depot and
introduced her to Ellis Gray Loring Esq
Wendell Phillips delivers the first of
the Salem antislavery [sic] lectures this Eve.
Garrison has gone to New Bedford.
John P. Hale was at Music Hall to
hear Theodore ParKer this morning
who elaborated a very interesting
and radical discourse =suggested
by the events of the past weeK The
Farmers and the Mechanics Fair
= Military V= Sims Brigade
and Burrs Regiment were
appropriately remembered
(Page 4)
on approaching the ten mile
Suburbs of Boston unsurpassed
in romantic beauty = the weather was
lovely indeed =I did not reach
home any too soon = The office has
been under repairs = a new floor
Vc and my BooKs which taKe well
required my immediate presence.
Some to whom I Showed my
Spiritual Communication were
SKeptical because coming from my
Parents I was addressed as Brother
I rely upon Your expressing
to the Rochester friends whom I
Could not see my sincere regret
and the causes why –
To all at 36 Sophia St (including
William and Mary) please tender my
grateful remembrance of Kindnesses
shown by them during my brief sojourn
I did not mean to leave the Postage
Unpaid for Henry Collins letter –
I remain ever Fraternally Yours Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activists, Amy and Isaac Post. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. William R. Hallowell was the Posts' son-in-law. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street. Members of the Free Soil Party opposed the expansion of slavery into the Western territories. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave, who had published an autobiography, titled My Bondage, My Freedom. William H. Topp was a tailor and a black abolitionist from Albany, New York. Lydia Mott was woman's rights activist, Lucretia Mott's sister-in-law. Nell describes his time in Western Massachusetts. Gerrit Smith was an abolitionist. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator. Sallie Holley was an abolitionist, who spoke on the anti-slavery lecture circuit with Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone and Sarah Remond. The members of the Putnam family as well as Ellis Gray Loring were abolitionists. John P. Hale was a leader of the Free Soil Party and an abolitionist. Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and a reform minister of the Unitarian Church. The Sim’s Brigade and Burr's Regiment were companies that fought during the American Revolutionary War. Nell refers to the Spiritualist movement, whose followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Mary was the Posts' daughter.
(Page 1)
Worcester Oct. 1. 1855
Dear Friend Amy
Your letter
informing me of your de-
cision to have a course
of genuine Anti Slavery [sic]
Lectures was duly received,
also William Hallowells letter
at Boston-
I am very, very glad
that you have thus resolved
Wendell Phillips will lecture
there, but can’t fix the
time just yet – can’t give
the opening Lecture though-
I saw Theodore Parker
in his study, & expressed
to him my regret that he
had engaged to Lecture
for the Radical Political Abolitionist
told him that some of that
society objected to his being
(Page 2)
invited to speak for them
on account of his Infidelity
he ejaculated with no
little warmth- “ What did
they invite me for?”
Because your name
will draw a full house
& their slim purse be
thereby replenished- said I -
he seemed really per-
plexed- at length said
he, “why can’t I lecture
for you too- I have
two lectures which I
want to give in Rochester
I of course was happy
that he should lecture
for us too- & he will
try & open the course
for us- will write
you as soon as he
can fix upon the
time- Remond & Garri
son will speak in Rochester
(Page 3)
Lucy Stone will let
you know her decision
very soon- I hope you
will ask Antoinette too-
John Mercer Langstone
would do great credit to
the Cause, & would I
think accept an invitation
to Lecture for us – You
will recollect that he
expressed himself- in en
tire sympathy with the
our side of the question
in that McCune Smith
attack - - he is a
scholar ^too^ & proves much
for the capacity of a
man of 1/16 African blood
Will you invite Sam
uel J. May of Syracuse
he, provided all accept
would give us six Lectures
which would make a
very respectable course –
(Page 4)
I spent week ago Sunday
with Charles Remond & his
most excellent wife at their
home- she talked much
of you- said the Rochester
goods were on her table
last year- that every thing [sic]
sold off quickly- particularly
the little aprons & night
caps – could have sold
many many more if she
had had them-
I think Parker will open
the course finely- then we
shall have the advantage of
novelty, on his first speaking-
I had a delightful time
with Mr. Garrison, it seemed he
could not do enough for my enjoy-
ment- Francis Jackson also took me
about town- I must stop here a
few weeks yet – Oh I long to be at
work again- Shall be happy to hear
from you & William & Mary- do please
tell me the [A. D. W. R?] news – Love to you all
From Susan B. Anthony
Susan B. Anthony, a woman’s rights activist, writes from Worcester, Massachusetts to fellow activist, Amy Post. William Hallowell was Post's son-in-law. Wendell Phillips, Theodore Parker, Charles Lenox Remond, William Lloyd Garrison, John Mercer Langstone, James McCune Smith, Samuel J. May and Francis Jackson were all abolitionist leaders. Lucy Stone was a woman's rights leader and lecturer. Antoinette Brown was one of the first female ministers. Mary Post was Post's step- daughter and William Hallowell was her son-in-law.
(Page 1)
[Two lines of text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 1]
I heard that John Dick was Foreman
in the Globe office and doing well.
Liberty Grove = Greenwood Station
South Reading Mass
Sunday Morning 9 O.clock August 12. 1855
Esteemed Friend = My Second Sunday
vacation from Music Hall has enabled my attendance
here today from whence a party will proceed to
Reading 3 miles distant = to dedicate Liberty Hall
as did as was the Grove here two weeks since to
the Cause of Humanity = Garrison Phillips and
J.N. Buffum will come up from Lynn
Charles Remond and a delegation also from
Salem= Wm W. Brown and Youngest
Daughter Josephine came out with me-
Monday morning 9 oclock
Here I am at the Anti Slavery [sic] office 21 Cornhill
Wm W Brown and Daughter gone up town
( Rev A. T. Foss Just returned from an
antislavery [sic] tour ) =I will endeavor to
resume my letter= From South Reading
we rode three miles to Reading Centre
where under auspices of Ira Gray (not my
Brother in Law=) the new Hall had been
finished and a beautiful place indeed
we found it = Every association had
combined to render the meeting
interesting and impressive –
(Page 2)
[One line of text written upside down along top margin Page 2]
No recent news from Jeremiah.
The weather most delightful = audiences large
and intelligent and enthusiastic = Garrison
Phillips and Remond in No 1 Condition
Friends hospitable and Fraternal-
Remond had 7. with him including 2 Visitors from Philadelp [sic]
Reading was the first place that furnished Mr Garrison
with Credentials on his first mission to England
Remond =also stated that it was where he delivered his
first antislavery lecture-
I very much desired My Rochester Circle present
I came near not mentioning that two of the
Hutchinson Brothers and thier [sic] wives were also
present = thier [sic] Songs of freedom I need not
tell You were very inspiring-
=
Harriet Jacobs has recently heard direct
from her Brother and Son at Paramatta near
Sydney Australia = = Louisa is now I believed
at New Bedford- So the Spirits have
testified truly about them-
-
The Woman Jane Johnson for
whom Passmore Williamson has
been imprisoned = I had the pleasure
of escorting from the Depot in Boston
recently on her destination = She
is a Woman who can taKe care
of herself= there are Some others
here attending upon Southern Women
[Text aligned along bottom of left margin Page 2]
[obliterated] news from testimony
(Page 3)
as Yet I can report nothing definite of thier [sic]
intelligent aspirations for Freedom-
Mrs Knox tenders her love and
Kind remembrances to her Friends
in Rochester.
One week Yesterday I
spent a happy time at Salem
Mrs Remond wished me to
tell You that She had the pleasure
of having most of the Rochester
Goods on her table at the Bazaar
last December = and that they sold
very readily especially Night Caps
Childrens Aprons V= and She
hopes for more of the Same
Sort= a hint to the wise
is sufficient-
I meant to have told
You that Horace Greely took charge
of Josephine Brown = from Liverpool
to New York= = I met her at the
Depot 5 oclock Thursday morning
She is quite tall = accomplished and
well appearing Her Father seems
remarkably devoted and She as
cordially reciprocates –
Mrs Webb (BlacK siddons) is now under
patronage of Mrs Stowe and other friends
[Text aligned vertically along left margin of Page 3]
next Sunday I may attend the Haverhill
antislavery [sic] meeting-
(Page 4)
Spending the summer at Andover attended
to the City by Mrs Stowe or Daughters and
is practising [sic] with Teachers in Boston
for Dramatic excellence = Mrs Stowe
has recently been specially bountiful to
Sojourner Truth causing the old
womans heart to feel happy and
free-
Very Glad with Your
Chapter of Rochester News = it is
So pleasant to hear from my good
friends there all of them
Isaac is getting well. thats
good, tell him to shaKe off
the SicKness= and be himself
again-
I hope^Trust^ Sarah Birney:= hopes
will all be realised by renewing the
scenes of her Youth = I would liKe to
See her = once more before She Sails
Does She intend returning
Divide my best wishes among
the Circle which you can do without
my naming and believe me Truly [obliterated] Yours
Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from South Reading, Massachusetts to fellow activist, Amy Post. John Dick worked as a printer for the North Star- the newspaper that abolitionist and former slave, Frederick Douglass published. The Globe refers to an abolitionist newspaper. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and a lawyer. J.N. Buffum was a member of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society. Charles Lenox Remond was an orator and an abolitionist. William W. Brown was an African American abolitionist lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. After escaping from slavery in 1834, he published the first novel written by an African American, title Clotel.
Nell refers to Jeremiah Sanderson, a free black man, who had recently moved to California to explore business opportunities. The Hutchinson Family Singers used music to promote the abolitionist cause and other reform movements. Harriet Jacobs was the author of Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl and a former slave. Louisa was her daughter. Abolitionists rescued the slave, Jane Johnson and her children, when their master brought them to Philadelphia. Their master brought his case to court, and the case became known as the “Philadelphia Slave Case”. Passmore Williamson was the Secretary of the Pennsylvania Abolition Society and served several months in jail for being in contempt of court. Horace Greeley was a newspaper editor, who founded the New York Tribune and became a leader of the Republican Party. Josephine Brown was William Wells Brown’s youngest child, who attended school in France, and returned in 1855 to write a biography of her father. Mrs. Webb was a member of the theatrical group, the Black Siddons, who performed Uncle Tom's Cabin, written by Harriet Beecher Stowe. Sojourner Truth was a former slave, who after escaping from slavery became an abolitionist and woman's rights leader. Sarah Birney was a mutual friend of Nell and Post.
Boston July 16 1855
My Kind Friend
Amy Post
Harriet Jacobs
last letter= mentioning You moved my taKing
the pen to enquire about the friends I
used to Know at 36 Sophia St
I hope Isaac [Aque?] has
deserted the Post and by this time he
feels enabled to boast of its being no
great shaKes after all-
I need not tell You how many
times during our Boston Anniversary I
missed You= You would have found good
cheer and without cost = and it was
I think the climax of the Series –
There was a nice collation table
spear near the Melodeon – where the
good friends would have been so glad to
meet You = when not at Francis Jacksons
Mr Garrisons or elsewhere = But it is all
over now= and Yesterday too in
Crossing our beautiful (now more than
ever) Boston Common on my way to
Music Hall and these discovering
Theodore Parker promenading the mall
(Page 2)
gleaning inspiration which he
abundantly dispersed to his large
and intelligent audience- It was a
picture of Country life= So full and
SparKling with the gems of his characteristic
intellect= I wished You there as I
often do= when Shall that pleasure
be mine of seeing the Rochester Circle
within those walls-
Please reciprocate the Kind expressions
forwarded me from William R. Hallowell
in letter to Mr Wallcut= I presume half
of it belongs to Mary
How is my choice friend
Sarah = does She live now close by –
as before= remember me to Mr Willis
Has Sarah Birney recovered
I hope so= Mary and Willie must
be sure to keep well-
I . have heard of Josephs
additional cares = but not a word
Yet of Jacobs marriage-
He is not so unfortunate
as I am= why then dont the
Young Gentleman walK up.
Time is flying= waKe up
Jacob= and be a happy Husband
(Page 3)
Miss Tilton – a chorister at Theodore Parkers
Church a few Sundays since made Known to
me that she had been under Spiritual
influence for twelve Years= had cured diseases
v= and was about under thier [sic] guidance on a
January to Chicago = Mr Parker entered the
anteroom meanwhile and for the first time
heard the statement = You Know he is rather
sKeptical on the subject = but as I understand
now regards it more attentively -
I. gave Miss Tilton letters to Leah as she
was to pass through New York = Do tell me
if You ever heard of her -
Harriet Jacobs = spiritual revelations
of John and Joseph have proved correct
How goes matters in Rochester
among the anti Slavery [sic] Women
Will Miss Griffiths return soon^?^
-
I learn that John Dick having
been unhandsomely dealt with by
the Provincial Freeman is now
Foreman in the Globe office
and prospering = I was much
disappointed not Visiting Toronto
last Fall –
(Page 4)
I have been some expecting a western
trip this autumn but may be disappointed
We are now arranging for Equal
School Rights Victory in Boston
Vacation of 5 or 6 weeks = and in September
Forward March = = I shall have
more to say on this by and bye-
I hear as usual from Dorcas
and Phebe= - I wonder if Phebe is doomed
to a life of Single Blessedness ? who can
answer? She ought to follow in
Abbys footsteps = all things being equal
I Know the above has made You
Smile perhaps out loud = well
theres no harm in that = that I
know of- - -
I presume You and
Sarah have not forgot our slieghride [sic]
to Alexander St-
Please remember me to
the anti Slavery [sic] Circle = How often I
feel myself one among them = Sincerely
I remain as ever
Your Friend Wm C. Nell.
[Text aligned upside down along top margin Page 4]
With the exception of Neuralogic Head
ache I am quite well
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Harriet Jacobs was the author of Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl and was a former slave. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist from Boston, and affiliated with several different abolitionist groups, including the Boston Vigilance Committee. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and a reform minister of the Unitarian Church. William R. Hallowell was Post's son-in-law married to Mary Hallowell. R.F. Wallcut published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby. Sarah was Post's sister, and Edmund P. Willis was her husband. Sarah Birney was a mutual friend of Nell and Post's. Willie was Post's youngest son and Mary took care of him as a child. Jacob and Joseph are older Post's sons. Elizabeth Tilton was Theodore Tilton's wife. He was co-editor of The Independent, a New York abolitionist newspaper. Nell refers to the Spiritualist movement, begun by Leah, Margaret and Catherine Fox. Its followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Julia Griffiths financially supported the North Star, the newspaper published by abolitionist and former slave, Frederick Douglass. John Dick worked as Douglass’s printer. The school rights movement compelled the Boston public school system to provide support to schools that educated black children. Phebe and Abby Thayer were relatives of the Post family.
(Page 1)
Boston July_11_1855
Esteemed “friend
Amy Post
Though I have
wrote Boston at the head of this
letter I am Seated in with Mrs_
Putnam’s interesting family Helen Janey
Georgiana and Adelaide and
thier [sic] Mother = all doing an active
part in contributing to my happiness
indeed thier [sic] presence and sympathy
I accept as a Sovereign Panacea
for the Invalid-
a few days ago I forwarded a
line to You- by Henry C. Wright relative
to my visiting Rochester= though this
hope is to me fraught with much
that is gladsome grateful to my feelings
Yet the fact. that the prevalent
East Winds = and Sudden changes of
our climate render it necessary that I
Should be away from thier [sic] influence
for Some time to come=| I am
^is a very bitter draught for me^
therefore preparing again to cut
loose from Boston and wend
(Page 2)
my steps westward = if I can
find any thing to do at Rochester
that will Secure me a cheap
living - until I find it
proper to leave for Cincinnati
I shall most gratefully
adapt myself to the circumstances
I am now in a much better
State of health than when I
last wrote but am cautioned by
my friends and the Physicians
to leave the fatal east winds
of our Sea bound Coast and
repair to where I can inhale
dry Western breezes
(Page 3)
I have done hardly any business
Since December= my sicKness
has been a continual bill of
expense to me denying me the
anticipated gratification of a final
Settlement of my liabilities = though
fortunately I owe nothing here now
but the for my Pamphlets and
which may ere long pay for itself
themselves.
I am mortified that a sum is Yet
due Isaac Post (a small one = but
great to me until paid and
which I trust a path will open
for its perfect adjustment-
I have been and am Yet
unfortunate = I am done now
anticipating any bright days
but Yet the Sun may- eve
Shine upon me
(Page 4)
I shall likely leave here
by the First of August
and would be very happy to
recieve [sic] a line from you before
Starting-
There is much that
I could tell You= of Scenes
and events = past and present
but will defer until meeting
at Rochester = unless Some
unforeseen matter prevents
My Love to all at Home
with every Sentiment of
grateful esteem
I remain
Faithfully Yours
friend
William C. Nell.
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. The Putnam family were abolitionists. The Boston school system fired Georgiana for supporting a petition to end segregation in schools. Reverend Henry C. Wright was a member of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society.
(Page 1)
Boston April 8. 1855
Kind friend Amy Post -
This Sunday Morning who
should I behold entering
Music Hall but Mrs Colman
and Mrs Raymond= I hope to
meet them at 21 Cornhill
-
My purpose in now
writing is to asK of you
the favor to deliver to
Frances Nell Cleggett the
accompanying letter
She left here two weeKs
since via New Haven
destined for Rochester
But to the present not
having heard from her
(Page 2)
we are very anxious to
hear= I Know You will
if possible confer upon
us this Kindness.
Fast Day I was
At Salem =Charles Lenox
Remond and Wife
enquired of and Send
greetings to Yourself and
the Rochester Circle
-
You percieve [sic] by the
Liberator that the
prospect of our
(Page 3)
now obtaining
Equal School Rights
is almost Certain
Had I time I would
liKe to tell You how
hard my worK has
been in the matter
this winter = indeed
I have Kept at it all
the time = Hope on
Hope ever
Nil Desperandum
(Page 4)
Garrisons recent
Liberator Sonnet -
My Chosen Queen
was originally written
in Mrs Chars Remonds
Album = the response
to W. . L. . G = by C.L.F.
was by Miss Foster = a
young Lady not eighteen
now at Salem in the
Normal School=
she is a Niece of
Robert Purvis.
In haste but Sincerely
Yours Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Lucy N. Coleman was an abolitionist and woman’s rights activist. Mrs. Remond was abolitionist leader, Charles Lenox Remond's wife. 21 Cornhill was the address of the Boston anti-slavery office. Frances Nell Cleggett was Nell's sister. Nell refers to radical abolitionist, William Lloyd Garrison's newspaper, the Liberator. Nell writes the Latin phrase "Nil Desperandum", or no need to despair. Robert Purvis was an African American abolitionist.
(Page 1)
I am soon to accept Jerrys invitation
of spending a few days with his family
at Wareham
Boston March 16. 1855
Sunday PM. 4 ½ oclock
My Esteemed Friend
Amy Post
Dr. Delany
expecting to leave in the morning for
Westward Ho (and who will Soon be
here for this letter) has Somewhat
hastened my acKnowledgement of Your
Characteristic Kind letter of 3d inst
I. recieved [sic] it on my return from
Salem where I had enjoyed Ten
days the Hospitalities of the Putman
and Remond families = for You perhaps
have not Known that for nearly
3 months I. have been an invalid
and though now much better
and feeling an encouraging prospect
Yet I. have passed through a Crisis
which though Some thought little of
many of my friends regarded it as
Serious and indeed now have
thier [sic] apprehensions = a Series of Colds
each but partially cured at last brought
an emission of blood from the left
Lung = Dr. Bowditchs examination
led his assuring me = that there was no
(Page 2)
Ulceration and but little if any
irritation = =for one weeK I did
not leave my room = Mrs Weeden
^and Kept^ my Landlady was very attentive
my Sister Louisa . God bless Her
was with me most of the time
and the medical sKill of Dr Bowditch
with the Kindness of friends have
through Providence = placed me on my
feet again = though for 2 months
Six weeKs I have not been out evenings
after I left my room I remained in
the House a long time indeed for me
at one time Wendell Phillips Esq
Chas Lenox Remond and Joseph H Putman
were my Company = it were
I almost thought it a privilege to be
SicK = if Such a Trio of Visitors Could
thus meet in my Sanctum
Had I not been SicK in all probability
I should have been present at the
arrest of Shadrach and stood a
Chance to share the glory now
monopolized by a few of my friends
Stigmatised as Rioters =but let
us work our on = faithfully for
^as we may.^
“The Night is long that never finds the Day
(Page 3)
I wish I could tell You my experience
in the Fugitive Slave department
Since the excitement = but there will
not be room for me to commence
all the talK I would have with You
While at Salem =both families done thier [sic]
best for my comfort and at Mrs. Putmans
Herself and Daughters all =rivalled [sic] each other
in thier [sic] contributions of Kind offices while my
Valued friend Joe and his wife were
always putting thier [sic] Heads together for the
my happiness = I cannot detail = but
let me add a line concerning one
of whom You and Sarah have so often
heard mention of at 36 Sophia St = Helen
never appeared to me more interesting –
She now supports herself as Tailoress
and bids fair to become as we say here
a Star Woman = Who the Individual is
that is to recieve [sic] the promise of her Heart
and Hand is as much of a mystery
to me however as ever—
Yours is always a welcome name with
the family =–
Charles Lenox Remond soon expects to
Commence HouseKeeping with his
amiable Bride (Every one admires Her
(Page 4)
Yesterday. Wendell Phillips Esq. and myself
appeared before the Legislative Committee at
the State House in favor of a monument to
AttucKs the Colored man who first fell
in the Boston Massacre 5th March 1770.
Mr. Garrison is better and told me how sorry
he felt in not being able to accept Your
Home as his while Kind offer = He seems
to be ^as^ partial towards the Post = Circle as I
Claim the honor of being myself-
As You have Seen and heard George
Thompson =I need not say one word
on the matter
I have made but a poor letter = and
must even now draw to a Close =I
must prepare a line for FranK
What truth is there in the Expose of
Rochester KnocKings = Knee Joints Vc –
I wish Leah would find it convenient to
leave my Musical Scraps and BooKs with you
You will surely tender my expressions
of Kind Remembrance to all the Household.
If I am not burdening You with requests I will
put down the Numbers of the North Star missing
1850 } I am to answer Jacobs 2d letter this
No 10 Feb 29 .} Evening
" 27 June 27 .} I am Gratefully Your Friend
" 38 Sept 12 .} William C. Nell
" 39 " 19th
" 40 " 26
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Nell refers to Jeremiah Sanderson, a free black man who worked for education reform. Dr. Martin Robinson Delany was an African American abolitionist and physician. Joseph Putnam was an abolitionist and Charles Lenox Remond's brother-in-law. Remond was an abolitionist leader. William Ingersoll Bowditch served as Treasurer of the Anti-Slavery Society, and opened his home as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and a lawyer. Nell refers to the arrest of escaped slave, Shadrach. Nell references a quotation from Macbeth: "The Night is long that never finds the Day". Georgiana Putnam was Joseph Putnam’s sister. The Boston school district fired Georgiana because she supported a petition to end segregation in schools. Sarah was Post's sister. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. George Thompson was a British abolitionist and orator. Frank was one of Nell's sisters. Nell refers to the Spiritualism movement, whose followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Leah Fox Fish was the older sister of Spiritualist founders, Margaret and Catherine. Abolitionist and former slave, Frederick Douglass published the North Star. Jacob was Post's son.
(Page 1)
[Five lines of text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 1]
Monday Morning
Just seen a little Girl
whose Voice= features
and action reminded me of
Joanna.
Boston March 11
1855
Kind friend
Amy Post
Perhaps has forgot
that She has for Several weeKs been
owing me a letter =waiting anxiously
for the Same has prevented my
writing = until now it seems
necessary to remind her of the
facts in the case = though liKely
enough She may be at this time
(Sunday Eve = 8 oclocK ) penning me
a few lines from 36 Sophia Street
Many things that I had
resolved upon telling thee
have now become old
I have Just responded to Dorcas
Collins . Phebe Thayer and Harriet
Jacobs the later expects to be in
New York during Anniversary week
with Louisa = I hope to be there
also and Shake Amy & Isaac Post
by the hand for “Auld Lang Syne
Do tell me How is William R
Hallowell and good Mary his wife
(Page 2)
Sarah H. and Edmund P. Willis
Jacob and Joseph and also
FranK tells me that Sarah
Birney is getting better I am
very glad indeed to hear the
good news = tell her to be
hopeful = =
So You see FranK
has returned to Boston = we
trust to stop here = the question
is not Yet decided upon Benjamins
Voyage to California-
Has Isaac Post = given
up his Store? Who succeeds him.
Tell Jacob that Charles
Remond has Sold Lucy Stone
and now has Ida May
and Clotel =
As I am no
Judge of Horse flesh he must
learn of thier [sic] relative abilities
from W Wells Brown or
other post ed up
Friend-
(Page 3)
The past week has been prolific
with anti slavery [sic] interest -
The Loring Legislation –
Return of Anthony Burns –
Arrival of the little White Slave
Ida May and also of
Solomon Northrup who I
introduced to Theodore Parker at
Music Hall this forenoon and
Yesterday to Wendell Phillips at 21 Cornhill
Remember me to Willie and
Mary Ann PitKin --
I am happy to say that my
health is Yet in an encouraging
State = as perhaps You may
have supposed me married
let me undeceive You =
I'm single Yet-
I presume Jacob is about
being annexed? is it so.
I dont Know who is responsible for the
following which I insert for benefit
of Jacob and Joseph.
[Text from newspaper clipping attached to bottom of Page 3]
Dreadful Joke.
William.-"There, Amy! what do you say to those for a Pair of Moustachios?"
Amy. -"Why, I should say that calling those
Moustachios was giving to 'Hairy Nothing a Local
Habitation and a Name. '"(For Shame, Amy.)
(Page 4)
I shall be expecting a letter
laden with Rochester News
for which I promise to be
duly grateful –
Sallie Holley and Miss Putnam
are occasionally in the office
Miss Holley has not Yet spoKen
publicly in Boston = She is very
diffident and unnecessarily So
as her speaking is attended
with great Success elsewhere
-
Please distribute my remembrances
of the Whole Circle of
anti slavery [sic] friends –
and believe me
Ever Faithfully Yours
William C. Nell
(Page 1)
Boston January 2d 1855
Kind Friend Amy
Mr. and Mrs. Webb are now
in the office = they are writing to Samuel J. May
at Syracuse to arrange a reading these
and She is ready and willing to occupy an
evening in Rochester = and as I understand
her, for the terms You pay to others from
abroad = Her present eastern engagements
terminate on the 10th inst after which She
is for Westward Ho =
Now let me suggest
Your immediate writing to Mr May - and
as he will have Mrs Webbs letter You
Syracuse and Rochester can promote an
arrangement Satisfactory to all parties if
a letter is despatched [sic] here for Mrs. Webb -
Soon as possible (she prefers of cous
Mr. Garrison lectures in
Buffalo the next evening after Rochester and
Samuel J. May has arranged for other lectures
of Mr Garrison in Central and Western New York
I am glad of this and so are You-
What with typographical errors and Omissions
the Presentation report is not what it might be
(Page 2)
But upon the whole is satisfactory for the
meeting was a grand one
Though my friends tell me I succeeded
very well =I Know not how I got
through = I carne very near breaKing
down at least once = but I hopefully
Survive = and all seem Satisfied
-
Francis Jackson is ordinarily well was
in the office Just now = So was
Wendell Phillips = of whom You are
very much mistaken in supposing any
aversion for Rochester = It is not his
likes or dislikes but Solely his
engagements that reluctantly prevent
his acquiescence in Your request .
The Bazaar closed last evening with
a full company =and pleasant time
indeed = The reciepts [sic] about $5000!
memory occasionally Sends a thought
to Your Circles Bazaar at Minerva
Hall = those were happy days for
the faithful of Rochester=
what a Cloud has since interposed
but thier [sic] Vision is strong -and the Sun is not
(Page 3)
obscured for all that-
Andrew T. Foss has had such a
Spiritual experience a day or two since
in Boston = (communications from a
Daughter) as to cause his saying to me
in presence of Mr Wallcut-
Well to day [sic] I am a believer what
ever I may be in the future-
One antislavery [sic] friend in the Bazaar
last evening promised to secure a
portion of my parlor furniture if I
would get married = I declared
my hope to be annexed to
Somebody (I don't Know who) during
this Year = and so I will if I
can = Now how You and
Jacob and Sarah and Mary Johnson
at and others are laughing –
Well laugh away = Sarah Burtis
is I believe to present me among
other things with a choice
Basket of Fruit from thier [sic]
unrivalled Orchard on Genesee St
My Rochester Collection will be a fine one
(Page 4)
Hope Lewis Burtis is all right again-
Next Spring ifnothing prevents
I shall spend a day in Rochester
and have a nice time with my
friends. =
You will please remember
me to all the Circle = I need not
name them.
Louisa and myself
have Rochester as a Standing
Subject of Conversation She
remembers You and the friends
with special regard =She did not
get introduced to Mrs Kedzie -
I am sorry but it cant be helped now
She had a good time I expect
with Sarah Burtis.
I Knew she would liKe Mary and Sarah
Hope William R. Hallowell has driven
off his Cold = Wm. W. Brown sends greeting
I would liKe to be at 36 Sophia St during
New Year Week = wishing Isaac Amy
and a very happy New Year I remain
Sincerely Yours Wm. C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Samuel J. May was a radical reformer, who advocated for women's rights, education reform and the abolition of slavery. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. Annie Wood Webb was an abolitionist. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist from Boston, who was affiliated with several anti-slavery organizations, including the Boston Vigilance Committee. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. Andrew T. Foss was an abolitionist lecturer for the Massachusetts Anti-slavery Society. He believed in Spiritualism- a religious belief that advocated speaking through mediums to communicate with the dead.
R.F. Walcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby. Jacob was Post's son, Sarah was her sister and Mary Johnson was a free black woman, who lived in Massachusetts and helped many slaves escape from the South. Sarah Burtis was Susan B. Anthony’s second cousin. She was a Quaker, woman’s rights leader, abolitionist and a Temperance advocate. Lewis was her husband. Louisa was one of Nell's sisters. Mrs. Kedzie was involved in the Spiritualist movement. William R. Hallowell was Post's son-in-law. Mary was Post's step- daughter. William W. Brown was an African American abolitionist lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. He was born a slave and escaped to the North in 1834, where he wrote the first novel by an African American: Clotel, as well as Narrative of William W. Brown, a Fugitive Slave. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester.
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. Charles Sumner was a Massachusetts Senator and a radical abolitionist. Joseph Hayes resigned as Captain of the Watch and Police to avoid executing the Fugitive Slave Law. The new law made it illegal for anyone to aid escaping slaves. Nell refers to Anthony Burns, a runaway slave, who members of the Boston anti-slavery community tried to protect from slave catchers. The lawfulness of their actions was brought to court and Burns was eventually returned to his master. Lewis Hayden was a former slave and an abolitionist leader. Louisa was one of Nell's sisters. Ira was her son. Mary Hayden Green Pike wrote the anti-slavery novel, Ida May. Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote the novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin.
Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and a reform minister in the Unitarian Church. Stephen S. Foster was a radical abolitionist and a woman’s rights activist. Sally Holley traveled as an anti-slavery lecturer with Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone and Sarah Remond, and others. Sarah Hallowell Willis was Post’s sister. Joseph was Post's son. Willie was Post's youngest son and Mary Ann took care of him as a child. William and Mary Hallowell were Post's son-in-law and step- daughter. William W. Brown was an African American abolitionist lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. He was born a slave and escaped to the North in 1834, where he wrote the first novel by an African American: Clotel, as well as Narrative of William W. Brown, a Fugitive Slave. Charles Lenox Remond was a lecturer and an abolitionist leader.
(Page 1)
Kind friend Boston Nov 21. 1854
Amy Post
Thy excellent letter is now
before me = also one from P.R.T. of Waterloo
another from J.H.P. Australia = a note
from Dr Smith of New YorK =- This evening I
remained at the anti slavery [sic] office until near
9. writing = then intending to call upon Louisa
and some other friends = but they had gone
out and though I would have been a welcome
Visiter [sic] elsewhere I turned my Bachelor steps
homeward and here I am = in the setting room
while the family are enjoying a Sociable Chat
I am talKing to You with my pen.
I was unprepared for the news of Sarah
Birneys indisposition = hope by this time she is more
hopeful ^cer tain^ [sic] of recovery == She cannot be in better
quarters than 36 Sophia St with Amy Post for
a Nurse = Jacob too Is an excellent auxiliary in
all such emergencies. = Dont I Know = and shall
I ever forget? Tell Sarah to be hopeful and patient
anti slavery office } I am exceedingly sorry that Wm R.
6 P M Wednesday }
Hallowell did not secure Mr Phillips for an anti-
slavery lecture at Rochester = had he been a little
sooner Syracuse would have deferred until another
time = I done what I could and Mr Phillips was
in the mood for it. but in maKing out his Programme (Page 2)
Could not fill out = for Rochester or other places
without assurance the Committees ^Individuals^ in each locality-
refer ^This^ disappointment leads ^reminds^ me of further lament
the Success which seems to attend the managers
of the Rochester Anti Slavery Course =V= not that
I would wish to prevent it from doing what
good it may but that Such victories should
perch upon such banners is hard to be
endured. - I presume the Old Standard
bearers are entirely cut off from Social
intercourse with ParKer. Emerson Giddings
V= when they visit Rochester =and the
Usurping party appropriate to themselves
more certainly than belongs to them
I. had been led to expect that
Henry Ward Beecher felt mis used [sic] and Yet
behold = his promise not only to lecture V-
but volunteers the proceeds to the New
Organization and to F.D.s paper well
well. how art =- what magic and
potency Seems embodied in J.. G. = I sit not
a Shame that She should thus remain
so successful = when the resources of genuine
anti slavery [sic] in Rochester would be formidable
if roused up by a gallant spirit and
marshalled [sic] (not against the good but)
put forth by others but) in righteous and
consistent defence of themselves and thier [sic] position
(Page 3)
Phebe Thayer confirms the good news in Your letter
of the Sewing Circle progress V= I was delighted
and wish I was one among You in person
as I am happy to be in spirit = how
refreshing is the retrospect of Minerva Hall
Fair V= before Rochester affairs were
Griffithised- = Before I forget it let me
tell You that Mr Garrison says “Yes let the
Book come with the Bazaar Box”= he had a
grand time at Rochester = He awards a fine
tribute to the executiveness of Susan Anthony
Calling last Sunday Evening to see Mr
Phillips on some legislative anti slavery [sic] matters
I was met by Mr Garrison and his wife whose
invitation to tea I accepted and I enjoyed
a cosey [sic] hour in his happy family circle
He played and sung old psalm tunes
the Children put in thier [sic] sweet voices =
a little heaven on earth = his house
is but a stones throw from Francis Jackson -
situated liKe Fitzhugh & Sophia St. but nearer
I believe they can speaK from house to house
Joe Putman = writes me = “what would
the anti slavery [sic] cause be without the
Liberator and what would the Liberator
be without Mr Garrison” thats the way to
Say it thems my Sentiments -
By the Bye are you coming to Boston with the Box
Yes? Well I am very glad to hear You say so.
[Text aligned vertically along left margin of Page 3]
J.H.P. has not heard of or seen J.S. Jacobs in Australia -
(Page 4)
Mrs Knox at last accounts was a guest of Dr Willis
in Toronto = I see her Husband nearly every day
he by the bye = is a sceptic [sic] in Spiritual manifestation
and sometimes counteracts the operations -
I was very much interested with Judge Edmonds
lecture here = he had a large and intelligent
audience among them Josiah Quincy Jr and
Lady = The Judge severely criticised the
Free Love notions disclaiming it ^^as^ a legitimate
feature of Spiritualism = the Spiritual Fair
was held the evening previous = I attended
hoping to meet Catherine Fish = but She
was Non Et inventus = I had a chat
with Eliza & Mary Kenny = = The former has
been inactive this Season in her usual
anti slavery [sic] efforts in Salem = much to the
grief of the Society = She told me that
She considered antislavery [sic] included in her
Spiritualism V=
I hope Frank will show
herself at the Sewing Circles = perhaps
Phebe (Sentimental) Treadwell will Join her. in
the When Mr Kedzie has stopped his Liberator
perhaps John E. Robinson will resume.
By the Bye Watkins was in Providence
recently and was expected here but
has gone elsewhere = Is he assisting at
the office now -= But then I need not
have asked You- for these days are not liKe
the past-
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Nell refers to Joseph H. Putnam, an abolitionist, who was married to Caroline- sister of Charles Lenox Remond, an abolitionist leader. James McCune Smith was the first African American physician. Louisa was one of Nell's sisters. Sarah Birney was a mutual friend and an abolitionist. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street. Jacob was one of Post's sons. William R. Hallowell was Post's son-in-law. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. Ralph Waldo Emerson was a Transcendentalist and an abolitionist. Joshua Reed Giddings was an abolitionist. Henry Ward Beecher was a Congregationalist minister and a social reformer. F.D. refers to abolitionist and former slave, Frederick Douglass and his newspaper, the North Star. Phebe Thayer was a relative of the Post family. Nell refers to Julia Griffith, who helped to finance Douglass's newspaper. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator. Susan B. Anthony was a woman's rights leader. Parker Pillsbury was a Minister and an activist leader. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist from Boston, who was affiliated with several different anti-slavery associations, including the Boston Vigilance Committee. John S. Jacobs was author and former slave, Harriet Brent Jacobs's brother.
Nell refers to the Spiritualist movement, whose followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. A. S. Knox was a trance speaker in the Spiritualist movement. Judge John Worth Edmonds was one of the most influential early American Spiritualists, and a New York State politician. Josiah Quincy Jr. was the Mayor of Boston. Free Love challenged the conventions of matrimony and monogamy. Catherine Fox Fish was one of the founders of Spiritualism, along with her sister Margaret Fox. "Non Et inventus" derived from the Latin for "not present". John Hume Kedzie was a lawyer and a politician, who served in the Illinois House of Representatives. Francis was one of Nell's sisters. William J. Watkins worked with Douglass.
[Three lines of text written upside down along top margin of Page 1]
J H Putman Sends me an Australia Paper containing an
account of (Rochester) Pattersons ejection from a Saloon at
bidding of some Americans = Patterson recieved [sic] £50 damages
Kind Friend} Boston October 17- 1854
Amy Post and} Tuesday Eve. 6. oclock
the-Circle }
One week last Sunday I
commenced a letter= but a variety of
matters have interposed to the present
hence I begin again de novo_ as the
lawyers say
As You are probably aware
our party were all detained at the
Depot in Rochester along while owing
to an accident preventing an arriving
train = I did not dare leave for
36 Sophia St = for the Cake which
Sarah Birney promised = and which
would have done good Service = but I
practiced philosophy = accepted the Will
for the deed = as it was my own
forgetfulness tell Sarah Birney She
need not Save it until my next
Visit to Rochester = even though that
may be next April-
We did not reach Albany until
about 9 oclock = Brown and myself stopped
at Lydia Motts = Remond & excellent
half = at Wm. H. Topps = by advice of Mrs. Knox
we tooK the Northern route Via Grey &
Vermont = Remond & wife overtooK us at
(Page 2)
[One line of text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 2]
Yesterday in company with C F Hovey
Rutland = instead of saving two hours
we did not reach Boston until
9. . P.M. = but the Green Mountain
Scenery new to us all I. believe
amply compensated for the delay
Brown left with Remond for Salem =the
Depots =(being near nieghbers [sic]) = and they
attended the Laurence meeting Sunday
-
Theodore Parker= preached most grandly
next morning = Vacating his pulpit two
Succeeding Sundays for his Cincinnati
town = I noted in his discourse
the following = "Wisdom is Gods prime
Minister = Beauty is the Prime Ministers
wife" - Early deaths are
manslaughter V=–
Monday = Wm Wells Brown on his
way to dine with C. F. Hovey whose
Boys he had Londonised with -
met him (C. F. H.) in front of his
magnificent new Granite Bazaar
-
Brown and myself have supped several
times at Francis Jacksons once when
honored with Abby Kellys Company
(Mary Hallowell might have forwarded
that package by me for her-
(Page 3)
[Four lines of text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 3]
The Brown reception meeting has taxed my time and
Labor considerably = owning to complicated obstacles=
impediments = and preparing it for the Liberator also
Brown has a meeting tonight in Phila = he left here
I called at Wendell Phillips last evening =
found him responding to a large pile of
Letters = from Lyceum Committees V=
in reply to W. R. Hallowells question he told
me that he was perfectly willing to
lecture on anti slavery at Rochester at—
If he had a spare evening but he thinks
that the friends at Syracuse have
pre arranged for that =^^Sunday or other evening^ -I would advise
WR. Hallowell to correspond with W. P.
and the Syracusans at once = = perhaps
Rochester can Yet be gratified-
Mr Garrison left Yesterday morning
for Cincinnati = he had intended
Speaking at Rochester on his return home
So= all You have to do= is to prepare
the way for it= Election will then
be over probably = better address him
at once_ if in Cincinnati he can be
easily reached
The Boston Bazaar will probably be held
in a new hall near Music Hall
I shall hereafter send You what facts
I gain interesting or important for
your Circle-
I shall soon write to
Jacob
(Page 4)
Mr Garrison has lately had Some rare
Spiritual experience = communications
from N. P. Rogers as he told me similar to
those in Isaac Posts Book-
T . W. Higginson officiated for Theodore
Parker last Sunday = of course there
were many golden thoughts= aside
from his Sermon I had a pleasant
time with him in the ante room
one of the prerequisites of my position
Dr Knox tells me Hiram Wilson has 5 dollr per week
board from Mrs. Knox = The Dr has lately had
Some house difficulty with Mr Willis -the father
of N. P. W. = the old man is an Orthodox Deacon = but=
with him = contract unless written and witnessed
are not very binding == I presume the Doctor
who until this hour will come out right
Harriet Jacobs tells me today She expects to
leave here on Saturday She is improved in
health = and Sends Kind remembrances to her
Rochester friends.
For a weeK past I have had
on hand a Slave case = and with the aid of
Louisa = her son Ira = Lewis Hayden and J. K. Hayes
of Burns rendition notoriety have been attempting
to put as ^the^ girl en route for liberty (being brought
here by her master and of course free
She is a remarKably intelligent Girl but
relies so much on some slaveholding promises as to
hesitate = what the result will be I cannot
now tell = Write me Soon = Faithfully Yours W. C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Joseph Putnam was an abolitionist and married to Caroline- the sister of Charles Lenox Remond, an abolitionist leader. "de novo" comes the Latin "from the beginning". Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street. Sarah Birney was a mutual friend and abolitionist. William Wells Brown was a slave, who once he became free, worked as an anti-slavery lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. After escaping to the North, Brown wrote the first novel by an African American, Clotel, as well as, Narrative of William W. Brown, a Fugitive Slave. Lucretia Mott was an abolitionist and a woman's rights activist. William H. Topps was a free black abolitionist and a tailor from Albany, New York. Charles Fox Hovey was a businessman and abolitionist from Boston, who established the department store C.F. Hovey and Co. A.S. Knox was a trance speaker in the Spiritualist movement. Followers of Spiritualism believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Theodore Parker was an Unitarian Minister, who supported Church reforms and the abolition of slavery. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist from Boston, who was affiliated with several abolitionist groups, including the Boston Vigilance Committee. Abby Kelley Foster was also an abolitionist leader. Mary Hallowell was Post's step- daughter. William Lloyd Garrison edited the abolitionist newspaper, the Liberator.
Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. William R. Hallowell was Post's son-in-law. Jacob was one of Post's sons. Nathaniel Peabody Rogers was an abolitionist writer and the editor of the New England anti-slavery newspaper Herald of Freedom. Nell refers to Isaac Post's book Voices From The Spirit World, Being Communications From Many Spirits. Thomas Wentworth Higginson was a Unitarian minister, author, and activist. Hiram Wilson was an abolitionist from Canada and opened his home in Ontario as a final stop on the Underground Railroad. Nathaniel Parker Willis, was a abolitionist, who helped to free and later employed author and former slave, Harriet Brent Jacobs, who wrote Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. Louisa was Nell's sister and Ira was her son. Lewis Hayden Grimes was an abolitionist leader and former slave. Nell refers to Anthony Burns, who was a fugitive slave. Boston abolitionists worked to hide Burns, once he escaped from slavery to prevent his capture, thus challenging the legality of the Fugitive Slave Act. The case was eventually brought to trial, and Burns was returned to his master.
(Page 1)
[Five lines of text aligned upside down along top left margin of Page 1]
Sunday Sept— 17th
Beautiful Day
Grand Sermon Friday Morning
from Parker Sept 15
(Harriet Jacobs was there 1854
Wm. W. Brown did not get
here Yesterday but leaves by
the PacKet Ship City of
Manchester = probably
reach Philadelphia by the
20th = hope he will be
in time for Syracuse
meeting –
Wednesday Eve I accompanied
Louisa and her friend Eliza Bundy
to hear a relative of Ira =
play upon the Piano She
is a Young Girl about 15
and is a most capital
performer = natural
easy and and graceful
(Page 2)
Mary Ann and Willie
would have been
delighted –
Mr. Garrison = has
been enjoying Mrs
Follens company at
his house or he would
have left this morning
for the Worcester meeting
=
Here come T Wentworth
Higginson = the two are
having a fine talK
about Sumner and
the Burns trial
and his (Higginsons)
looked for turn in Court
(Page 3)
as he says it matters not
which gets it the
Government or himself
It will in either case
prove a victory
Last evening I met
with a Social company
a part of whom a Year
ago = Conspired against
Louisa = a tale of
attempting to loosen the ties
of friendship between her
and Some who have grown
up with her as Sisters
-
They have been completely
failed = and are desirous
of healing the breach
(Page 4)
I- of course like Louisa
will be civil towards them
but =I cannot forget so
Soon = those who –
while Smiles wreathe the face
with Kindness beaming from the
eye
And Melody in the voice –
have hate rankling in the
heart
-
Should I come I will bring
Mary Hallowell = Phillips
Daguerreotype. The Lithograph will be
out soon.
Please have delivered to F. D. paper the
note containing an obituary
Happy to say this
leaves me in encouraging
health and spirits
[obliterated] I wonder if Joseph
Posts wife has been waKed from
a midnight dream= by Robbers
breaKing into the house again=
[obliterated] W. C. N.
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and a reform minister of the Unitarian Church, as well as an abolitionist. Harriet Brent Jacobs was a former slave, who wrote Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. William W. Brown was an African American abolitionist lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. He was born a slave and escaped to the North in 1834, where he wrote the first novel by an African American- Clotel and Narrative of William W. Brown, a Fugitive Slave. Louisa could refer to Nell's sister or Jacobs's daughter. Willie was Post's youngest son. Mary Ann took care of him as a child.
William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. Eliza Lee Cabot Follen was an author and abolitionist. Thomas Wentworth Higginson was a Unitarian minister, author, and social reform activist. Charles Sumner was a Massachusetts Senator and a radical abolitionist. Nell refers to the Anthony Burns trial, which confronted the legality of the Fugitive Slave Act. The law prohibited Northerners from harboring or aiding escaped slaves. Following this law, the courts would return Burns to his master. Mary Hallowell was Post's step- daughter. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist. Nell refers to Frederick Douglass and his abolitionist newspaper, the North Star. Joseph Post was one of Post's sons.
Boston Sept 10. 1854.
Kind Friend Amy Post- 9. o'clocK
Sunday Eve
Though a stormy day =Theodore ParKer had a
good audience who in turn recieved [sic] a
grand discourse == I have Just returned
from a Visit to my Sister Louisa with
whom in a few days I am to commence
boarding = -The weather has prevented
Harriet Jacobs coming in from Cambridgeport
and spending the days opposite = as she had
promised= She is becoming improved in
health by her thus freeing herself awhile
from Idlewild associations-
Please maKe no reference to the matter
we spoKe of= I promise to give You
soon a definite reason there for-
A mutual friend of Jeremiah
B. Sandersons and my own = residents
of Sandwich =(Cape Cod) = Mr J. F. ClarK
is now in the City = intending soon to leave
for Whitesboro Oneida Co== Herself and
Husband tell me they made Yours and
Husbands acquaintance as they Visited
Rochester recently
(Page 2)
They are a whole Souled couple and
eminently worthy of Isaac and Amy's
acquaintanceship = I shall have more to
say of them by and bye-
I tooK tea with her Sisters family
night before last= and enjoyed it much
So Dorcas and Henry have made
You a visit = Did You find the Ladies
Almanac? Did Dorcas read Wensley?
Did You leave= English Laws for Women
with Sarah Thayer? If so I have
another copy = which will be sent the
earliest opportunity= Just the BooK for
Mary Hallowell =Sarahs = Willis = Burtis
Fish =Anthonys De Garmo V= to read
by the way I promised it to Susan
Anthony= I Know in Your hands it will
do good-
a few days since I heard
Charles Sumner at the anti slavery [sic]
office narrate the Congressional
Scenes between himself Butler & Mason
It was rich indeed = Isaac
William and Edmund would
have enjoyed it = Sumner has been
truly represented by Higginson as constructed
(Page 3)
with many Statesmen = a Light House
among Lamp Posts-
Wednesday 5. P. M.
I was intending a visit to Salem this
evening = but Wm W. Brown is expected
to arrive in the Niagara before morning
and I want to be on hand to
greet him= as I have done to
Garrison = Rogers = ^George Thompson^ Douglass - Remond
Mary Chapman Vc and bidding God
speed to them as also Pillsbury -
Wm G. Allen et al-
Mrs. Charles Follen was here to day [sic]
Just arrived from the old world
She was much interested with a letter
in my Journal from her Husband
the lamented Professor in 1835-
Yes Says She = "He always said what
he meant =”
She brings encouraging
reports of the Womens efforts in Paris
and elsewhere = for the coming
anti Slavery [sic] Bazaar == This sentence
brings to mind = Minerva Hall = Rochester
(Page 4)
in that early day of my acquaintance
with the tried and faithful band of
Women = So outrageously superseded
by the disaffected = I never can
get reconciled to it = the memory of
it irritates = So You see I am not
as patient as I should be = Knowing
as I do that ultimately the right will
triumph = But How Long, Oh Lord
must we wait –
I am not sure but that I may pass through
Rochester within 2 weeks = returning for the
Syracuse meeting= dont rely upon it = nor say
it to others = for I so often get disappointed
Please write me soon = I am anxious to hear
I dreamed that Willie was in the Spirit
land = a few nights since = they say
Dreams go by Contraries You Know.
Tell Mary Ann =I will consent to
"Wait for the Wagon"= when she tunes
her Harp== Love to Jacob Faithful
Tell Joseph = The New Boston Theatre just opened
exceeds for size = beauty and appointments throughout
all others in the United States = and no mistaKe
go =the whole circle including Sarah Birney. Say God Bless You
Ever yours Wm C. Nell
[Text aligned along left margin of Page 4]
I often dwell on the pleasant hours I shared at the homes of William & Mary Edmund & Sarah
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and reform minister of the Unitarian Church. Harriet Jacobs was an abolitionist and former slave. Nell refers to the home of her former employer, Cornelia and Nathaniel Willis, called- Idlewild. Jeremiah B. Sanderson was a free, black man who left the Northeast to move to California, where he became active in the movement to offer education to black children. Dorcas and Henry Collins were mutual friends of the Post family. Sarah Thayer was a relative of the Posts. Mary Hallowell was Post's step- daughter. Sarah was Post's sister. Sarah Burtis was a woman's rights activist, and Susan B. Anthony's second cousin. Sarah Anthony and Sarah Fish and the De Garmo family were also woman's rights activists. Charles Sumner was a radical abolitionist, who became a Senator representing Massachusetts. Andrew Butler and James Mason were both pro-slavery Congressmen.
William Hallowell was Post's son-in-law. Edmund Willis was Post's brother-in-law. Thomas Wentworth Higginson was the editor of the Atlantic Monthly and an abolitionist. William Wells Brown was an African American abolitionist, lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. He was born a slave, and escaped to the North in 1834, where he wrote the first novel by an African American, titled- Clotel. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator. Nathaniel Peabody Rogers was also an abolitionist. George Thompson was a British abolitionist. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave. Charles Lenox Remond was an abolitionist and lecturer. Mary Chapman was an abolitionist and a member of the member of the American Anti-Slavery Society. Parker Pillsbury was a minister, abolitionist, writer and woman’s rights activist. Professor William G. Allen was the editor of the National Watchman, which was a Temperance and abolitionist newspaper for African Americans. Charles Follen was a British poet and abolitionist. Mary Ann Pitkin took care of the Post's youngest son, Willie. Jacob and Joseph were Post's other sons. Sarah Birney was a mutual friend of Nell and Post.
(Page 1)
Monday Morning 10. O’clock} Boston July 31. 1854
at antislavery office
Esteemed Friend
Amy Post-
The Board are now in session = Abby Foster
on hand = I sieze [sic] this early moment to pen a
line = by way of telling you of my safe arrival V=
Leaving you Henry and Dorcas
( a choice trio to me) I reached Albany in time
too late for Boston train = I repaired to my
friend Wm N. Topp who tendered me a cordial
welcome = He with his family were in affliction
having Just [obliterated] ^lost^ a much loved connection by Cholera
the wife of Thomas [Vogelsang?] = a young and lovely
woman leaving 3 little ones =-
Visited Lydia Mott and had a course of a
good conversation = found Amos G. Berman
who roomed with me at Topps-
during the night I was half crazy with
the tooth ache = but my first business on rising
was to Colonize the troublesome customer and
but for a semi Cholera attack = continuing
to Springfield I soon resumed my usual
comfortable state of health and spirits-
I was Joined at Springfield by a
young man (Howell or Powell) who knows you and
Rochester friends = well = he Just reached Boston
in time to meet Stephen & Abby in the Stoneham train
(Page 2)
Here comes Stephen Foster =.
I found a large batch of letters
here one from Harriet Jacobs announcing
her recent illness = and the fact that
Louisa was in Boston = = I met her Sunday
and after tea crossed the Charles River in a
Ferry Boat (the Bridge being repaired ) with her
and Mr & Mrs Louther = had a pleasant
chat = free and easy = hope to enjoy her
company at the Abington celebration
tomorrow = and perhaps more in future
( what are you smiling at ?
Mum’s the word-
Wednesday 10. at Night -
Yesterday I did enjoy Louisa Jacobs company
at Abington = the Liberator will tell you
of the very interesting occasion = every thing
contributed to render this First of
August a triumphant event
Returning we were Joined by
Charles Remonds wife and friends at tea
in Vintons Saloon thence to Boston
Common where a Band was discoursing
sweet music by moonlight-
Today I have had a good time at
Cambridge = anticipate more tomorrow
and perhaps on Friday Louisa will leave for
for New York.
(Page 3)
Thursday = and Lovely weather
One week ago = at Just this hour I was
at Mrs Jenkins = where we had a very
happy reunion = = to day I am to
accompany Louisa Jacobs to my sister Louisas
and call on a few friends then have a pleasant
Moonlight sail across the river to Cambridge
where an evening party will tender thier [sic]
good wishes to the Visitor from New York
Henry C. Wright and Stephen S. Foster
are better impressed with William R.
Hallowells Face of Phillips than the Boston
one = = They are both so good = the friends
are puzzled = I shall likely get a grand
one by the artist blending the beauties of
each -
I shall not soon forget Mary Pitkins
singing = Wait for the Waggon [sic]-
Her voice should be cultivated = but
harmoniously with her other powers -
I saw but too little of Jacob & Joseph
Sarah Birney = and indeed of Mary
and Sarah Hallowell with thier [sic] other
halves = but was happy very happy with the
share of thier company that I did get favored with
(Page 4)
I certainly meant to have called at
Benj Fishs but was detained so long
with Charlotte Murray at Mrs Stanleys
as to cut off the chance = please tell
Sarah Fish this much for me
I believe I left some notions up stairs -
besides the little Almanac for Elizabeth Jacobs
please see = what there is of mine =
perhaps a Razor = Handkerchief = Note Book
cover scraps V= = I was told that Watkins
would leave in a few days for Boston -
I will ask Frank to call for them that he
will take them
I hope to recieve [sic] more of English Laws for
Women = so dispose of the one you have to as
good an advantage as possible = it is promised
to Susan Anthony.
Please divide my Love among
the whole circle = Write soon
from Isaac to Willie
and believe me
Sincerely your Friend
William C.Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Abby Kelley Foster and her husband, Stephen, were both abolitionists and women’s rights activists. William Topp was a tailor and a black abolitionist from Albany, New York. Lydia Mott was an abolitionist and woman's rights activist. Amos G. Beman was a black minister from Connecticut and a supporter of abolition, suffrage, and Temperance reforms.
Harriet Jacobs was a former slave and wrote Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. Her daughter's name was Louisa. George Lowther was a black anti-slavery writer who wrote a testamonial at the end of Jacobs's book.
Nell refers to radical abolitionist, William Lloyd Garrison's newspaper the Liberator.
Charles Lenox Remond was an American orator and abolitionist. The Jenkins family opened their home as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Reverend Henry C. Wright was a member of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society.
William R. Hallowell was Post's son-in-law, married to Sarah. Jacob and Joseph were Post's sons. Mary Post Hallowell was Post's daughter.
Benjamin Fish was Sarah Fish’s husband. The Fish family were women's rights activist. Charlotte Murray was Frederick Douglass's sister-in-law, who lived with them for a number of years.
Nell mentions woman's rights activist, Susan B. Anthony. Isaac was Post's husband and Willie was their youngest child.
(Page 1)
Tuesday Eve 9 oclock.
Boston June 13th 1854
My Kind Friend Amy Post
Here I am on board the
Bay State en route for New YorK = and availing myself
of a portable ink stand here ^am^ seated at the Cabin
centre table = penning a few lines before retiring.
I have stolen this (my first) opportunity of
escape from Boston Fugitive Slave excitement
to finish up some long deferred business in
New York = the past two weeKs have been
Crowded with events unparallelled [sic] in the
anti slavery [sic] history of the Nation = a whole
volume I could fill with thier [sic]
narration = did the circumstances now favor
it =I may get the Chance to impart
them verbally in July =at Rochester should my
arrangements for a Western trip be successful
I. Knew Anthony Burns soon after his arrival
here and procured him a situation at Northampton
he broke his promise however = and Soon was in
hands of the Kidnapper = I need not tell You
that from the first to the last I was up and
doing and almost wore myself out .
and this morning sent the last on my list
2 women and a Child to Canada = Some of these
(Page 2)
Cases have been very interesting-
John G. Whittier Sent me a letter enclosing
money to aid families of those arrested.
Mrs. Stowe forwarded by me a present of her
illustrated Uncle Tom to Mr Hayes the
Noble Policeman = She also subscribed Tenderly
on the testimonial-
Boston
Wednesday July 21, 1854
I improved the chance of Visiting Harriet and
Louisa Jacobs at Idlewild = and shall not soon
forget the pleasure I recieved [sic] = I reached there
Thursday noon and left Saturday morning –
Mr & Mrs Willis treated me very handsomely –
I witnessed the Christening of thier Youngest
Child Edith = = the beauties of ldlewild are
Characteristic of the Poet. I had several conversations
with Harriet Jacobs = in which Your name
and other loved Rochester associations
found prominent mention = we talked
some of Mrs Stowe =and as You are
familiar with that history I forbear
further remarks = I covet a talK
with You on these and other
topics = a more congenial plan than
that of letter writing - -
what I cannot tell You. I dont breathe to
(Page 3)
anyone –
My Sister Louisa is now convalescent,
her little Girl lived but a few hours-
Did I tell You of being Groomman for
Gilliard & Helen = I stood with Georgiana
the whole affair was most brilliant
She ^Helen^ has returned from New YorK = he has sailed for
California = I have stood Eleven times –
and I presume for the last-
Caroline Putman accompanied Mrs Purvis
to Philadelphia = Arriel (Wood) Webb is settled
there now = I had a happy time with
Georgiana and friends at Williamsburgh [sic]
Jerry writes me from California of his hard
walK across the Isthmus and dull prospects for
Business = I trust by this time a bright day
dawns upon him = for the SaKe of Wife &
little ones at home.
I learn that my
Choice friend Sarah Hallowell Willis is about removing
to near 36 Sophia Street = How pleasant that
must be for You and Her=-
I often sit down in imagination
with You Sarah and Mary Hallowell
and revel in the associations of past happy hours-
(Page 4)
Tell Jacob - that he must consider
this letter as partly belonging to him= I trust
that the happiness will Soon be mine of
ShaKing him heartily by the hand
I shall bring with me some of the
Garrison Portraits = in a few months
I shall have also Wendell Phillips-
I am having illustrations by a sKillful
Artist for the third edition of my
BooK = This reminds me of
Harriet Jacobs= Narrative which I have
urged her putting to press pledging
any Service in my power for its promotion
How premature but characteristic was
Douglass = censure of Wendell Phillips course
at the Faneuil Hall meeting =-
My health continues encouraging
Hope Yours is excellent –
Please distribute my best wishes to the
whole Circle and believe me
Ever Gratefully Your Friend
William C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Nell refers to the Fugitive Slave Act, which made it illegal for anyone to aid or harbor an escaping slave. Anthony Burns was born a slave and eventually escaped, but due to the recent passage of the Fugitive Slave Act, Burns was returned to his master. John G. Whittier was a Quaker poet and abolitionist. Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Mr. Hayes may refer to Joseph K. Hayes, who resigned his duties as Captain of the Watch and Police to avoid adhering to the Fugitive Slave Act. Louisa Jacobs was the daughter of Harriet Jacobs, who was a former slave and wrote the novel, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. At the time of this letter, both women lived at the Idlewild home of the Willis family. Cornelia and Nathaniel P. Willis had helped Harriet escape from slavery and had employed her for a time.
Georgiana Putnam was activist, Joseph H. Putnam’s sister. She was fired for petitioning segregation in schools, while being employed by the district. Caroline Putnam was abolitionist, Charles Remond’s sister, and married to Joseph Putnam. Harriet Forten Purvis was active in anti-slavery groups. Jeremiah Sanderson was a friend of Nell's and a free black man, who left Boston to go to California and explore business opportunities. Nell refers to Post's home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Sarah was Post's sister. Mary Hallowell was Post's step- daughter. Jacob was one of Post's sons. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and editor of the Liberator. Wendell Phillips was also an abolitionist. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and a former slave. Nell refers to the recent split in the anti-slavery movement between Douglass and Garrison. Douglass no longer believed that the United States Constitution was pro-slavery- unlike Garrison- he believed it was anti-slavery.
(Page 1)
[Three lines of text written upside down along top margin of Page 1]
Had a happy time at the Friday Morning
Wedding= Vive la Matrimony Charming Weather and I am
Correspondingly well—
I Shall be unable Sunday Eve April 16
to pen such a letter in answer 1854
to Yours as I would liKe = every day occur matters
that I am desirous of communication but alas
alas = the work cannot be done and I must
practice philosophy and be content –
I am exceedingly anxious once more
to look You and Isaac Post in the face
and grasp Your friendly hand
and to enjoy a few moments (if no more
Can be mine) chat with William & Mary
Sarah L. Hallowell Willis= and the other choice
names composing the Sophia Street Circle
There is a base possibility of such a happiness
being mine Soon dont mention it for
fear of Some failure on my part-
A Visiter [sic] down Stairs [sic]
at supper time [sic] was conversing about F. D.
a Colored Minister from Canada
a former acquaintance with Mr. D
and family at Lynn = from him I
infer She gathered Some hard opinion
He has Visited Rochester = and
alluded to Mr D. as being unhappy
A good many people thus
believe = many I dare say from mere
hearsay=- I am of the opinion that
Mr D is not very happy-
In conversation I Seldom Say much in the
above vein = but there are enough disaffected
ones who speak freely-
(Page 2)
Though I have been so dilatory I Shall
eagerly looK for an early line from You
Shall I anticipate seeing You at the
New York meeting-=
I am happy in being enabled to
Say that my health continues
encouraging-
Please tender my Kind
regards to all the Friends = Burtis
Anthony = De Garmo = Fish CV-
To Jacob & Joseph Sarah Birney and
Mary Ann Little Willie the same
What I have omitted in this
letter will be gathered up some other
time =
Monday 12 oclock
A disagreeable Snow Storm-
Caroline Putman Just Called in
on business for her Husband in Australia
Here comes a letter from
Wm G. Allen =he has seen Parker Pillsbury
who was then recovering-
How does Free Meeting flourish
Wishing You abundant health and
happiness I remain as ever Truly Yours
William C Nell
[Text written upside down along top margin of Page 2]
Bright and Beautiful Wednesday morning
The Elements Say = Come Haste to the Wedding
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. William and Mary Hallowell were Post's son-in-law and step- daughter. Sarah L. Hallowell was Post’s sister, and Edmund P. Willis was her husband. Nell refers to the Post family home on Sophia Street. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave. Nell refers to the recent split in the anti-slavery movement between Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison. Douglass no longer believed that the United States Constitution was pro-slavery- unlike Garrison- he believed it was anti-slavery.
Lewis Burtis was married to woman's rights activist, Susan B. Anthony’s second cousin, Sarah Anthony. Elias and Rhoda De Garmo were early members of the Western New York Anti-Slavery Society. Leah Fox Fish was the older sister of Margaret and Catherine Fox, who began the Spiritualist movement in Rochester. Spiritualists, like the Posts, believed through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Jacob, Joseph and Willie were Post's sons. Mary Ann lived with the Posts for a period of time and took care of Willie. Caroline Putnam was married to abolitionist, Joseph Putnam. William G. Allen was editor of the National Watchman, a Temperance and abolitionist paper for African Americans. Parker Pillsbury was a Minister and abolitionist.
(Page 1)
[Six lines of text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 1]
Wednesday [min?] Weather fine
I have enjoyed the treat of listening to a conversation between
Mrs Stowe =Edwd Beecher and Mr Garrison =on Senator
Douglas = Gerrit Smith (Mr. B. has Just returned from Washington)
She is far from feeling satisfied
= the question of Government Vc with the Council action on the College fund
Boston April 9 1854
My Valued Friend
Amy Post
It is now nearly
Eleven O . Clock Sunday night =I am all alone in
my Yet Bachelor Sanctum = My table covered
with papers printed and written = public
affairs = Business items = and Social correspondence.
I ought long Since to have acKnowledged
Your Characteristic (by which term I mean
excellent) letter of Feb 27, but commencing
now I may close tomorrow = indeed
have Similar favors to reciprocate from-
Dorcas Collins Phebe Thayer Wm G Allen
Jacob K. Post= Wm J. Watkins and others
I. have today partially secured a
permanent position at the Sunday Services of
Theodore Parker in the spacious and beautiful
Music Hall= the Post though one of responsibility
and Honor for prespectively [sic] a stepping stone to some
other facilities is not Yet one of much pecuniary
attraction= but the unanimity of a standing Committee
vote inviting me and superseding the incumbent of
many Years [obliterated] I can but appreciate as a
compliment = the labors are trifling = attendance
only Sunday forenoon =while the advantage is
mine of an association with a circle of the
good, true, and beautiful, of earth = as it
and thus I am content to be even as a
Door Keeper curator in Such a House than
a dweller in many other places.
(Page 2)
I am rather proud in having in my possession
the Keys of the anti slavery [sic] office and
Theodore Parkers Church = but enough
on this matter for now at least ,
I am happy to say that my health is
ordinarily good = I sincerely trust Yours
and family are excellent-
I. have not heard from Frank = but
indirectly learn She has presented Benjamin with
a third pledge = perhaps before this is mailed I
Shall receive a good long letter .= Louisa does
not Know that I am telling You that she
expects tendering Ira with a similar toKen
Miss Wood = is soon to ^be^ encircled in the golden
Webb of Matrimony = (I believe You and myself have
talKed on this subject= Mr Webb Just from
California and herself have fanned the embers
of an early affection into a blaze-
Helen Putman is an expectant of a liKe
bestowment. her heart complaint will Yield to
the Panacea = a Balm of California Gilead
Snowing . Saturday 10 o'clock AM
Taking advantage of a storm without
I will resume my writing = and since Sunday
Eve I. have recieved [sic] a letter from Benjamin and
Frank = the little Girl is named Adelaide-
An invitation has also been recieved [sic]= to_
to meet Mr Webb and Miss Wood= next Wedding day
Eve 19th - - [obliterated] at Dean St. Salem = where I thinK
shall probably witness = that all will be merry
as a Marriage Bell= The voice - says
If You have tears prepare
to shed them now.
(Page 3)
[Four lines of text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 3]
I had some Bloomer talK with Lucy Stone = She did not own to
giving it up but temporarily = though I just heard Mr. Walcutt intimate
to Edmund Quincy or Cincinnati news = that the Dress has been given up
and moreover that she has made a Conquest of= rumor
only.
[Two lines of text aligned along left margin of Page 3]
Douglass = Knows that I did not report the Council proceedings = and Yet what an attempt
to create a [poor] impression= the end is not Yet.
I. had some pleasant conversations with Andrew Jackson
Davis about Rochester friends = How [obliterated] Douglass vents
his ill feeling against all old society friends as in
his remarks and misrepresentations of Mr Davis at
Corinthian Hall and Lucy Stone at Philadelphia
as though Mr Davis meant that he had discovered
the souls immortality when he alluded to the fact of its
being only more deeply impressed upon now upon
Society = = I have talKed with Lucy Stone about the
Colored exclusive matter = and told her the [semintary?] [sic]
in Philadelphia as I learned from Mr Remond
and while I admit that she could have made a
very emphatic demonstration by throwing up her
lecture = Yet in view of what She did say and do
and her sterling Character = a rebuke from
Douglass comes with a very ill grace = [Why?]
would he refuse to speaK in a hall from
where a Woman is excluded = perhaps Yes =
and perhaps No._
I sincerely sympathise with
our mutual friend Mrs Coleman in the Loss of her
Husband = I never heard of any unfavorable impression
made by her upon friends in Boston= but quite the
Contrary = They were only fearful that by absenting
herself among her relatives = that they would
be deprived of the opportunity to tender her
Hospitality = = I Know She was liKed much
and all that I heard SpeaK of her wished
further acquaintance-
Her Bloomer Dress attracted some attention =there was but
one other Bloomer in attendance at the Bazaar =being
Did She tell You of our walk up Washington St ^and being^ insulted?
(Page 4)
John Dick has lately sent a letter to Mr Garrison from Canada
Wendell Phillips has sent on his Daguerreotype to Mrs May of
Syracuse = He was recently returned from a Salem Lyceum
lecturing tour: and met in the Cars Henry Ward Beecher
and Ralph Waldo Emerson= there must have been a
rich mental feast served up by such a trio –
W. P. has lectured over 200 evenings this winter bef
Season before Lyceums
Mary Bibb has sailed I believe for
California and so has Jeremiah B Sanderson –
Joseph Putmans health has not improved in Australia
I. miss him and Jerry = and indeed for an
intimate companion = I am at quite a loss-
Society enough =but my heart Yearns for a
Special loved and loving friend = but I
will not stop to play on this almost worn
out string now .
I could write a volume about
Spiritual manifestation = the converts every day
added to the list = from every Circle of Society
one -friend is now in the office = one Just left=
full of new = interesting and convincing facts.
I sometimes reproach myself for not paying
more attention to the subject = though I believe_
I do not SeeK intercourse with Spirits as
perhaps =there are opportunities for = and would
be an advantage to me –
Phebe Thayer Sent me a letter some time since
She has been much interested with Judge Edmonds
Work on Spiritualism = I should think Phebe
Would liKe to follow Abby in the Matrimonial
march = - I once and a while thinK of
our evenings ride to Alexander St. }pleasant
You = Sarah Hallowell and myself=} recollections
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Harriet Beecher Stowe was the author of Uncle Tom's Cabin. Her brother was Henry Ward Beecher, a Congregationalist clergyman and social reformer. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and editor of the Liberator. Nell refers to Stephen Douglas- a United States Senator- who would lose the Republican Party's nomination for President in 1860 to Abraham Lincoln. Gerrit Smith was an abolitionist leader.
Dorcas Collins was a mutual friend of Nell and Post. Phebe and Abby Thayer were relatives of the Post family. William G. Allen was editor of the National Watchman, a Temperance and abolitionist paper for African Americans. Jacob K. Post was Amy's son. William J. Watkins worked with abolitionist and former slave, Frederick Douglass. Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and reform minister of the Unitarian Church, as well as an abolitionist.
Frances and Louisa were Nell's sisters. Benjamin and Ira were Nell's brothers-in-law. Mr. Webb could refer to a school teacher named John G. Webb. "Balm of California Gilead" refers to a stream in Trinity County, California. Lucy Stone was a woman's rights leader and wore the "Bloomer Costume"- a dress with pants underneath. Charles Walcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby. Edmund Quincy Stone was a member of the Massachusetts Anti-slavery Society. Andrew Jackson Davis was a Spiritualist healer. Spiritualists believed through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Charles Lenox Remond was an orator and an abolitionist.
Lucy Coleman was an abolitionist and woman's rights activist. John Dick printed Douglass’s newspaper, The North Star. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist leader. Ralph Waldo Emerson was a writer, poet, and Transcendentalist. Mary Bibb was born Mary Miles to a Quaker family of free blacks, and married to former slave Henry Bibb, who was active in the abolitionist movement. Jeremiah B. Sanderson was a free black man and an abolitionist, who moved from the Northeast to California during the gold rush and became an influential spokesman and educator. Joseph Putnam was married to Caroline- the sister of abolitionist- Charles Lenox Remond. Judge Edmonds was one of the most influential early American Spiritualists, as well as President of the Senate and Judge of the Supreme Court of New York. Sarah Hallowell was Post’s sister.
(Page 1)
Boston Feb 19. 1854
My Valued Friend
It is late Sunday
night = I have penned a few lines to
Jacob and Joseph = also to Benjamin
and must before returning Jot down
Some words of Kind remembrance to
Amy Post to forward by Mr. Watkins
He has this evening given an
anti slavery [sic] lecture in Roxbury and
tomorrow wends his way to Rochester
where I would liKe to be for a
few days- I heard a grand
discourse from Theodore Parker
this morning and this evening
another from Andrew Jackson Davis
from there I visited the Howards in
Poplar St. where with Louisa and
Little Ira the time passed pleasant
with Cordelia De Grasse and others
I am anxious to hear from You
all at Rochester of Wm & Mary Hallowell
Sarah Hallowell and Edmund = of Isaac
Post = and some account of Sarah Birney
of Mary Pitkin and Willie-
Do impart
(Page 2)
I have recently recieved [sic] a letter
from Harriet Jacobs who enquires
about her Kind friend Amy Post
She would liKe to hear from You She
is Yet with Mr. Willis = though She
and Louisa thinK of removing to
Boston before many months
-
I today was favored with a
Forget me not Valentine = but
liKe the one from Rushville I have
no Knowledge of who Sent it.
I have also Just recieved [sic] a very
interesting letter from Professor
Wm G. Allen= He is very pleasantly
Situated in London being patronised
in one course of Lectures by Lady
Byron = He SpeaKs in the most
exalted terms of his wife
and wishes me to find Just
Such an one = if wishing on
my part would do any good
the idea [obliterated] and realization
would be near nieghbours
though I have not Yet abandoned
the hope of changing my condition
it may be however from Bad to
Worse-
(Page 3)
Read what Mr. Allen says of
F. D. Jan 1854
To what a depth of [skinniness?] has
Frederick Douglas descended = His
last stupid article = Reviews V= proves
that he has lost his senses as well
as his conscience =His attempt to
excite the prejudice of the Colored People
against Mr. Garrison because of his very
Sensible and philosophic remarK is
unparallelled [sic] in cruelty ingratitude
and meanness = It is with great
Sorrow that I have read his last
paper = Mr. Garrison lives however
and to be honored by all the faithful
of earth-
A few weeks since I disappointed
myself of a good time with Charles
Lenox Ramond and a party including
Miss Wood and her reputed intended
a returned Californian) = They had a
sliegh [sic] ride from Salem to Essex
to the antislavery [sic] meeting where
with C.C. Burleigh and Loring Moody
they intended a large audience
It was in Essex many Years
(Page 3)
ago I attended a meeting with
Douglass. Remond & Henry Clapp
Clapp has Just returned from
Europe ( I have not Yet met him
A number of Young Men have
Just formed a Literature Society
I am Editor for a term.
Please give my Kind regards
to Mrs. Douglass when You see
her = To the Circle of Choice
friends You will of course
distribute the Same-.
I want to sit down and
talK with You Isaac
and the rest = but in this
world few of our wants
are gratified.
I am daily looKing for a letter
which If You have not Yet
written I trust will be hastened
by this scrawl= Believe me ever
Your Friend Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Jacob and Joseph are two of Post’s sons. William J. Watkins worked with abolitionist and former slave, Frederick Douglass. Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and reform minister in the Unitarian Church, as well as an abolitionist. Andrew Jackson Davis was a Spiritualist healer. Spiritualists believed that through mediums, the living could communicate with the dead. The Posts were two such believers. Cordelia (Howard) De Grasse was an African American abolitionist. Louisa was Nell's sister and Ira was her son. Nell refers to Post's family members, including her son-in-law and step- daughter, William and Mary Hallowell, Post's sister and brother-in-law, Sarah Hallowell and Edmund Willis, and the Post's youngest son, Willie. Sarah Birney was a mutual friend of Nell and Post. Mary Ann Pitkin lived with the Post family for a period and cared for Willie.
Harriet Jacobs was an abolitionist and former slave, who wrote the book Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. Jacobs was then living with her daughter, Louisa, in Cornelia and Nathanial P. Willis's home. The Willis's had helped to buy Jacobs's freedom from slavery and employed her for a period. Professor William G. Allen was editor of the National Watchman, a Temperance and abolitionist paper for African Americans. Lady Byron was poet, Lord Byron's wife, who worked as a social reformer. Nell refers to the recent split in the anti-slavery movement between Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison. Douglass no longer believed that the United States Constitution was pro-slavery- unlike Garrison- he believed it was anti-slavery. Charles Lenox Remond was an orator and abolitionist. Charles Calistus Burleigh was an abolitionist and woman’s rights activist. Loring Moody was a religion and philosophy writer. Henry Clapp was an abolitionist, as was Parker Pillsbury. Nell refers to Douglass's wife- Anna Murray.
(Page 1)
Mr Garrison made a grand Speech =not however
maKing any reference to Mr Douglass = Charles
Lenox Remond Closed the meeting with one of
his happiest efforts= = being warmly cheesed.
and he made no reference to Mr. D –
Douglas remarKed to Some one near the door
that he had expected to be pitched into (a
Something of that Kind)= He left next day for
Pawtucket = Providence and New Bedford =
we passed each other in the meeting but of
Course without SpeaKing = indeed I cannot
easily imagine the circumstances that would
result in my speaKing to him –
I can remember his Sunny Side = and only wish I
Could forget the shady side of his Character
I have Just recieved [sic] a letter from J.D. Bonner of
Chicago -Ill = thanKing me for the Liberator which I
occasionally forward him =but expressing his
Anti Garrisonian = = or what he calls the Dogmas
I. shall not be slow in giving a reasons funny
belief Friday Feb 3-
I dreamed last night of Amy Post Sarah Hallowell
and others of the Rochester Circle = a few days since Dr
Halsted Called in = He Knew me and we had some
conversation
Douglass was at Providence last night –
Lecturer this evening at Worcester = then goes to New Bedford
What will You thinK of this medley of a letter-
but I will not Stop and apologize for You
wont demand it = I have been expecting
a communication = from You = Remember me
Kindly to all = and believe me as ever Your
How is Sarah Birney Grateful Friend Wm C Nell
(Page 2)
[Two lines of text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 2]
Friday
Rev Edwd Beecher is here now with Mr Garrison
arranging for the Boston course of antislavery [sic] lectures
and one person White or Black had even been
excluded = The man replaced That for himself he
needed not to have asKed the question but these were
reasons why he had asKed for the information of
others = Some persons in the Gallery and a few seated
near Mr Douglass calling his name again = Francis Jackson
and that Called them to order saying that if
Mr Douglass wanted the floor he Knew how to get it
So there being no presentation of Frederick Douglass
no Capital was made out of the movement
Mr Douglass came forward = and spoKe a few words
on the resolutions narrated 2 anecdotes == I can not
remember the time when he done so poorly
and I thinK his special friends must have been
disappointed =it reminded me of his JoKe
Saying = Toc big a boo for so small a Colt
Mr Quincy followed without dry reference to
Mr Douglass = = Douglass was sitting Cheekly
[Joul?] with Geo W. Putman of Lynn who has
been renewing her last Years effort = = Just as
Mr Garrison rose to speaK Mr Douglass also rose
and made an explanation = to the effect that
one of the resolutions Seemed to imply that the
Bible Sanctioned Slavery =and which he
(How pious) could not assent to even by
implication = C=C Burleigh remarKed very
opportunely that the resolution was
Substituted for one which might convey the
idea = but the one offered avoided any such
interpretation== So this attempt of Mr D-
to make Anti Infidel Capital failed
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. William Lloyd Garrison was the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator, and a radical abolitionist. Nell refers to the recent split in the anti-slavery movement between Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison. Douglass no longer believed that the United States Constitution was pro-slavery- unlike Garrison- he believed it was anti-slavery. Charles Lenox Raymond was an abolitionist leader. Pawtucket is a town in Rhode Island. J.D. Bonner was an abolitionist. Sarah Hallowell was Post's sister. Sarah Birney was an activist and a mutual friend of Nell and Post. Reverend Edward Beecher was the brother of author, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and a noted theologian, who helped to organize the first anti-slavery society in Illinois. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist. Edmund Quincy was a member of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society. George Putnam was abolitionist. Charles Calistus Burleigh was an abolitionist, and a woman’s rights activist.
(Page 1)
Dear Friend Boston Jan 18 ^20th ^ 1854
Amy Post.
This is a dull morning
and here I am Seated at Mr Wallcutts Desk (his
substitute while indisposed ) and during a temporary
quiet =from Business will pen down a string of items
for my Rochester Friends whose nucleus is at the
never to be forgotten Home 36 Sophia Street. -
How I did wished to have been with You at the
Wedding Party of Elias De Garmos Daughters = especially to
have Joined in the Blindmans Buffs with You
Jacob - Joseph and the rest = I can fully appreciate
Your testimony to thier [sic] = agility and Wit =
for have I not many a time and oft “ been
a recipient of the blended contributions of
Your two Post Boys = You ought to see me
laugh as my memory recalls many pleasant
hours enjoyed indoors and out with both-
But I meant to have expressed also my desire to
have seen Rev Antionette Brown= whom I do not
remember Yet to have met = I have always been
Sorry that I did not accompany the Rochester
friends to Henrietta one winter evening when
She lectured on Womans Rights = She was in
Boston a few days since -= b and called here with
Dr Harriet K. Hunt but I was out = looking at her
face in the Autographs for Freedom = I seem to recognize
it = and therefore want to maKe myself sure
(Page 2)
a Young man who has been assisting Mr Watkins in selling
Autographs = told me of several who had refused buying
because Garrison had not contributed-
I confess to a Slight wish that I could have contributed
to the Autographs -= but when reflecting upon the
the auspices under which it emanates and
the Mill that most of the Grist is to be
^carried^ An Anti Garrison movement . I am thankful
to have escaped the temptation-
I have no doubt that F.D. with J.G S-
contingent and other Funds will maKe money
by his present position ( and money is
quite an item now a days) but we all Know
which Side will triumph at last-
Mr Garrison is not satisfied with the last
F.D. paper = - I presume He is now lecturing
in New- Hampshire = but I hope He will not come
to Boston and Stir up a fresh the elements
of dissatisfaction - W.j. WatKins is Yet here
selling Autographs = and occasionally lecturing-
He had a meeting here weeK before last
and gave a very good lecture on antislavery [sic]
generally =devoting quite a portion in eulogy
of Mr Garrison = his only reference to Mr
Douglass was that he (W. J. W.) loved
Mr Garrison and also loved Mr Douglass
and that the latter was too Generous
to expect him to swerve from his
attachments to Mr Garrison V=
But. Watkins has a lesson to learn Yet
which will either bend or straighten
him = = I have many sympathies with
him = and we are good friends =-
He has a good talent for speaking and writing
and loves the antislavery [sic] cause = Mr Douglass
(Page 3)
Knowing this = has appealed successfully to WatKins
in Cooperation in his Paper V=
Rush Plumly was here a few days since = we got
talKing about Douglass without ^at first^ either of us Knowing
who we were talKing to = He spoke of You and Isaac
to him and others. I have submitted certain
facts Confidentially which Your letter furnished -
Wendell Phillips told me he had a pleasant
time at William R Hallowells = and his reasons for
not lecturing on antislavery [sic] = He heard also from
Sallie Holleys lecture letter = mentioning his
invitation to the Tea Circle at Mrs Porters. -
a number of anti-slavery friends Yesterday got
into a very warm and excited discussion on
Spiritualism = J.N. Buffum. Austin Became Negative
Robert Crosby aff- Incidentals R.F.W W.C.N J.C [Clure?]
Several others were in the office = and Seemed much
interested = those opposed mainly resorted to the
mistakes and impositions as proof against the
truth of Spiritualism-
Mr Garrison last weeK addressed the Ladies
Benevolent Firm and with H.C . Wright attended thier [sic] Levee
I had the honor of presiding = I love to be in the Pulpit
or on the Rostrum with – Wm Lloyd Garrison-
The Howard family – buried thier [sic] Father on Wednesday-
I helped Superintend the Funeral = the attendance was
very large = On Christmas Eve I
As I was retiring = Smoke in the entry attracted my
notice = I searched all over the House = and finally
found the room opposite mine to be on fire
I burst open the door = and was suffocated
almost before I could enter
(Page 4)
The Woman = inebriated = had set her room on fire
we dragged her into the entry = and had She not
been unconscious = her life would have been Saved
but in 2 hours She breathed her last.
Saturday Eve 6. Oclock
So the Blossom House was burned this morning -
I hope Morris will be made whole
I am much obliged to Edmund P. Willis for his
Recipe = were I not now much better I should give it
a trial == the time will come how ever [sic] for using it
I am glad he is so well = How I would liKe to see
my good friend Sarah L. Hallowell Willis
When are You and Mrs Coleman coming to
Boston = next May perhaps =
I am expecting to be at Salem ^Canttonsville^ on Monday Evening where we are
to have a Dramatic Circle == Lady of Lyons = Annie Woods
Sarah P. Remond Caroline Putman = Helen & Adelaide with several from
the families unKnown to You = Little Ira & myself all
participate = I wish You was [sic] to be there-
I recieved [sic] a few days Since a letter from Joseph H.
Putman, Australia = Health no worse than when he
left. Business good - He gave some very interesting
accounts of the place and the people -
Gilliard ( Helens Beau) is Yet in California =
I hear much talK about my being engaged to this
or that one = but I have not Yet bought the
Wedding Ring Why has John C. Robinson stopped his
Wednesday Morning
Liberator. Present = Joseph Barker Just from Philadelphia
Mr Garrison and others = Sunday = Douglass was in Boston
Friday and attended the Conven antislavery [sic] meeting = some of his
partisans Called him out his name at different times -
in the evening a member of the Society Asked if Mr
Douglass had been refused a hearing = the Chairman
Francis Jackson answered in the negative = Edmund
Quincy expressed surprise at the question when it was presented
that on thier [sic] platform even slaveholders were admitted
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. R.F. Walcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby. Nell refers to the Post family's home at 36 Sophia Street. Jacob and Joseph were two of Post's sons. Reverend Antoinette Brown was a woman's rights activist and the first female minister in the United States. Nell refers to Henrietta, New York- a town near Rochester. Dr. Harriet K. Hunt was one of the first female doctors and she fought against the government's ability to tax women without giving them the right to vote for who represented them. Autographs for Freedom was an anthology of anti-slavery literature. William J. Watkins worked with abolitionist and former slave, Frederick Douglass. William Lloyd Garrison was the editor of the newspaper, the Liberator, and a radical abolitionist.
Nell refers to Douglass's newspaper, the North Star. Nell refers to the recent split in the anti-slavery movement between Douglass and Garrison. Douglass no longer believed that the United States Constitution was pro-slavery- unlike Garrison- he believed it was anti-slavery. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist. William R. Hallowell was Post's son-in-law, married to her step- daughter Mary. Rush Plumby was a Quaker and an abolitionist. Sallie Holley traveled as an anti-slavery lecturer. The Porters lived in Rochester and were ardent abolitionists and friends of the Posts. J.N. Buffum was a member of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society.
Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. The Posts and many of their friends shared this belief. Reverend H. C. Wright was a member of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society. Captain Austin Bearse was a member of the Committee of Vigilance, whose members fought the Fugitive Slave Act. Edmund P. Willis was Post's brother-in-law. Sarah was his wife. Lucy Coleman was an activist. Nell refers to Lady of Lyons, a five act romantic melodrama written in 1838 by Edward Bulwer-Lytton. Sarah P. Remond was an activist, and married to abolitionist Charles Lenox Remond. Caroline Putnam was Charles Remond’s sister, who was married to Joseph H. Putnam. Ira was Nell's nephew. Joseph Barker was a British preacher, who lived in the United States for a period of time and joined the abolitionist movement. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist from Boston, who was affiliated with the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society. Edmund Quincy was also a member of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society.
(Page 1)
Thursday Evening 11.oclcock
I. have been busy to day [sic] at the Fair
and Mailing the Liberator = also circulatory
notices for Elihu Burritts Ocean Postage
Meeting in Faneuil Hall to night [sic]=
Wendell Phillips purchased 2 BasKets
of Presents =most of which I tooK to his house
He tendered Mr Chas Lenox Remond a
handsome Frame Picture of Mrs Stowe -
My little Nephew has made some Bead
Book MarKs [sic]== one = “Uncle Tom and Little Eva
They have taKen to day [sic] $ 586..65-
1134
- $ 17.00 65
How I would have enjoyed the Blind Mans
Buff = with Jacob & Joseph = at the Wedding
Party = I am much obliged to Edmund P. Willis
for his prescription = and will test it when I
have another attacK = You did not mention
to me How my good friend Sarah Hallowell
Willis is = Please to the two also William &
Mary present my Kindest regards = I saw
a Young Lady at the Fair this Evening =
tending the Roxbury Table) = who always
reminds me of Mary Fish – before she was
Mrs Curtis = Remember me to the Family all.
Rev Antoinette Brown and Dr H_ K Hunt
Called at 21 Cornhill the other day as I have
never met Miss Brown I was very sorry to have been
absent.
(Page 2)
Glad You gave me Leahs address = I shall
secure an interview if I visit New YorK in a
few weeks. -of this more anon-
Wm G. Allen = Edward B. Lauton from
California and Jeremiah B. Sanderson
each have a word of correspondence about
Fredk Douglass - - Jerry Says
My Dear William ,-,-,-,- Wm after
reading Douglass’ article I couldn’t help
"saying “Whom the Gods would destroy, they first
"maKe mad” his anger, violence, bitterness,
“towards Garrison in particular = oh tis a pity -
“the low expressions respecting Remond – Shameful
“as to what he Says of Yourself maKes it plain
“You have nothing to expect from him in the
“way of Concession, Conciliation V= In whatever
“You say or do preserve Your temper and dignity
“Your letter touching his reference to You
“is neat, dignified, manly, and enough,
“ I am extremely Sorry for him = that
“Douglass pursues such a course but tis done
“ His last communication to me was most
“friendly, and therefore I would avoid a
“personal rupture, but of course if called upon
“to decide upon the point = who’s right in the
“Controversy I at once reply Garrison = If obligations
“due for services rendered in our cause
(Page 3)
“are to influence the favor of Colored men
“& women or briefly = if we are to taKe sides
“with one unhesitatingly we stand with
“Garrison – the longer the discussion is continued
“the worse for Douglass.._
Professor Allen
Writes as follows from London
Sept 1853
“I see by the papers that You and Douglass are at it
“[Such?] treatment, that of not publishing Your
communication. Douglass is now fairly loosed from
the old organizationists [sic] = I am sorry he has given the
enemies of Garrison So much aid and comfort
I go in for freedom of thought talk . but I thinK
no Colored man will do himself good in the
end who will expose Wm Lloyd Garrison to the
enemy. I regret all that has occurred
Lawton = from California
Nov. 1853
,-,-, F. Douglass could not hold to his first
love oh no. but suffered the Delilah of
Self Esteem to rob him of his strength . and he
fell from that noble position he once occupied
and Posterity will only remember him as one
who basely traduced his best and dearest friends
in the noble cause of unconditional emancipation
He seems to be governed by that false axiom in
(Page 4)
Politics = “That times = change and Men
change with them” -
Wm W. Brown has
sent me his new BooK Clotel-
quite handsome-
In this weeKs Liberator = H.C. Wrights
article = Gospel of Infidelity = is in reply to
Mrs Stowe = Mr Garrisons letter is also a
Copy of one sent to her= -
Friday Morning
Parker Pillsbury is at my right hand reading
the Liberator = He sends to You Greeting -
and all the other friends there
Had I time I would transfer from the other
thin and Clotted sheet = cut You must do the
best You can = be indulgent = I am hard
pressed for time.
2= P M _
Mrs Colman was not at the Fair Yesterday nor
has She been there this forenoon = She said Wednesday
She was going out of town =I did not Yield to
my first impulse of asking some particulars as
to whether she told her She would be in Yesterday
V= intending to my part towards rendering her
Visit agreeable by way of special introductions V=
Mr & Mrs Garrison and Mary Willey are
continually asKing of me about her = as they had
buried themselves in arranging for her accommodations
they regret not having completed it before She went out
of town = perhaps She has gone on a short visit proposing
soon to return = at least I hope so = Faithfully yours
Wm C. Nell.
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Nell refers to a recent anti-slavery fair and the anti-slavery newspaper, the Liberator published by radical abolitionist, William Lloyd Garrison. Elihu Burritts was an abolitionist, and supported the Temperance movement. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist and lecturer, as was Charles Lenox Remond. Harriet Beecher Stowe was an abolitionist and the author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Nell refers to his nephew, Ira. Uncle Tom and Little Eva were two characters from Stowe's book.
Jacob and Joseph were two of Post's sons. Edmund P. Willis was Post's brother-in-law. His wife, Sarah helped to plan the 1848 woman's rights convention held in Rochester. William and Mary Hallowell were Post's son-in-law and step- daughter. Mary Fish Curtis was a woman's rights activist, who lived in Rochester. Reverend Antoinette Brown was a woman's rights activist and the first female minister in the United States. Harriett K. Hunt became a physician and fought against the government's right to tax women without allowing them to vote for those who represent them. Leah Fox Fish was the older sister of Margaret and Catherine Fox. The Fox sisters started the Spiritualist movement in Rochester. The Posts and others believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. William G. Allen was editor of the National Watchman, a Temperance and abolitionist newspaper for African Americans. Edward B. Lawton advocated for a colored anti-slavery society in Boston. Jeremiah B. Sanderson was a free black man and an abolitionist, who advocated that colored schools should receive public funding.
Nell refers to the recent split in the anti-slavery movement between Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison. Douglass no longer believed that the United States Constitution was pro-slavery- unlike Garrison- he believed it was anti-slavery. William W. Brown was an African American abolitionist, writer and lecturer. H.C. Wright was a Reverend and a member of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society. Parker Pillsbury was an abolitionist and woman's rights advocate, as was Lucy Coleman. Mary Willey was an abolitionist.
(Page 1)
Esteemed Friend Boston Dec 20/. 1853
Amy
This is the anniversary of Yours
and my Birthday = How fitting that I should
commence a letter to You on this day -
I cannot write in full to You. but will
pen down Some items preliminary to more
beyond=
Ten Oclock. Wednesday Eve 21. st
Here I am all alone at the antislavery [sic] office
having Just parted with Charles Lenox Remond
and wife at the door . they are enroute home
from the Fair ^They unite in sending love to you^ = Miss Wood and others tooK a
carriage == The Fair opened this morning -
the weather truly auspicious = tonight a slight
sprinKle ofsnow [sic] but now it is starlight -
The reciepts [sic] of the Fair on this its first day
has been $1134. = I was delighted to meet
Mrs Coleman = She also called here to day [sic]
and had a talK with Mr Garrison and
subscribed for the Liberator = She has gone out
of town tonight but arrangements are made
for her stopping in the City Should She
liKe to do so. = Mrs Stowe writes to
Mr Garrison as though F.D. belongs to
the weaKer party and must be forborne
with= She has been rather favorably
impressed by him = and though admitting
in some former correspondence his failings
(Page 2)
She will of course aid him somewhat
She did Say that F.D. must cease his warfare
against the anti slavery [sic] friends = but whether
this was a condition on which favors were to
be conferred I have no reliable information
as She had as above intimated to
Mr Garrison She Sent a note stating
her interview with Douglass = Mr Garrison
nor Mr Phillips will not taKe any Special
pains to correct matters = but let the
developments all appear in thier [sic] due
time.= - The presents of Mrs Stowe
are quite an attractive feature inthe [sic]
Bazaar= Wish You had Visited Boston
Just at this time = = I. have communicated
Some facts from Your letter to Mr
Garrison = May Wallcut . Jackson V
Samuel J. May – also who will find them
and others of much use by the way of
answering questions often put to him
Douglass held a meeting in Boston last
Friday night = but the presence of Chas
Lenox Remond Changed the programme
Some= and F.D. did not happen to
acquire any new laurels = D.s speech
was mainly (with Some incidental flings )
on the elevation of Colored People and
his impressions of the West = remarks
in which any body [sic] would concur-
Remond entered the meeting before I did
and was cheered by the audience
(Page 3)
and when Douglass Sat down He was
loudly called for = He replied briefly =
Concurring with D. in the general remarKs
but adding that He was but a Spectator as though
if he Should SpeaK at any length = his
it might mar the harmony V- Douglass
Siezed [sic] on these words and evidently tried
to make Remond appear as the aggressor
but liKe an old Soldier familiar with the
tricks of the enemy Charles maintained
an advantageous = Manly and Dignified
position all the way through = D. intimated
with his Smooth and Characteristic Style
That if he could be convinced of having done
wrong to Mr R – or any one [sic] else in the
meeting He would meet them halfway
V-= R=- answered that if the glove
Was thrown down to him He accepted
it cheerfully = D. = disclaimed the glove
but rather termed it an Olive Branch
R. rejoined That D. was his enemy V-
but and had deformed his character V=
and added – that if he was going into the
Controversy = He should fight behind no
Cowards Castle or Hay Stack
D == applied the term to his Paper V= = a large
majority were eager for the two to get
fairly under way [sic] = but the lateness of the hour
and other reasons prevented = D. said Hemustbe [sic]
in Rochester Monday night = Remond was
ready to meet him any time [sic] and did
Come to Boston next day to ascertain whether
He had remained over but Douglass was
on his way homeward
(Page 4)
Douglass == called upon the Brothers and
Sisters to Pray for Him = and finally closed
with singing V= = Lewis Hayden declares
himself Neutral = Some thinK him otherwise
Mr Grimes also == but they are the Men
who are with him_mostly when here Vc
There are many here very anxious even now
for a discussion between C.L.R & F.D
the latter mentioned his paper the other every
but had no time to do any thing [sic] about
it = He of course will get Some Subscribers
but no matter what may be the result
else where [sic] He cannot get the Colored People
of New England to approve his Conduct
and especially Boston as You would have
believed if present at our Garrison Association
last Monday Eve = = Hayden Grimes
Remond = V- present = Mr Grimes ^[told?]^ Foster
Mr Garrison that Douglass felt sorry V=
wept because of the troubles V= = They also say
that He promises to bury the Hatchet now
If he does it will only be because he thinks
no more harm can be done with it
I doubted it = Judging from the past and
So I told Mr Grimes = He was Surprised
at my skepticism ^and spoke of repentance^ = I replied = Douglass may
repent= but otherwise I have no
confidence in him = I have Known him
longer than most of them = He Can
exhibit a Sunny Side = but I Can not [sic]
easily forget the shady side of his character
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Charles Lenox Remond was a lecturer and abolitionist. Nell refers to a recent anti-slavery fair or fundraiser. Lucy Coleman was an abolitionist and woman's rights activist. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the newspaper the Liberator. Harriet Beecher Stowe was an abolitionist and the author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin.
Nell refers to the recent split in the anti-slavery movement between Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison. Douglass no longer believed that the United States Constitution was pro-slavery- unlike Garrison- he believed it was anti-slavery. Wendell Phillips and the Fosters were abolitionists. May Walcutt was married to R.F. Walcutt, who published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist from Boston, who was affiliated with the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society, the Boston Female Anti-Slavery Society, the American Anti-Slavery Society and the Boston Vigilance Committee. Samuel May was an abolitionist. Lewis Hayden Grimes was an abolitionist and former slave.
(Page 1)
Saturday Eve. 7. O.clock = and a beautiful
Moonlight to wind up a most enchanting
Sunlight day-
Boston Dec 10. 1853
My Valued Friend Amy Post.
Here I set [sic] in the
anti slavery [sic] office = alternating between
matters connected with the public
and a little stolen devotion to personal
correspondence V= I. have Just replied to
a friendly letter from W.J. Watkins who is
expected here Christmas Week-
F.D. is indefatigable in his abuse and
misrepresentation of me= two direct -
falsehoods =and which I am determined not
to submit to with impunity = I have sought
no quarrel with him = nor will I now
do more than act on the defensive
He forgets that in this controversy
there are blows to taKe as well as blows
to give = but wait a wee bit
Its a long lane that has no turn -
there is some consolation in the fact.
that = I am placed by him in most
excellent company = but enough of this!
I want to asK You to forward me at
early convenience F.D. paper of this week
Jacob Can do it up= and direct it -
to ensure delivery it must be prepaid-
(Page 2)
[Two lines of text written written along top margin of Page 2 and continues onto top margin of Page 3]
Sunday Eve 11. oclocK= Just returned from a visit to the Howards in Poplar St= They expected by my agency- Spiritual manifestations
they are quite interested in the matter =there is much intelligence among the number and they are accessible
the truth
It was a great disappointment to me
not being able to maKe a Second Call
at Leah Fishs = = I was also sorry to
have lost the visit to Harriet and
Louisa Jacobs = but as I could not return
in time for the Saturday Boston Boat
I was obliged to abandon it then
hoping to be in New YorK City within
a few weeKs and gratify myself with
Calling at both places = I am thinKing
more and more of giving my Spiritual
experience and observation to the public
especially after hearing Judge Edmonds
and having a Conversation Just now
at Bela Marshs with John M. Spear
for this and another reason I am
very anxious for an interview at
Leah Fishs = and I shall arrange
matters accordingly = I have not her
address = will You please give me it -
I wish to Know = whether it is Mrs Brown
or Fish = and the number-
I. felt. that Some good Spirit
arranged my crossing the Park Just as
I did ( having left a friend somewhat
abruptly = and ever changing my usual
path of entering the ParK )= to meet
Joseph = and He did appear so
glad to see me = and You Know I was
(Page 3)
delighted to meet him it brought up
So many 36 Sophia Street reminiscences
How I wished that Jacob was
with him =- I. have lately dreamed of
Sarah L. Hallowell. And Sarah Birney-
Wish I could see them both
I now anticipate going to Cleveland
in May = when should I do so 24 hours
I must Spend in Rochester =-
I. have enjoyed remarKable good
health (for me) lately = but have now a Cold
to day [sic]raised a little blood = but have
procured Cod Liver Oil & Lime = quite a
Panacea I’ll assure You-
I was delighted to see You
looKing so well = in New York = How I
did wish for a whole days free talK
I met Gerritt Smith at the antislavery [sic]
office = He asked me about the trouble
between my friend || Douglass and myself
I briefly remarKed upon it = that there
was no occasion for his (D.) coming
down upon me in Battle axe stile [sic]-
-
Mr Garrison has Just returned from
a visit to Mrs Stowe (invited by her )
among other items I have gleaned = this
She is to Send Some of her presents from
abroad to the Bazaar = = these will attract much
[Text written horizontally along right margin of Page 3]
attention She is also soon to have an interview with [Deb?] W. Weston
(Page 4)
She mentioned having been applied to by
F.D. for money for a Press V=
12.o.ClocK at Night
In my Bachelors Sanctum = trying my
Cylinder Stove - = I believe I saw Wm C. Hallowells
name to a Call a notice of F.D. Fair -
I may have been mistaken = the paper is not by
me. = How does he and Mary = Edmund &
Sarah all well I hope -= Have You a Box
in readiness for the Boston Bazaar?
How does Lewis & Sarah Burtis ? Elias &
Rhoda De Garmo. = Asa & Huldah Anthony?
I have Just been telling WatKins that my
removal to Western New YorK gave me the acquaintance
of those = whose value far transcends the losses
of a change of residence = far more than an
offset to the hard blows that Destiny inflicted
upon me, while a sojourner there
When I reflect upon the transformations
in F.D. since I first united with him
at Rochester. I can scarcely credit my own
identity = where will he stop?
Please favor me with an early
acKnowledgement of this = distribute my
love to all at home and elsewhere
who may ever thinK of me -
Louisa is somewhat indisposed but is living very
happily now = Her Husband is continually adding
some new article of use or fancy to thier [sic] furniture -
Little Ira is well and active. I shall write to Benjamin
by this Mail= wish Mary Ann & Willie
Love to Isaac = Merry Christmas I am Ever yours
Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. W.J. Watkins worked with abolitionist and former slave, Frederick Douglass. Nell refers to the recent split in the anti-slavery movement between Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison. Douglass no longer believed that the United States Constitution was pro-slavery- unlike Garrison- he believed it was anti-slavery. Jacob was one of Post's sons. Nell refers to the Spiritualist movement. Followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Leah Fox Fish was the older sister of Margaret and Catherine Fox. The Fox sisters began the Spiritualist movement in the late 1840s in Rochester.
Harriet Jacobs was an author and former slave. She wrote the book Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. Louisa was Jacobs's daughter. Judge Edmonds was an influential Spiritualist leader and a benefactor of the Fox sisters. Bela Marsh was also a Spiritualist and an abolitionist book publisher. John M. Spear was a Universalist minister, who believed in Spiritualism. Joseph was another of Post's sons. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Sarah L. Hallowell was Post’s sister and helped to plan the 1848 Woman’s Rights Convention in Rochester. Sarah Birney was also a woman's rights activist. Gerrit Smith, a fellow abolitionist, supported Douglass and his new argument that the Constitution was an inherently anti-slavery document.
Harriet Beecher Stowe was an abolitionist and author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Deborah Weston was an abolitionist. Nell mentions Post's step-daughter Mary, and her husband William R. Hallowell. Edmund was Post's brother-in-law. Lewis and Sarah Burtis were cousins of woman's rights activist, Susan B. Anthony. Elias and Rhoda De Garmo were members of the Western New York Anti-Slavery Society. Asa and Huldah Anthony were cousins of Susan B. Anthony and mutual friends of the Posts and Nell.
Nell refers to his sister, Lousia Nell Gray and her husband, Ira and their son Ira. Benjamin may refer to another of Nell's brothers-in-law. Willie was the Post's youngest son, and Mary took care of him as a child.
(Page 1)
Last day of Summer !
Esteemed Friend. Boston August 31. 1853
Amy Post
Last night sleeping
at Wendell Phillips’ house = I dreamed of
Amy Post and Sarah Hallowell and this
morning on reaching the anti slavery [sic] office
was presented by Mr Wallcut with Your
excellent letter. I need not tell You that
I most eagerly perused its contents = and
I earnestly wished that Circumstances
Could but so blend as to promise my soon
Shaking You both by the hands and
gleaning Satisfaction from Your faces -
but alas! alas! = I must for ought that I
Know content myself with the desire.
I mean to extract from Your letter the
narration of the Slave family and
show it to You and others in the
Liberator.- You will see in this week
an extract from a letter of Langstons
and my remarks relative to Frederick
Douglass = tame words indeed = the
wonder is that he excluded from
his Column = = “but wait a little longer
Mr Garrison has recieved [sic] a letter
from Robert Purvis = I suppose some
mention of it will be made soon
Sincere friend Wm C. Nell
(Page 2)
I was to have accompanied Wm J. Watkins
to Newport and hold an anti slavery [sic] meetg [sic]
last Sunday Evening = but I did not complete
my arrangements in time = the fashionable
season is about winding up = the Colored
Elite of Boston are anticipating a reunion
with those from other cities = a gay
time indeed = Newport is to me rich in
association = there happens now to be there
as residents and Visitors = Several of my
most intimate female friends in days
Lang Syne = one that I was on the point of an
engagement with = and others that waKed
up a very tender feeling in my heart.
It was a Newport when on a visit to
one of the above that I first saw
Caroline E. Remond = though Cupid did
not at that time pierce me with his
dart = but enough on this matter.
By the Bye I lately had a very fine
time at Salem = Georgiana Putman whom
I visited at Williamsburgh has been spending
her vacation at home = she left last friday
Miss Wood was indisposed I did not
See her= She has Just returned from
the Canadas = and soon leaves with
Sarah P. Remond on a tour to Philadelphia
Having heard that a Female Teacher is
(Page 3)
wanted at Bath Steuben Co N.Y. (where Mrs
Platt lives) I am negociating [sic] for Jenny [Mary?]
Putman or Louisa Jacobs = Do You
remember talKing with me of a piece in
the Standard written by Harriet Jacobs?
I forwarded a copy to Louisa Jacobs =
and have since recieved [sic] a letter from her
Mother denying the authorship -
Her letter is dated – Idlewild = a
romantic retreat of N.P. Willis
Mother and Daughter may both soon
arrive in Boston. – You remember I
intimated an acquaintance with a
Young woman here who had manifested
a preference for me V= = I have made no
advances nor do I expect to- there or
perhaps any where [sic] = - as the Lady is an
inmate of Mr Watkins family = please be
careful in conversation with him or
any one [sic] else = Dont understand me as
disparaging her for I mean nothing of the
Kind.
I learn that Dorcas Abby & Phebe
have made thier [sic] trip to Cayuga
I. almost cried when remembering
my share of good cheer last Year
with them- “Oh that I had
wings”= or what would be more
than an equivalent = plenty of money
(Page 4)
My sister Louisa is now again pleasantly
situated as a House Keeper [sic] = I dined with
her and the two Iras last Sunday =
My handsome BooKs = and all my
Collection of Daguerreotypes they consider an
attraction on the centre table and Mantel
piece = They have not Yet room my
Bachelor Sanctum – they are about maKing
Some new move for Iras Schooling
Mr Watkins breaks up his Independent School
and I cannot endure the thought of his
entering the Smith School .
Do whenever You see the Burtiss
Anthonys= De Garmo = Fish = tender
John E. Robinson
my Kindest regards I shall never
forget them .
Glad of the anticipated Spiritual
Convention I have Just been read
Judge Edwards tract
My affectionate remembrances of William
and Mary Hallowell = Jacob = Joe Sarah
Birney = Mary and Willie = and Sarah
Hallowell = tell her that I hope she
will induce her Husband to visit Boston
with her before many Seasons have passed
away [obliterated] How I would love to meet the
Whole Circle as of Yore with Isaac Post
and Fredrick Douglass included at 36 Sophia
Street = but this wish brings to mind such a
chapter of reminiscences = that I must stop for want
until soon. I am ever Yours
[Text aligned horizontaly along left margin of Page 4]
Mary Johnson on too & Eunice and George
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist. Sarah Hallowell was Post's sister. R.F Wallcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby. Radical abolitionist, William Lloyd Garrison, edited the newspaper, the Liberator. John Mercer Langston was born a free black child in Virginia and became an abolitionist. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave. Robert Purvis and William J. Watkins were both African American abolitionists.
Nell refers to "Auld Lang Syne", which was a Scottish poem written by Robert Burns in 1788 and set to the tune of a traditional folk song. Caroline Remond was abolitionist, Charles Lenox Remond's sister. Georgiana Putnum was a teacher in a school for African American children. Sarah P. Remond was a relative of Charles Lenox Remond. Jenny Putnam was an abolitionist. Louisa Jacobs was author and former slave, Harriet Brent Jacobs's daughter. The Standard was an abolitionist newspaper. Idlewild was the name of Nathaniel P. Willis and Cornelia Willis's home in Cornwall, New York. Nell refers to his brother-in-law and nephew- both named Ira. The daguerreotype was an early form of photography.
Sarah Burtis was woman's rights leader, Susan B. Anthony's second cousin. The De Garmo and Fish families were mutual friends of the Posts and Nell. Jacob, Joseph and Willie were Post's sons. Sarah Birney was a relative of the Post family. Mary took care of Willie, when he was a child.
(Page 1)
a few ^Some^ evening ago took tea at Francis JacKson
with Sallie Holley and John Mercer Langston
Oberlin School Mates.
Boston Aug 12. 1853
Dear Friend Amy Post=
One weeK ago last
Sunday I breaKfasted at William Lloyd Garisson
in the company of William H. Ashurst
of London = the interview was one to be
proud of and long remembered
on Monday I went to New Bedford
and there enjoyed public and private
very pleasant times with FredK Douglass
rode in the Barouche over the City to the
grove V= with him = left 2 oclock
tuesday morning with him and old
Gentleman Downing = in a driving
rain by Carry all for MyricKs in order
to reach Framingham next morning
there the scene occurred between
Wendell Phillips and FredK Douglass
On reaching -Boston He has held
Several meetings in Boston = I felt it my
duty to asK him to set himself right
if he = could) for his hostility direct and
indirect against his old friends
(Page 2)
the affair spread itself over two evening
and He disposed of the matter in a
Characteristic manner = professing love
for Mr Garrison but no love for Wendell
Phillips – Edmund Quincy = and regarding
Mrs Chapman as his inveterate enemy -
He brought all Kinds of charges against the
abolitionists = V= acquit me of any
dishonorable motives in bringing the
matter up V= but it is a long and
disagreeable matter for me to go over now
I shall taKe measures to correct the
misrepresentations in his paper of
August 12th Giles B. Stebbins was at
one meeting
Robert Morris = presented
his second edition of an extraneous
and ungentlemanly attacK upon me
because of my speaKing of his
Cause at the State House as You
heard something of= He got hissed
however and pretty Severely
questioned and rebuked by Benjamin
Weeden and others = Douglass had
taken some Votes about the controversy =
I told he was mistaKen in regards
Such votes under such circumstances as any
(Page 3)
test of sympathy or agreement with him
after Morris = attack upon me -
Some of my friends proposed a vote on my
Course which I thanKed them for but
discouraged thier [sic] being put = because as I
had already said= they were not
then a test = Lewis Hayden Grimes
and Robert Morris though professing
old organizationer [sic] V= Yet lend thier [sic]
influence against me = but I am no
ways troubled = It will all come right
It was as You must Know a very hard
duty for me = but I done it because
it was my duty-
W. G.W= Wm G. Watkins has
engaged to go to Rochester as an assistant
of Mr Douglass = He expects to talK and
write Garrisonism = and I believe
him sincere but between F.D &
J. G. I tremble for his integrity –
-
I could talK to You about this
much better than I can now
write = I did not expect Mr Douglass
would have exhibited so much venom
as in his paper of 12th
(Page 4)
But the end is not Yet.
I shall not have room to send my
Kindest and special words to
the valued and loved Circle of
friends = would that I could
be with You = but a las [sic] alas
how few of our most choice
wishes are realized in this
world = To Isaac & Jacob
Joseph = = Eunice = George Mary Johnson
Sarah Birney = Mary Ann & Willie
William & Mary Hallowell -
Sarah and Edmund P. Willis
please distribute my kin-
Cordial greetings.
Do Send me a line Soon
My health continues good
Shall You attend the meetings
at Syracuse= If I can afford it
I shall attend. = Affectionately Your
William C. Nell
(Page 1)
Boston July 21. 1853
Thursday Night 12. oclock
all alone at Mr Phillips House
[Four lines of text written diagonal across right margin of Page 1]
Douglass
Calling for
[G. W.?] Putnam
only thinK of it.
My Kind Friend Amy Post
I. have Just indulged in a
Moonlight stroll across Boston Common
and now previous to embarking for
Shut Eye town will pen down a few
preliminary lines to let You and friends at
36 Sophia St Know that I am once more
“home again” though as You all Know
not from a foreign Shore-
Had a happy time at Dorcas Collins
found Abby in excellent spirits = and
enjoyed a pleasant season with the
JenKins and Dells = at Waterloo
a good time with the Mc ClintocKs
= spent one night at Zenas BrocKetts
and was made happy in his family
augmented of course by the Society of
Louisa Jacobs = (since I reached Boston
have recieved [sic] a letter from John S. Jacobs
Australia = He was about proceeding
with Joseph to the mines =
at Albany Called upon Lydia Mott
and stopped at Topps = he was absent
in New YorK where I met him and
had fine times albeit he was
somewhat indisposed-
[Text aligned vertically along right margin of Page 1]
$1 E.P.W. took one of my Pamphlets
and tendered me one dollar
(Page 2)
Refreshed at Wassiac in honor of Joe Putman
took the Harlem route to New YorK
met there Some old time
friends = Several Convention
members – Langstons both
W. H. Day = Pennington V=
Please say to Mary Hallowell that
Dr Smith told me he was obliged to
leave as he did = he appeared much
pleased with Wm & Mary as of
Course I Knew he must be
Remond went to Philadephia
before I reached New YorK he has
not Yet got to Boston
I Could tell You much of
my times in New YorK
but must hurry on
we had Breakfast at
Downings = Teas at C.B. Rays
V= and with public
meetings V= made a good
Visit = thought of my
walK down Grand Street
[Text aligned vertically long left margin of Page 2]
with Langston had a good time with
Oliver Johnson.
[Text aligned vertically along right margin of Page 2]
Tell Isaac my Bottle of Medicine
empted itself in the Carpet Bag ).
(Page 3)
who stopped there You remember.
with Amy and Sarah Some time
ago Visited Georgiana Putman
at Williamsbugh [sic] = She will be at
Boston in a few days to spend her
Vacation-
a letter has been recieved [sic] from
Joseph H. Putman = at Rio Janiero [sic]
where they had put in for water
his health far from good.
John M. Langston and myself left
Gotham Tuesday in the Bay State
had White folks accommodation
Visited Commencement at
Harvard College with him
and took tea at Francis JacKson
with Sallie Holley = they being
Oberlin Classmates = She
urged his dedication, himself
to the anti slavery [sic] cause
She SpoKe of Your Sarah
and my urging her Eastern
mission = and Miss Porter ( I think
advising her not to visit New England
(Page 4)
She is about Visiting Rochester enroute
Westward-
Wm H. Ashurst (of London
the Edward Search of the Liberator
is here = brings good news from
Geo Thompson- I should not be
surprised if he(GT) would once more
Visit the United States.
a Slave has Just been taKen
from a Vessel in the Harbor
and made a freeman =
quite a stir is making as the
owner is here = the friends are
vigilant but Cautious } more
anon
Mr V Mrs Lewis = WatKins Mr Grimes
Send lots of grateful regards
to You Isaac & the friends
they laud You in the highest terms
and if they did not I should cross
them from my BooK-
I want to say ever so many things
to every body [sic] at home and will
when I send a letter = love to all
Ever Your . William C. Nell
[Text aligned vertically along left margin of Page 4]
[obliterated]
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist leader and former slave. Georgiana Putnam was an abolitionist, who was fired for holding a large meeting to petition segregation in schools, while being a principal in the district. Nell refers to 36 Sophia Street- the Post family home. Mary and William Jenkin opened their home as a station on the Underground Railroad, as did the Bonnell-Dell family. Thomas and Mary Ann McClintock were both involved in the woman’s rights and abolitionist movements. Louisa Jacobs was the daughter of author and former slave, Harriet Jacobs. John was Harriet's brother.
Lydia Mott was an abolitionist and woman's rights activist. E.P.W. refers to Edmund P. Willis- Post's brother-in-law. Joseph H. Putnam was an abolitionist and married activist, Charles Lenox Remond's, sister- Caroline. John Mercer Langston was born as a free black child in Virginia. Langston worked as an abolitionist.
Mary was the Post's step-daughter, who married William Hallowell. Dr. Smith was the first African American to earn a medical degree and run to a pharmacy in the United States. Oliver Johnson was one of the founders of the New England Anti- Slavery Society. Isaac was a pharmacist, and may have prescribed Nell medicine. Sarah was Amy's sister. Sallie Holley and Francis Jackson were woman's rights activists. Radical abolitionist, William Lloyd Garrison, edited the newspaper the Liberator. William H. Ashurst was a British solicitor and an advocate of women’s rights. George Thompson was a British abolitionist and orator. The "friends" Nell refers to are the Society of Friends, a Quaker group, who supported the abolition of slavery. The Lewis, Watkins and Grimes families were fellow abolitionists.
(Page 1)
Boston June 22. 1853
Wed AM 12. oclock at antislavery
office
Esteemed Friend Amy Post.
Many thanks for Your excellent
message = I am so elated
with the prospect of soon
taKing you by the hand and
catching the inspiration
of those eyes which always
beamed so Kindly upon me
that the one thought almost
absorbs all others.
Though my anticipated stay
in Rochester will be of but
a very brief duration: Yet You
and myself must reserve a
season for one good talk
Here comes our mutual friend
Lucy Stone who sends her love
to You= she told me of the
good times with You-
(Page 2)
I. Yesterday assisted her in copying
at the Library = some ancient records
of Woman.-
I am very Sorry to learn that
You are an invalid = I trust
though by this time = You are on
the high road to permanent
recovery. How happy I shall be to
see Sarah Hallowell = Willis
I dont Know what to anticipate
about the Convention = If Douglass
will but act for the general
good = and ShaKe off those
evil elbow influences
which have thus far so
much controlled him we
may hope = but not if
otherwise = I have but
very little affinity with
or confidence in him now
How fallen from what
his early anti slavery [sic]
prestige promised.
(Page 3)
You ask if Miss Wood will be
at Rochester = I have no reason
to think so = though a few days
since she was preparing to
travel = If You never see
the original I have in my Scrap
Book an engraving which convey
Some idea of her looKs
You rally me also = about
rumored engagements -
a person liKe me having
withheld so long for marrying
Cannot = surrender himself
Captive Without due consideration
of the question = whether
interest and affection blend
in such proportion as to allow
no anticipation of regret –
[Two lines of text aligned horitzontally along left margin of Page 3]
Lots of talk on this matter
however.
Dorcas Collins writes me that Abby
is there and Phebe is Soon expected
So You see I look for a nice
Visit on return from Rochester.
Frank arrived safe home
and I suppose has handed
You my note =
(Page 4)
I have been put to some
anxiety thus far in getting
the Cash for my pamphlets
but I am reconciled to
such matters -
Rev D. A. Payne is now here
You remember his taKing tea
at 36 Sophia St once = He is
now a Bishop in the Methodist
(Bethel) Connection.--
Give my choicest regards to
every body [sic] at home = I shall soon
liKe the man in the story bring
my them myself
Gratefully Yours Wm C. Nell
-
How I do want to hear
Isaac Post once again on
the Spiritual communications
Shall I see Mrs J. Kirby Post?
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Lucy Stone was an abolitionist and woman's rights activist. Sarah Hallowell was Post’s sister and helped to plan the 1848 Women’s Rights Convention in Rochester.
Nell refers to the recent split in the anti-slavery movement between Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison. Douglass no longer believed that the United States Constitution was pro-slavery- unlike Garrison- he believed it was anti-slavery.
Abby and Phebe Thayer were relatives of the Post family. Frances was one of Nell's sisters. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Reverend D.A. Payne was a Bishop in the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME). Nell refers to the Spiritualist movement, whose followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Mrs. J. Kirby Post refers to one of Post's relatives.
(Page 1)
Wednesday 4.oclock P.M Boston May 25. 1853
My Valued Friend Amy Post
Mr Wallcut being confined to his room by
indisposition the Mantle of Substitute
for the anti slavery [sic] office has been
placed upon my Shoulders and though
I fondly anticipated attending the Convention
through its entire sessions. I have made
the Sacrifice = and can therefore only
attend evenings = Yesterday to my
great delight who should pop into
walk into the door but Lewis Burtis ,
I can assure You I lost no time in
going to the Carriage for a friendly
Shake of Sarah Burtis Hand = quite
like old times = Soon after Giles
and Catherine Stebbins := presence
augmented my pleasant Rochester
reminiscences. = I meant to have told You
that Lydia Mott came in with Lewis
Peter Still has Just arrived from his
Eastern tour where he was quite successful
He was speaking of You and says that he
met recently a friendly woman who was
(Page 2)
So very Kind to him that He called
her a Second Amy Post -
Sallie Hollie has arrayed ^herself^ in a handsome
Bonnet and Shawl = Black Silk Dress V=
and looks noble = She gains friends to the
Cause wherever she goes-
I. Cut out from the Tribune a notice
of Sarah Hallowells wedding = for the Liberator
So the deed is done that unites two ^hearts^ in
one = My best wishes attend her-
Friday P.M. 3.oclock-
The Liberator has by mistake printed Miss for
Mrs Sarah Hallowell = but it will be all the
same a hundred Years hence - I have delivered
the Liberty Bells and other Books for You to
Catherine Stebbins = They ought to have been sent
long since .= I had the pleasure of introducing her to
Miss Deborah Weston this forenoon-
Lucy Stone will probably leave here for the
Rochester Temperance Convention = and perhaps Frank
will accompany her. - Charles Lenox Remond
wished Amy Post had accompanied
the Rochester friends to Boston = the meeting
has been a grand one Just Such as you and Isaac
(Page 3)
Should have enjoyed-
Though I have had an unusually busy week
I am feeling nicely except a slight Cold
caught Yesterday in the rain-
I have great reason to be thankful that I
am so well= but I dare not boast = for I
am far from being out of the woods-
Frederick Douglass article on Infidelity
in his last weeks is not what it should have
been = Several friends here much regret
its publications = but more anon
Should the (F. Douglass) convention in
Rochester promise to be well attended
I shall make an effort though at some
sacrifice to be present = but of
but I will say a more definite word in my
next = How strangely Frederick Douglass
is wire pulling = but I will hope for
the best
Professor Allen had 17 days passage
to Europe in the Ship Danl Webster = but at
He rejoices for himself and Wife that they
are in an anti Colorphobia land-
Joseph Putmans Father is quite sick
and so is Joseph Smiths. Charles Remonds Wifes
son in law= I was at Salem a week last Sunday
(Page 4)
and though sorry for the invalids and missing
Joseph Putman very much Yet I had a fine
time = Miss Wood was present and added not a
little to my happiness thereby = By the bye it
is reported = that I am engaged to a Young
Lady in Boston whose acquaintance I have but
recently made = my Vanity may have led me to
believe an acquisition which I have not sought
but I do not anticipate a Wedding as the
result = more particulars when we meet =
one good conversation we must enjoy
Caroline E. Putman Sarah P. Remond and myself
were ejected from Madam Santags opera at the
Howard Atheneum [sic] recently = they brought an action
and gained the care = we attended the
operas afterwards in as good shape as any
body = Next weeks Liberator will give some facts
the details 2 or 3 days in Court V= Witnesses
Public excitement V= the triumph all rich
and this will be a fruitful topic when we
meet
Sorry to learn of Your indisposition
and hope You are now better than
ever= Do not thinK for a moment
that I can ever forget You and
Your Kindnesses = Love to Isaac
Jacob Joseph= Sarah Birney Mary Ann
Willie = and Kind regards to all
friends = Please Send me a line
soon as You can = I shall anxiously look for it
I remain Faithfully Yours William C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. R.F. Walcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet that contained a speech by Reverend Bleby. Lewis Burtis was married to the cousin of woman's rights leader, Susan B. Anthony. Sarah Burtis was an organizer of the Western New York Female Anti-Slavery Society. Giles Stebbins was an anti-slavery lecturer, and married to Catherine Stebbins, a woman's rights activist. Lydia Mott, the sister of James Mott was a leader of the anti-slavery movement. Peter Still or Peter Freedman, escaped from slavery and became an anti-slavery lecturer to raise money to buy his family out of slavery. Sallie Hollie was a woman's rights activist, who lectured with Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone and Sarah Remond. Nell mentions Post's sister, Sarah Hallowell. The Tribune and the Liberator were two anti-slavery newspapers. Deborah Weston was one of the founding members of the Boston Female Anti-Slavery Society. Charles Lenox Remond was an abolitionist and lecturer. Frances was one of Nell's sisters.
Nell refers to the recent split in the anti-slavery movement between Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison. Douglass no longer believed that the United States Constitution was pro-slavery- unlike Garrison- he believed it was anti-slavery. William G. Allen was editor of the National Watchman, a temperance and abolitionist paper for African Americans. Joseph Putnam- the brother-in-law of Charles Lenox Remond- was an abolitionist and military organizer during the Civil War. Nell sends his regards to Post's three sons, Jacob, Joseph and Willie. Mary Ann took care of Willie when he was a child. Sarah Birney was a relative of the Post family.
(Page 1)
George = S.B.S J. Parker J.B.S = J.H.
my employment [W.G. t?]
Boston April 24th 1853
My Valued Friend
Amy Post
It is now Sunday
Evening 10. oclock = I am seated in Mrs Scotts
at a table with her Son and Daughter whom I
usually assist some with thier [sic] compositions -
Ben Weeden is up stairs [sic] snoozing (= Mrs Scott
occupies the other half of House with Mrs Weeden
opposite BelknopSt [sic] church my former Landlady)
I. have this evening Seen Frank and
Louisa. but left them that I might settle off
Some correspondence = and must therefore absent
myself from Watching Mr Phillips House =for this
night = and to the work of writing -
I. have Just recieved [sic] a letter from
Benjamin F. Cleggett who tells me that our
mutual friend Charles Lenox Remond passed
through Rochester enroute [sic] to Cincinnati
Had He not told me that He should
not stop there I would have forwarded
a letter and perhaps Your Liberty Bells
which I shall now endeavor to do by
Frances who expects leaving Boston
in a few days for her adopted home
What Shall I say to You
relative to my being now in Boston
(Page 2)
when the whole burden of my song and
my hearts choice anticipation hitherto has
been = to reach 36 Sophia St and revel
again in that Charmed Circle at the
earliest possible moment. My answer
is like Shakspeares apothecary in Romeo
= My poverty but not my will consents
or rather let me amend the sentence by
substituting Circumstances for poverty for
that includes all =
You Know how ardently
I have longed to be once in Ohio and
that no occasion Could present
Stronger inducements than the late anti
Slavery [sic] Convention = which amid all
my baffled hopes = stood out to me
as the one that would not fail
augmented by the company of Friends Garrison
Remond V = = Well a part of my
hopes were based on the intention of
participating there and enroute [sic] thence
and back in antislavery [sic] meetings -
dispose of my pamphlets V=-
But for the same reason that I
abandoned my Connecticutt [sic] and Rhode Island
meetings = my capricious health- that
Joined with others has placed a veto
upon more extensive routes = as I
This could not consequently see the
(Page 3)
way clear to cover expenses and have
any surplus for my debts = I dont mean
that I have been prostate upon a Bed
of sickness = not at all my general health
has been very encouraging = so much so
as to impose myself and friends with
the idea that no necessity now existed
for my leaving the East for the West.
but unfortunate for me = having struggled
through the Winter and even the dreaded
month of March = the Changeableness
of April Weather has made me a
Victim to a new and very severe
Cold = though I Keep about = but many
a day have been unable to put forth any
of my usual exertion= Dr Bowditch told
me Yesterday that I should have been
away from these Spring East Winds
What the future will reveal on the
course I have pursued. of course is all
Conjecture = I attribute in part my taKing
Cold to Changing my plan of morning
bathing on leaving here to sleep at Mr Phillips
though the water is again turned on and
have resumed what I never should have
deviated from = Constant Care and
extra exertion during FranKs expected arrival
by Night train = then the same when
Benjamin was expected = The Childs sickness
(Page 4)
death and Funeral = attendance upon our
Temperance meetings in a warm Church Vc
these are among the causes of my present
relapse= I am taKing the CodLiver [sic] oil with
Phosphate of Lime = and Wild Cherry Syrup and
use the wet bandage as Amy Post used so
Motherly to apply it for me last Winter -
I feel that I am getting better= but
You Know my Cough is wearing upon the
system = But I have said enough on this
matter= more than I should have written
to most of my friends-
My inclination to meet the Sophia St Circle
is unconquerable and though there is no
pecuniary or business inducement for visiting
Rochester. Could I but obey my wishes
I Should Soon wing my flight thither
perhaps as Micawber [sic] Says Something may
Soon turn up to gratify this strong desire
I have already intimated a business operation
in which I am engaged = getting out Some
anti slavery [sic] Portraits = transferred from the
Daguerreotype to the new inverted
Christallotype [sic] = Should I secure money
enough to successfully start it = good sales
and profits are absolutely certain = this if my
health returns will Send me to several places
(Page 5)
2
This matter was embarked before the Fair
but has from unavoidable causes dragged
its length slowly along to the present
You Know having an accurate liKeness of
Mr Garrison as He is = is much desired
by the friends = and I hope to succeed
in my effort = You See I have not
Yet abandoned all Hope-
My present employments are writing Liberator
Seals for Mr Wollcut and occasionally assisting
to Mail = Posting Books for Joel W. Lewis an
enterprising Colored Blacksmith = Copying for
Mr. Bowditch in the State House Library
and Business agent for Mr Phillips =
though expecting to reside at Northampton
until october = He has considerable business
and many visits to make here – I have
any quantity of interesting items which I
have an itching palm for imparting to
the faithful and true in Rochester
Hope on Hope ever,
12. oclock and I
must retire but will finish tomorrow
Good night
(Page 6)
Sunday May 1st 1853
Since last Sunday I have recieved a
special line from Benjamin and Your
Kind letter also each mentioning the proposal
of Lloyd Scott = I have Just answered
him = that I cannot say definitely when I
shall reach Rochester = but that were I there
in all probability I would maKe a bargain with
him = of course my preferred Home would
be at 36 Sophia St – a Robin is now tuning
his mellow voice in the beautiful sun lit air of
this lovely May day = but it only Wakes up my
aspiration for Western New York = the
Music of Birds is needed and are welcome
here in a Crowded City but = to me since
a familiarity with thier [sic] sweet and liquid
notes = at – Rochester where every House most
Stands in a garden = and at Lockport where
I was Just one Year ago = and at Waterloo
where I was so happy last July = to me I
say = now more than ever I feel
that the Birds are out of thier [sic]
appropriate sphere unless they with me
are revelling far away from Bricks and
a Metropolitan a Brick and Mortar City
I am happy to tell You that a favorable change has
taKen place with my Cold and I am much better
I felt a few days ago quite apprehensive
(Page 7)
Last Thursday . Louisa – Frank and myself and perhaps
150 others attended a magnificent wedding of a Young
girl =daughter of a successful Colored Business man [sic]
I. have Just seen them pass and repass attend
Church opposite and a grand display they
made = Cordelia Howards = Brother Alfred soon
will marry a widow of Charles Remonds Uncle She
has I presume 8 or 10.000 dollars . He perhaps half
as much = so they swing = this reminds of
a something which when more matured I wish
to impart = How Amy Post will laugh-
especially if it is about me -
Did I tell You that I saw Joseph Putman leave
the wharf for Australia and also Professor
Allen and Lady ( every inch a King ) in the ship
Daniel Webster for Liverpool = So they go and
leave me an old piece of drift wood-
Just recieved [sic] a beautiful letter from Dorcas
Collins = She is as Mr. Garrison remarKed a
Correspondent worth having = tender my Kindest
remembrances to Sarah Thayer if Yet in Rochester
I attended Theodore Parkers preaching this
morning alone = Frank and Louisa losing quite
a treat by not leaving Home I was told that
Mr Garrison was present = I shall have a feast
a feast tomorrow of his Western tour.
I did not expect him so soon
(Page 8)
Hope Lewis and Sarah Burtis will reach Boston
it seems to me that Sarah Hallowell should
once visit here when the New England Convention
is in session = that of Remond and Douglass
Strange meeting
How difficult as You say for the latters attempt
to ride two Horses = Well we’ll see what the
result will be
I find it rather lonesome sleeping at Mr Phillips though
sometimes I have company = Friday night Horatio W. Foster
stopped with me = He is now with his family in
Pawtucket near Providence -
Monday Morning
I have Just seen Mr Garrison = who
Returned because of a threatened indisposition
He was intending to stop at Rochester.
the Cincinnati meeting was a grand one
I suppose Frank will leave here in a
few days and that too withoutmy [sic]
Company. = though I dont Know what
may happen = Be Kind enough soon
to send me a line = giving me any news
of my friends at 36 Sophia St to
each of whom please tender my special
remembrances = Wishing I was with You to
enjoy the spring liKe appearance of surrounding
associations I subscribe myself Most Sincerely Your
friend Wm C. Nell
Nell refers to two different photographic processes: Daguerreotype and the Christallotype. R.F. Wallcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby. Joseph H. Putnam was an abolitionist and married to Caroline- sister of Charles Lenox Remond. Professor Allen was editor of the National Watchman, a Temperance and abolitionist newspaper. Sarah Thayer was a relative of the Post's. Theodore Parker was an abolitionist preacher. Sarah Burtis was Susan B. Anthony's second cousin. Sarah Hallowell was Post's sister, who helped to plan the 1848 Woman's Rights Convention in Rochester.
Nell refers to the recent split in the anti-slavery movement between Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison. Douglass no longer believed that the United States Constitution was pro-slavery- unlike Garrison- he believed it was anti-slavery.
(Page 1)
I Just learn that one Woman who the friends here with
S.H say assisted to procure funds is about meeting her
ransomed daughter in New York
I done my part also not Boston March 25. 1853
in giving money but names
place Vc this is our legitimate part
Esteemed Friend Friday 11. AM
Amy Post at antislavery [sic] office
The Executive of the American anti Slavery [sic]
Society are now holding a meeting at the
other end of the office = present Mr Garrison
Wendell Phillips H.C. Wright . Francis Jackson
Chas Lenox Remond . Wm J. Bowditch Anne W.
Weston et al = the question is whether the
American Society will hold the anniversary in the
City of New York or elsewhere = the latter now seems more
probable
Miss Weston has delivered to me 5 Liberty Bells
for Your distribution including one for Mr. Springstead
of Camastota. - So You see I have
an antislavery [sic] mission = to Rochester =
I have Just written to Wm W. Brown
You will probably write him soon and
acKnowledge his Book which I have
also with me = Here comes Lucy Stone
who learning that I am writing to Amy
Post Sends any quantity of love to her
(Page 2)
I saw Peter Still at Charles Remonds
in Salem last Sunday = He has collected
about one hundred dollars there
and has a prospect of doing well though
the sum to raise is enormously high -
Your reflections and answers to Maria
Porter was a ^were^ triumphant ones it not
being a question of sympathy and feeling
but one of principle = while I could
not consistently urge anti slavery [sic] people
to buy Peter Still’s ^ ^relatives^ I could asK others
who regard slaves as property to contribute
Mr Garrison was very much pleased with
Your statement = and ^He^ tenders to You his
Kind regards.
I see lay F. Douglass paper
that the temperance meeting at Corinthian
Hall was a very successful affair
Susan B. Anthony is a real worKer -
Here comes Sallie Holley = for
a package of letters = she is highly prized
here = especially for getting Liberator subscribers
and collections- You Know her lectures
are admirable = She will remain
about here until the May Convention.
(Page 3)
Rev Theodore Parker administered consolatory words
at the funeral of Franks Baby = very impressive
and beautiful they were too. Frank bears her
loss with commendable and Christian like
fortitude.
Mrs Stowe has been seriously
indisposed but when I last heard She was
convalescent = expecting to Sail in a few days
not only Mrs Stowe but Horace Mann
and others find Wendell Phillips a
Giant with whom they can but come off
second best Mrs Stowe had been talking
with Mr. Garrison Mr May and others here
relative to her plan before Mr Douglass
met her = I am glad that the Girls
will not be excluded = I hope it will
be (if ever established) Her own college
as she Jokingly expressed it = an Independent
and anti Sectarian [sic] institution = but some
more on this matter when I see You
Miss Wood is I. believe reaping some benefit
from the water treatment at Northampton
but probably will soon leave for the Normal
School again = Helen Putman accompanied
my sisters and myself to the Boston Museum
last evening where the interesting -
Jewess was elaborately and gorgeously
represented
( Page 4)
I am preparing to leave here soon with
Frank = I am as likely however to return
here and try to live unless something
unlooked for warrants a western home
perhaps & matters not where my few
remaining days are passed = Ties are
being Severed both in Boston and
Rochester = and I feel consequently very
lonely = and an uncertainty where to
locate = You will tell me to seek
Contentment in my own breast = well
I try = but have not the grace that
maKes me always successful-
Should anything occur preventing my leaving as
expected I will send a line -
Sarah Hallowell intimated being at New York
if the anniversary was held there == If it is
at Syracuse = Amy and Isaac will of course
Cheer the friends by thier [sic] presence -
I was very glad to get Your letter -
and I am delighted with the prospect
Soon telling You so in Propriae Personae
Tendering to every member of the Home
Circle and its friends my Kind regards
I have the pleasure Joined by Louisa
and Frank of Subscribing myself Faithfully
Your Friend Wm C. Nell
(Page 5)
The School Question = is now being agitated here with
much energy = one Petition from the Colored Citizens was
lately submitted which contained 228 names = also
one from School Children numbering 38 =
-A number of Colored men = Petitioners
and also a few Remonstrants [sic] have been heard by a Sub Committee-
( the Remonstrants [sic] = shame to tell are also colored = but
small in number and influence = opposition from
the Proslavery [sic] Public is of course expected. but
from among us- who should be united in so
righteous an advance of Freedom cause = the
It is hard to find enemies == but we engage
in the battle here warmly = and are
confident of success . though it may be
deferred this Year = I am glad to learn that the
Same reform is being urged at Rochester == I sowed what seed I can
while there and can but rejoice in the promise of a good
growth.
Our meeting for Garrison and W. W. Brown
needed but the animating presence of Amy
Post and the Rochester Friends to make it
perfect: = I worked very hard (with others)
before the meeting =getting funds V= as
though I was paid 5dollars per day -
But can ill afford to spare time for any
Public object = were I setting down talking
with You How much I could detail of the
labors of these matters = much of the merit
that others recieve applause for = belongs to
those who = not only before but behind the Curtain
(Page 2)
[Text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 2]
I am almost ashamed to send such a
Scrawl = and will certainly do better in future
I am exceedingly anxious for 2 copies of the North Star for
are busy pulling the Strings: = Mr Garrison
and myself had a busy time in preparing the Report
for Press: - and Mr Browns Speech. (not being noted at
the time by anyone [sic] = I cooked up from memory a lone [sic]
I. did not do as well as I fondly anticipated in tendering
the Pitcher = owing to the loss of my brief = as I had intended
Speaking without Notes = But it will all be as well
a hundred Years hence Father Matthews = anti slavery [sic] Apostasy
is making a Stir among his Friends and then both among the Temperance
and anti slavery [sic] Party: He attends this week the Norfolk County (Temp)
meeting and will visit at Edmund Quincy : is Dedham = who
while He will remember Temperance will not forget anti slavery [sic]
therefore Father Matthew will be reminded of His sins of
omission
I notice that the next Fair is holden [sic] at Macedon
You wont have so cold a time as at West Henrietta
last winter = I hope You will dispose of all the goods
So Your Circle meets at Alexander St =
Do the Sulliss and Graces now participate ?
Some time Since I applied to Mr Dick for some Stars He
forwarded several but omitted a few which are necessary to my
File : and also Mr Wolcutts = I do not want to ask him again
and Yet am exceedingly desirous of having them
Perhaps You can either at the office or otherwise
get them If so we will be greatly obliged -
1 copy of No 19. May 4. 1849} Believe me Ever Yours
2 “ “ No 22 “ 25, “ } Williams C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
S.H. may refer to Post's sister, Sarah Hallowell. The American Anti-Slavery Society was founded in 1833 by radical abolitionists, William Lloyd Garrison and Arthur Tappan. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist, Native American advocate and lawyer. Reverend H.C. Wright was a member of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society. Charles Lenox Remond was an abolitionist leader. William Ingersoll Bowditch served as Treasurer of the Anti-Slavery Society and opened his home as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Anne Weston was one of the founding members of the Boston Female Anti-Slavery Society. Nell refers to the anniversary of West Indian emancipation, which took place in 1833.
Canastota is in New York State. William Wells Brown was an African American abolitionist lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian; born a slave, he escaped to the North in 1834. Lucy Stone was a woman's rights leader. Peter Still was born a slave and escaped. He toured as an anti-slavery lecturer to raise money to buy his family out of slavery. Maria Porter and her family were ardent abolitionists and lived in Rochester.
Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave. Susan B. Anthony was a woman's rights leader. Sallie Holley traveled with Anthony as a woman's rights lecturer. Reverend Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and reform minister of the Unitarian Church. Frances was one of Nell's sisters. Garrison edited the newspaper the Liberator. Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote the novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin, which depicted the slave experience. Horace Mann was an education reformer. Samuel May was a radical reformer, who advocated for women's rights, education and the abolition of slavery.
Nell refers to Northampton, Massachusetts as a site where the water cure -- a popular treatment of ill health in the nineteenth century -- was offered. Helen Putnam was an abolitionist and a mutual friend of Nell and Post. "In Propriae Personae" refers to a Latin phrase, which means for one's own self. Louisa was one of Nell's sisters.
Nell refers to the movement regarding the "School Question", which called for government funds to be applied to public schools that educated black children. Edmund Quincy was an abolitionist. John Dick worked for Frederick Douglass as a printer for his newspaper, the North Star. R.F. Wallcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby.
(Page 1)
Saturday 3.oclock PM; Sallie Holly has Just come in
goes to Fall River This afternoon = then returns for a week sojourn
at Francis Jacksons;
Peter still is also here; they Boston March 11th 1853
have each wished to be remembered to Friday morning 12.oclock
You-
Esteemed Friend Amy Post
Here I am at the anti-
slavery office despatching [sic] matters . hoping to leave
Boston soon after the 20th unit Joseph H Putman
expects to sail on that day for Australia. I am already
heavy hearted in consequence. = I. have Just telegraphed
to Benjamin Cleggett = that his little Baby is very sick
and that the Doctor pronounces its recovery doubtful
Benjamin and Frank seem destined to bear the
Yoke in thier [sic] Youth. – Louisa the Two Iras
Frank and myself have had some very pleasant times
together = some suspended however by the Baby’s illness
what the result will be God only Knows
I. have Just despatched [sic] letters to Dorcas Collins &
John Dick . and when finishing this will respond
to an interesting and beautiful letter from Sarah L.
Hallowell . I shall probably be at Rochester when
Herself and Edmund P. Willis have completed thier [sic]
Long Island visit. It is my expectation to be
able to attend the Cincinnati meeting = and
then reach Boston by the New England
Convention = after that my future is very
uncertain.
(Page 2)
I. have been watching at Mr Phillips House a few nights
past = as some robbers broke through from the next
unoccupied house = though for some unKnown cause
they removed nothing. Yet it was deemed prudent
by the police who watched inside the first night
that continued vigilance should be continued some
time longer= I wished I could have presented
You and Rochester friends some of my batch of
tickets to Wendell Phillips lecture on the
Lost arts delivered before the Mercantile
Library Association = to a crowded audience
in the Spacious and beautiful Music Hall
He =referred = when speaking of painting Vc
to his illustrious friend Garrison = this though
before hundreds of Hunkers = was warmly
applauded = and last evening the same Hall
^was^ filled to suffocation by the Temperance Convention
a Clergyman from Belchertown (Mr Wolcott) and
Henry Ward Beecher = incidentally denounced the
Fugitive Slave Law = for which both were
applauded to the echo = even more than
for thier [sic] strong talk on the License Law.
So You see = that Humanity it was
uppermost with the masses-
Salllie Holley
writes to the friends here that She is in too much
need of rest to anticipate going to Cincinnati –
(Page 3)
She will probably remain here until after the May Convention
The Annual meeting will be held in New York City
though Mr Garrison is not favorable to it, there is also
talk of a meeting at Syracuse, please regard these
for the present as whisperings-
I do not understand fully the objections urged
against the old society abolitionists = in relation to
Peter Still = nor did Mr Garrison-
Peter is now operating in Salem and Lynn
He is a great work = but perseverance will
accomplish anything. . I will say here however
that Peter Still has been aided very muchly by
the members of the Old Society Vc = and at
the meeting would have succeeded
much better had the case not been
prejudiced by the injudicious action of a person
in whom a majority had no confidence -
But I have and also Misters May, Wallcutt and
others given him names –Vc and Peter is
satisfied that with our efforts = but enough on
this = antislavery people do not think it right
to put money in the Slaveholders pocket
=
I really hope it will be my privilege to meet
the new Boarder at 36 Sophia St = I have
any quantity of matter for Conversation with
you and the Circle when we meet.
(Page 4)
The last Sunday in February I. heard Theodore
Parker preach on Good and Bad temper
it was indeed a mental and moral
feast = in his prayer he alluded to the
“ last smile of departing winter-
Happy was I to hear of Sarah C. Owen
and hope to see her – when I reach Rochester -
The question of Professor Allens = prevented marriage
excites much talk here Pro and Con = I have a
fine letter from him = but wait until I come
What a noble and truthful tribute does
Amy pay to Isaac Post. – in the saying
‘ I wish every woman was as happily Yoked
as I am’. = a good wife has been my constant
wish through life = but I suppose my doom
is disappointment. If You have not written
to Phebe Thayer = please tender her and Abby my choicest
remembrances = Amy Post Knows they are very choice
availing myself of Mrs Scotts invitation last evening
to eat some good Johnny Cake How could I help
thinking of my Kind friend Sarah Birneys
standing invitation = to my masticating machinery ‘
being tested upon her Johnny Cake-
with some of Jacob Kirbys oysters.
Please consider all the other things said
and all my friends Old & Young remembered
With every sentiment of grateful regard
I remain faithfully Your Friend Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Sallie Holley traveled as anti-slavery lecturer. Francis Jackson, an abolitionist from Boston worked with anti-slavery groups. Joseph H. Putnam was the brother-in-law of abolitionist Charles Lenox Remond. Benjamin Cleggett was Nell's brother-in-law and Frances was his Cleggett's wife. Louisa was another of Nell's sisters. John Dick worked as a printer for Frederick Douglass's newspaper the North Star.
Sarah Hallowell was Post's sister. Edmund P. Willis was Sarah's husband. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. R.F. Wallcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby. Henry Ward Beecher was a Congregationalist clergyman, abolitionist, social reformer, who opposed the Fugitive Slave Act. This law made it illegal for Northerners to aid escaping slaves and compelled them to return the slaves to their masters.
Peter Still was a former slave, who became a lecturer to raise money to buy his family out of slavery. Samuel J. May was a radical American reformer. Nell refers to 36 Sophia Street, where the Post family lived in Rochester.
Theodore Parker was a Transcendentalist and reform minister of the Unitarian Church. Sarah C. Owen was a woman’s rights activist.
Nell refers to Professor William G. Allen, who was almost murdered when he proposed to the daughter of a white minister. Allen was the editor of the National Watchman, a Temperance and abolitionist paper. Phebe and Abby Thayer were relatives of the Post family. Sarah Birney was a mutual friend of Nell’s and the Post family. Jacob was one of Post's sons.
(Page 1)
Boston Feb 19. 1853
Saturday 3.PM
Esteemed Friend Amy Post.
When Oh when
will the wanderer from
36 Sophia Street return?
If this question has ever been
asked I can only reply =
Soon quite soon -
The late damp weather
left me too hoarse to
warrant getting up my
meetings in Connecticut
and Rhode Island
but I am now nearly
good as new = and
will put off on my
March at earliest
arrangement
(Page 2)
Frederick Douglass is Yet
about the Vicinity. He lost
the chance of seeing
Uncle Tom = at the Museum
but did not lose the
opportunity of a long interview
with Mrs Stowe at
Andover = He has had but
a few minutes talk with
Mr Garrison = I do not
think he enjoys himself
here as formerly = but
John Dick has Just acknowledged
mine and Your letter = sometime
since and sends his Kind regards
to You with a promise of
soon writing = He does not
seem to Know that Phebe
Thayer is in the same City of
Philadelphia with him
Here comes from the Mail
(Page 3)
an excellent letter from
Dorcas Collins telling me
among other things that
Phebe and Abby are quite well
and that they lately attended
a spiritual Circle = where on
the tables being moved
they (Phebe and Abby) were
charged as having
with moving it
So my friend Joseph is
off again for California
He has my last wishes for
Health and Prosperity
a few days since Mr Wallcut
recieved [sic] from Norton Bush
his Mothers subscription
and Liberator direction to
California = How changed
have become matters in
Rochester = and indeed in
Boston too = Joe Putman
leaves soon for Australia –
(Page 4)
a blending in of sorrows
that will indeed make
the appellation to me a true
one = Knight of the
rueful Countenance
Frank and her Baby are
having a fine time here
I shall be about there long
enough to recieve [sic] one more
letter from You
How is Sarah = I shall be
truly sorry not to find
her in Rochester .
Give my Love to every
body [sic] at home I need
not nor is there room
here to name them
I suppose You and Isaac will
attend the New England
Convention in May
I remain Most Sincerely Yours
Wm C. Nell
[Text aligned vertically on Page 4]
Lucy Stone I learnt the other day
Knows Amy Post
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave. Nell refers to Harriet Beecher Stowe's book Uncle Tom's Cabin, which was performed as a play during this period. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. John Dick worked for Douglass as his printer for the newspaper, the North Star.
Phebe and Abby Thayer were relatives of the Post family. Nell refers to the growing Spiritualist movement, whose followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Mr. Wallcut published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby. Norton Bush was married to the woman's rights activist, Abigail Bush. Joseph H. Putnam was an abolitionist and married to Caroline, Charles Lenox Remond's sister. Remond was an abolitionist leader.
Frank was one of Nell's sisters. Sarah Hallowell was Post's sister. Lucy Stone was a woman's rights leader.
(Page 1)
Boston Feb 8 – 1853
antislavery [sic] office
Esteemed Friend Amy
I am now
arranging for some meetings in
Connecticut previous to reaching
Rochester = my success in these
matters [obliterated] pecuniaryly [sic] speaking
is never very encouraging -
but the necessity seem laid upon
me = and I must obey.
Frederick Douglass made his appearance
here last evening en route to Lynn
He went upstairs for a few minutes to
see Mr. Garrison = I shall probably
accompany him this evening to see
Uncle Tom = Frank and her
Baby are both having a fine time
with Louisa and the two Iras
her old Boston friends seem -
very glad to see her
(Page 2)
Professor Allen has recently
had his matrimonial aspirations
vetoed by a mob at Fulton
but I presume He will
pick his flint and try again
So Sarah Hallowell has not Yet
reached Rochester = I hope she
is having a good time
I expect Mr. Garrison will pass
through Rochester to Ohio
sometime in April =
My health continues encouraging
except a hoarseness induced by the
late foggy weather
Tender my Kindest regards to Isaac
Post No 1 and all others of the
family = not forgetting other friends who
may enquire = I should be very happy
to recieve [sic] a line from You before I leave
I am faithfully yours Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist and former slave. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. Nell refers to Harriet Beecher Stowe's book Uncle Tom's Cabin that was performed during this period as a play. Frances and Louisa were Nell's sisters.
Nell refers to Professor Allen, who was almost murdered when he proposed to the daughter of a white minister. Allen was the editor of the National Watchman, a Temperance and abolitionist paper. Sarah Hallowell was Post’s sister.
(Page 1)
I have Just had a few minutes talk with Mr Rogers the anti
Spiritual theory advocate Boston January 20. 1853
I think him very candid
however
Anti Slavery office 11.oclock
Thursday. A.M
Esteemed Friend Amy .
Frank has come
to the conclusion of leaving
Rochester on a visit to Boston
and may have left before this
reaches You = but if not I
hope You will forward a line
to me by her = that I may
be favored with the latest
Bulletin from 36 Sophia Street
Great times are expected at
the annual meeting = only wish
You and Isaac could be
present. but perhaps You
both accompanied by William
and Mary Hallowell anticipate
being at the May Convention
of Course Sarah Hallowell will
improve the Same chance of
visiting the Athens of America
(Page 2)
Hutchinson Concerts soon coming off
Here comes Peter Still whom I
have promised to assist some
in calling for subscriptions -
I have lately recieved [sic] a letter
from Louisa Jacobs = she speaks
very affectionately of You -
since then I have a letter
from Anna Jacobs = speaking of
Phebes absence from Rochester
I wonder if I shall ever
meet Phebe and Abby again?
Times and circumstances change
Jerry B. Sanderson has sent me
a line informing me that his
wife will soon present him
with another object for a
Fathers love
Joseph H. Putman and Wife were
in Boston Yesterday = he holds
on to the idea of leaving soon
for California or Australia
How lonesome I shall feel
in view of his absence and
the mutation of affairs among
(Page 3)
my choice friends East & West
I. shall feel the more like
doing what only seems all
the more difficult to accomplish
“get a home of my own
Mr Garrison introduced me a
few days since here in the office
to Harriet Beecher Stowe.
She has a great plan in her
head for elevating Colored
Americans = Professor Allen
lectured in Andover Tuesday
Eve and I hope made her
acquaintance
I witnessed Uncle Tom as played
at Arduays Hall a few nights
since = it differs some from the
Museum representation = though
none the less anti slavery [sic]
except a Colonization Clause = not so potent as I dreaded
one Young man sing -
the unhappy Slave which
I have so many times
heard Joseph Post sing
and with much beauty of
stile [sic] = and which I hope to hear
again-
(Page 4)
a week last Sunday I attended an
antislavery [sic] meeting at Danvers -
and last Sunday at Manchester N.H.
had good times = spoke little
but ^and^ gained little pecuniarily [sic]
less
I. however enjoyed meeting some
of my early friends married
now settled there – of which
more anon
my purpose is to leave Boston
soon after the annual meeting
doing what I may enroute for
antislavery [sic] = on my own hook
My health continues tolerable -
but for many reasons I feel
after = depressed = perhaps it
will wear off
The weather now is beautiful = sliegh [sic]
parties in thier happiest mood = Vc
oblige me by special remembrance to
all the inmates of Your happy home
How eagerly do I long to look them
all once more in the face and
give them a hearty shake of the hand
Had I anticipated being in Boston so long
I should have brought my drab surtout
which hangs in the wardrobe
How is Edmund R. Willis Ever Yours Gratefully
Is Sarah Yet on Long Island } Wm C. Nell.
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Nell refers to the Spiritualist movement, whose followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Frances was one of Nell's sisters.
Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. William and Mary Hallowell were Post's son-in-law and step-daughter. Sarah was Post's sister.
The Hutchinson Family Singers used their music to raise awareness about abolitionism and women’s rights. Peter Still, a former slave became an anti-slavery lecturer to raise money to buy his family out of slavery. Louisa Jacobs was author and former slave, Harriet Jacobs’s daughter. Phebe and Abby were relatives of the Posts. Jeremiah B. Sanderson was a free black man and abolitionist, who moved California. He became an influential spokesman and educator, who advocated to secure public funding for schools that taught black children.
Joseph H. Putnam was married to Caroline- sister of Charles Lenox Remond, an abolitionist leader. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and editor of the Liberator. Harriet Beecher Stowe was the athor of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, a novel that depicted the slave experience.
Professor William G. Allen was the editor of the National Watchman, a Temperance and abolitionist newspaper. Joseph was Post's son. Edmund P. Willis was Post's brother-in-law.
(Page 1)
Dear Amy
Should Mary F.
Davis be in the City, and not
able to see me, will you see if
we may rely on her attendance
at our National Woman’s Rights
to be held (probably) at Chicago
toward the last of October- im-
mediately following the Disu-
nion Convention at Cleveland-
I am delaying to decide
both time & place, until I can
get replies from the different
speakers to whom I have written
on the subject – I do hope
Mrs. Davis can arrange to be
at our Convention- tell her
( private ) that Lucy Stone cannot
be with us, this year, hence the
(Page 2)
the greater need for Mrs.
Davis- I have written Aunt
Fanny Gage, J. Elizabeth Jones
& Mrs. Tracy Culter, of the West,
to see if they can go to Chicago-
Where are the women to fill
the places of those who are (at
least temporarily ) withdrawn
from the public Service?- Echo
answers, Where ?
I am thinking to
go to Binghampton, Monday
by 9 Oclock A.M. Train -
Should I do so, I may not be
able to see you- I hardly know
how I can spare the time,
and should I feel just as I
do this minute- I should, when
Monday comes, stay at home-
The summer is almost gone,
and not a lithe of the work
done, I had contemplated-
Why wont you side up to
(Page 3)
the Farm tomorrow P.M.
W. H. Fapp will be here -
I should like to talk over
matters very much-
Truly Yours
Susan B. Anthony
Saturday A.M.
Susan B. Anthony, a woman’s rights activist, writes to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Mary Fenn Robinson Love Davis was a woman's rights activist and a Spiritualist. Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Anthony alludes to a rift between activists, Lucy Stone and Paulina Wright Davis. Anthony mentions activists: Frances Dana Barker Gage, J. Elizabeth Jones and Tracy Culter.
(Page 1)
By way of commemorating Our Birthday I presented
a record of events on the 20th of Dec 1852 which I will
bring with me to show You
Wednesday [obliterated] } Boston Dec 22d. 1852
11. oclock P.M.}
Esteemed Friend Amy Post} I have Just
returned from the Boston Bazaar ^which opened to day [sic]^ and
where I have promised to attend until its
close = - The day has been a most
auspicious one Cold & Clean =the attendance
- very encouraging and Just before breaking up
the sum of Eight hundred and fifty odd
dollars was announced taken. This afternoon I
enquired of Deborah Weston if the Rochester
Box had come = and when She told me no
I felt not a little disappointed = but having
occasion directly after to go to the anti slavery [sic]
office =was greeted by the welcome sight of the
expected Box: I lost no time in conveying
- it to the Hall = and on telling Miss Weston that
I felt some curiosity as to its contents –She
requested my opening it = It would have
been flattering indeed to You and the Circle
to have heard her commendations of the
article = Just useful ones as were in demand
there having depend upon it You could not
have made a more acceptable Selection
but of this I presume You will learn officially
(Page 2)
an almost unprecedented quantity of
articles has been forwarded from Europe
arriving doubtless to ^in^ a certain degree to the
influence of Uncle Tom
This evening while talking at the Fair with
Miss Eliza J Kenny = on the spiritual matters
I remarked = that despite all that had
been put in as offsetting the theory -
I Yet found it easier to accept than
to reject. unexpectedly to us = this was
confirmed . by Miss Kennys hand moving
rapidly on the table = as the She declared
wholly beyond her control..
She Sends her best love to You.
9=o’clock Thursday Eve 23d 1852
Seated in Mrs Scotts large room having
enjoyed listening to a splendid Music Box
(18 inches long). I will before retiring , pen down
a few more lines = - I. had the pleasure to day [sic]
of Seeing AbbyFoster and Sallie Holley
and this reminds me of the old Gentleman
Peter Still introduced to me last Sunday by
Francis Jackson = He informed me that
Sarah Hallowell had gone to Long Island
His letters of introduction to the several clergyman
I expect will result very profitably-
(Page 3)
He speaks very gratefully of Isaac and Amy Post
Anti Slavery [sic] Room Jan 4. 1853
Since writing the above I. have recieved [sic] Your letter of
Dec 23d for which many thanks = Just listened to a
pleasant scene between Misters Phillips Garrison . May
and Sallie Holly , she has Just returned from Fall River
where she had an audience of 1,500 = and got several
Liberator Subscribers == Mr Phillips made a fine speech
^she has visited Rev. W.F. Holland at East Cambridge^
at the Bazaar last evening = it closes to night [sic] -
proceeds when I last estimated 3600dollars
Miss Deborah Weston wishes me to tell You that never
was a more acceptable Box than Yours from Rochester
the entire ^the entire^ contents were sold in a few hours
so much for sending Useful articles the
people like Oliver Twist wanted more
Parker Pillsbury has offered an amendment to
Uncle Tom as represented at the Boston Museum
and which has been accepted by the Manager
who tendered to Mr Pillsbury a free ticket for
one Year for himself and family -.
How I do wish You had all accompanied the
Box for more reasons than can now be told-
one attraction would have been the Spiritual
Convention which was respectable in attendance
and very interesting in matter and manner
Ably Kelley Foster is advised by her Physician to cease her
public speakers = she has the Bronchites [sic] -
(Page 4)
I lectured at Canton on Monday Dec 27th -
a little Baptist Vestry filled = I recieved [sic] however
but little pecuniary profit = the people were
attentive and are preparing for a meeting of
Charles Lenox Remond = Parker Pillsbury thinks
of my accompanying him to New Hamphire [sic]
I shall then complete my Eastern Jaunt by being
at the Massachusetts annual meeting the
last week in January = then God willing
I shall wing to Rochester for a brief
visit with my loved friends
Next Saturday I superintend a Childrens Festival
(about 70) at Mr Bowditchs in Brookline (wish
Willie and Mary Ann were to be present)
I then expect to leave that Evening for
Salem = and attend Sunday the Essex County
meeting in Danvers = Professor Wm G. Allen
will accompany me = He will soon be in
Rochester
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Deborah Weston was one of the founding members of the Boston Female Anti-Slavery Society. Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote the novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin, which depicted the slave experience. Eliza J. Kenny was an abolitionist, who gave up her reform work to become a Spiritualist medium. Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead.
Abby Foster was an abolitionist and woman’s rights activist. Sallie Holley traveled as an anti-slavery lecturer with Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone and Sarah Remond, and other members of the American Anti-Slavery Society. Peter Still was a former slave, who became an anti-slavery lecturer to raise money to buy his family's freedom. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist from Boston, who was affiliated with the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society, the Boston Female Anti-Slavery Society, the American Anti-Slavery Society and the Boston Vigilance Committee.
Sarah Hallowell was Post’s sister. Wendell Phillips was an abolitionist. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. Samuel J. May was a radical American reformer, who advocated for woman's rights and abolitionism. Parker Pillsbury was a minister, an abolitionist writer and a woman’s rights activist.
Nell refers to Canton, New York. Charles Lenox Remond was an American orator and abolitionist. William Ingersoll Bowditch served as Treasurer of the Anti-Slavery Society, and opened his home as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Willie was Post's youngest son, and Mary Ann helped to take care of him.
William G. Allen was the editor of the National Watchman, a Temperance and abolitionist newspaper. Nell refers to 36 Sophia Street, the address of the Post family home in Rochester. Harriet Brent Jacobs was a former slave, and later the author of Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. Louisa was her daughter. John was Jacobs's brother. Jeremiah Sanderson was a free black man, who moved from Boston to California to pursue business opportunities. Sarah Thayer was a relative of the Post family.
(Page 1)
Mr May tells me ^Friday^
that Saturday Morning
Wm. W. Brown has sent You Dec 17th 1852
and other Rochester Friends
a copy of his Book I will
bring them with me.
Garrison and Oliver Johnson
went to the Boston Museum last
evening and were much pleased
with the dramatic representation of
Uncle Tom = For 5 weeks
each night and 2 day performances
the house has been crowded
Mrs Stowe is preparing a series
of scenes from Uncle Tom for
the Hutchinsons = who are to blend
its representation a reading
with anti slavery [sic] singing -
this will prove an attractive
and novel means of
putting down agitation
Mrs Stowes Key to Uncle Toms
Cabin will soon be issued
containing facts long since
published by Pillsbury and Foster
but now bearing her charmed
name will be extensively read
(Page 2)
The new illustrated Parlor annual
of Uncle Tom is a gem
and the engraving of Mrs Stowe
much like her -
Mr Garrison has Just read a confession
of = Homer = the principled Editor
in getting up the Mob of Oct 21st
1835
He is now a pauper = this letter is
addressed to the Son of Mr Rand
the ^tall^ old Gentleman at the annual
meeting in May last = his son was
apprentice in the Gazette office at
the time = names and local
incidents are given and furnishes
an interesting Chapter = of righteous
retribution Keep these names away
from any Editor = the time is not Yet
for publication
Sallie Holley is soon expected here
Wm G. Allen also-
Lucy Stone was in Yesterday
I am daily looking for the Rochester Box
Weather this morning rainy
I am ordinarily well thank God
I hope Sarah Fish is gaining health.
How is Edmund P. Willis – Ever Yours Wm C. Nell
[Text aligned vertically along Page 2]
How is my Friend Clough?
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Samuel J. May was a radical American reformer, who advocated for women's rights, and abolition. William Wells Brown was born a slave and after escaping, he became an anti-slavery lecturer, novelist, playwright and historian. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. Oliver Johnson edited and contributed articles to anti-slavery newspapers.
Harriet Beecher Stowe, wrote the novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin, which depicted the slave experience. The Hutchinson Family Singers used their music to raise awareness about abolitionism and women’s rights.
Nell refers to the mob of October 21, 1835, when the Boston Female Society announced that the British orator, George Thompson would be addressing their meeting. Pro-slavery forces threatened violence and Garrison spoke in Thompson's place. On the day of the event, a lynch mob formed and tried to drag Garrison away, but he escaped.
Sallie Holley traveled as an anti-slavery lecturer with Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone and Sarah Remond, and others from the American Anti-Slavery Society. William G. Allen was editor of the National Watchman, a Temperance and abolitionist paper.
Lucy Stone was an American abolitionist and suffragist leader. Sarah Fish helped to plan the 1848 Woman’s Rights Convention in Rochester. Edmund P. Willis was Post's brother-in-law.
(Page 1)
Boston Dec 16 = 1852
antislavery [sic] office Thursday 4 oclock
P.M
My Esteemed Friend Amy Post
Our mutual friend Oliver
Johnson having Just stepped
out after some of his mirth
provoking remarks= I will
put down a few items on this
Sheet for the home circle at
36 Sophia St= I. have this day
recieved [sic] a letter from Benjamin
informing me that Frances has
deferred her Boston visit until
Spring = I shall therefore
be enabled to devote perhaps
Sometime longer to the
business before me of as
getting my pamphlets into
market and the finishing
up other affairs better
done personally than by
proxy = I cannot then
(Page 2)
anticipate leaving for Rochester
until after the Bazaar.
of which the busy notes of preparation
are constantly Sounding in my
ears = after then should I be
fortunate enough in arranging
a lecturing tour = I’ll asK not
more = Oh that I had my
former health and strength
enabling me so much better to
fulfil [sic] the mission that
Amy – Sarah and Mary Hallowell
so faithfully promoted.
I am Yet relying on Your
influence for Some Western New
York meetings = but God willing
You will Soon see me in
Rochester.
Evening 10. oclock
Here I am at Mrs Scotts (opposite
Belknap Church = ( She remembers
Amy Post in the meeting -
She is now ironing = Her Son
Henry Garnet and Daughter
Julia ( whom I often assist in
School lessons have Just bid me
good night and gone to shut
eye town.
(Page 3)
I have been at Lewis Haydens this evening
where while waiting to see Louisa I heard
little Ira: Grammar and Arithmetic
he improves = and I am delighted
only wish I could do what my heart
prompts for his progress in life
but a las [sic] ! a las [sic] ! there is such a
gulf between my pursuits and my
wis hopes ^I have also been giving some
writing lessons to a Woman^
I am very curious to learn
of Rochester anti slavery [sic] movements
how unreconciled [sic] I do feel in view of
the misapplied energies and
sympathies = oh that it was deserved
how gladly would I commend them
but I shall hear the narration soon
at Mr Alcotts Conversations last eve
I saw a lady reminding me much
of our mutual friend Sarah Burtis
Do give her and hers my Kind
regards How does Sarah Thayer = my
good friend= No more to see Phebe and
Abby in Rochester is too much = but regrets
avail nothing = I am very fast learning the
lesson of resignation to Chances and
Changes in this world = there is nothing
Substantial = How much need of a
vital and abiding trust in a hopeful
immortality Charles Lenox Remond has been
unwell some but is now convalescent
such a wife as he has maKes it almost a
luxury to be sick= He supposing I would have
left last week has entrusted me with some
letters to Rochester Friends
(Page 4)
Joseph H. Putman thinks of going to California
soon = if he goes = my heart will in deed [sic]
feel lonely = I cannot but think I ought
to have a good wife to smooth my
declining Years = too late = too late
Wendell Phillips will not live in Boston
this winter his wife is Yet in the water
cure = though to the present without
much benefit
I want very much to meet
You and all at home once more
Do write me a word about each.
Sarah Hallowell = Sarah Birney = Jacob Kirby
Joseph Post = Mary Ann and Little Willie -
does Isaac Post Yet have communications
of this Spiritual Theory and practice I could
write a long chapter = wont we have a
long talk about it = I have heard it
discussed every day [sic] and every where [sic] since
I left Rochester-
Last Friday December 10th Garrison was
47 = I heard him and Edmund Quincy
comparing ages = E.Q is 44 -
Next Monday 20th , Amy Post and
W.C.N = each have a birthday anniversary
part of my observance or I cannot be
at 36 Sophia St = will be to devote
some choice moments ^that day^ in thinking
of my Kind Benefactor Amy Post
Please remember me gratefully to William and Mary
Hallowell = my regards to Mrs Van Lew =
I have commenced several letters to friends in
various parts = one to Louisa Jacobs in fulfilling
a 3 months promise Charles Summer has Just
Sent me a Document from Washington
Glad to learn of the Debating Society = wish I
was among them Love to all friends in and
out of the Family Circle = I am ever yours Wm C Nell
[Text aligned vertically along Page 4]
Remember me to Elias & Rhoda De Garmo
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston, to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Oliver Johnson was an editor and writer for many anti-slavery newspapers in the United States. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Benjamin Cleggett was Nell's brother-in-law, who married Frances. Sarah was Post's sister. Mary was Post's step-daughter. Henry Garnet was an abolitionist lecturer. Lewis Hayden Grimes was a former slave, who became an abolitionist leader. Louisa was Nell's sister, and Ira was her son. Amos Bronson Alcott was an American Transcendentalist. Sarah Burtis was Susan B. Anthony’s second cousin and an abolitionist and woman’s rights activist. Nell inquires about their mutual friend Sarah Thayer. Phebe and Abby were relatives of Post's.
Charles Lenox Remond was an American orator and abolitionist. Joseph H. Putnam was Remond's brother-in-law and an abolitionist. Wendell Phillips was an American abolitionist. Nell refers to the "water cure", a nineteenth century health remedy.
Sarah Hallowell was Post's sister. Sarah Birney was a mutual friend and abolitionist. Jacob, Joseph and Willie were Post's sons. Mary Ann helped to take care of Willie. Nell refers to the growing Spiritualist movement, whose followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Isaac Post believed himself to be a medium and in 1852 published the book Voices From The Spirit World, Being Communications From Many Spirits. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. Edmund Quincy was a member of the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society and edited a number of anti-slavery publications.
William and Mary Hallowell were Post's son-in-law and step-daughter. Mrs. Van Lew was an abolitionist who would serve as a spy for the Federal Government during the Civil War. Louisa Jacobs was author and former slave, Harriet Jacobs's daughter. Charles Sumner was a Senator from Massachusetts and a radical abolitionist.
Elias and Rhoda De Garmo were early members of the Western New York Anti-Slavery Society.
(Page 1)
Please say to Mrs Douglass that I. fulfilled my promise
to her by calling upon the Rodman Girls in Lynn
they were pleased to make many friendly enquiries
Saturday 4. P.M. Boston October 9. 1852
at the antislavery [sic] office Tuesday 12th
This Evening I am invited
to Mr Mays Father =
Mr. Bishop an English
abolitionist will be
present
Esteemed Friend Amy Post -
I. feel moved to
pen thee a few lines hoping they will be
acKnowledged in time for my reading before
I leave here for 36 Sophia St –
I have Just Survived a struggle = whether
to go or not to Salem and hear Sallie
Holley tomorrow evening =- but other
engagements prevent my making the last
Salem visit for several days Yet-
I had the good luck of meeting her in the
office a day or two since and enjoying some
reminiscenses [sic] of Rochester-
I have Just been helping Friends Garrison
and Walcutt. fit out a Fugitive Slave
Just from Virginia = his narration of
Scenes in the Dismal swamp and
his own experience =-toils and privations were
very affecting - his was no fancy.
SKetch =
A. few days since I had a
conversation with Deborah Weston at the
office = She seemed pleased to hear of the
anti slavery [sic] women of Rochester and hoped
they will not be discouraged in well
(Page 2)
doing =even though thier [sic] highest hopes
might not be realised = every effort of
thiers [sic] was most gratefully appreciated by
the Ladies of the Boston Bazaar
She feels quite hopeful of the cause
in England = despite the wire pulling of
disaffected = and sectarian enemies—
When I. was last at Salem I enjoyed a
pleasant hour with Eliza J. Kenny
She wished me to tell Amy Post
how much She remembered of her
sojourn at Rochester and the choice
circle of antislavery [sic] friends and how
highly she valued Your friendship
and how much She loved You. –
She has learned that Miss Vinegar
who was with her from Syracuse has
got married (I don't blame her for wishing
to change her original name.)
Miss Kenny is Yet a talking medium –
her Sister is also a writing medium
Monday Oct 11th
Last Saturday by invitation of John M. Spear
I attended a spiritual sitting at his
house 2 there were present but 4 besides
him and myself - at 3. oclock Mr Spear
entered and soon after taking his
Seat was in a [obliterated] state
apparently like a trance =
(Page 3)
and commenced as had been promised
him preaching a Sermon = purporting
to be from a distinguished Universalist
Clergyman long since deceased
John Murray the Subject was the
The Manly One –
It was a gloring tribute to the character
of Jesus = and was a perfect production
of one hours length = when he awaked
and heard it read by the skillful
reporter present He was but little less
surprised than the rest of us = L.C. Hewett was
there and told me his intention of soon issuing a
paper = devoted to spiritual matters.-
I find myself wonderfully improved in
health and strength. but not Yet
well = I. firmly believe that my daily use
of Cold Water is bringing me up
but this coming winter I suppose will
give me a shaking =I hope that
I shall not soon have a Second
edition of last Winters –
[obliterated] Chills and Coughs-
There are a hundred questions that
I want to ask you about the inmates of
36 Sophia St. and the association of
friends = whose countenances are so
often greeted there = but I have not
the room on this sheet and moreover
(Page 4)
am now hoping to visit
Rochester before this month closes
when I shall be privileged to see and
hear for myself
aside from some matters of business
detaining me = Louisa is anxiously waiting
to hear from Frank = which will decide
her leaving here = these matters fixed I shall
Wend my way = I rely on Your promotion
of my independent lecturing tour.
These two last Sundays I have heard
Theodore Parker =in the spacious Melodeon
he soon removes to a new and larger Building
the Musical Hall = I shall have much to
tell You of radicalism here in Boston
This evening I attend a meeting of Colored Free
Soilers == stirring times here among them.
a friend of mine has Just returned from
New York he met Gilliard there and learned that
he soon expects to leave for Australia –
Helen must be patient = should he conclude to
leave on a golden mission—
Mrs. Garrison with her Youngest Boy is now
seated here waiting for the Husband and Father
from the printing office-
Please distribute my love to every member of the
Household = I am very eager to see You and
all once more = I have obtained the Book
requested = Worcester Womans Convention = and the
Pamphlets also for my Friend Wm. R. Hallowell
If you send me a line soon I will recieve [sic] it before leaving
[Text written horitzontally along right margin Page 4]
I am Sincerely Yours Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Anna Murray Douglass was the wife of abolitionist and former slave, Frederick Douglass. Mr. May's father could refer to Samuel J. May’s father, Colonel Joseph May. Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street, in Rochester.
Sallie Holley traveled as an anti-slavery lecturer with fellow activist leaders: Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone and Sarah Remond, and members of the American Anti-Slavery Society. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. R. F. Walcutt was an abolitionist and published anti-slavery pamphlets.
Deborah Weston was one of the founding members of the Boston Female Anti-Slavery Society. Nell refers to the growing Spiritualist movement, whose followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. John M. Spear was an American Spiritualist clergyman and abolitionist.
Louisa was Nell's sister. Frank refers to another of Nell's sisters- Frances. Theodore Parker was an abolitionist and an American Transcendentalist and a reform minister of the Unitarian Church. The Colored Free Soilers were a faction within the Free Soil Party. Their supporters opposed the expansion of slavery into the Western territories. Helen Eliza Benson Garrison was married to William Lloyd Garrison.
Nell refers to the first national woman's suffrage convention, held in 1850 in Worcester, Massachusetts. William R. Hallowell was married to Mary Hallowell- Post's step-daughter.
(Page 1)
Tuesday 12 A M
Sept 19. 1852
Charming Weather
Just had an examination by
Dr Bowditch = who feels much
encouraged = remarKing that
my unfavorable symptoms were
not very marked when I left
Boston but are less so
now= thinks Cold water
will not injure me = recommends
out door life = and a
Western sojourn for a while
I am feeling finely-
Garrison and May are
arranging meetings for
(Page 2)
Sally Holley and others
She will be at Salem Oct
10th but I presume I
Shall lose the chance of
Seeing her.
It is doubtful whether
Mr Garrison ParKer
or Phillips will be at the
Jerry meeting for which
I am very sorry=
I hope to be there myself
but may not
Louisa and myself had a
happy Season with Harriet &
Revaleon last evening-
W.C.N
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
William Ingersoll Bowditch served as Treasurer of the Anti-Slavery Society and opened his home as a stop on the Underground Railroad. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. May, could refer to Samuel J. May, an abolitionist. Sally Holley traveled as an anti-slavery lecturer with activist leaders, such as Susan B. Anthony, Lucy Stone and Sarah Remond, and members of the American Anti-Slavery Society.
Nell refers to Theodore Parker and Wendell Phillips, two abolitionist leaders. The "Jerry" meeting Nell refers to, could be a reference to Jerry Sanderson, a free black abolitionist who petitioned for public funds to be applied to schools educating black children. Louisa was the daughter of author and former slave, Harriet Brent Jacobs.
(Page 1)
Monday 1. o.clock PM Boston
Fine weather
Sandwich (Mass)
Sept. 6th 1852.
Esteemed Friend Amy
Here I am seated in
our mutual friend Jeremiah B. Sandersons shop
in company with our other mutual ^friend^ Charles
Lenox Remond we three having Just got back
from the antislavery meeting at Harwich about
24 miles further down on Cape Cod.
I. left Boston on friday morning in company
with William Lloyd Garrison and
Charles C. Burliegh and hence I need not
tell You that I was happy-
at Jerrys house He is now seated by his
wife playing with his little son-
William Nell Sanderson = it sounds familiar
to hear them call Willie I was delighted to
recieve [sic] Your letter. but sorry to learn of
the increasing alarm from the Cholera
hope that my good friends Lewis and
Sarah Burtis are now rejoicing in the
recovery of Warrens health.
Charles, Jerry and myself have
really been revelling [sic] in reminiscenses [sic]
of the Post family
(Page 2)
Beautiful weather. Tuesday Morning 7th
Yesterday afternoon while Garrison and Remond
were taking seats in the Cars for Boston [obliterated]
I was accosted by a Young man whom I had not
seen for 10 Years or more since He was a Sunday School
scholar and I was Assistant Superintendant [sic]= -
Here he is now married and has 3 children
Jerry and myself paid his family a flying visit
while on our way to greet an old friend of
mine whose Husband has Just sailed from
New York for Australia She having returned to
her Indian Homestead on Herring river
our ride through the woods and by the river
side was a most romantic one.
4 1/2 O.Clock P.M
Just returned from Mashpee 8 miles distant
where I went to visit G. T. Sewell and wife
with whom I stood up 7 years since –
He was a City Beau = She has made him a
practical farmer = they are both very happy
and were successful in thier [sic] exertions to
make me So during my brief Stay–
they are living on the Mashpee Indian
Reservation-
One week Last “First day”
Remond and myself held a meeting
at Worcester it rained torrents
and of course we did not have a
(Page 3)
Large audience = but very fair considering
we took tea the evening before with
John Milton Earle (Quaker) Editor of the
Massachusetts Spy and Legislative
Leader of the Free Soil Party-
-
I am gaining confidence as an anti
Slavery [sic] Lecturer = and Mr Garrison and
others encourage my further efforts.
I Shall have much to Say- and thank
You and Sarah Hallowell} for when
William and Mary
I return = and am eager to behold
again the light of Your countenances.
- Wednesday Morning
Spent last evening most happily in company
with Jerry. Wife and Willie at the Domicil of
James^osiah^ Franklin Clarke =whose family are so
thoroughly antislavery [sic] and Swinging in the
Grove= on the Pond margin = Boat sailing
Fishing V= together with the mental as
feast contributed at the social circle has left
the most agreeable impressions on my mind
and heart - I meant to have told You
that among the incidents of our anti
Slavery [sic] tour to Harwich was the crossing
to and from the meeting in [obliterated]
a skiff= the Pond opposite Mr Robinsons
House =abundant with Lillies - while the
Girls and Boys Charles V Jerry would be
(Page 4)
singing anti Slavery [sic] Songs— ^and^
I have paid 2 visits to the extensive Glass
House here and thus gratified a long
cherished desire -
One anti Slavery [sic] friend here has now Just
buried one of three daughters who were all
awfully burned by Lamp fluid = a most
afflicting affair in its details-
My health is encouraging =if it only continues
so this winter I shall begin to hope-
I cannot say now when I shall reach Rochester
If not before at least by the time of the Jerry
anniversary in October ^at Syracuse—^
Distribute my Love to every one of the
Household—
I enclose Jacobs reciept [sic] for the Yankee
Blade Tell Sarah Hallowell to resolve
not to be lame any more.
I protest against
it-
I am now expecting Louisa to
accompany me to Rochester-
I shall probably have Jerry and Misses
Daguereotype [sic] to show You= as He will
Speak for himself in this letter I forbear
considerable talk about Spirits on Cape Cod
Hope You are having a good time at the
Womans Rights Convention-
Ever Yours Faithfully. William C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, a former slave and abolitionist, is writing from Sandwich, Massachusetts to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Jeremiah B. Sanderson was a free black man and abolitionist, who advocated that schools educating black children should receive public funding. Charles Lenox Remond was an American orator and abolitionist. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. Charles C. Burleigh was an abolitionist and woman’s rights activist, who was involved in both the American Anti-Slavery Society and the Middlesex Anti-Slavery Society.
Sarah Burtis was Susan B. Anthony’s second cousin. Burtis was a Quaker, a woman’s rights leader and an abolitionist. The Mashpee Indian Reservation was in Mashpee, Massachusetts. John Milton Earle was an abolitionist and a businessman, who founded the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. He was also a member of the Free Soil Party, whose supporters opposed the expansion of slavery into the Western territories.
William R. Hallowell was Post's son-in-law, Mary was his wife. Sarah Kirby Hallowell was Post's sister. Jacob was Post’s son. Louisa was the daughter of author and former slave, Harriet Brent Jacobs.
Nell refers to the growing Spiritualism movement, whose followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead.
(Page 1)
Salem August 22. 1852
Sunday Morning +
Esteemed Friend Amy Post and the Circle at 36
Sophia St.
Here I am this Lovely First day morning
enjoying myself at Charles Lenox Remonds = on
Dean St. = I left Boston last Tuesday and having
Sojourned at Carltonville with Mrs Putmans = am now
availing myself of the invitation as above and need
not tell You. that in company with Charles = and
his excellent Lady Amy Matilda = her Daughter
Mrs Smith and Miss Annie E. Wood -I am very happy
But before I extend these particulars let me go back
to other matters =
The trip from Rochester to Albany
was very pleasant- though the passengers being all strangers
to me my time was occupied in reading papers and
eating the nice cake which Sarah Birney so Kindly
prepared - reaching Albany called at Wm. H. Topps
house and the Girl told me the family were out for the evening
I. improved the opportunity of visiting Lydia Mott and
there to my agreeable Surprise found Mr Topp and
his whole family including Professor Chas L. Reason
the association at both places was very agreeable
I left at 9 ½ Saturday morning and arrived at
Boston about 5. P.M. = 200 miles = Louisa Ira
and Little Ira made me welcome indeed
and hosts of Friends and Families have been
manifested = a gladness to see me once more
(Page 2)
I met Cordelia and her Husband in the
evening and have had quite a Season with
the Constellation of Brides and Grooms
at Howard House and other localities
I roomed a while at Lewis Haydens
I had a good time with Mr Garrison
and the friends at 21 Cornhill –
Mr. Bowditch is Yet away from home
but will soon return-
Should my health permit some plans
may be matured for my lecturing-
of which You will however be apprised
-
I am unable to say anything
definite as to time of returning
but expect it will be within 3 weeks
I have such a dread of
next Winter whether be
in Rochester. and Yet Where
and indeed I know not ^the^ what
locality where to be exempt from
apprehension = though my health
now is no worse than for the
past 3 months – and my friends
here generally speak well of my
appearance I have not room to send all
the messages I would but You Know I want my love
tendered all my friends = I shall not forget Wm. R. Hallowells Book.
[Text aligned vertically along the right margin of Page 2]
I saw a little girl
Kiss Willie for me this morning like Mary Ann
(Page 3)
Mrs Remond & Caroline with the
others are now conversing about Spirits
and at the anti slavery [sic] office the other day
Mr. Garrison was narrating some facts
indeed. I find it to be a constantly
increasing subject of discussion and myself
as having come from the favored Spiritual
region looked upon as an authorised
exponent- I could have Sold some
of Isaacs Books.
Georgiana left Friday
for Williamsburgh = Helen is truly
engaged = and is very Sociable and
communicative with me –
Joseph is (though looking ordinarily)
quite far from well as his Mother tells me
I have attended several family re unions
at Salem and been made to feel very
happy = the fates however will exile me
from home and much loved associations
Louisa however anticipates visiting
Frank and in thier [sic] mutual
pleasure I can but derive satisfaction
Give me but health this Winter
and let me build up-
Tuesday morn at 21 Cornhill
Just been introduced to Rev. J. G. Forman of Nantucket a whole
Souled man = devoted to Humanitys Cause-
Last night = slept in room with my old Chum
Ben Weeden = and for auld Lang Syne
mounted the roof to look at the moon and 500
miles west
(Page 4)
Tell Jacob = that I gratefully pocketed
the Investment—
I did not forget my promise to Sarah
when I reached Albany = Hope she is in good
health & spirits
I am anxious to learn of Your and
Willies health = as I heard in the
morning of leaving that You were
both indisposed—
Anti slavery [sic] office Monday 4 oclock
I. left Charles Remonds pleasant Home this morning
before 6. expecting Iras Fishing party in Boston Harbor
but it has been deferred = I have recieved [sic] to day [sic] a good
letter from Mr Phillips and another from Dorcas Collins
There is now seated near me Captain Drayton
Just liberated from prison conversing with an old
gentleman who has seen Washington and Monroe
Presidents of Our Country = Garrison is seated at
the long table his wife assisting him in proofreading
I heard him this morning discussing with an
learned Friend who was skeptical on the Spiritual
matters but has now gone to visit a distinguished
Medium =I am surprised to find the notice
now devoted to Spirits == they are subjects of
talk in most every Circle = Joseph Putman
is yet skeptical but honestly so =I shall have more
to say of this by and by (l am about reading Adin Ballous
Book
Daniel Foster Just from Sandwich (Mass) tells me that
Jerry B. Sanderson now lives there = He was at
New Bedford Aug 2D (l shall write him and hope soon to see him
I shall be most happy to recieve [sic] a line
from You= directed to Care R. F. Walcut 21 Cornhill for
whether in or out of the City I should soon recieve [sic] and
acknowledge accordingly =I want to hear how all our
friends too many for detailing here =
Believe me most Sincerely Yours
William
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Salem to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Nell refers to the Post family home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Charles Lenox Remond was an American orator and abolitionist. Caroline Putnum was Remond's sister and married to Joseph Putnam, an abolitionist. Lady Amy Matilda was an active participant in the anti-slavery conventions of American women. She later married Remond and moved to Salem. Sarah Birney was a fellow activist.
William Topp was an African American abolitionist and tailor from Albany. Lydia Mott was an abolitionist and suffragist. Professor Chas L. Reason was an African American mathematics professor, who advocated for African American education, abolition, and suffrage.
Louisa was Nell's sister, Ira was her son. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. 21 Cornhill refers to the address of the central anti-slavery office in Boston. William Ingersoll Bowditch served as Treasurer of the Anti-Slavery Society, and he opened his home as a stop on the Underground Railroad.
William R. Hallowell married Mary Post- Post's step-daughter. Willie was Post's youngest son and Mary Ann helped to take care of him.
Nell refers to the Spiritualist movement, whose followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Post's husband, Isaac believed himself to be a medium and published a book Voices From The Spirit World, Being Communications From Many Spirits. Frank may refer to Frances, one of Nell's sisters. Reverend J.G. Forman reported on the proceeding of the 1850 National Woman's Rights Convention.
Ben Weeden worked on the organizing committee for the People’s Convention with Nell. He refers to Auld Lang Syne, a Scottish poem written by Robert Burns in 1788 and set to the tune of a traditional folk song. Jacob was Post's son. Sarah could be referring to Post's sister, Sarah Kirby Hallowell. Ira was Louisa's husband. Captain Percival Drayton was a United States Navy officer. Adin Ballou was a proponent of pacifism and abolitionism. His book: Christian non-Resistance was published in 1846.
Daniel Foster was a Congregationalist minister in Concord and became an abolitionist. He also wrote for Garrison's newspaper, the Liberator. Jerry B. Sanderson was a free black man and an abolitionist, who became an influential spokesman and advocated that schools educating black children should receive public funding.
(Page 1)
My dear Amy.
We arrived in New Wark [sic] safely
yesterday found our friends all well. I think
We will remain here about two weeks then leave for
New York. Joseph is well and Enjoying himself
him self [sic] finely. The Country looks very
beautiful indeed. I wish that you were here
with us. Sweet Amy. Mother Kate and all
send their love to you from Yours Truly, Maggie Fox
(Page 2)
P.S. Jos^e^ph will remain with us two weeks – we are
going to make him Stay as long as we do
Maggie Fox.
Margaret Fox Kane, a Spiritualist leader is writing from Newark, New Jersey to fellow Spiritualist, Amy Post. Spiritualists believed that through mediums, like the Fox sisters, they could communicate with the dead. Catherine was one of Fox's sisters. Joseph was one of Post's sons.
Included on the same page, preceding this letter was a letter from Joseph to Isaac and Amy Post. Margaret's sister, Catherine Fox, wrote a letter above her sister's note.
Catherine Fox, a noted Spiritualist leader, is writing from Newark, New Jersey to fellow Spiritualist, Amy Post. Spiritualists believed that through mediums, like the Fox sisters, they could communicate with the dead. Margaret was one of Fox's sisters. Joseph was one of Post's sons. David Fox was Catherine's brother.
Included on the same page, preceding this letter, was a letter from Joseph to Isaac and Amy Post. Catherine's sister, Margaret Fox, wrote a letter underneath her sister's note.
(Page 1)
North Star office. Aug 4th
Dear Amy.
Take good care of yourself. I thank you for your kind
wishes. I shall not leave home till to morrow afternoon. I should
have called upon you yesterday, had I supposed you, still in
the City. I may see you yet before I leave home for
Pittsburgh. This cholera is shared more or less by us all.
I feel myself Some of the Symptoms. My advice is be calm-
Do not allow yourself to be alarmed. Remember that
taking thought (anxious thought I mean) cannot alter
the Settled condition of things. We are all Subjects-
part of a great whole – in the hands of a Supreme
power and you and I have decided that that power
is good- Leave all to the Supreme good and be calm-
With Love to Isaac. Lewis and Sarah Burtes
sincerely yours
Frederick Douglass.
Amy Post.
P.S Julia desires her warm regards to yourself and friends.
(Page 1)
Monday Eve =7.oclock Waterloo July 19th 1852
Wednesday I attended Junius monthly meeting
6 persons present= Key not arriving the
audience convened on the Horse Black
Dear Friends
Amy, Isaac, and Sarah
Inspired by the golden Sunset= displayed to
advantage on this rising ground. I set down
to pen for Your perusal some of those
incidents by the way side [sic] which have occurred
since I bid You Good afternoon= on that^the^ memorable
Seving up of that fine Cheery Pie-
8. oclock
Just returned from a stroll through the Orchards.
Nursery and Flower Gardens of William Dell
accompanied by Darias and Henry Colllins
they with Tommy and Helen are now seated
near me some of the partys [sic] are however
indulging in a doze preliminary to retiring for
the night= but to my narration-
I. found Henry at the Cars and we
were soon wending our way east = near Canandaigua
He was Joined by his Uncle Henry ^Stephen^ Fish from
Crawford Co Penn who has recently been at
Rochester= He left here this morning on a visit
to his native State Rhode Island.= His company
has been very agreeable = He is a Friend = and
a Gentleman of the old school = age about 70
now lamenting the loss of his wife with whom he told me
had lived 50 years =
(Page 2)
Not finding any conveyance at Oak Corners
our luggage was left in a store = and we
pushed on afoot- the three miles walk gave
me a good appetite for supper = I flatter
myself that my industry in this particular
department was worthy of remark =Could
You but witness my attacks on the Cherry trees
and Currant Bushes = You would laugh
I Know = and more than You would Join me [sic]
company.- this fruit is plentiful here
On Sunday Morning attended Freemeeting [sic]
I was Kindly Welcomed by Thomas McClintock
He spoke twice = I offered a few words = Reuben
Mosher followed
My trial hour was
in the afternoon at 4. oclock = an audience of
perhaps 40. the old Gentleman Henry ^Stephen^ Fish
was at my right hand on the High Seat.
I Said my Say = but as to the astounding
effects produced - and rapturous demonstrations
not made = please enquire of Some of
the Crowd who I didnt see hanging
round the windows = I Sold 3 or 4 Pamphlets
and 5 Voices from the Spirit World and
shall probably have enough to replace my
travelling expenses - Stephen Fish and Mary Dell
were among the purchasers of the Voices –
there is much interest here in Spiritual matters.
(Page 3)
I learn by Thomas McClintock and others
that there is company at his house and that
the notes of preparation are sounding for
a wedding soon to come off = I have
been invited to call - and hope to do so-
He did not get back to my meeting –
his daughter Elizabeth gets married next Tuesday –
Dorcas dons the Bloomer = I can recollect
no one who has made a better adaptation
of it than herself = I have seen two
other Ladies Mrs. Jenkins and Miss Deans
both of whom appear very well = I hope
Women who claim to be free will continue
to wear them = despite the ridicule of
would be men or the more to be
condemned opposition - from Dictators
among thier [sic] own Sex.
-
To day [sic] I have had quite a physical
prostration = but on Sunday felt like
a new man I cannot assign any
immediate cause hope soon to be
Convalescent-
Tuesday Morning
Feeling much better = I presume it is
folly for me to ever expect being myself
again on this mundane Sphere-
this depression one day and uncertain bettemess
the next is not the most desirable condition to be in
(Page 4)
Dorcas and Henry have applied Bandages
as Amy did last winter and I think with good
results._ How very Kind | Wednesday Morning
they are to me =
Yesterday afternoon and evening we enjoyed a
fine treat at the Snug Cottage of Mr. & Mrs. Jenkins
I am very glad to have made thier [sic] acquaintance
familiar themselves with the theory and practice
of Water Cure they have generously tendered me thier [sic]
Joint efforts in its application to my recovery
The associations of thier own home to—
augmented by the Stores from well cultivated minds
and genial manners = present such blended
attractions for me that I am resolved soon to
avail myself of short sojourn with them
but of this more anon
She is the author of several articles in the ^Newyorker on the^
Subject of Childrens training
I cannot help thinking
How happy Willie and Mary Ann would be here
Has = Prince secured his emancipation Yet? = I am
Dog matically [sic] opposed to Colonization = but feel Justified
in recommending him to brief absenteeism -from
the little Post which so restrains his Freedom-
I am an abolitionist and glory in the name
I send a Bundle of Kind remembrances
which You will please distribute to Jacob and Joseph
Sarah Birney =and Ellen Smith
I am as Yet undecided as to my next meeting-
and do not expect to reach Rochester within one
week. Should any letters be left = please remail [sic] to
Waterloo = With much love remain Yours
Truly Mr C. Nell | Henry & Dorcas
send greetings
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Waterloo, New York to fellow activists, Amy and Isaac Post, as well as Amy's sister, Sarah.
Nell refers to the monthly Junius meeting held by Quakers in Waterloo.
William Dell was a Quaker and an abolitionist. The Bonnell-Dell family was involved in the Underground Railroad and served as a core of participants in the Friends of Human Progress. Stephen Fish could refer to Sarah Fish's husband. Sarah Fish helped to plan the 1848 Woman’s Rights Convention in Rochester with Amy, her sister and Sarah C. Owen.
Thomas McClintock was an abolitionist and woman's rights activist. Reuben Mosher was a member of the Friends of Genesee, a Quaker group.
Nell refers to Spiritualism, a religious movement whose followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead.
Mary Dell was William Dell’s sister and worked as an abolitionist and woman’s rights activist.
Nell mentions the bloomer costume, which women activists wore to emphasize their independence. The bloomer costume was an outfit of long baggy pants that narrowed to a cuff at the ankles and was worn below a skirt.
Mary Jenkins married William Jenkins and their home was a station of the Underground Railroad.
Nell refers to the Water Cure, which was a popular health remedy in the nineteenth century. Water was believed to be salubrious.
Willie is Post's son and Mary Ann helped to care for him. Prince may refer to a fugitive slave that the Posts' aided. Jacob and Joseph were Post's two eldest sons. Sarah Birney was an abolitionist and woman's rights activist.
Ellen Smith, born a slave, was light skinned and often passed as a white woman. Smith married a slave named William. Due to their slave status, they couldn’t live together. Smith cut her hair short and posed as a white slaveholder to help the couple escape. After fleeing the South, they moved to Boston and became active in the abolitionist movement.
(Page 1)
I am very happy here
and shall feel sorry Lockport May 5th, 1852.
to leave but very glad
to be at Rochester
Dear Friend
Yesterday I recieved [sic] letters from
Joseph Putman and my Sister Louisa = [obliterated]
the last conveying the sad intelligence of Harriets
supposed expected death = Louisa is at present
surrounded with many trials - I only wish
that health and other circumstances allowed
my presence in Boston Just now-
I. have made what hasty arrangement
I could for pecuniary assistance - and [advise?]
in the trying emergency-
Joseph Putman = hopes (but with little faith
however of attending the annual meeting.
Mrs. Trevor is quite doubtful of reaching
Rochester - but may do so= she sends her love
to You. –
My last Colds have brought on a
relapse of several former symptoms . but I am
tolerable now the weather is glorious-
I rise about 5. retire at 9. plenty of Milk
Cream- Vegetables= and exercise in Gods
free air = pure and invigorating-
I think Glen Haven will be my next
destination - I expect to leave here saturday
Truly Yours Wm C. Nell
(Page 2)
Wednesday 6PM
Being mistaken as the time
of the Boat leaving here and
by which I intended sending
I have now the chance of
penning down some more
observations –
Has Amy Post any sarsaparilla
and Boneset: If not will Jacob
get a Small quantity of each for
her fixing = I need its strengthening
properties very much-
Dr and Mrs Trevor are (did I tell
You) Adventists =and Anti
Spiritualists = He has Just
commenced reading my copy of
the Richmond and Capron
discussion from the Tribune
I have conversed much on
religious matters with them
She has presented me Storrs
Pamphlet = Are the wicked
immortal? He will visit
Rochester about the 20th to attend
the Advent Convention.
(Page 3)
I enjoy thier [sic] morning Service –
and read my verse from the
Bible as one of the family –
There are charms for me in many
of the modes of worship =I can
always cull some inspiration
and feel renewed by = thoughts
on things divine
Love to every body [sic], and his Cousins
Please deliver to
Amy Post
36 Sophia St
Rochester
The Black Swan concertizes here
Friday night= I hope Colonel
Wood will not challenge me=
Dont Laugh at me, You and Sarah
- I shall commence my letter to
J.H.P about that unlucky
insertion Oh had I but health-
wanting that I am Bankrupt
in most all things.
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Lockport, New York to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Joseph H. Putnam was married to Caroline Remond- the sister of Charles Lenox Remond, an abolitionist leader. Louisa Nell Gray was Nell's sister. Harriet likely refers to Harriet Brent Jacobs, a former slave and author of the book, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl.
Jacob was Post’s son. Nell refers to the growing anti-Spiritualist movement. Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. Nell mentions George Storr's pamphlet that he wrote after leaving the Congregationalist Church and becoming an Adventist. E.W. Capron wrote the book Modern Spiritualism.
Sarah Kirby Willis was Post's sister.
(Page 1)
Boston June 27
1851
Esteemed friend Amy Post
Many things to say but
cannot now =
In a few days
I shall determine about
my Rochester trip and
which may be prolonged
by me rather than
speedily return to the
fatal East Winds
here prevailing –
(Page 2)
unless some event
transpires now unseen
I shall leave Boston
in July -though not
the first
part
Harriet Jacobs writes
me from New Bedford
that her Brother
is well and doing
well at the mines
She talks Some of also
going to California
(Page 3)
With many
anxieties and
occasional hopes
I remain as Ever
gratefully Yours
William C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Harriet Jacobs was a former slave and author of the book, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. Jacobs was then living in New Bedford, Massachusetts.
(Page 1)
My Dear Amy- I am sorry
to be unable to appoint any time
to meet friends at your house- this
side my departure for the east
to meet friends Thompson and
Garrison. The present week, thus
far, has been spent in entertaining
company- and attending covpany^ention^-
this, and tomorrow Evening must
be spent in preparing my Sunday
evening lecture on Monday I leave
for West Winfield- So you see dear
friends how impossible it is for me
to make the desired appointment
which you have so kindly requested
me to make.
I thank you most
sincerely for your words of Cheer
and hope to proffit[sic] by them
God bless you.
your friend
Frederick Douglass
(Page 1)
a letter was recieved [sic] here to day [sic] I think from
Geo Doughty whom I
should Judge was a Wednesday Eve Jan 29. 1855
firm believer in the 10. oclock
Spirits
I have Just returned from the anti
slavery [sic] office = where I am of late Kept
some busy arranging petitions for the
repealing the Fugitive Slave Law
Mr Walcutt this evening recorded
the names of Elias De Garmo
and Elias Doty as renewed
subscribers to the Liberator
the reminiscenses[sic] excited by the very
mention of thier [sic] names were
indeed grateful to my feelings.
The Liberator Festival was an
occasion never to be forgotten -
at least one hundred could n
were unable to obtain Tickets-
George Thompson who through-
indisposition from too much labor
had not attended the annual meeting
was present at the Levee and made
of course inspiring speeches = this and
next weeks Liberator will give You a
Birds eye view of the matter -
Mr Thompson I believe though
anticipates visiting Western New York
(Page 2)
It would be a happiness indeed
for me = to visit there at the same
time = but I do not See my pecuniary
way clear-
I hope Soon to have a Boston
letter for the Star = but a press of
Vigilance Committee ,^Business^ and Petitions-
have fully occupied my time-
reading the Star account of
Your late annual meeting
the name of Milo D. Codding
Set a train of his visit at 36 Sophia St
right before my eyes = is He married
yet?
----------------------------------------------
I saw a Young Lady last Monday
Evening at A. Brenson Allcotts Conversation
reminding me at once ^immediately^ of the once
Mary Fish. of course I saw Catherine
Giles = Benjamin & Sarah Fish = = I must
see at least some of them again-
This is not the letter You deserve
or I meant to unite = but Amy Post
will from Wm C. accept the Will for
the Deed
Love to every one = You
Know them =
I remain as ever- Faithfully Yours
Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Nell refers to Spiritualism, whose followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead.
The Fugitive Slave Law was passed on September 18, 1850. Its language made it illegal for free persons to aid escaping slaves and required that those encountering fleeing slaves return them to their masters.
Elias De Garmo was married to Rhoda DeGarmo, who was an early member of the Western New York Anti-Slavery Society. Nell refers to radical abolitionist, William Lloyd Garrison's newspaper, the Liberator. George Thompson was a British anti-slavery orator and activist.
Nell refers to abolitionist and former slave, Frederick Douglass's newspaper, the North Star. The Vigilance Committee worked to aid escaping slaves in the Boston area.
36 Sophia Street was the address of the Posts' home in Rochester. A. Bronson Alcott was an American teacher, writer, philosopher, abolitionist and woman’s rights activist. He was closely associated with Ralph Waldo Emerson and became a central figure in the Transcendentalism movement.
Sarah Fish helped to plan the 1848 Woman’s Rights Convention in Rochester with Amy Post, Sarah Hallowell and Sarah C. Owen.
(Page 1)
Is Sarah married = or Betsey Foster?
Boston January 15th 1851
My Much Esteemed }
Friend Amy Post } Among the choice
correspondence now before me ( a small
portion but Yet answered =) allow me to
preface my letter to You by a specification
Amy Post – Joseph H. Putman
Benjamin F. Clegget. Dorcas & Henry Collins
and an excellent one this day recieved [sic]
from no less distinguished a Personage than
Jacob Kirby Post now at Long Island
( I presume You are acquainted with him
and which by the way of Auld Lang Syne
is one that will afford me many a pleasant
reminiscence _= I shall forward an early response
I am under many obligations to my good
friend Amy Post for her Kind letter
containing So much relative to my Sister
Frank = I Knew when Coming away from
Rochester. that there ^were^ those friends that
would Keep a watchful eye upon Frances
and Your letter and Benjamins
fully confirm the Same = She must
truly have been in a critical state of
mind and Body. but Louisa and myself
now confidently believe that the worst
is over = and that Our Sister is in the
mending hand.
(Page 2)
I need not say to Amy & Isaac Post
that my heart Yearns to be once again
in Rochester and that indeed quite
soon. but circumstances do not now
permit my stating the precise time.
when = but word shall certainly be
imparted to No 36 Sophia St on my
ascertaining a probable approach
to that happy moment
You remember my intimation of a long Journey
I have not Yet recieved [sic] the definite
final word == of course I shall have
more to tell you about it Soon.
I have for several days been unwell
with a Severe Cold. but am now in
the Convalescent order = and glad enough
to be So I can assure You:
I am now sitting at a Table adjacent to
a Young Fellow and Girl Courting = it is
real fun = for an old Settler like me
who is probably done with such
matters .. for to tell You the truth I
have made no advance steps in that
matter since coming home and
am not at all prepared to say
whether I ever shall or no
(Page 3)
The Mysterious Rappings have for some time
past been the theme of much discussion here
LaRoy Sunderland has an office where his
Daughter operates as a Medium = I attended
one of his Lectures = =and though I have
not the most confidence in Mr Sunderland
Yet to my mind the Knockings were apparent
But = there are Classes here and I am
familiar with many of the members and
often converse on the subject = at the lecture
above alluded to = much scepticism [sic]
was manifested = in various ways = but during
the Evening an intelligent (Colored) Lecturer
on Psychology = by the name of Peterson-
mentioned. that on leaving Mr Sunderlands
previous lecture = he went home much impressed
with the novelty of subject = and
while cogitating = and aspiring for an
interview with his ^a^ deceased Parent (whom
he had never Seen) Several distinct
raps gratified and surprised him
He said more = which the manner &
matter of made a favorable impression
upon the audience. Sceptical [sic] though
many were = (I was attended by
Joseph Putmans wife) and felt
moved as an offset to one who
termed the whole matter as Humbug.
(Page 4)
to narrate some of my Rochester
Experience = Concluding with an opinion
which You Know was mine while there
that = the Girls were controlled by
instead of controlling it -
Both Classes are on the increase
Believers and Dissenters -
I merely tell what I saw and heard
and often interest a Social Circle
some frightened some amused = and some interested
I was much interested with Your remarks
on the Western N.Y Anti Slavery [sic] Society
that was when the Women wielded
thier [sic] wands so successfully = but
now I presume the glory has
departed = Did You recieve [sic] a Note
from me by the Box of Fair Goods?
Mr Thompson had already answered You by
Miss Griffith.
Will You at a Convenient time hunt up for
me those Stars = as asked for in my last.
Monday mor Jan 20.th 1851
Last Evening Mr. Chaplin – J.C Hathaway and others
addressed the Colored Citizens in Belknop St = no Collection
was announced . but on the spur of the moment
$ One hundred and Eleven dollars was subscribed
Considerable paid down on the Spot
My Love to all at Home = Please excuse this
rambling Epistle from Yours Truly
Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Sarah and Betsey Foster could be related to Stephen Foster, who was an abolitionist. Joseph H. Putnam was married to Caroline, the abolitionist leader, Charles Lenox Remond's sister. Benjamin F. Cleggett was Nell's brother-in-law. Jacob Kirby Post was Post's son.
"Auld Lang Syne" was a Scottish poem written by Robert Burns in 1788 and set to the tune of a traditional folk song.
Frances and Louisa were Nell's sisters. Nell refers to the Posts' home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester. Nell refers to the growth of Spiritualism and the "knockings" that believers heard signaling a communication with the dead. LaRoy Sunderland was a Methodist minister and abolitionist.
Nell refers to the "Girls" Margaret and Catherine Fox, who started the Spiritualist movement. The Western New York Anti- Slavery Society was founded in Rochester in1842, and operated out of the Posts' home.
George Thompson was a British abolitionist and toured the United States as an anti-slavery lecturer. Julia Griffiths financed former slave and abolitionist, Frederick Douglass's newspaper, the North Star.
William L. Chaplin was arrested with a runaway slave. J.C. Hathaway became President of an anti-slavery society in Farmington in 1837.
(Page 1)
Cazanovia March 3d
My Dear Friend.
I called to see you while you were at Farming
-ton to say that “dear old word goodbye”- So you will
know that I did not forget you. I write to request that
the Committee will secure Corinthian Hall for the
meetings to be held in Rochester by Misters Thompson
Garrison Fosters- and others.
Our meetings at “Peterboro” were
such as you may well be leeve [sic] they were
good good. Mr. Garrison was not present
was detained at home on account of illness.
I would write you a longer
letter but I’ ve not the needful
time- Heaven bless you and yours
is the ardent wish of your
ever faithful friend
Frederick Douglass
(Page 2)
[Text aligned vertically across center of Page 2]
Mr. & Mrs. Post
Rochester
N.Y.
(page 1)
Boston Dec 24. 1850
My Esteemed Friend
Amy Post
I sieze [sic] the moment to
thank thee for the
encouraging Letter concerning
Franks convalescence-
Mr Garrison informed
me that Your letter to
George Thompson had been
answered ^in one^ to Miss Griffiths
and he felt surprised that
You were yet ignorant of it
He ( Mr T. ) intends
a visit to West N.Y.
Mr Walcutt is making up a
Bundle and I must close
I will write in a few day. Truly
W.C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, a former slave and abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Frances Nell was one of Nell's sisters. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. George Thompson was a British abolitionist leader, who toured the United States as a lecturer. Julia Griffiths financed former slave and abolitionist, Frederick Douglass's newspaper the North Star. R.F. Wallcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby.
(Page 1)
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Frances was one of Nell's sisters. Mrs. Weeden was Ben Weeden’s wife. Ben Weeden worked with Nell on various abolitionist activities. Nell refers to 36 Sophia Street, the Posts' family home.
George Thompson was a British anti-slavery orator and activist. Martin Robinson Delany was an abolitionist and physician.
Jerry B. Sanderson was a free black man and an abolitionist. He moved from the northeast to California during the gold rush to explore potential business opportunities. Louisa was Nell's sister. Benjamin Cleggett was married to another of Nell's sisters. Nell's nephew, William Albert Cleggett was born during this time.
Nell refers to the Battle of Thermopylae that took place between the Spartans and Persian forces.
William and Ellen Craft were slaves from George who escaped to the North in 1848. The Fugitive Slave Law had recently passed making it illegal for any free person to harbor a slave.
R.F. Wallcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby. Francis Jackson was an abolitionist from Boston and affiliated with the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society and other abolitionist organizations. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. The Boston Vigilance Committee formed after the Fugitive Slave Law passed. The members worked to aid escaping slaves.
Abby and Phebe Thayer were fellow abolitionists. Abby worked as Frederick Douglass's governess for a period of time. Sarah C. Owens helped to plan the 1848 Woman’s Rights Convention in Rochester. Douglass published a newspaper called the North Star.
(Page 1)
Lawrence Mass.
Oct 31st 1850.
My Dear Friend. I have received your kind letter to which you addressed
me at Boston. Many thanks for it. I wish I could send you a worthy
response to that letter- but I must plead that the haste and commotion
in which I write as an apology for not doing so- I would not
wait for a more convenient season – if I thought such a one
would come- but I dispair [sic] of that- and take this as
my first oportunity [sic]. I saw George Thompson yester day- I shook
his hearty hand- looked into his noble face- and heard
his affectionate and manly voice- He is the same that
he was years ago- and as I left him when I left England.
He told me that William W. Brown was doing well- he
had got out his panarama [sic]- and was proceeding to
New Castle to exhibit it. Mr Thompson thinks that W.
will succeed well- This tidings I am sure you will be glad to hear.
I saw yester day our mutual Friend W Wn C. Nell. He is
well and wide awake about the fugitive slave
fairness in Boston. He is on the vigilence committee
and is one of the most vigilent [sic] members. The excite
ment in Boston about the contemplated recapture of W. & Ellen
Craft- is beyond description and every moment is lible
to being with it bloodshed and carnage. Dear Amy
will you accept this short word- written in the greatest
haste from your ever sincere Friend- My best
regards to Dear Isaac. Frederick Douglass
(Page 2)
[Text aligned across center of Page 2]
Mrs. Amy Post
Care of Post & Willis
Rochester
N.Y.
(Page 1)
Boston Oct 25th 1850
My Dear Friend
I have this moment received your kind
letter and have but a moment in which to lay &
thank- you for your dear kind words of cheer. This
City is now the scene of the most intense
excitement and alarm. There is now no doubt
that warrants are now in the hands of the
Marshall [sic] for the arrests of three fugitive slaves
and that officer is now watching his chance
to light upon his victims. Mr and Mrs Craft
are both under arrest The liability- and is sad that
they are the persons pursued. These are terrific
times- I am now about to be off to the
meeting to Lawrence. My Dear friend I
cannot stay longer here to write. Pray for
me. I believe in prayer- may heaven – bless
and shine upon you and your dear household-
Always yours
Frederick Douglass
Women’s Convention was a grand affair. You shall
hear more soon- F.D
(Page 2)
[Text aligned vertically across center of Page 2]
Amy Post
Post & Willis
Rochester
N.Y.
(Page 1)
Ro Worcester. Oct. 20, 1850
My Dear Friend,
you are now, doubtless enjoying the
society of our little circle at our Sunday meeting
I am at the House of a member of the society of
Friends- Effingham Capron. They have gone to meeting
J.C. Hathaway has also gone- I am here alone
and in this moment of repose- I wish to breathe
a word to you- a word of friendship- a word which
I know you well enough to know, that you will be
pleased to receive. I am happy to state that my
health is good and my spirit is Right- I spoke in this
city last night at Brinley Hall before the audience
assembled at antislavery fair, held for the benefit of
the American Antislavery Society.. The audience
was large- and listened with earnest attention. The
F. Slave Bill has made a deep sensation here- and it is
universally determined that no slave shall be taken
from Worcester-. I have been to New Bedford
and Nantucket since I spoke in Faneuil
Hall. We have collected in these places- about
one hundred and thirty dollars- we are
to lecture here this Evening and hope to
do more for our imprisoned Brother. I sa
Saw Mr. Garrison yesterday,- had a long and
friendly talk with him-we said nothing about the
"Star-" but about matters and things in general
and about George Thompson in particular.
(Page 2)
George Thompson is really coming and
is now on his way he was to start from
Liverpool yesterday- on the steam ship Canada
Now Dear Amy. George Thompson must
come to Rochester- He must come this winter.
Rochester must not escape him- But
George Thompson though a member of
the British parliament is a poor man
and will need money to sustain him. He might
have been a wealthy man- his talents might have
made him so- He could have sold him self
for gold- but he has chosen to take up the cause
of the poor- to plead the cause of the humble- and
of consequence to share the poverty of the humble.
Mr. Thompson will need funds to sustain his family
in aid while he is traveling in this country and
giving the cause of the slave the benefit of his
matchless eloquence, now I want Rochester
to have a share in him- to Rochester must feel that
she is doing her part towards upholding the hands
of our beloved transatlantic Brother. I This I think
quite a suitable matter to bring before our little band
in Rochester. I know their generosity and will trust the
result. Our old-sometimes friend Charles Lenox
Remond is now really married and no mistake
he has got the prize for which he has been
running- and a noble one it is- Mrs.. Casey
is as you have often heard me say a very
noble woman. I now know not how far she will
(Page 3)
adopt Remond's feelings towards me- but I fear
she will not feel any warmer towards the "North
Star" on account of her marriage such is life.
I have met since I came here many old and
dear Friends- some fugitives too from this
neighborhood where I formerly resided. You
would have been glad to have witnessed the cordiality of
of these meetings. Upon the whole my visit to the
East thus far has been of a very pleasant
description. The Women's [Wr] Rights Convention
is looked forward to with much interest- I wish
you could attend it. I shall be on hand if nothing
happens. I am to lecture here this Evening
and shall go to Leominster to attend
the meeting. Please write to me at
Lowell I am to be there one week from
this day- Make my warm remembrance
to Mr. Post- Mary and William Hallowell
and believe me your ever faithful
Friend.
Frederick Douglass
(Page 1)
Boston August 29
1850
Some days ^weeks^ since I
forwarded to Amy Post
for the North Star
Sums as and for
as follows Viz
By} John Gill Bates}
Rufus} of Hanover Mass}
Bates }
Subscription - 2.00
Donation - 1.00
Collected by}
S. S. Foster} F. W. Sawyer}
Marlboro, Mass}
Subscription - 1.00
I promised that early 4.00
acknowledgements would be
made in the Star
(Page 2)
Mr Douglass announced
through the Star ^in less amounts^ that
Correspondents might suspend
a quantum sufficit [sic] being
then on hand –
I. have recently been
moved to prepare some
items which will be
forwarded at the earliest
moment-
Wishing the Star
Perennial ascendancy
while Slavery exists
I remain Faithfully V=
Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Nell refers to fellow abolitionist, Frederick Douglass's newspaper, the North Star. Rufus Bates was one of the early Presidents of the Village of Ithaca. Stephen Foster was a radical abolitionist and woman’s rights activist, who helped establish the New Hampshire Anti-Slavery Society. Jericho Long Island August 24 1850
Dear Frederick
My husband and self as thou knowest [sic]
are on a visit to my parents the delightful home
of my childhood, that I have long wished thou couldst [sic]
visit with us, and share in it bounties, participate in its
pleasures, and partake of its inspirations, It is twenty
one years since I left it for ^a^ home in the west, but it has
lost none of its attractive loveliness, The eleventh
of this month was the 85 aniversary (sic) of my fathers birth
day, I shall long remember the day, several of his
children and grandchildren were came ^assembled^ together
on the occasion, ^my mother is^ with retrospect of the past, and
anticipations of the future, produced [illegible]
both pleasing and sad, well thought I , as Frederick
Douglass often says, “such is life”, my mother is
several years younger than my father [obliterated] have walked the path of life 60 years
together, and now they seem as happy and as full
of enjoyment as at any period of it, mutually
seeking to promotion of each others good, ^truly^ making
of this life a paradice [sic], which cannot fail to prepare
them for the joys of the next ^it is delightful to be with them^ on their sojourn and cheerful [obliterated] health is good
beautiful old age my father is an early riser
it is now early morning and he is out with
his hoe in hand cutting up some hay which his
^watchful scrupulous^ eye of neatness will not allow to spread among the grass
his garden is a paturn [sic] of neatnes [sic] and order kept by his own
(Page 1)
At Anti Slavery [sic] Office
21 Cornhill
Boston August 5th 1850
Esteemed Friend.
Thy kind communication
contributed to also by my valued friend Isaac Post
was duly recieved [sic] and the duty of now
responding is indeed a most grateful one to-
In answer to Your question, Mr. Garrison
that = 'He leaves here for Pennsylvania about the
middle of October and cannot go before then'-
He was very glad to hear from his
Rochester Friends as he ever is -
Mr Wallcut has left for a rustication at
Nantucket his Homestead = ad interim the
Mantle of Anti Slavery duties at 21 Cornhill
has been placed upon my Shoulders-
and in many respects it sets easy and pleasant
though it may not so seem to however
ungraceful it may appear to some-
I. should have been gratified to
accompany You to Mrs Murrays and have no
doubt. but that is one of the places my
memory turns to . when I feel the Sensation
of loneliness = or for a better interpretation
let me add = That oft times even here
in my own my native City = though recognizing
many welcome visiting places = Yet they fail to
(Page 2)
create any enthusiasm =and 36 Sophia
St and other Rochester Homes claim
me as within thier [sic] magic spell
Well so it is = and I cannot if I would
have it otherwise. . You spoke of reading
some of my letters to Mrs Murray – self defence [sic]
requires my hoping . that the Reader and
Audience were very indulgent to the [obliterated]
humble Author = = I sometimes am too
negligent to put the best foot foremost.
I am glad to hear from John Dick
and Lady . that my efforts (though falling short of
what I intended) were so Kindly appreciated
I paid myself most amply in the enjoyment
of thier [sic] society = May they enjoy perennial
felicity – thier [sic] only strife. being -which
shall prove the better half-
We had a glorious First of
August at Worcester ..Several Car loads—
filled with "all Sorts of People -and every body [sic]
glad to see each other = [obliterated]
I refer You of course to the Liberator for a
general account= my limits will not
permit a detailed narration even
J. W. Duffin of Geneva was here last
week on business for Mr. Garnett who
(Page 3)
has Just Sailed from New York for Europe
J. W. Randolph of Albany is about opening
an Intelligence office here in this City
Helen Putnam is on a visit to
Poplar St = I enjoyed a pleasant Season there
last Evening-
I. understand Mr. Garrison
heard from Mr. Douglass by letter this
morning = and this brings me to an item
of business = First the money forwarded
in Your letter was acknowledged by R F. Walcut
reciept [sic] for in last Liberator -
I. have the pleasure of forwarding for
the North Star as follows-
By Rufus Bates} John Gill Banks Hanover Mass
Subscription $2~ Donation 1~ 3.00
By S. S. Foster} F. W. Sawyer Marlboro Mass
Subscription 1.00
They expect Office Reciepts [sic]___ Sum enclosed —4.00
I. wish I could send on
hundreds more-
Mr. Wards Paper is issued here but
I do not think Yet enjoys a large addition
to his Subscription list = though it is very likely
to make progress -
(Page 4)
Louisa. Husband and Boy are in excellent
health and spirits and so am I –
I visited Harriet last Saturday who
was quite comfortable = I. have Boarded
her out nearly three weeks and it
was very beneficial to her
Please remember me most Kindly to
every body [sic] at home and elsewhere that
may even express a thought of me
To Mr Douglass and Family =-
So it seems from Isaac Posts testimony
that his faith is Yet bright in the
Spiritual Revelations = Mr Garrison
I Judge is skeptical about several
of the details = but time will
explain to us all - I shall
be glad to see the Girls if they
do come to Boston
I had intended a tribute to the late
Catherine Braithwaite of whom
None Knew but to love = None Spoke of but to praise
I shall again allude to this and other matters Believe me Faithfully Yours
Wm C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator. R.F. Wallcutt published an anti-slavery pamphlet containing a speech by Reverend Bleby. Mrs. Murray may refer to writer, Amelia Matilda Murray. In July 1854, Murray toured the United States as an abolitionist lecturer.
Nell refers to 36 Sophia Street, the Posts' family home. John Dick worked with former slave and abolitionist, Frederick Douglass, as the printer for the newspaper, the North Star.
Nell references a recent celebration held in Worcester, Massachusetts on August 1st to commemorate the day of British West India's emancipation.
J. W. Duffin was an abolitionist. Mr. Garnett may refer to Henry Highland Garnet, who was an abolitionist lecturer. J. W. Randolph was an abolitionist, who owned a publishing company. Helen Putnam was the daughter of two African American abolitionists.
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Nell refers to fellow abolitionist, Frederick Douglass's newspaper, the North Star. Rufus Bates was one of the early Presidents of the Village of Ithaca. Stephen Foster was a radical abolitionist and woman’s rights activist, who helped establish the New Hampshire Anti-Slavery Society. Samuel Ringgold Ward published an abolitionist newspaper.
Louisa was Nell's sister. Nell refers to former slave and author of Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Harriet Brent Jacobs.
Nell refers to Margaret and Catherine Fox, the sisters who began the Spiritualist movement. Spiritualists- including the Posts- believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead.
My Dear Frederick I do always feel diffident in presum
ing to express any dissent from thy judgment, as I know
thy extraordinary clear vision, and logical powers of
reasoning, very easily puts my sage conclusions
in a fog, and makes me feel like the merest baby
before thee, but be all that as it may, allow me
in the freedom of an own sister to [obliterated
] say to thee that I cannot feel
happy about thee, since thy conclusion to give slave cach [sic] ers a bloodc hound reception, In the light of thy own
good, thy own safety and the good of the cause, it brings a
cloud of sadness on me, thee can much more readily
see the reasons than I can show them to thee, and if thee
will give thy self time to weigh them, I have little fear on
which side the balance would be, Allow me dear
Frederick ^to repeat^ that I still doubt the rightfulness and the as well as
thee polacy [sic] of making the Chaplin case an especial [sic] object of
Anti Slavery effort, I think you are were mainly indebted to the
fugitive Bill, for the interest manifested in the evening meeting
yet you are bound to apply thee funds in a different direction
but the most mortifying of all, ( and yet the most confirming
that I am not wholy [sic] blind) was that you were obliged to resort
to falshood (sic) to make it take with this proslavery community
whose money you hoped to get, to assert that it merely
happened that as Chaplin was riding out on the [7 avenue?]
that he kindly took in a couple of men who asked for him
(Page 2)
to take them on a [pace?] as they were walking the same
way
(Page 1)
Boston July 15th1850
Monday 11.oclock AM
Esteemed Friend Amy
On Friday Last John
Dick and Lady left Boston and in a few
days will probably reach Rochester =I
sent by him some Letters for Yourself and other
friends. Saturday while at Mrs Russells
with my Sister Harriet sitting for her miniature
Mr White the Artist was introduced on
learning of his intention to leave for Rochester
to day [sic] I obtained consent to forward this
by him –
Will You be Kind enough to mention
to Mr Douglass that at the earliest moment
I intend preparing a Boston Letter for the
Star.. please tender my regards to himself
and family –
Robert Banks of Michigan
is now on a Business visit here = Yesterday
Lewis Hayden and My Sister Mrs Gray with Little
Ira accompanied us to hear Theodore Parkers
discourse on the Death of General Taylor
it was a characteristic one and therefore
a treat = presuming a publication will
soon be obtained I will not commit any
injustice of now comment -
only to urge Isaac Post to read it
(Page 2)
after dining at Mr Haydens we repaired
to the residence of Robert Morri, Esq at
Chelsea. we were most agreeably entertained
by the family and after a fine walk
to Mount Bellingham, we crossed the
Ferry reaching the City about 9. o'clock
Wilson Armistead of Leeds England
has been I. believe is now here and I hope
to see him-
I. hear that Mr. Grimes
has published an Exposition of the
Rochester Knockings – the matter has
certainly made much noise in the
World—
John Dick and his wife
appear well together = Phebe Thayer
and Mrs Van Loon have both been superseded
but Cupid oft times acts capriciously =
I presume however that all parties are
now perfectly resigned -- I. think
Phebe would be most happy I think
with another half to spend her days
with = indeed I wish that both
Phebe and Abby were happily mated
and more I cannot wish any body
myself included-
(Page 3)
I am anticipating an Amy Post Letter
before many weeks = but how my
heart desires to be once more
sitting down conversing with her
and Sarah L. Hallowell = and the
relatives, friends - and visitors who
together have so oft times rendered
36 Sophia St = such a charmed spot to
me = in my dull moments =I
look back to those happy hours
and draw thence an inspiration that
chases the dark away and illumines
my memory with the satisfaction that
despite the complicated disadvantages of
of my leaving Boston = there was
indeed an Oasis in the Desert
and that = which my circle of
friends there = which to the latest
hour of my life I shall reflect
upon = and pride myself on so
much good acquired -
I wonder if Miss Julia Griffiths will
follow the footsteps of her illustrious
predecessor = and take to herself a
Husband == I regard John Dick, as
a Lucky Fellow = I almost envy
him =
(Page 4)
You Know what I mean =I
do not want other peoples
good luck = but I certainly
would reap a portion into my
own Crib if possible-
Please remember me Kindly to
Isaac Post and all the other Posts
and believe Me as Ever
Your Faithful and Obliged
Friend
William C. Nell
Is Mary Johnson well?
remember me to her and
Husband?
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
John Dick worked for former slave and abolitionist, Frederick Douglass and his newspaper the North Star. Harriet, likely refers to former slave, Harriet Brent Jacobs.
Robert Banks was an African American clothing merchant from Detroit. Lewis Hayden was a former slave and an abolitionist leader. Theodore Parker was an American Transcendentalist and a reform minister of the Unitarian Church. Nell refers to the death General Taylor, then President of the United States.
Robert Morris, Esq was one of the first black lawyers in the United States. He was active in the abolitionist movement.
Wilson Armistead was a Quaker businessman, and dedicated to abolitionist movement in England. Nell refers to the "Rochester Knockings" or the beginnings of the Spiritualist movement that started in Rochester. Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead.
Phebe and Abby Thayer were fellow abolitionists. Abby worked for a time as Douglass's governess. Sarah L. Hallowell was Post’s sister. Nell refers to the Post's home at 36 Sophia Street in Rochester.
Julia Griffiths helped Douglass finance the North Star.
(Page 1)
Boston July 3d, 1850 –
11 oclock at night= all
alone in my Sanctum
My Esteemed Friend Amy.
I. have a Letter
several weeks old which ought certainly to
have been at 36 Sophia St [obliterated] in due time
and for one among many reasons that
in it was attempted an apology for my
not before responding to thy able and
friendly communication of March Last.
I now propose sending it by our
mutual Friend John Dick who expects
to see Rochester before many days
I was surprised to find his wedding
published in the Freeman = but on Monday
one week past . how delighted was I to
meet him at the Antislavery [sic] office –
We have had quite a Rochester
talk I'll assure You = a Medley indeed
of news and incidents since my
leaving thence – I. have been pleased
in devoting some time with himself and
Wife and have visited the State House
Dome = Bunker Hill Monument = Several
of my acquaintances in the City and
the families of Joseph H. Putman and Charles L. Remond
at Salem
(Page 2)
and they and the friends have each
and all acknowledged the pleasure
thus imparted = they are now the Guests
of James N. Buffum at Lynn all expecting
to meet at Abington, tomorrow to
for the Antislavery [sic] Celebrations of the
4th of July. Amy and the Rochester
Friends should be present with us
John Dick married. Charles Remond soon
to follow suit = and I am Yet and
likely to remain in a State of single
blessedness. = Well. whats the use of
Sighing? What is to be will be –
Louisa and Myself visited Harriet this
afternoon but the rainy Weather prevented
her Leaving for the City as we intended
for a few days = we feared a relapse
Sunday PM. 5. oclock
July 7th
We had a fine time on the 4th at
Pleasant Island Grove. Abington- the
Liberator will present the Story I presume
The Grove is most appropriately named
and more could not be said
(Page 3)
Yesterday Louisa and myself brought Harriet to
the City = she is feeble but we trust the change
for a few days will prove beneficial-
Your allusion to the fact that Eating
together of "Colored and ^with^ White' has the
effect to Killing prejudice = as in example
at the Rochester Fair - has been illustrated
here recently by the Cadets of Temperance
who in several Tours in the vicinity
have Shared hospitalities = and tendered
"Collations to the Colored Cadets –
which has had and will have
a decided influence on the School
Question - for as You Know this
Colorphobia is not exhibited by Children
until thier [sic] Parents . have had a wicked
Finger in the Pie___________________
How does the matter flourish relative
What a change of matters at the North
Star Office since John Dick and myself
first met at 36 Sophia Street = If ever we
meet again, (I mean Amy Post and
Myself ), I presume we shall find
a Large Book of reminiscences to
peruse= - Change makes Change
as Julia says in the Hunchback
(Page 4)
July 9th
Tuesday 6. oclock PM
Just left Charles L. Remond who has been enjoying
a brief visit to the City = his health is not Yet
established. = there is some speculation here as to
his marriage –
at home 11. oclock
Night.
Samuel R. Ward has arrived = and his
Paper is to issued here immediately –
I wish the circumstances could allow me to
feel hopeful for the enterprize -but
I cannot -
Please remember me Kindly to the entire
Household = and the Circle of other good
friends of mine and You will confer
on me an especial favor -
to some of them I hope to send a line
by John Dick
You must not regard this as a
Letter . but as a confession of my neglect
in not Sooner replying to Yours above
referred to. = when You recieve [sic] the
other one by package = You must pardon
my delinquency = and confidently expect
my being a better Boy in future
I remain Sincerely Your Friend
William C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Nell refers to Post's home on 36 Sophia Street in Rochester.
John Dick worked as a printer for former slave and abolitionist, Frederick Douglass's newspaper, the North Star. Joseph H. Putman and Charles Lenox Remond were both abolitionist leaders. James N. Buffum was a Massachusetts politician, who served as the mayor of Lynn.
Nell and his sister, Louisa Nell Gray visited former slave, Harriet Brent Jacobs.
Pleasant Island Grove is in Abington, Massachusetts. Radical abolitionist, William Lloyd Garrison edited the newspaper the Liberator. Sammuel Riggold Ward was a former slave who became an abolitionist, newspaper editor and Congregationalist Minister.
Nell mentions the recent Rochester Anti-Slavery Fair and Frederick Douglass's newspaper the North Star and its publisher, John Dick.
Nell refers to Sammuel Riggold Ward, a former slave who became an abolitionist, newspaper editor and Congregational Minister.
(Page1)
Wednesday
My dear Ammy
It is wednesday afternoon
and I am alone, mother has gone
to pass the day with Leah. Mary
too has gone out leaving me
all alone to sigh for my friends
because they are not. I am very
lonely; ah how I do wish that you
were here, you know we always
loved you. I can not think of you
as a mere friend but as something
dearer. The dear spirits are
doing wonderful things, last evening
the Bayard family met at our
house for spiritual manifestations,
the piano was sweetly played ^played^ upon
by spirit fingers, the guitar was
played, then taken up and carried
above our heads, each person
in the circle was touched. The
room was perfectly dark and
all hands held. Dr. Bayard
and family said that they had
never passed a happier ^happier^ evening
in all their lives. When you
cause come dearest Amy we
must have the same mani =
(Page 2)
-festations over again, when are
you coming here? can you not name
the time? If I visit Jericho next
Saturday will you not come
home with me? [&?] let me know
by return of mail and I will
come. Mother went to Philad-
-elphia after Maggie but her
teachers would not hear to her
leaving school until the first of
August. I was very deeply
disappointed. My dear friend
George D Prentice of Louisville
has been passing a week in
New York. he passed every eve-
-ning with me and the dear spirits,
I wish that you could have seen
him. Give my love to Jacob.
and tell him. that we will try to
make everything pleasant for
him when he comes. Tell your
dear brother Joseph that I have
not had a headache since I was
at Jericho. I know he is a
healing medium the spirits
say I will never have another
headache. I can never thank
Mr Post for his kindness. The
spirits say he has entirely
(Page 3)
cured me of headaches.
Have you had any communications
through Robert Rearsall since I saw
you last? Is he still a medium?
The city is very pleasant now dear
Ammy [sic] and I hope that you will
make us a visit very soon.
Elizabeth has not yet gone west I
am expecting her here every moment.
Mrs. Harris is well and happy.
do write to me immediately. Tell me
all the news. I am going this
evening with mrs. Walter and Brother
to the Opera. I wish you were
here to go with us. Dear Ammy [sic]
give my choicest love to all
your dear family. and tell them
I would love to pass another swell
Sabbatt evening with them.
dearest Ammy [sic] I send you
many love on each gentle breeze
Yours ever true
Kate Fox
New York June 19th
PS have you
made any family
Circles at Jericho?
K F
(Page 4)
Has Mr Post received
papers?
Catherine Fox, a Spiritualist leader, writes to fellow Spiritualist, Amy Post. Spiritualists believed that through mediums, like the Fox sisters, they could communicate with the dead. Leah was Catherine's older sister. Mary Greeley was her friend and the daughter of newspaper editor, Horace Greeley. The Foxes stayed with the Greeley family while in New York City. The Bayard family were also Spiritualists. Jericho is in New York State. Margaret was another of Catherine's sisters. George Prentice was the editor of the Louisville Journal. Jacob was one of Post's sons. Mrs. Walter could refer to Ellen Walter, Margaret's chaperone.
I have Several Letters by me First Day Evening = 7 oclock
written for Rochester Friends I shall
waiting a Conveyance be most
but I may soon send by- Boston June 2d 1850 grateful for
express an early response
My Esteemed Friend Amy Post
Thy well filled and
exceedingly interesting letter of March 18th Calls very
Loudly upon me and Justly rebukes my not before
responding =. I. will therefore not attempt to apologise
further than ^that^ various causes at the time [obliterated]
have prevented = I was anticipating the visit of Frederick
Douglass - from whom I expected to hear about Rochester
and by whom I also intended forwarding Letters –
his presence was much desired at the glorious
New England anti slavery [sic] Convention . which though
parcially [sic] disturbed by Proslavery [sic] Roudyism [sic] was despite
all a brilliant triumph for the friends of Humanity
I am now seated in my Bachelors Sanctum = My
Roommate Benjamin Weeden has Just Left for a visit
probably at Miss Howards = .I. have Kept Housed all day
as a means of driving away an Influenza attack.
The [obliterated] Month of May Just past. brought to mind
many interesting reminiscenses [sic] of our trip one Year since
from Rochester = my Leaving with John S. Jacobs at Utica
the meeting with You and Sarah at New York = the
several meetings and incidents there = and then at
Boston =our visits and adventures = I can hardly
realize that One Year has indeed elapsed = Time
flies on rapid pinions = and some take no note of
it but from its Loss.
(Page 2)
Thursday June 13th = I. had prepared another Sheet specially naming
Isaac William & Mary= Sarah Hallowell and others
________________________________________________________
Within a few weeks past= The Town and Country Club
(of which I wrote You.) has dissolved = I am now mostly
at Mr Bowditchs expecting Soon to be admitted –
at present . Business with me is not very active but
as usual= Hope for better days = I. enjoyed a
successful Winter for which I feel very thankful.
Louisa & Husband also little Ira are well= the two Latter
visited me this afternoon= Ira usually makes me a
Sunday Call= I. hear some of his lessons and he secures
Oranges [obliterated] Cakes = or Picture Books as encouragements
He spoke at one of my Juvenile Exhibitions in behalf of the
School Right Question and recieved [sic] much applause–
we have an army of little Boys & Girls = and if I
was only Rich I would do great things for them
Our Sister Harriet has been very low and was thought
to be dying = Louisa and Myself have devoted much time
over there. She is now quite comfortable and may get
up again but I cannot expect an entire recovery
the humour has disappeared from her face She thereby
Looks more like herself = We felt so apprehensive
that we secured a Miniature = Mrs. Russell has not
Yet finished it = we felt that for France's sake
at least it were [sic] best to secure the shadow before
the substance faded. She is more rational than
ever during her illness and eagerly desires to
Come out = She remembers Amy Post and speaks of Her
(Page 3)
but as I shall now forward this by mail =I close
Omit the rest= but you must talk to them for me as
I should be indeed happy if present to do for myself.
in grateful terms of the most lively gratitude—
Louisa unites in Kind remembrances and regards to You
Frances owes us –Letters? Louisa sent by Mail a
few weeks
_since.
I had a pleasant time at Salem on Fast day April 11th
Joseph Putnam and Wife =attended the antislavery [sic] Convention
one of his Youngest Sisters is now in the City -the matter
of which You and Sarah heard something of =remains
in Status Quo = and of course is likely to = Madam
Rumor has reported me as being specially interested in
the Heart history of some nice Girls here but to the
present= My declaration is -Hand free, Heart whole.
I wish Charles Remond success in his Marriage prospects
I hear much speculation on the matter but do not Know the
data sufficiently to form an intelligent opinion –
except that the Widow in question will likely prove
a most valuable acquisition to him-________________
Samuel R. Ward created much interest here some time
Since and now is about establishing his Paper in
Boston . I am not at all sanguine of his success
If my desire prevailed every body [sic] here should have the
North Star Liberator and North Star surely and
all other papers afterwards . I can appreciate the
ability of Mr. Ward. but if what I have thus far
learned of the recent Philadelphia controversy be
true I. certainly hope He will not plant himself
in Boston= for we cannot afford to take
any steps backward.
(Page 4)
a friend intimated a few days ago that Abby Thayer
was expected East= it would delight me to meet
her or Phebe in Boston = I. shall in a few days
write to some one [sic] of the family = I am always
grateful to You for any thing [sic] You mention of either
of the family = I shall never forget my first interview
with Abby and Phebe at 36 Sophia St = nor the
Evening when with Amy Post and Sarah Hallowell
I mistook North for Main Street in driving to the
House of Frederick Douglass = Phebe Thayer was then
about installed as Governess = Mr McWilliams
performed some Ventriloquism Vc this opens the
door to a long train of associations = but I must
now shut it unless for sooth I was talking with
instead of writing to You == meeting with
Friends face to face as Charles Lamb somewhere
remarks is worth more than whole reams of
Correspondence = If could therefore once more visit
Rochester and again press the hand of my much
beloved friends there an omnipresent and darling
desire of my heart would be realised =I know
not when to anticipate such a boon =
Had I true the means to spare . How gladly would
would - my Heart proclaim = "Westward W.C.N.
wends his way." I may Yet have a Windfall
or as some Call it a God send [sic] = when it happens
the next train for Rochester numbers me among
its Passengers. I want to see my Scholars = all of them
not excepting the very troublesome ones = [obliterated]
(Page 5)
and this reminds me of some portions of my school
School experience which I could wish never was
Do You remember the morning drive from Lewis Burtis
with You and Sarah Fish and our talk on
Moral Suasion for PupiIs Children as opposed to
Corporeal ? well in opposition to preconcieved [sic]
intentions I resorted for Experiments sake in moments
of peculiar emergency. to a show of Coercion
and thought it was merely for experiments sake-
and always exercised by me under protest.
Yet I never look back upon those Scenes with
satisfaction = while reading Sarah Fishs North
Star articles on this subject. the whole train of
associations presented themselves to my mind
( Should it ever be my lot to meet You
again - this will form a prominent feature
of our Conversation . I have a Leaf in my
Rochester Journal devoted expressly to it.
The Papers mention = Rochester Knockings
in New York = I. hope the Girls will visit Boston
I shall be happy to meet them = Yankee
Speculation is somewhat excited and I
trust ^they^ will find it an advantage in
gratifying = it -------------------------------
You mention the Evening
Serenades of ^from^ Parlours and also Sidewalks
on Sophia St = and Your Satisfaction
(Page 6)
in listening = many such delights have
been mine = there as You and Sarah
may well remember = and even
here as I stroll home evenings my ear
is attracted by the Street and other
music =and the familiar airs of
Susannah and 'Oh Carry me back to
ole Virginny' are among those
welcome ones reminding me of
Rochester and in a special
sense of Joannas Musical
exercise intended as a Pacification
for Little Willie
I am rejoiced with Your good
accounts of Jacob and Joseph
May Continued Prosperity be thier [sic]
portion I presume soon on being
moved to write Jacob a Letter
we have had too many happy hours
together. thus to preserve a
mutual Silence With a renewed pledge of
grateful remembrance I remain
Faithfully Yours Wm C. Nell.
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Frederick Douglass was a former slave and abolitionist. The New England Anti-Slavery Convention was formed by abolitionist leader, William Lloyd Garrison in 1831. The organization held yearly conventions from 1831-1835, when it changed its name to the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society.
John S. Jacobs was the brother of fugitive slave and author, Harriet Brent Jacobs. Sarah Hallowell was Post's sister. Mary was Post's daughter, and her husband was William Hallowell. William Ingersoll Bowditch served as Treasurer of the Anti-Slavery Society, and opened his home as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Louisa Nell Gray was Nell's sister.
The "school right questions" refers to the campaign Nell and other led to ensure education for former slaves. Frances may refer to another of Nell's sisters.
Joseph H. Putnam and Charles Lenox Remond were abolitionist leaders. Sammuel Riggold Ward was a former slave who became an abolitionist, newspaper editor and Congregationalist Minister. Both the North Star and the Liberator were anti-slavery newspapers.
Abby and Phebe Thayer were relatives of the Post family. Lewis Burtis married woman's rights activist, Sarah Anthony- Susan B. Anthony's second cousin. Sarah Fish was also a woman's rights activist. Nell refers to the address of the Post family home, at 36 Sophia Street.
The "Girls" Nell refers to were Margaret and Catherine Fox, who began the Spiritualist movement. Their followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead.
Joanna lived with the Post family and helped to take care of Post's youngest son, Willie. Jacob and Joseph were Post's two older sons.
(Page 1)
Dear Amy,
I own that I wholly mis apprehended the
object of the meeting at your house
last night. I supposed that it
would be in order to test the genuine-
ness of the rapping in any form
written the bounds of order such
proved not to be the case- and since
yourself and Husband have thought
me reprehensible for my conduct
I make a statement of the facts.
you misunderstood me in supposing-
that I tried applied the term atrocious
to the company. That term was applied
to the rapping when it refused to
answer the question of Mr. Dick
when that question was the only
one put which would test
the intelligence of the agents
by which the rapping was
made. I certainly meant no
disrespect to yourself or husband.
Yours sincerely Fred Douglass
Frederick Douglass, an abolitionist and former slave, is writing from Rochester to fellow activist, Amy Post. During this time the Posts converted to Spiritualism. Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. John Dick worked for Douglass as a printer.
(Page 1)
Boston Wednesday Eve
Feb. 13. 1850.
Esteemed Friend _ I have Just Learned that
Lewis Clark (the antislavery [sic] Lecturer)= leaves
in the morning for Rochester -
I. forwarded by Mr. Douglass (when he left
Boston for the Philadelphia North Star Fair)
a package of Rochester letters including
of course for You = and should be happy
to hear from 36 Sophia St = though
probably You have written and I shall
soon be the glad recipient -
Do tell me something of the Fair &
meeting. = Where is John Dick
any news relative to our choice
Circle of Sophia St You Know will
be highly acceptable.
I have not
yet seen E. W. Caprons Book of the Knocking
but will soon have one of his Second
edition = The Tribune has published
much of late on the Subject—
(Page 2)
I. could not help smiling aloud
at the Benevolent Quaker who
procured George Willets a situation
It has been talked about here
considerable = and articles often appear
in the papers = But it is Yet
a mystery
Do You Yet Know anything of my
Bundle at Leah's_________________
Will You be Kind enough to send me
the Post office address of
Mary Howland.________________
You Know what I would say to
all the Inmates of 36 Sophia St
please govern Yourself accordingly.
Remember me to the Family in Alexander St.
And believe me Ever Your
Sincere and Grateful
Friend William C. Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Lewis Clark was an escaped slave, who traveled as an anti-slavery lecturer. Frederick Douglass was a former slave and abolitionist. He started the newspaper, the North Star. John Dick was Douglass's printer. 36 Sophia Street refers to where the Post family lived in Rochester. E.W. Capron’s book was eventually published with the title, Modern Spiritualism: Its Facts and Fanaticisms, Its Consistencies and Contradictions. The book explored the belief that through mediums the living could communicate with the dead.
George Willets was a neighbor of the Posts. He too was a Spiritualist and wrote about the Fox sisters' performance at Corinthian Hall. This was their first performance demonstrating their powers as mediums. Leah was Margaret and Catherine Fox's older sister.
Mary Howland was a former slave, who joined the abolition movement.
(Page 1)
North Star Office
Feb 4th
My Dear Friend Amy. I
am sorry that my notice
of the recent fair, does
not please you. In
that notice I aimed to
be truthful as well as
hopeful, and to give the
fair its due. I had two
duties to perform in that
notice- to give credit to our
few Dear friends who have
labored faithfully to make
the fair successful and
(Page 2)
at the same time to do
justice to the absent by making
them know the truth with
respect to ^the^ result. This I have
done in the fewest possible
words- My interests and my
desires are on the side of
the most hopeful and
encouraging account
that could be given- but
the facts were such that had
I written such an account
I should have been convicted
before this community as
an untruthful man. I
do not despise the sum
realized- and gave said nothing
which justly bears such a
(Page 3)
construction.
Nor have I said that the tendency
of the fair was wholly
immoral. These are your
remarks dear friend not
mine certainly.
Faithfully and affectionately
yours Frederick Douglass
(Page 4)
[Text aligned vertically across center of Page 4]
Amy Post
Rochester
(Page 1)
Rochester Feb 2 – 50
Dear Friend
Will my friend
Frederick Douglass explain
what necessity there was
of giving so discouraging
an account of the Rochester
Fair, in the North Star just
received, that we came
very far short of realizing
in a pecuniary point of view
^what we wished^ is true, yet we would not
(Page 2)
dispise [sic] even the sum of
one hundred dollars, but
rejoice to have it to add
to other hundred’s that
have been raised and
used in the cause, during
that past year, and in
point of morals, I believe
we have no reason to
conclude, that because
some rudiness [sic] appeared
among a group of boys
one evening, the whole
tendency was immoral,
was it nothing that one
hundred people, of all
classes and colours [sic] sat
down to one table, and
(Page 3)
and the most perfect decorum
and order prevailed, to
my views ^and feelings^ of equality, it
was exceedingly gratifying
and for our cause in
Rochester a glorious achi
evement, I thought,
Dost thou really wish
to bring, thy Western New
York friends into disgr-
ace, and turn all
donations in another
direction, if so, then
thou has done the deed,
as much as I have val
ued and relied upon this
branch of Anti Slavery effort
for keeping the cause alive
(Page 4)
amongst us, and obtaining
the means for agitating
the trouble mind, I should
never advocate another
Fair did I think its tend
ency immoral.
Thy soarly aggrieved
friend
A Post
(Page 1)
Tuesday Morning
14th -
Yesterday Little Ira = sailed
in the steamer Forest City
for Portland to spend
the remainder of his
Vacation = You remember
that he has been admitted
to the Phillips School
and Though there – but
a few months He won the
favor of Teachers and Pupils
as he had already of
the School Committee
who (smuggled him in)
He worked his way to the
head of the Division and
recieved [sic] a Diploma.
Our School Right
matter is so nearly
triumphant (all but the
test) that many are
(Page 2)
rejoicing = many things
are very favorable
But Satan is busy
and will as usual
attempt mischief.
a few weeks hard work
will Settle the question
Then If I get my
Long expected Book
out = I will endeavor
to rest a while -
if it be only to
give up so much
care and Lay down
upon the grass
It is not certain
when I shall pass through
Rochester = I remain as ever
Fraternaly [sic] Yours W.C.Nell
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Ira is Nell's nephew. Nell refers to the battle to end segregation in Boston's public schools.
(Page 3)
PS Frederic [sic] is as fine looking as
Ever. I think he is the finest looking
gentleman I have seen since I
have been in Cincinnati
I love to hear him speak
But he cannot speak this
time. I am very sorry –
Yours Margaretta Fox
I made mr Douglass go
home with me. I was at
the Convention –
(Page 1)
March April ^4th^
My Dear friend I steal
this moment to scratch
you a few lines I should
have writen [sic] you before
but I have been waiting
with the hope of having
something to tell you
from our friend Mrs
Stowe but as it is I
hardly know where to
being for my thoughts
come rushing down with
such a [obliterated] ^spirit^ of rivalry
each wishing to be told
you first so that they fill
my heart and head make
my eyes dim therefore my
silence must express to
you what my poor pen
is not capable of daring
(Page 2)
but you know dear
Amy that your I have a head
towards you filled with
love and gratitude for
all the interest you have
so kindly shown in my
behalf I wish that I could
sit by you and talk instead
of writing but that pleasure
is denied and I am thankful
and I am than for this Mrs
Stowe recieved [sic] your letter
and Mrs Willis she said it
would be much care to her
to take Louisa as she went
by invitation it would not
be right and she was afraid
that if her situation as a
Slave should be known
it would subject her to
much petting and patronizing
which would be more plea
sing to a young Girl than
(Page 3)
useful and the English
was very apt to do it and
sh [sic] was very much opposed
to it with this class of peo
ple I will leave the rest
for you to solve but remem [sic]
that I mene [sic] to pay Louisa [sic]
expenses your letter she sent
to Mrs Willis asking might
she trouble her so far as
to ask if their most extraordi
nary event was true in all
its bearings and if she
might use it in her key
I had never opend [sic] my lips
to Mrs Willis concerning
my Children in the Char
itableness [sic] of her own heart
she sympathised with me
and never asked their origin
my suffering she knew it
embarrassed me at first
but I told her the truth
(Page 4)
but we both thought it
was wrong in Mrs Stowe
to have sent you letter she
might have written to en
quire if she liked Mrs
Willis wrote her a very
kind letter begang [sic] that
she would not use any
of the facts in [he key?] say
ing that I wished it to
be a history of my life entire
ly by itsslf [sic] which would
do more good and it need
ed no romance but if she
wanted some facts for
her book that I would be
most happy to give her
some she never answered
the letter she wrote again
and I wrote twice with
no better success it was not
Lady ^like^ to treat Mrs Willis so
she would not have done
it to keep any one [sic] I think
she did not like my objec
tion I cant help it
(Page 5)
if he is in Rochester make my kind regards
to him tell him that my Brother wishes him
to write to him please give my rememberance [sic]
to Mr & Mrs Cleggett Mrs Collins and all
the family Mr & Mrs G W Clarks family and
Doctor Clarks family and do not forget
my kind friends Mrs Phebe and fanny
Frost remember me to Mrs Willets and all
the family I am sorry to hear od Mr Willis
(Page 6)
long illness I hope that you and your family
have been blest with good health this winter
it has been very sickly among the few that
I know I have been expecting to hear of Mrs
Bush being in the City again but I have not
I shall write to her this week I have not
heard from the South in a great while I never
go [any] ^out^ in the day light accept [sic] I ride write
Dear Amy I shall be glad to hear May God bless
[Text upside down, in top margin]
you and crown you with his choicest blessing is
the prayer of Harriet Yours in heart
(Page 1)
Dear friend I send you those few lines to let
you know that we are getting along Dear little
Willie made us a visit last Sunday he seemed
much pleased and was a very good boy he loved
Joanna and Jacob more than any one [sic] else things
seem to go on smoothly at home and I feel
so happy daily expecting to see my Son I
have not heard from my Brother since he
left went to hear Mr Louis [sic] Lecture last night
and I can assure you that he did not forget
to hold up the name of Isac [sic] and Ammy Pst [sic] as
the Coloured Man & Womans friend as much
as I love you I am glad that your nane [sic] is not
too sacred to be held up by a coloured Man I
suppose you know that Louis is out of prison
and his accuser in for the same bail I hope
(Page 2)
yourself and sister is having a pleasant time
I know that if you are at Long Island you are
happy for it is a great blessing to have parents to
visit you must certainly bring your sister Sarah
back with every body will want to see her the
Office go on as usual had a few here to meeting
on Sunday was entertained with a part of your
letter I suppose we shall have Frederick and the
Miss Griffiths here on Sunday to draw a full
house Rochester is looking very pretty the trees
are in full Bloom and the earth seems covered with
a green mantle Miss Owen & Miss Morse left yesterday
Abby Thayer left last week the Miss Griffiths has [sic] been
here this afternoon Frederick went with them to the falls
they seemed much pleased with the reading room
I must stop hoping you will soon be at home yours
Harriet
Harriet Brent Jacobs, a former slave and abolitionist, is writing to Amy Post, a close friend and benefactor. Willie was Post's youngest son. Joanna lived with the Post's during this time and helped to care for Willie. H. G. R. Lewis lectured in Rochester during May 1849. He encouraged African Americans to better themselves. Frederick Douglass was a former slave and abolitionist. Through the financial support of Julia and Eliza Griffiths, he published a newspaper, the North Star. Abby Thayer was a relative of the Post family and an abolitionist.
(Page 1)
[Text aligned vertically along left margin on Page 1]
to all my dear friends pray write me a
[Text aligned horizontally across top margin of Page 1]
line soon yours truly
Harriet
Cornwall Jan ^11th^
My Dear Friend
It has been a
long time since I have
had a line from you
and I have resolved ma
ny times to write. but
variance hindrances es [sic]
have prevented- me.
dear Amy. if I was not
so tied down to the ba
by house. I would make
one bold effort to see
you- patience. perhaps it
will not be always
thus. I have kept Louisa
here this winter so that
I might have my eve
nings to write. but poor
Hatty [sic] name is so much
(Page 2)
in demand that I
can not accomplish much.
if I could steal away
and have two quiet
Months. to myself. I
would work night
and day though it sho
uld all fall to the
ground to get this time
I should have to explain
myself. and no one here
accept [sic] Louisa knows
that I have even written
anything to be put in
print. I have not the
Courage to meet the
criticism and ridicule
of Educated people.
the old proverb where
there is much given
much is required
with myself nothing
(Page 3)
given and their must be
but little expected
William wrote me that
you was [sic] in New York
while he was there
I was in New York
the week before Louisa
and myself I stoped [sic]
ten- days to do the Winter
shoping [sic] for Mrs Willis
having a young baby she
could not go herself
and I had the little
Girl potrait [sic] painted
while there and I had
a long distance to go
to the Artist and
they refused one day
to take one in the Cars
it made Mr Richard
Willis very angry and
he wrote a long article
which I will show you
(Page 4)
some day and inserted
it in his own paper
he is Brother to Mr
N P Willis and he is
the Couloured [sic] Mans
friend dear Amy will
you let me know if
you have heard any
thing of Brother I have
not had a letter and I
think it so strange I
dont know where to
write will you please
try and get my Brother [sic]
Daguerotype [sic] from Miss
Charlotte Murray and
keep it for me if this said
Book should ever come in
existence I want to have
an Illustrated Edition and
the whole family in love
Harriet Brent Jacobs, a former slave and abolitionist, is writing from Cornwall, New York to Amy Post, a close friend and benefactor. At the time she wrote this letter, Jacobs was living and working in the Willis home, Idlewild, in Cornwall, New York. Cornelia and Nathaniel P. Willis had paid for Jacobs's freedom from slavery. Louisa was Jacobs's daughter. William Cooper Nell was a former slave and abolitionist. Charlotte Murray was one of Jacobs's friends from Monroe County.
(Page 1)
Feby 14th
My Dear Friend
I recieved [sic] your
kind letter yesterday if
silence is expressive of ones
deep feeling then in this
way I must ask you to
recieve [sic] the emotions of
what my heart ^and pen^ cannot
express hoping the time
is not far distant when
we may see each other
but I must tell you
what I am trying to
accomplish having seen
the notice in the paper
of Mrs Stowe [sic] intention
to visit England I felt
there would not be
(Page 2)
much hope of coming
before her for some
time and I thought if
I could get her to take
Louisa with her she
might get interested
enough if she could
do nothing herself she
might help Louisa to
do something besides I
thought Louisa would
be a very good represen
tative of a Southern
Slave she has improv
ed much in her studies
and I think that she
has energy enough to
do something for the
cause she only needs to
(Page 3)
to be put in the field
I told my Ideas to Mrs
Willis she thought they
were good and offered
to write Mrs Stowe
she wrote last Tuesday
asking her protection
and if she would place
her in some Antislavery [sic]
family unless her services
could be useful to her
which I would perfer [sic]
myself intending to pay
her expenses there the
letter was directed as
yours when it is answer
ed you shall know
dear Amy since I haveno [sic]
fear of my name coming
(Page 4)
before those whom I have
lived in dread of I can nott [sic]
be happy without trying
to be useful in some way
I had a kind note from
dear Sarah saying that
she would be in New york [sic]
on the 20th and wished to
know our street and number
I am going down to see
her and Mrs Bush and
if Mrs B do [sic] not sail on
the 20th will you drop
me a line to let me know
I send an answer to Sarah
to day [sic] also as she will not
be there unless Mrs B
sails I shall be more
than glad to see you all
Harriet Brent Jacobs, a former slave and abolitionist, is writing to Amy Post, a close friend and benefactor. Harriet Beecher Stowe was an abolitionist and the author of Uncle Tom's Cabin. Louisa was Jacobs's daughter. Prior to the time she wrote this letter, Jacobs was living and working in the Willis's home. The Willis's had paid for Jacobs's freedom from slavery. The members of the Bush family were activists.
(Page 1)
fortgot my message I think and I had
not time to write he was so harried
at the time
New York February ^12^
My Dear Friend
I must begin by ask
ing you to forgive though I cannot find
an apology as I shall tell you the truth
this is the third letter that I have writ
ten to you the two previous one [sic] were
filled with trouble and care ^I burned them^ I deter
mined not to write again untill [sic]
I felt some encouragement to do so
and in so doing ^[obliterated]^ I will promise not
to do the like again but I trust that
that the present year may not be
so painfully spent as the past but
perhaps I have been foolishly sensitive
and ought to be ashamed I am still
with Mrs Willis Louisa is with me
at the present but expect [sic] to return
to Mr Brockett this spring I shall
go with her and if I can possibly
stretch my visit as far as Rochester
I will nothing would afford me more
pleasure than to see my friends again
though I could only stay one day and
night but you will hear from me
[Text aligned vertically along left margin of Page 1]
which will afford me pleasure to send William
(Page 2)
again before I leave I had three letters
from my Brother during the last month
he was well and doing well you may
know with what joy I hailed the news
for I had been very unhappy I had a
letter from him last July and he had
just completed his arrangements to com
mence his work in the bed of the river
and seemed so full of hope and expec
tations said that he would write the
next month and send me some gold
I did not get another line untill [sic]
December and to me it was a sad let
ter my Brother said that he had been
so burdened with care that he could
not write he said before he commencd [sic]
working he was offered five hundred
for his share which he refused and
worked until the first of October and
came out poorer than he went in
the Claim below him at the same time
paid each man two thousand dollars
[obliterated] he then left and went to the Mor
mon Island to the dry diggins [sic] where
they have done very well there is five
in the party and they have gone so far
under the hills that they work by candle
(Page 3)
light he says that there has been a great
many new discoveries where persons never
thought of looking for gold and it has
given new life to mining my Joseph
has gone to his Uncle Brother is very
anxious to have me go he thinks that I
could do well out there but he wants
Louisa to remain at Mr Brocketts until
I go and see for myself and if I like
after a years time come for her she
is much opposed to being left behind but
I intend to go if possible you must write
me what you think of it I could do
any thing [sic] for the sake of a little shan
ty to call home and have my Children
to come around me you dont know
what a comfort it was to me to see my
Joseph so often last summer his ways
are so much like my Brothers that you
would think that he had never been
from under his training the tears ran
down his cheeks when I read your letter
to him where you alluded to the anxiety
the two Joseph [sic] had given their parents
Mrs Bush told me that Sarah was
on Long Island will you let me know
when you write if she in near New York
so that I can see her I hope that you
(Page 4)
a letter from my Brother before
this reaches you Dear Amy I have tried
to do the best that I could last year
I paid eighty five dollars of my own
earnings for Louisa so I have left no
debt there and brother sent me a hun
dred dollars with that I intend to
pay Mr. Kellogg [sic] balance on Louisa [sic]
schooling which is sixty two dollars
and Mrs Bush then once more I shall
be happy their was some little debt
due Mr Willets which if my Brother
dont remember I shall have I wish I
could just run in an spend a little
with you and your Dear good Husband,
to whom I know that you will allow me
to give my kindest love regards is too cold
a word for him kindly remembering me
to Jacob & Joseph wishing them all the hap
piness that the New Year can give not
forgetting my kind friends Mr & Mrs
Hallowell give little Willie a kiss and
my love Dear Amy ^you^ must not think
that I would send your son that poor
little sack it was given me to give a
away and I thought Francis would
not feel as it would save a few stitches
and the dresses for Hellen your Willie
shall have a present of my own earning
Harriet Brent Jacobs, a former slave and abolitionist, is writing from New York to Amy Post, a close friend and benefactor. During this time, Jacobs was living and working in the Cornelia and Nathaniel Parker Willis's home. The Willis's had paid for Jacobs's freedom from slavery. Louisa was Jacobs's daughter.
William could refer to former slave and abolitionist, William Cooper Nell. Joseph Jacobs was Harriet's brother. Mormon Island is off the coast of California. The members of the Bush family were fellow activists. Sarah Kirby Hallowell was Post's sister. Francis Kellogg was an activist and her Louisa's teacher. George Willets was a friend of the Posts, who became a believer in Spiritualism. Spiritualists believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead.
Jacob, Joseph and Willie were Post's three sons. Mary was Post's daughter, and her husband was William Hallowell. Frances Nell was one of William Cooper Nell's sisters.
(Page 1)
Cornwall March
My Dear Friend
I recieved [sic] your kind
and welcome ^letter^ and should have replied
to it much earlier but various hin
drances have prevented me and when
I would have written I was in Bed
with a severe attack of Rheumatism so
that I could not raise my hands to my
head I am still suffering with it in
my Shoulders and we have had much
sickness in the family this winter I know
my plea for want of time will find
its way to your heart
my dear friend let me thank you for
your kind and generous offer of the
hospitality of your pleasant home
which would afford me much pleas
ure to accept but as yet I [obliterated] ^cannot^ not
decide my friends Mr & Mrs Brockett is
very anxious that I should go to their
home and write they live very quietly
and retired they were here and spent
a day and night with me and saw from
my daily duties that it was hard for me
(Page 2)
to find much time to write as yet
I have not written a single page by
daylight Mrs W dont know from my
lips that I am writing for a Book and
has never seen a line of what I have written
I told her in the Autumn that I would
give her Louisa [sic] services through the win
ter if she would allow me my win
ter evenings to myself but with the
care of the little baby and the big
Babies and at the household calls I
have but a little time to think an [sic]
write but I have tried in my poor
way to do my best and that is not
much
And you my dear friend must not
expect much where there has been so
little given yes dear Amy there has
been more than a bountiful share
of suffering given enough to crush
the finer feelings of stouter hearts
than this poor timid one of mine
but I will try and not send you
a portraiture of feelings just now
the poor Book is in its Chrysalis state
and though I can never make it
a butterfly I am satisfied to have it
creep meekly among some of the hum
bler bugs I sometimes wish that I
(Page 3)
could fall into a Rip Van Winkle
sleep and wake with the blest be
lief of that little Witch Topsy that
I never was born but you will say it
is too late in the day I have outgrown
the belief oh yes and outlived it too
but you know that my bump of hope is large
how is my dear old friend Mr Post
I have no doubt but that he is at his
Post perhaps heading a mighty Phalanx
to put the Nebraska bill through
well he shall have my vote 1856
when Arnold and Belshassan rools [sic]
down the avalanche remember me
with much kindness to all the
family tell Willie I want to see
him very much when you write
tell me if I know the friend that
you spoke of in your letter as soon
as my plans are more matured I
will write you again it will be ve
ry difficult for to get some one [sic] in
my place yet it will be left for me
to do I know of but one person she is
a Ladys nurse and her wages would
be high but I think that can get her
she is a nice person I must stop this
rambling letter let no one see it Lou
sends much love to you I am sorry you
dont know her better you would love her
[Text aligned vertically along right margin of Page 3]
god bless you write as soon as you can yours H Jacobs
Harriet Brent Jacobs, a former slave and abolitionist, is writing from Cornwall, New York to Amy Post, a close friend and benefactor. At the time she wrote this letter, Jacobs was living in the home of her employer, Cornelia Grinnell Willis and Nathaniel Parker Willis. The Willis's had paid for Jacobs's freedom from slavery. Louisa was Jacobs's daughter.
Jacobs refers to Witch Topsy, a character in Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Jacob references the traitor, Benedict Arnold and Belshazzar, a self- indulgent leader in the Bible who ruled blindly and then destroyed his Empire. This reference may refer to President Franklin Pierce who supported Stephen A. Douglas and the Nebraska Bill. She also mentions an effigy of Stephen A. Douglas, author of the Nebraska Bill, which permitted each new state admitted to the Union to determine its slave holding status.
Willie was Post's youngest son.
(Page 1)
Amy dear Amy
Your long expected letter
came this morning.
and I thank you kindly dear Amy for it.
when have I had such a letter as yours
near, nor have I been so happy since I left
home as I have ^am^ been
after reading your letter
Amy once more I thank you.
what a beautiful communication that is
you sent me it did me good to read
it your whole letter was like sunshine on a dark day.
I wish you knew how I fel. Oh so homesick
I want to see you Amy.
de Lady it is raining fast and makes
me feel melancholy. it brings up sad
recollections it makes me think of other days
(When I was happy).
[Text aligned upside down along top margin of Page 1]
I had a likeness take
for John Robinson
yesterday and will
send it by express,
if he does not wish it you,
take it, as a present
from me, it is a good
large one,
(Page 2)
the mind blows mournfully.
it [highs?] through my window. as I write.
how I would loveto be with you to day [sic]
and talk over old times.
I will see you soon I hope, dear Amy.
I have a secret for you. do not tell it,
to any person.
you know my friend John Robinson.
Or he who used to be my friend.
wrote me. and forbid me ever writing him
again. for the mere reason, of my
visiting him a little funn . [sic]
to think how much I thought of him
and he should change so soon.
what shall I do, I will tell you, when
I return to Rochester I have no doubt
Her Robinson will call on us.
but if I meet him face to face,
I will never speak to him,
never notice him, now I am as firm
as a Rock, ask the Spirits if I am
not right. I know I am,
I wrote him a long letter. asked his
forgiveness. told him to forget. and
we would be friends again,
(Page 3)
but no answer. no answer,
Amy give me advice, tell your
Spirits to, and I will profit
by it, enough enough of this,
I hope Joseph will get well,
give my love to dear Joseph,
and Isaac kind dear man, kiss him
for me, how I love you all, love to dear
Jacob, and do not forget me.
my kind and dearest friend, do write
me by return of mail, if you know
how happy it made me to hear from you
I am sure you would not hesitate,
to write me another grand long letter,
the ^Spirits^ are doing wonderful things with
us too. last Sunday Evening we had
a private party. I will give you their names.
Mr Casoius Cassiss M Clad. Mr Coleman
Mr Desnisons, Mother Maggie and myself.
we were all seated around the table for [Margies?] [illegible]
Cassius M. Clay you know is a great ma.
of course you know him, he held my
feet, Mr Coleman the proprietor held Mag's
we put a guitar three bells and an
acordeon under the table, the guitar
(Page 4)
was played. bells rang acordeon
played. all while our feet were held,
Cassius Clay is one of our best
friends. (but a great flatterer)
it is growing late and I must big you
good nightt [sic]. for the I will go to bed and
try to dream of you,
Mrs. Post do take good care of little Willie
I had a bad dream, now do hug him safe,
kiss dear Sis for me. and her little one,
tell her I will see her soon. I am almost
dead to see here, I will come and go with
Leah to New York, find out when
She goes. for I am going, if she
will let me. and more good night,
do write by return of mail,
good night good night
dear Amy, Farewell
from your true
Friend
Kate Fox
PS I wil be home
when you least expect me}
Kate Fox
William Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post. Frederick Douglass was a former slave and abolitionist leader. Charles Lenox Remond was an abolitionist. Chas L. Reason was an African American Mathematics Professor.
William Wells Brown was a former slave, who became a lecturer and writer. George Thompson was a British abolitionist.
Spiritualism was founded by Leah, Catherine and Margaret Fox in Rochester several years earlier. Its followers believed that through mediums the living could communicate with the dead.
Dr. David Ruggles was an abolitionist, who mentored Nell, Douglass, Sojourner Truth. Andrew Jackson Davis was a Spiritualist healer. Sarah was Post's sister. Jacob was one of Post’s sons. Sarah Own, Benjamin and Sarah Fish, as well as George Willets were all friends of the Posts and part of their Spiritualist circle.
(Page 1)
I am now seated at a Table in my Boston December 12th 1849 cold
Landladys Parlor = Herself and 2 Ladies Wednesday Eve. 9. oclock weather
with 2 children being about = though I am now using Ink
I am reminded of sitting down thus from the Ink stand you
in Amy Posts Room = and How I do miss presented me
Her and Sarah
My Esteemed Friend. Amy Post =
This evening being disappointed
in my anticipated meetings with My Sister Louisa and Mrs
Mary Bibb = and of an interview with a committee of the
Young Men’s Literary Society = I gladly avail myself of the
leisure moment to acknowledge the reciept [sic] of those two
valuable and interesting letters =the First with my Box of
Books =(for the safe transportation of please accept my sincere
thanks) Second =devoted mainly to the spiritual
matters which have thus far excited many Circles =
aside from Western New York = = Mr Garrison is somewhat
interested in the matters and intends publishing the Tribune correspondence
on the Mysterious Knocking and wishes me to impart some of my
experience with the Spirits and the Girls = He does believe as You do
but for many reasons seeks light = The Peoples to whom I
mention the matter. Friends and Strangers. listen with every
kind of expression on thier [sic] countenances = and to me it is still
a mystery and most sincerely do I wish it was explained
as You may well remember I regarded. Leah Margaret
and Cathy as entirely honest in the business and on those
premises the wonder and mystery is augmented.
I can appreciate the trials to which You and they were
exposed during the investigations. Knowing the
associations surrounding You in consequence of Your
believing them to be true until proved to be
otherwise = Your motives are Godlike and Your
satisfaction will be ample = even though the result may
be different so far as the Girls are concerned from what
You and other friends expect = in this opinion
Mr Garrison concurs and strongly censured those
who interfered and broke up the meetings.
(Page 2)
I. have at times thought the Spirits were manifesting
a readiness to communicate here with me= but to the
present nothing tangible has been developed.
I. await further intelligence
I know of no such name as You ask about = and mentioned by
the Spirits = but should I learn of any such the earliest information
will be forwarded.
Mondays Tribune supplement: contained an able article
on the Mysterious Knocking = accounting for it as of a
Similar fact with those eventful traits in the history of
Swedenborg and A Jackson Davis = when You write
do tell me How William and Mary and other Friends now
feel on the matter = F.D.&.J.D of course are not easily
made Proselytes of = but I must now dismiss the
subject and talk of other matters -
Mr Garrison regrets his inability of attending Your annual
meeting. feeling grateful for Your Kind offer -
I would be extremely happy to wing my way to
Rochester. during the meeting or Fair – but this happiness
will be denied me = I must content myself with being
in attendance here = and my spirit much of the time
with my choice Rochester friends = Anne W. Westen
a few days since in the Anti slavery [sic] office enquired of me
the address of John S. Jacobs = I. presume intending to
Solicit his aid here for the Boston Bazaar =
they Know his worth and so do the Western New York
Anti slavery [sic] friends = Please tender my Kind remembrance
to him and his good Sister = Miss Fowler recently had a letter
from Louisa Jacobs
Will You at convenience learn from Leah Fish whatever became
of those musical Pamphlets and Scraps= I left with Her?
If You are not tired hearing of and performing such a favors
(Page 3)
Mr. Douglass passed through here some days since but I did
not see him. I hope to do however before he leaves for West
Thursday Eve = 8. oclock
Here I am at the Town and Country Club Room No 15
Tremont Row of which I. have the charge = which with
my other offices Keeps me busy = and helps put Bread
and Butter in my mouth = It would please You to meet
here and share the society of Ralph Waldo Emerson.
A. Bronson Acott = and Literary men of various shades
of in belief and practice. = next Monday Evening
will be a pleasant season at the Ladies and Gentlemens
Conversazione. Fredrika Bremer will be present
This room is an incentive to poetic inspiration -
a splendid Bust of Homer the Father of Poetry adorns
one Niche = Engraving of Goethe and Carlyle
in appropriate pendant situations = the cream of
American and foreign Literature cover the Tables Vc
I can assure You I. glean much valuable information
from the different Circles = Members and Strangers
(Rev Pharcellus Church is a member ) =Radicals and
Conservatives = embracing= Clergymen= Lawyers Physicians
Artists = in Music Painting Architecture Vc all meet
here and discuss about the many things Celestial.
and Terrestial [sic]
I have been promising to attend Sunderlands Course of
Lectures on Pathetism = He is now creating a similar
excitement as that of Professor Rogers. Last season =
Frederick Douglass. I learn by Remond passed
through here to day [sic] enroute for Rochester = I lost the
chance of seeing him.
(Page 4)
I am much ^obliged^ for all the Rochester news Your lettersWilliam Cooper Nell, an abolitionist, is writing from Boston to fellow activist, Amy Post.
Nell's landlady was Mrs. Benjamin Weeden. Sarah Kirby Hallowell was Post's sister. Mary Bibb was born into a Quaker family of free blacks and married former slave Henry Bibb. Both were active in the abolitionist movement.
Nell refers to the growing Spiritualist movement that began in Rochester. The Posts and other followers believed that through mediums they could communicate with the dead. William Lloyd Garrison was a radical abolitionist and the editor of the Liberator.
Leah, Margaret and Catherine Fox founded the Spiritualism movement. The mysterious knocking that Nell mentions refers to the Hydesville Rapping’s, which came to mark the beginning of Spiritualism.
Emmanual Swedenborg was a Swedish scientist, philosopher and theologian, who influenced many famous writers, artists and cultural figures. Andrew Jackson Davis was a Spiritualist healer. William R. Hallowell was Post's son-in-law, and Mary was his wife. "F.D." likely refers to former slave and abolitionist, Frederick Douglass.
Anne W. Weston may refer to a member of the Weymouth Female Anti-Slavery Society. John S. Jacobs was former slave and author, Harriet Jacobs's brother.
Louisa Jacobs was Harriet Jacobs’s daughter.
Ralph Waldo Emerson was a writer, poet, and Transcendentalist, as was A. Broson Alcutt. Fredrika Bremer was a Swedish writer and feminist, who lived in the United States from 1849- 1851. Homer was a Greek poet, who wrote the Illiad and Odyssey. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was a German writer, artist, biologist, theoretical physicist, and polymath. Thomas Carlyle was a Scottish satirical writer.
Charles Lenox Remond was an abolitionist leader. Nell refers to Post's three sons: Jacob, Joseph and Willie.