1 10 30 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/1476fd823cc734dea088e033d182e0ce.jpg a9cf2067257460b21b208f5474617da7 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/a1b7770f9ca4d2249243db37003c2124.jpg c348b4c8b7887b0bb93077707c146ec8 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/3a25754de48d68c7babdfc8e0ac0a27d.jpg cbf199bb6a61b0d7b83b23fa3e96772c Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Billerica Jan 30th 1856 Dear friend, I arrived safely home yesterday afternoon, meeting my Father at the depot in expectance of my coming. All were well here, and I found home a welcome place after my long visit in C. [Charlestown]. Safely waiting for me, was a letter, shall I say from whom! A perusal served to quicken some of the memories of the immediate past, and remembering the promise, I hasten thus early to reply. By this you will rightly infer that the wish you expressed for a correspondence met with no obstacles in reference to those whose wise counsel I sought both from the dictates of my own heart, and the expressed desire of yours. The succession of snow storms has rendered the traveling very bad. I think I never saw so much snow, the country looks as though it was clothed in one large white sheet as we can hardly see the tips of fences. Although the weather with out is not very inviting, it seems very pleasant to be quietly seated at home. We are not at loss to find subject matter for conversations, and so time passes very rapidly and pleasantly. Father is ready to go to the office and I must close, trusting you will pardon the briefness of this. Your humble friend Albinia Jaquith TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Josef Rokus) The “friend” to whom this letter is addressed was Jerome, based on the address on the envelope, which reads Mr. Jerome Peirce, Charlestown, Mass. Albinia (Allie) Jaquith and Jerome Peirce were married on September 10, 1857. So, they apparently knew each other for a while before they were married. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Allie to Jerome, January 30, 1856 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Billerica, MA. Description An account of the resource From Allie to Jerome Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Allie Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1856-01-30 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Paul and Louise Marahrens (Transcribers) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #233 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Billerica, MA. Allie Billerica VA. Jerome Peirce https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/b0511a8c4af438980fbdf0b651e6eb75.jpg feb36108a423da53709a8317f9f9563f https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/5a5896b5ca94a027123279fd2f1adb84.jpg 5d2cc8e32bd5abb73b6afdb5b529ced8 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/3a447253aaf59f0d9a5b08f1fc763334.jpg 3de9ea4de454ee27e00c3b0573459e0e https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/fdfc5c3221db5a04014a5f62f7a0d508.jpg 8f20396054991a126f4e319ea86b09e9 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Charlestown Jan 25, 1856 My dearest friend, Agreeably to my promise and from a yearning to be with you in the only way that remains, I pen you a few lines in hopes they will find you safely within that beloved circle your description of which so delighted me and wither my thoughts have followed from the moment of our parting. How shall I express to you the thoughts which thronged my mind, as, in the stillness which my occupation affords, I pondered over the events of the past few days? They seemed to lend new interest to the past, and caused me to think upon the thousand delights, friendships and blessings which have been scattered in the path of my young life. I felt a thanksgiving to the beneficent disposer of events who has thus blessed me - and finally I have been conducted not by an unseen hand to her - whose young affections, with all the delightful associations which in the course of the same good Providence may be permitted to follow - it will be my first and last endeavor to prove worthy of. How true is that verse from the hymn “In each event of life, how clear Thy ruling hand I see. Each blessing to my soul more dear, Because conferred by thee.” Such has been some of my day-dreaming, dreaming surely it seems, and very welcome will be the next token from you, that reassures me that it is a reality - the solemnity of which I feel most deeply. Enough of this. How did you reach home, in the severe cold and how did you find all the dear ones there? You hardly know how much your account interested me and, of course, you will have much to say. But I must close for I wish to post it in the Office tonight, hoping you will receive it tomorrow. I dare say I shall mis-spell your first name as I never saw it in print - the way you pronounce it but you will pardon and correct, and believe me ever, Your affectionate and devoted friend, Jerome Peirce Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Jerome to Allie, January 25, 1856 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Charlestwon, MA. Description An account of the resource From Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jerome Peirce Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1856-01-25 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Paul and Louise Marahrens (Transcribers) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #232 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Charlestown, MA. Allie Charlestown MA. Jerome Peirce https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/0a29308f9172ff2186d31554fa5378e2.jpg 89180f0b34d5a70d6e4321a3b53b0619 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/39c7f19626a644c58f28d99a5af29c58.jpg 8b0eb16d0c34dd04d45ba7704617c6b4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Tuesday Evening My very dear Sister, Happy, most truly so, were we to hear from you today. How eagerly have I waited for your coming letter, for I felt that it would announce to us much satisfaction in regard to yourself. Something within has whispered that you too were feeling the guiding influence of Divine wisdom: was turning your gaze upward, looking for strength where it alone can be found. You speak of your need of more personal counsel and sympathy. It is, indeed, what we all desire, and yet remember, that the greater obstacles you encounter and overcome, the greater the victory won. Amid uncongenial influences your own faith may spring up, and from the fires of opposition and depression through which it passes, be made to endure beyond all time. Continue then, my dear Sister, in the path which you have chosen, abounding steadfast, and unmoveable. We are free to act and think as we please, and let our minds but be made up with what appears to us as right in the sight of the All Wise, and that then, will it matter if man may turn aside, and reject our belief. But I dare to say Mr. E. [Ellis] ably counseled you on this, as well as on many other points of duty. I long to hear of “what he speaks.” You are particularly blessed in respect to having a faithful Minister to guide and direct your heart. This, I think, would supply many other deficiencies. Should I not rejoice to be with you when you are listening to Mr. E’s [Ellis’] counsel. I have not seen Mr. C. [Chaffee] to have an interview since I wrote, though there are many things which yet linger in my mind that I would know better. I shall always respect him for the kindness he has shown me, and hope that the aid he rendered may be such as will help me to aid myself. That is what we need, and a feat we must strive for, self sought wisdom. Not what others may do, but our own exertions will create, with God’s permission, clean hearts. A life, too, must not be regarded too great a sacrifice, in His service. Last Sunday I attended church all day. Mr. C. [Chaffee] spoke of the power and wealth of thought in the morning; in the afternoon, of the exalted state of man, “being made little lower than the angels.” I remained at Sunday School and three little boys were placed under my charge. I think I shall enjoy the season of instruction much, if I am permitted to continue with it; and hope too, to derive much good discipline from it. How very glad I am that you are coming home, only it is none too soon, but I will try what patience can do and be contented. I do not think it will be possible for me to come down, though I should be very happy to do so. The Home School closes next Friday, and then Mr. Grant will take his final leave. There is to be a quiet gathering in the evening. I wish very much you were going to be here. E. Judkins came home last Saturday, and today I was invited there to tea, as Willie A. and his mother were expected. A note came while I was there saying W. was not as well and they had left Bedford for further medical advice. I should think his chance of life here was very small. I expect Mrs. Bickford, and the little folks started yesterday. They were here last Saturday to bid us good bye. Little Hattie was better, though looking very feeble. Haddie Berry was here Saturday afternoon and we had many callers. Our sewing circle meets tomorrow at Miss Norton’s. She called here the other evening to invite us. Aunt P’s sister, Mrs. Parker is up. Write again very soon, and the particulars of Mr. E’s [Ellis’] conversation. I wish again to see Mr. E. [Ellis] and hope an opportunity will soon be offered. Let us “watch and pray,” and press onward for good, now, and eternally. Mother says if she could write as fast as she can think she should say much. Write soon. Love to all from Abbie TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Josef Rokus) No date is indicated on this letter. However, based on the contents of the previous letters and the postmark of the envelope that accompanied these letters, this letter was probably written in July 1855. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Abbie to Allie, July 1855 Subject The topic of the resource Abbie Allie Billerica, MA. Description An account of the resource From Abbie to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Abbie Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource No date indicated Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Paul and Louise Marahrens (Transcribers) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #231 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant No date indicated but probably Billerica, MA. Abbie Allie Billerica MA. https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/c85c54fe78c3fdb0df9aa5022e9fea72.jpg 49d6da3d3cd64ba9cfffa0f42857d9fa https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/2b06fb742ee262560f410e358545a929.jpg c6baea882bd19638376a2c4ea3550283 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Saturday Morning, July 14th, 1855 My dear Sister, Against my will I shall be obliged to write in haste for lack of time before the mail closes. I have so much on my mind to say to you, that I wished a less hurried opportunity. We were glad to hear from you and that your eyes were better. Very glad, too, that Aunt was able to visit Malden, and do hope the visit will benefit her. Harriet E. [Edmands] has not been here yet, nor have we heard from her lately. Mr. G. Clark that lives by the schoolhouse has been bleeding very badly indeed, he is not expected to live long. Blaney Abbott is very low. I went to meeting all day last Sunday. Mother went in the morning, stopped at the Doctor’s at noon, found little Hattie very sick. They feared she would be as bad as last summer. The Dr. was obliged to go away in the afternoon and did not like to leave Mrs. B. alone with her so Mother stayed. She is better now, and they think of going the first of next week. I am glad your cherries tasted good, but they are all gone now. Dear Sister, I wish to speak again to you upon that subject which we have so often conversed upon together and which I mentioned in my last letter. I had a long talk with Mother Sunday eve, which did me so much good, as I had for so long a time wished it. Is it not a comfort to be able to speak to parents, and to know that your dearest interests are understood and appreciated? On Monday I went up in town, made a short visit at the Col.’s, where I had a private conversation with Lissie and took tea with Maria P. all of which I enjoyed much. Lizzie B. offered to accompany me a part of the way home and assist in carrying a large and beautiful bouquet she had got for me. She spoke at once upon what was interesting my mind and I told her my wish to see Mr. C. as I had told Mother before and my intention of calling soon. She advised me by all means to do so. I do not know what it was, but a strong, irresistible feeling within urged me on to action and I stopped. He met my feelings with a great deal of sympathy and encouragement, gave me some kind advice and lent me books suited, as he said, for my state of feelings. He spoke of the proneness to leave such thoughts and interests to a later period and oftentimes putting them off until we grew dead to them, but he said it was a most dangerous practice. A great deal more was spoken by him, which I can tell you when I have more time. I do not know how I made my thoughts known, but it must have been hardly intelligible, tho’ he readily comprehended my desires. I spoke to him of you considerable, and he inquired much. He wishes to know when you were are coming home, how long you would probably stay etc. He promised me another interview very soon and last night he came, tho’ not much in particular was advanced. He brought another book and gave me leave to send that tract to you. Lizzie B. sent me a copy of the Covenant and I sent one to you. Have you seen Mr. Ellis? Write something definite in your next letter, won’t you? And write very soon, as I wish to hear. Love to all from Abby Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Abbie to Allie, July 14, 1855 Subject The topic of the resource Abbie Allie Billerica, MA. Description An account of the resource From Abbie to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Abbie Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1855-07-14 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Paul and Louise Marahrens (Transcribers) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #230 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant No location indication but probably Billerica, MA. Abbie Allie Billerica MA. https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/bbf80736b5e0f9b81a1670b604f371d7.jpg 11666f03c378bfa54b2547054fefa8cd https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/0aa1233596d7434affb28e119b0d956f.jpg 4a11bc4644c1d89b937c323a2584ba9e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Sunday Eve. July 8th 1855 [???] [See Note] My dear Sister: My heart is very full tonight, and I feel as tho’ I must speak to someone to quiet it. To whom can I speak better than to you? I have been to meeting all day, and our Sunday school was formed tonight. I do not know whether I shall engage in it as a teacher, or pupil. I think the latter. My dear Sister, my object in writing was to ask you one serious question, which I wish you to answer freely. Do you feel like joining the church next Communion Sabbath? I wish very much to do so, and hope your feelings are not such as to prevent you. Mr. Chaffee has been very encouraging in his sermons, and I feel prompted from my own heart to do so. How I do wish you were at home to talk with me and read Sarah and Lissie’s kind letters. Do you think you shall be home by the first Sunday next month? I think Mother would be glad to have us. Do write your feelings in a private note to me in your next letter, if it only says yes or no. Life is so uncertain, we know not what may befall us, and I do not like a longer delay. I shall either write a note, or see Mr. Chaffee soon (I suppose he is going to preach.) and I would go to Mr. Ellis, if I were you. Speak right out and he will advise you. Tell how long we have wished, how interesting and solemn it appears, and the benefit you hope to derive from it. Let us commence early for a few weeks is a short time to consider, unless early improved. When death is nigh we shall not heed the opinion of the world and do not let us know. We are sinful, but it will aid us to do better, and a public faith in Christ is a duty. Let us together commence this new life. It will not take away any of our happiness but add much to it. I shall wait with eagerness your answer. God strengthens us for the act. I never felt so earnest about it. Remember next month. Yours in love Abby We are all well. Monday Morning Mrs. Judkins was in last night. Willie [???] had been up again with his father. He walked out a little to eat some cherries. I guess Harriet Edmands will make us a visit soon. Is he attentive? Love to all from Abby TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Josef Rokus) The year that this letter was written is not indicated. However, the letter immediately prior to this one and the letter immediately after this one (all of which were apparently were included in the same envelope) were both written in 1855. In addition, July 8 was a Sunday in 1855. Therefore, it is extremely likely that this letter was written on July 8, 1855. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Abbie to Allie, July 8, 1855 Subject The topic of the resource Abbie Allie Billerica, MA. Description An account of the resource From Abbie to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Abbie Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1855-07-08 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Paul and Louise Marahrens (Transcribers) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #228 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Probably Billerica, MA. Abbie Allie Billerica MA. https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/c5fdb2b71f888c08e52d981ef518a3c5.jpg dcceadfa405c9181e900abcaf06a5b51 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/bbf36830949fffb5d6ba12ee4757e172.jpg 6e251b65a28de4adf4819aedc1121648 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Billerica, Friday May 18, 1855. My darling Sister: I cannot longer forbear to address you upon a subject in which you have expressed much interest, and one which has lately engaged an unusual share of my thoughts. I told you sometime since that I commenced a letter to Lizzie B., but of its prospect, I believe I left you uninformed. I stated plainly to her my feelings upon several religious points, which she answered with that ready sympathy, and love so material to her. Her reply was written with a pencil, or you should have seen it before this, but when you return home you can peruse it at your leisure, and I trust you will, like myself, find comfort in doing so. My dear sister, let us speak more freely upon this subject. Will not our hearts become strengthened by the act for purer thoughts, and nobler deeds? Will it not subdue, and chasten our dispositions, and make our spirits more congenial with God, and our Saviour? You speak, with something of regret, of your position among those with whom your religious sentiments are disregarded, and treated perhaps with not an equal share of deference. Do not despair, my dear Sister, your situation may, indeed, be trying to your feelings, and unpleasant to endure, but remember that the circumstances which now appear to disturb you may hereafter be found to have exerted a most wholesome influence in your behalf. By no means, let the persuasions of others dwarf your freedom of thought and action. Remember that we are free to act and think for ourselves, with Christ for a willing Teacher, such for a loving Father. Shall we not rather go to them for guidance, seeking for counsel which can never err from so pure a source? There is a beauty in that religion, I think, which moves along silently, but surely, controlling our inmost nature, leading our footsteps noiselessly through the path of virtue, restraining evil desires, and passions, and instinctively lifting the human soul aloft from the taints, and grossness of earth, to that sphere of bliss where dwells the “pure in heart.” Cherish this principle, dear one, and reap its reward. Look at the life of our Saviour, fraught with no acts of vehemence, calm, trusting, humble. Deeds of goodness meekly performed, acts of kindness and charity silently bestowed, forgiveness never withheld. He loved mankind; his life was devoted to them. For them he lived and for them he died. Praise to God, whose Son has visited us that we might know “the Way of Life, and the Truth.” In his bearing may we not trace the spirit of our Heavenly Father, and is it not a happy belief to entertain so forgiving and loving a nature? Shall we regard a life devoted to God as too great a sacrifice for His goodness? Shall the germ of holiness implanted within our hearts not be brought out, and fashioned for present, and future happiness? There is, indeed, a noble end to be sought by noble means, means, which have been set forth for our acceptance. Let us study, and embrace them. Let us especially remember the institution of the Lord’s Supper, and strive to bring our hearts in unison with its sacred rites. Let us hasten, with true preparation, to become a numbered one with the band of followers who eat of the body, and drink of the blood of Christ. But my Sister, let not passion usurp the place of reason, in its contemplation, lest we mistake a passing emotion, for a steady belief. Calmly viewed, with doubts removed by the light of truth, will it not be more surely possessed with spirits of unchanging devotion? “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh,” and if our sentiments are cherished with sincerity, our deeds will not belie our faith. Can you not speak to Mr. E. upon the subject? He would give you sympathy I do not doubt, and strengthen any holy purpose you would suggest. How I would like to speak to him, or but alas! we have no minister. God deserts me not, and He will be my infallible guide and protector. I have written but poorly upon this subject, but I was not willing to remain silent any longer, and could not wait for time to express myself more fully. Write, darling, with confidence when you have leisure, to your loving, Abby. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Abbie to Allie, May 18, 1855 Subject The topic of the resource Abbie Allie Billerica, MA. Description An account of the resource From Abbie to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Abbie Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1855-05-18 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Paul and Louise Marahrens (Transcribers) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #228 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Billerica, MA. Abbie Allie Billerica MA. https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/40a299457f293bf85fd5563bfa646e89.jpg b4754e0af264f2d65a557224f911d725 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/1a16211628e5ce0432b292619cf07df4.jpg e14dc43c8a8a41ef631224d39be61a73 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/071a89dc02f1075df1551e069b6e1ecd.jpg 5e568aa112e5d6c039fadafa6a4cae94 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/dbeb767002814518801dbb0de92162a3.jpg 03d27f592108e1f3aeb727257dfab77f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document LETTER TRANSCRIPTION Boston May 12th 76 Dear Allie, I wanted to write you yesterday but could not and perhaps today is more fitting. I have been so much in the spirit with my old comrades the last few days that I seem to have annulled 12 or 15 years of my life and to be living over again my soldier life. Of course you know how prominent a position Jerome must then be filling in my thoughts and I feel that I must write you a few words to say how much I am sharing in your grief for him today and how ill I reconcile myself even yet to his loss. The duty of addressing our Post on Memorial Day this year has been assigned to me but I feel really misfit for the task. Going over the memories of those war times and trying to find words in which to speak of my lost comrades completely numbs me and I dread the approach of the day. And if my sensibilities are so harrowed up, how must yours be, who date from this day 12 years ago, your irreparable loss. As the years go by, it seems to me that my affection for Jerome and my other beloved companions who fell grows greater and I find myself less able to think and speak of them with fortitude. They go deeper into my heart and I bring them less willingly to the light. Yes, there were sad days with the old 36th Regt and many a heart is aching over the losses that befell us in those sad May days of ’64. Let me be counted with yours as one of the chief mourners for Jerome. Nellie is well and sends a great deal of love. She is very tired today as we had our Church Sociable last night at our home and she has been very hard at work lately getting ready for today. Our good nurse Mrs. Walker arrived quite opportunely yesterday to help take care of baby last night and I don’t know what we would have done without her for he was very restless all the even’g [evening], though he is quite well as are all of us, I am glad to say. I hope you will be better as the spring comes on and better weather. Excuse this hasty letter. It may not appear like much of a comfort, but it means a great deal more than it says. Give my love to Lulu and regards to all the family and believe me, with much love. Affectionately yours, Alonzo TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: This letter was written 12 years to the day of Jerome’s death at Spotsylvania Courthouse, Virginia. NOTE 2: Seth Alonzo Ranlett went by Alonzo, and married Jerome’s niece, Ellen (aka Nellie), on January 21 1864. Alonzo was from Charlestown, entered the service as Private in Company B of the 36th Massachusetts Regiment on July 24, 1962, promoted to First Sergeant on August 27, 1862, promoted to First Lieutenant on December 1, 1862, appointed Adjutant, December 17, 1862, but was mustered out on account of physical disability from diseases incurred in the service on February 20, 1864. NOTE 3: Alonzo Ranlett wrote five chapters of the History of the 36th Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers 1862-1865, namely, the chapters titled The Kentucky Campaign, In the Rear of Vicksburg, The Movement on Jackson, The Return to Kentucky, and In East Tennessee. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Alonzo to Allie, May 12, 1876 Subject The topic of the resource Ranlett, Seth Alonzo Allie Boston, MA. Description An account of the resource From Alonzo to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seth Alonzo Ranlett Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1876-05-12 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Tom Neubig (Transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #253 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Boston, MA. Allie Alonzo Boston MA Seth Alonzo Ranlett https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/3caebae712fec4d67152497923e45e7d.jpg e52a81bf2b5fa7863fddb7c645610b10 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/4dce0d08bae516b178fe5ce1309272fa.jpg 115fdc85efa4cc4d43153db397add49b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document LETTER TRANSCRIPTION June 3, ’95 My dear Auntie, Just a little birthday message of love to you. Will send a picture which I thought perhaps you would like to have, as I prize one like it so much, and how little we thought it would be so important when it was taken. You have probably heard of our Billerica trip. Very sad but satisfactory. Am always so relieved when these special days are over, as they will not come for a year and are so painful to me. Next Sunday would have been the 25th anniversary of their marriage. Did not write last week as I was so much occupied. Had a very pleasant lunch at Miss Arey’s, and we spent the afternoon driving. This morning received two tickets from her for a concert in town this P.M. These pretty words Margie Hill sent me to put to music which I did yesterday. They are written by one of their girls for graduation of H.S. [High School] I think. Have so much I’ve planned to do, must be stopping. Have just packed away our afghan that Grandma did in camphor and newspaper. Think a time may come when it will be even more valuable and dear to me than now and so wish to preserve it from fading and dust. Just spoke with Mrs. Ranlett and Katherine in the train Sat. [Saturday]. You will excuse my haste. I know and continue to love me as before both of you. Am glad it is so much cooler this morning. Sympathetically, Cordelia Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Cordelia to "My dear Auntie", June 3, 1895 Subject The topic of the resource Cordelia "My dear Auntie" Description An account of the resource From Cordelia to "My dear Auntie" Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Cordelia Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1895-06-03 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Jack Phend (Transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #252 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Location not indicated "My dear Auntie" Cordelia https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/7442882f5ff3c114f3bc6481b7b13164.jpg 5d6c8c08d82db885d5b7761cf7b2086f https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/a790ae521cb1f76038e1d153a12003c8.jpg 70a63e63f93bfa8e47b043f8fac0eec2 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document LETTER TRANSCRIPTION Sunday A.M. My Dear Albinia, Abbie has just gone over to Joseph’s, to ride up to church. Frank does not go. Mr. Hussey preaches today, came to Jos[eph] last night, should like it much if you could come in. Do want so much to see your dear face. Am very thankful that so far you have got along so well. Hope to see Lucy soon and hear particulars. What a dear good child she is! Abbie expects to see you this week. Lucy Fletcher came Wed[nesday] morning and left yesterday in first train. Wished much love and sympathy to you. The little girls talk much about you. I know you will excuse my not writing more. Love and the best of wishes from Mother Many thanks for my present. Billerica, [Massachusetts] Dec 30, 1894 Dear Bena [Albinia], It is after dinner and I have had my nap. Frank wanted me to go to church but it was very cold coming home. Both Ethel and Anna went as Mr. Hussey was to be there. Next Sunday the new minister comes. There has been some renovation in the parsonage. Mr. Hussey is spending the time at Joseph’s. He speaks of Mattie as about the same. The congregation was not very large. The sleighing is good except a heavy crust makes it bad about turning out. If I can arrange with Mrs. Stuart to come for over night sometime this week I should like to come in and call on you. If I cannot this week and all is well I will try next week. Ethel and Anna are interested in my coming. Ethel says she could stay with Grandma. She does not know about making the fire but she could get the breakfast. Anna says she could make the bread. They came plodding over in all the snow yesterday for me to show them about making some clothing for their dolls. Ethel has named hers Lucy Walker for Grandma, and Anna hers, Frances Farley, being the nearest for Frank. The wedding of John Shepherd and Mrs. Griffin which took place at their cottage on Wed[nesday] last was quite an affair. It was said only the “Quality” were invited. J. B. Holder and wife sent a silver cake basket, Nelson Parker silver butter dish, Mrs. Paul Hill silver forks, some Chelmsford people silver pie knife, J. and Annie some spoons, Genie dessert spoons, Mrs. Fred Parker an elegant china salad dish, Mrs. Henry Hill a salad dish. I gave a little glass dish. There were many towels. Mary McElliott a tablecloth, etc. etc. There were refreshments, rolls, turkey, ham, cake, wedding cake, ice cream. Mary Eliza was at church today. Many persons inquire for you. Mother seemed to enjoy Lucy’s visit very much. They talked fast. She told us that Mattie Fosdick has had an operation and exactly like yours but higher up I guess. It was done at their home, a Boston surgeon and a trained nurse. They think now she will get well. I think I have told all the news. Now I will turn to you hoping you are gaining well and that Lu is keeping free from colds. When she comes she will tell us about her and your Christmas and see what ours were. I have had so many letters to write that I have not had to time to enumerate. Now I must write to Frances. She sent mother a lovely china plate with a picture of Woburn Library on it and it was all broken in the mail. I often wonder what your diet is and all the particulars of your hospital life. Sometime you can tell it all over. May the new year be happy to you and Lu. Love from sister, Abby Jaquith May Knowles is getting along finely now. Lu’s letters have been received, business will be attended to. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Josef Rokus) Although the first letter not dated, it was almost definitely written on the same date as the second letter, i.e., December 30, 1894. That date fell on a Sunday that year, which agrees with the day of the week indicated in the first letter. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Mother and Abby (Abbie) Jaquith to Allie, December 30, 1894 Subject The topic of the resource Mother Jaquith Abbie Allie Billerica, MA. Description An account of the resource From Mother and Abby (Abbie) Jaquith to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Mother and Abby (Abbie) Jaquith Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1894-12-30 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Ben Raterman (Transcriber) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #251 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Billerica, MA. Abbie Allie Billerica MA. Mother Jaquith https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/af266cf3c63cece081ef6f321bf713ae.jpg 607a5e103c48389074ecc65ec2fae414 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/9081d04901b347e8a72d5ad66ba6f71a.jpg 979ec2e81587b22a8f7ddd684607916d Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Miscellaneous Letter Archive Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document LETTER TRANSCRIPTION Mar 27, 1892 Billerica Sun [???] Dear Albinia, Yours received yesterday, wish we could step in and talk awhile. Abbie has a cold, not well enough to go to church. We sent for M.E. to come down this noon with J and F, she did not, but sent word that she could not go to W. with you. I am sorry, but hope it will be alright with you, and that you will have a nice time. Alice R. had written M.E. that she was going with you. Hope Lu’s [Lulu’s] cold is better and that both of you will gain strength! Shall think of you every day, hope I shall know which day you go to cemetery. Annie seems to be gaining slowly, sat up a little while yesterday for the first time. Ethel here a part of every day. She is very good. I thank you very much for the wool. When it came, my neck had not troubled me for some days, so I laid it away upstairs in [a] drawer, to have it in time of need. So, when we read the letter yesterday, Ethel and I went and got it and opened it. It was fun for her to think I put it away and did not know that there was something for her and Anna. I think it is very funny about you knowing about Mr. Walker. I knew that Dr. W. had a son, Edward, but did not know he was living. Hope you will call upon him without delay. Give my regards to him. Tell him I am the only own cousin of his Father that is living. I used to enjoy seeing his Mother when I was in Charlestown. Wonder if he remembers his Grandfather. Love to Mrs. Allen. I think she is getting an early start in house cleaning. I envy her. I feel quite discouraged when I think of ours for Mrs. S. is up so much nights that she is too tired to work long at a time. Mary E sent us Alice R’s letter to read. She said circumstances over which she had no control prevented an earlier decision. Sorry Mary E is not going. A postal from Hall’s this morn, been busy dressmaker all the week. Frank‘s finger is better. Love to all Mother Mother has written all that is new. I have kept quiet within doors so have nothing of interest. My cold will soon wear off but it has made me very lazy. I pity Lu [Lucy] to have to teach when it hurts one so to talk with a cold. Ethel was delighted with her bright money. She is such a good little girl when here and they say Anna is at home but together they do not harmonize so well. As they grow older they will more. I send the spoon with this. Cousin been in. Frank has a cold but wearing off. My daphne has a cluster of blossoms, very sweet. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter/Paper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource From Mother and probably Abbie to Allie, March 27, 1892 Subject The topic of the resource Mother Abbie Allie Billerica, MA. Description An account of the resource From Mother and probably Abbie to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Mother and probably Abbie Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Jerome Peirce Collection, National Park Service Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available HIST 428 (Spring 2020), University of Mary Washington Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1892-03-27 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Paul and Louise Marahrens (Transcribers) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource For educational purposes with no commercial use. Courtesy of National Park Service, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP, FRSP 16095-16102 (FRSP-00904). Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Jpg Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Letter #250 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Billerica, MA. Abbie Allie Billerica MA. Mother