3 10 30 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/8aa6e245d3b1c705413424ce47f0aa2b.jpg 2c49b84686787a687c4e8bd51c7a48c6 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/e6d86f716c5da5aa8d0b0864a5bd8494.jpg 01122407e32099aaaea858dd1f722bf0 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 Pleasant Valley, March 19th 57 Dear Brother Jerry [Jerome], There came a letter yesterday to Pleasant Valley, and I claimed it. Did not deny the note to the individual with the funny name, though I must tell you what she did. Brother F. brought the letter, and gave it to her first, and so I lost the pleasure of first opening it. But, Jerry, of course I do not grieve over it, for if it was anything of a [???], I should get consoled by thinking what I once did, a little more than a year ago. Have been “stargazing” since your return. Your inquiries as to my success must be answered a little unsatisfactorily for I have been somewhat unfortunate in the arrangement. To be a little figurative, some resolved one way, and some another, and you know a constellation in such disorder would be hardly presentable. So I rearranged. I simply mean, the quilting got misplaced which made it necessary to pick out, and sew over. Hence a digression, Jerry, I sometimes indulge in a little “sentimentality” about my work, and feel a wish, most strongly, that they who are to enjoy it may have a life as full of starlight as is that. I would have the luminaries as bright and shining, and rather more unfading. Have commenced crocheting some lace for “our Allie” for my evening employment. I like it, and she thinks it pretty so it must be right, mustn’t it? Don’t ever condemn yourself for stoicity, my dear “brother.” I have wondered many times how you so readily understood the undercurrent of my feelings so and met them so congenially. I believe my nature is somewhat peculiar, and perhaps physical weakness has rendered it a little sensitive. But, it has ever been refreshed and strengthened by your sympathy and love. I love to feel that I may repose so much of the heart’s burden, both of joy and sorrow to one who can so well understand and appreciate its needs. The sermon came safely today, for which all thanks. Been imagining my good friend, the doctor, is having a treat, and thanks the good donor. Love to each and all, yourself not left out, from “Sister Abbie” J. Peirce, Hill Corner, Charlestown, Mass. 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 Sister Abbie to Brother Jerry (Jerome), March 19, 1857 Subject The topic of the resource Abbie Peirce, Jerome "Pleasant Valley" Description An account of the resource From Sister Abbie to Brother Jerry (Jerome) 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 1857-03-19 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group 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 #239 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Pleasant Valley https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/6e8ac5314505d1b70acd47fc17e9412a.jpg 6e5eb8554668381726e489f6f3671f3f https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/7f6981748f755ee6de513efea0b8f10a.jpg 23817c13e8065c8f3d3bbf093533de8a 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 Billerica Feb 12, [1857] Dear Jerome, I was very happy to have a word from your own dear self, and to know that you are getting so well again. Surely we have much to be thankful for. I hope and trust, on this, that your Sister and Haty are getting along nicely. Give much love and sympathy from me. How I wish I could do something for them, but I know that all that love and kinship can do will be done and our Father in heaven will order all things wisely and for our good, if we put our trust in him. It seems a long time since you were here. We little thought when we bade you good bye, what was to be, before we met again. I thought you did not look well and I made the remark to Mr J. [Jaquith]. He said that he noticed it. I believe that people often have better health afterward and I trust you will. If you cannot take your place at the corner of the table just now, we will keep your place in our hearts bright and warm until you think it safe to come. Then you will find more than one glad to see you. I will take as good care of A. [Allie] as I can, but I think she is growing selfish. I hear you say, “Why?” I asked her to let me see something the other day [and] she said “no.” I thought then that I would tell you about it. I knew you would see to it when you get here. My love to your Sister Lucy, and a large share to yourself and now, Dear Jerry, I must say good night and pleasant dreams. Yours affect[ionately] Mother J [Jaquith] TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Josef Rokus) No year is indicated in the date of this letter. However, based on the dates of the letters immediately before and after this letter, the year is almost certainly 1857. 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 J (Jaquith) to Jerome, February 12, 1857 Subject The topic of the resource Mother J (Jaquith) Peirce, Jerome Billerica, MA. Description An account of the resource From Mother J (Jaquith) to Jerome Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Mother J (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 1857-02-12 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 #238 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. Billerica MA. Jerome Peirce Mother J (Jaquith) https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/7813956fced0f37f02ebbfd1a182038b.jpg 004107e0b8618f2d5729b8f7995d6bc8 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/ac58bdbab30e0e03dfb8ad36fda581ab.jpg b6045438a28ffa955125694f28f25a71 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/a56b96529e00899a84744e2ce8e667e4.jpg 38372b60a438c3df60239172887e5d05 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/892c8c7c93dcacce1be390cd68fbb772.jpg f5de250392896b2d9900c571cb64d52e https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/f8f4a19801a895e35a9a0df9b8323f59.jpg 6e5eb8554668381726e489f6f3671f3f https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/ec1a3a214419a1bedd10fc1607fb5262.jpg 23817c13e8065c8f3d3bbf093533de8a 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 “Hurricane Hollow”—“Pleasant Valley” Feb 12th [1857] My Dear “Brother” I am up spending the afternoon and evening at my “Father’s” and at Allie’s request I have commenced a line to you, hoping you will pardon the liberty. We are having a splendid time, of course, as we always do when together. I wish you could happen in, it would add much to our pleasure; we have eaten an apple for you tonight. I am expecting my folk’s after me soon and must close. I can’t write and talk at the same time. From you friend Mary Eliza Dear “Brother Jerry”, Mary E. is getting ready to go home and I am sleepy a little but must say a word to you, mustn’t I? Allie says so and I want to but what shall it be? First of all, let me offer my sympathy to the dear sick ones who I heartily hope are much better. Will try and send Hatie a little cordial of words as soon as she gets able to receive it. Wish I could only do more. Ask her if I take my harp and play some pretty little ditties upon it whether it would soothe her in her hours of pain. To your dear sister, too, tell her the “Angel voices” which have spoken so lovingly to me, I trust will not fail to whisper something cheering to her. And to you, “brother dear” let me offer much, very much of the good. “Sister Abbie” It is nearly ten o’clock but I must not let the week pass without sending you something, dear Jerome, for Saturday, how different from what I thought when I wrote last, that instead of your reading a poor serial from me , that we should be together listening to each other “face to face”, but so it is, and we will try and be patient, although it may be hard. I must say I was very much disappointed when I read your last, because you were not coming and to hear of the sickness of the dear ones at home. I was in hopes they would not anyone have it, it was so long since you were taken but it is so ordered by the “All Wise” and we will bow in humble submission. I was made happy to know that you are all [???]. Love to “sister Kate”. Tell her I think of her much and wish I could come in and see her. Tell “Katy” that sister Allie wishes she could come and sooth her pain and Abby and Mary will write to her soon. M. has been away since yesterday noon with her school friends. I heard she went a coasting this afternoon. I am very glad you are gaining so fast and trust you may continue to do so. I am writing in the sitting room and the folks are very social and it would not be strange if there were some mistakes. The girls are expected every moment from the singing school. Hattie has spent the day at Aunt Parker’s. Aunt P. had a letter from Aunt Susan from Lawrence, said she heard that you had been sick, wanted to know particulars. She is Father’s eldest sister, a very good lady, one I hope you will like her. She has had many trials but has met them with a Christian spirit. Cousin Thaddeus Jaquith from Andover Is attending school here, wanted me to show him a certain picture I had. Says he should like to see the original. Abby has had a letter from Mrs. Berry. Hatty knew she could not get well, was reconciled and happy. Shall I tell you what I am doing, dear Jerry? Well, I am quilting. Wish you could look in and see me but you shall see it when you come. When will that be? It is six weeks since you were here. Will it be six weeks longer? I hope not but will try and be very patient. I had a letter from Mr. Setty, Tuesday. It is almost eleven and I am feeling tired, so must close. Love to “Lonz”. Write Sunday, good night. For ever loving, Allie P.S. May I not be selfish once in a while. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Josef Rokus) Although no year is indicated on this letter, based on the dates of the letters just before and after this one and a handwritten notation on the envelope, the year was almost definitely 1857. 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 Mary Eliza to Jerome, From Sister Abbie to Jerome, From Allie to Jerome, February 12, 1857 Subject The topic of the resource Eliza, Mary Abbie Allie Peirce, Jerome "Pleasant Valley" Description An account of the resource From Mary Eliza to Jerome From Sister Abbie to Jerome From Allie to Jerome Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Mary Eliza Sister Abbie 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 1857-02-12 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 #237 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant "Hurricane Hollow"--"Pleasant Valley" "Hurricane Hollow" "Pleasant Valley" Allie Jerome Peirce Mary Eliza Sister Abbie https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/421a3dee1b9a1fed9ae0c5d2776aedb1.jpg 9cb7a04a437ecd56c5c33e89e50b2b07 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/85eb07da7bd988221530ef10f0cee040.jpg 1346bc63964a9e42ce9ee97569d03802 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 “Pleasant Valley”, Sunday, February 8th, ‘57 Dear “brother” mine, I have got a peculiar mood upon me and feel like speaking to no one but your own self. May I do so, and talk just as I am feeling? Am I too late with my offerings of sympathy for the pain and suffering you have known, and of joy, for your release from it? I have cherished both though this poor frame of my own has been somewhat encumbered of late, and defied me most effectually in sooner speaking to you. But I cannot tell you how delighted I really am in hearing you are out again, and a prospect of seeing you soon is possible and probable. But I want to tell you what has been mine the past week. A birthday! Nothing more, except in date, than I have received twenty times before, but somehow it seems differently to me. Perhaps because it has come through some more of “toil and strife” than ever before. The “toil and strife” of weakness of mortality and through some distrust as to its coming to me at all in this world. But it has come, and I accept it with thanksgiving, and pray it may be rightly improved and enjoyed. How, dear Jerome, are not these birthdays sacred landmarks in our journey of life, and as each one successively reaches us, is it not both pleasant and profitable to pause and glance back upon our footsteps and view what our store of possessions has gained by the journey thitherward? If I was to open my little treasure bag, I could show you some pretty flowers pressed and dried, but still fragrant and full of color. Perhaps I have some specimens of roses, even without the thorn. Bright pinks, so delicious to the olfactory system. Darling little violets so full of meekness, and whispering so sweetly of their, and our good Maker. Shall I claim one or two of the pure, white lilies? Oh, I must. But if you see a part, you must see the whole. So, what is this one? “Only a dandelion.” But here is the thistle. What shall I do? It pricks dreadfully, but I must keep it. Then the tiger lily looks so ostensibly that it quite freckles one. This is a mixture, isn’t it? But if the bitter must go with the sweet, the homely must not always be separated from the pretty; and good and all alike belong to life. Is it not pleasant to know and feel that these gatherings of ours, we shall when our journey’s end we reached, be permitted to resolve to the Good [???] again, who will reward us according to our dues? Then, whether flower, or thorn, be scattered in our pathway let us accept and cherish it rightly, for the end will be good, as God ordaineth. Are you at church today? All in “Pleasant Valley” at home except for Father. Have been reading in commentary, a sermon of F.D. Huntington upon “Entrance into the Church.” Looked over some of Channing’s sayings until this head of mine began to feel a little full and pressed and I thought it must take some relief somehow. Have I chosen the right way? Have read Longfellow’s “Golden Legend”. What do you think of it? The beauty of Elsie’s character was the most that gave it interest to me. How purely confiding it was. Do not make very rapid strides in Cowper’s “Track” from the fact that I have not felt equal to it. A headache, not a sensible one, but one insensible has unfitted me for a week’s duty, but am brightening up, though feeling somewhat passive from the usual attending lassitude which always succeeds. Does not this weather seem almost like an approach of spring? Are you anxious to have it come? When cold weather leaves I always lose one of my best tonics, though the changes in Nature are very dear to me; and don’t we love the Golden Robin? Sleighing is getting minus here and the drifts have really diminished their height a great deal. Today we are having a plenty of fog. Not a London fog exactly, but a disagreeable one notwithstanding. Are all well with you now? Do not forget to extend a loving remembrance from “Abbie,” will you? To my good aunts when you see them, carry a niece’s love, which you know should be both dutiful and true, and I hope the article I send lacks not the “genuine.” Have I talked you tired? Well, I am afraid so, but will prevent any further fatigue by a pleasant, “good-bye” from “Sister Abbie” TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES NOTE 1: “A Commentary, a sermon by F.D. Huntington…” Frederic Dan Huntington (1819-1904) was born in Hadley, Massachusetts, and at that time of this letter, was Plummer Professor of Christian Morals at Harvard University, a Unitarian Congregationalist and an Abolitionist. He later moved to the Episcopal Church. NOTE 2: “Looked over some of Channing’s saying…” William Ellery Channing (1780-1842) was a leading liberal theologian of his day, instrumental in establishing the Unitarian Church. He rejected the Calvinist doctrine of the moral depravity of mankind, holding that humanity is one with a benign creation. As pastor of the Federal Street Church of Boston, his philosophy became a guiding light to the Transcendentalist movement. Reverend Channing, first in his graduating class of Harvard Divinity School, was an avid abolitionist. He published several volumes of his sermons and aphorisms. NOTE 3: “Longfellow’s ‘Golden Legend’…” Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s romantic poetry was favorite reading material of Jerome Peirce. He shared that interest with both Allie and Abbie. This heroic poem tells the saga of the dissipated and deposed Prince Henry of Hoheneck on the Rhine, who is afflicted with a strange and fatal illness which can only be cured with the blood of a maiden who, of her own volition, will give up her life to save him. This is the “Elsie” mentioned by Abbie. Elsie is rescued from both a doctor and Lucifer, who intends to steal her soul, by Henry, who is medically cured and morally cleansed. Prince Henry weds Elsie and is restored to his rightful throne. NOTE 4: “Cowper’s ‘Track’…” Poet William Cowper’s (1731-1800) “The Task: A Poem in Six Books” is a complex, heroic/romantic work in blank verse, published in 1785. This work, by the emotionally and mentally troubled Cowper, was inspired by friend and fellow author, Lady Jane Austin. The conversational, yet extended and deeply reflective work, includes various segments on the goodness of nature and mankind and the evils of slavery and blood sport, which occurred spontaneously to the author. Cowper wrote many hymns and was also an abolitionist. NOTE 5: Golden Robins are also known as Baltimore Orioles. 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 Jerome, February 8, 1863 Subject The topic of the resource Abbie Peirce, Jerome "Pleasant Valley" Description An account of the resource From Abbie to Jerome 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 1857-02-08 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 #236 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Pleasant Valley Abbie Jerome Peirce Pleasant Valley https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/d114ec6330b785bcabba7b6ed068528f.jpg 9a8878fe4df53134900c702a43a95d41 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 To “Allie” Dearest of all my earthly friends, Again I fly to thee, Whose blessed Image ever blends In all that’s dear to me. The toils of day and eve’s repose, Alike thy presence brings. When sleep serene, my eyelids close To thee my spirit wings. How deeply thus doth love enshrine Its object in the soul! And guides the heart to things divine, And Heaven – its final goal. Oh blessed thought! For those who love, An immortality remains. And in a brighter world above, A balm for all our pains. April ‘56 Written by my Father when engaged to Mother. Lucy S. Peirce TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE Jerome Peirce and Albinia Jaquith were married on September 10, 1857. More specifically, the Pension File obtained from the U.S. National Archives in Washington, D.C., contains a Certification from the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as required as proof of marriage by the U.S. Pension Office in order to approve the widow’s pension that Albinia applied for. That document reads, “The marriage of Jerome Peirce of Charlestown, aged 26 years, and Albinia Jaquith of Billerica, aged 28, was solemnized at Billerica on September 10, 1857, by Rev. J. G. D. Stearnes.” Further research shows that the Rev. Jesse G. D. Stearnes was the minister at the Congregational Church on Andover Street in Billerica, Massachusetts, from 1843 until 1867. 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, April XX, 1856 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie 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 1856-04-XX Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Josef Rokus (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). 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 #235 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Unknown Allie Jerome Peirce https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/6b59f861368307490f08181c8b546245.jpg 6d1943ad2fe27483197f0fce5cb5b152 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/8f3b51cfc23daf321fe33b6ba10ff6d9.jpg 5fbc3a9facde2778b0366beb962a5c6d https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/4a90ef9aeb9e9fc99306dfc003e64987.jpg 86d703dd1788d9ae24e849265570b23b https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/c409efccc8876f7ef4e2aa3bc5f93006.jpg 788b0e291ff39690ad759ed3e6333c5a https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/698fbb31b8920b90bf53589cf9158b45.jpg 5eebba7da97528a8c6d3a058ce1071fb https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/b7bd1f7f40e3507997bdde6aef95a059.jpg 89394830f532ef70736d8d3953ff9b50 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 Tell me now, my Allie dear Tell me Allie if you will What is this new tale I hear Of the doings on the hill? On the hill whose street is “green” Even in the winter time. Dear old winter! Though the showers Snow upon us from above Causeth no cold wind to lower Causeth no chill wind to move O’er the blossom love which springeth Springeth up in gentle hearts. Tell me now, my little Abbie Tell me Abbie, if you will Is it true your bright hopes rally Round the corner on the hill? Corner where a neighbor lives Who can “Pierce” a maiden’s heart. Was it wicked for our neighbor Thus to “pierce” dear Allie’s heart? No, oh no, for ‘twas love’s labor Done with love’s sweet pointed dart And we’ll hope, yes, hope most fondly This is not “Love’s Labor Lost.” Thus it happened, so they say - They who bear the tale to me - From your home you came away Visiting Maria P. There a friendship new was formed - Formed and ripened into love. How impressive was that visit! Visit made in winter’s cold! Fraught with tender memories is it, Memories which may ne’er grow old. Memories which must ever linger Round the heart in freshness green. When I saw you weeks ago - Saw you but at church a minute Then I did not, could not know All the things that happened in it. But ‘twould seem a change came o’er O’er the spirit of your dream. Listen, Allie, while I tell - Listen, love, with heart and ear, That it pleaseth me full well This new love tale which I hear. This engagement made between Friend Jerome and Allie J. I will hope that these two hearts Now becoming “twain in one” Shielded from suspicions darts Have a union true begun Union true of heart and soul Leading on to higher life. I’ll not say - may only roses Bloom along thy path in life. But may every day that closes Be with holy progress rife. Progress in the inner life - Life “eternal, sacred, sure.” Every station hath its crosses, Crosses every mortal hath, Joys and sorrows, gains and losses, Checkered lie in every path. But life’s trials rightly borne Lead us on to future good. So these two shall walk together Hand in hand and heart to heart, And in bright or cloudy weather Love and faith shall ne’er depart. Love and faith in one another, Love and faith in God above. And life’s discipline shall bring Strength and happiness and peace. Blossoms in your path shall spring Plants whose fragrance ne’er shall cease. Plants of heavenly birth which grow Grow in humble, loving hearts. Why, dear Allie, I’m astonished! What a ditty I have writ! By its length I am admonished ‘Tis high time for me to quit. Quit the theme which is so pleasant, Pleasant - both to you and me. I have known Jerome from childhood, And I know he’s good and true. And no other one you’d find would Strive more hard the right to do. - So I hope you’ll lead each other Onward, upward, heavenward – home. There, there - little one I’ll leave you, Leave you for a little space. But with this my love receive you And, before I see your face Write and of your welfare tell One who signs a simple L. Given at the Spring Hill home, One the twenty-sixth of March, When the warm spring sun has come, Mounting high in heaven’s arch. The year in course I here affix, ‘Tis eighteen hundred fifty six. TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Josef Rokus) This poem was written on March 26, 1856, apparently shortly after Jerome and Allie became engaged, per the last stanza of the poem. They were married on September 10, 1857. The name of the author, identified only by “L”, could not be determined but he/she was obviously a friend of both Allie and Jerome. 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 probably Jerome to Allie, March 26, 1856 Subject The topic of the resource Peirce, Jerome Allie Description An account of the resource From probably Jerome to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Probably 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 1856-03-26 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Barb Davidson (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). 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 #234 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 Allie Jerome Peirce https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/7489225f5aef711c9f0d4db60582a399.jpg a22bc28cad697239bf3f05334667af08 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/38406f58120e2414c40575787dc29c86.jpg 295aed11af1fecb37591ab40bcc0c610 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 Brookline [Mass.] Feb. 6, 1908 Dear Mrs. Peirce We were delighted to hear from you and Lucy and Mrs. Foster Peirce. For the first time within my remembrance I have been laid up sick and am still a semi invalid and am reminded that I am an old man which I never realized before. How the years have flown and what changes have come about! There are very few of our friends living who were active in Charlestown fifty years ago. I often think of Jerome who was by nature one of God’s Noblemen, how proud he was of his home on Payson Place surrounded by his books and his friends. You have had a hard Experience and have borne yourself nobly, and I have sometimes thought and have told Albert so, that we did not realize it and sympathize with you as we ought. Albert is badly handicapped by his lameness and suffers a good deal of pain. You have been blessed with Lucy and I hope she will long be able to comfort her mother who did so much for her and I know she will. I get out every day when pleasant and am getting my strength and nervous energy back slowly but I had a pretty severe shaking up. My wife is pretty well and she sends her love to you and Lucy and says she will be glad to see you both at any time. Yours Truly, Chas. F. Smith TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE Charles F. Smith was a long-time family friend who knew Jerome Peirce before Jerome enlisted on August 4, 1862. Smith also sent a letter pertaining to the time Jerome and he were friends as youngsters that was read at the funeral service in Orange, Massachusetts, in June 1864. 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 Charles F. Smith to Allie, February 6, 1908 Subject The topic of the resource Charles F. Smith Allie Brookline, MA Description An account of the resource From Charles to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Charles F. Smith 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 1908-02-06 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource NPS, Civil War Study Group, Josef Rokus (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). 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 #257 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Brookline, MA Allie Brookville Chas. F. Smith MA https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/6751743fa9e9bfd8de273ba0298c9675.jpg bbf447fd72ea049778380381d7fa15ae https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/c7a4b1c7f94c7311590f89efb1610452.jpg f295bcf9b09794d17a2b2a387d580923 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. My dear Joseph, What a good boy you are to write me two notes so lately and as I have spent the most of the day in writing to those gone to war, and those families who are feeling lonely in the absence of their loved ones, you should be remembered. I am very glad you have such a nice camping ground. Jerome gave me quite a description with a drawing of the street. How much I wish I could come in and see you, but my purse is not full enough to admit any such thing and I must be content to remain at home and I do wish I could have letters oftener. I only had one from Jerome last week written a week ago Sat[urday], unless he made a mistake in the date. Joseph, do you write to that young lady in Athol yet. When I was at Orange, I heard she was feeling quite badly because she did not hear from you. You must excuse it if I am too inquisitive. I suppose you are quite busy drilling etc. You must not get low spirited as the cause you have gone for is as good now as it ever was. And I think you will yet whip the rebels into submission but we have got to be patient. First, you cannot do it in a moment. Try and be as contented as you can under the circumstances and you will feel happier in so doing. We have a few secesh here, but not many. Most of the people here believe we are doing all we can and as fast as we can. And many are working hard to aid the soldiers. Write me often. Lulu is well and talks much about Cousin Jasy. Receive the love of, Aunt Allie TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: The “Joseph” that Allie addressed this letter to was almost definitely Joseph H. Peirce. He enlisted as a Private in Orange, Mass., on August 4, 1862, at age 18. Jerome also enlisted in Orange on the same date, but as a corporal. Jerome was 31 years old at the time. According to the Unit History, Joseph H. Peirce was taken Prisoner of War at Pegram Farm, Virginia, on September 30, 1864, (See Letter No. 227) and he was later exchanged. He was discharged on June 21, 1865. Joseph H. Peirce was the son of Joseph Peirce, one of Jerome’s brothers, and was, therefore, Jerome’s nephew. Joseph H. Peirce, or “J.H.”, is mentioned in many of Jerome’s letters. NOTE 2: Allie does not include the date on which she wrote this letter. But based on the letter’s contents, it was obviously written during the time that Jerome served with the 36th Massachusetts Regiment. Furthermore, the two sentences “I am very glad you have such a nice camping ground. Jerome gave me quite a description with a drawing of the street.” provide another good clue. On February 21, 1863, Jerome wrote a letter from Newport News, Virginia, in which he described the street in their camp, AND he included a sketch. (Letter No. 76) In that letter, Jerome also mentioned that he and “J.H.” (Joseph H. Peirce) had played euchre the evening before he wrote the letter, i.e., on February 20, 1863. Below is a section of that letter, including the sketch. The date of the postmark on the envelope that contained this letter is Feb. 23. Therefore, Allie probably received this letter towards the end of February 1863. Therefore, it is highly likely that she wrote the above letter sometime after February 1863 and possibly not long after she received Jerome’s letter of February 21, 1863, that included the sketch. EXCERPT FROM LETTER NO. 76, WRITTEN BY JEROME ON FEBRUARY 21, 1863, AT NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA Wedns and Thurs were severe days, rain and all that could make camp life disagreeable, excepting mud, sand instead, but a change has come. Thursday eve the tents came, all new and while they hold five but as yet we have only four in ours. The streets are all laid out uniform, 8 tents on a side, 27 feet wide (the street), sidewalks and the street rolling just as they do at home in the cities. At the foot the cooks are building a log tent. Will do the cooking in future. A little farther down is the Capt.’s tent, with the orderly Sargt.’s tent beside him. And still farther in the rear in the centre of the Regt. is the colonel’s quarters and “staff”, six tents facing each other for surgeon, chaplain, adjutant, and sergeant major, quartermaster and the Col. in the center. On the end thus, trees set by little marks and when all completed will be a very handsome and comfortable camp. Such as I should like to welcome you to. Our tents we can stand up in and keep neat. 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 Joseph, Unknown Date Subject The topic of the resource Allie Pierce, Joseph Description An account of the resource From Allie to Joseph 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 Unknown 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). 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 #256 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Unknown Allie Joseph Peirce https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/8290a9e2a13707f1607078704621abf9.jpg 60f7fd84e0ddef356f7c2dbebf9115d2 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/4cad4da5ff1dd0e3a3e4f7ae8dbc12df.jpg 712f6390118c88b441531f55b9b24fe0 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 Boston, May 25, 1905 Dear Mrs. Peirce I received your welcome letter a week ago and intended to reply at once but had no note paper on hand and have not now and rather than delay longer, I have concluded to write on one of our plain letterheads. I am sorry it was not convenient for you and Lucy to make us a visit during the winter. We are just getting away for the summer - going to Clifton about 18 miles from Boston on the road to Marblehead. We shall be pleased to see you and Lucy down there. Come some Saturday and stay over Sunday. I suppose the sudden death of Maj. Ranlett has changed your plans and you are back at Billerica. Albert Smith went to his summer home at Cohasset (I suppose you have been there.) the latter part of April or shortly after Mr. Torry’s death. I hear that Mrs. Torry has gone to Europe. My wife has just got back from Cleveland where she was gone a month visiting our daughter Belle who was married last winter and is living in Cleveland, Ohio. We have now but two daughters at home, Marianna and Alice. I wish you could see them all and refresh your memory of them. I remember well the bloody battles of May 1864 at Spotsylvania and the sad tidings of the slain. You have had a pretty hard experience, probably more hard than your friends here realize but it must have been a great comfort to have so faithful and dutiful a daughter. As the years go by great changes take place. Almost all the friends of my youth and early manhood are in the graveyard and I begin to feel the touch of Old Time myself. But I have much to be thankful for that myself and family have been so well and fairly prosperous. I hope you will be able to give us a call at Clifton this summer but, if not, if we all live till Fall, remember that you and Lucy will be cordially welcomed at No. 1718 Beacon St., Brookline. Yours Very Truly Chas F. Smith TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES (Josef Rokus) NOTE 1: This letter was written on printed business stationery with the following letterhead: Commonwealth Trust Company Capital $1,000,000. Surplus $500,000. D.J. Lord, President. C.F. Smith, Treas. F.E. Seaver, Asst. Treas. Boston NOTE 2: A previous letter in this collection from C. F. Smith, dated December 29, 1904, and also addressed to Mrs. Peirce was also written on business stationery of the Commonwealth Trust Co., Boston. On the letterhead, C. F. Smith is also listed as the treasurer of that company. The closing reads, “Yours very truly, Chas. F. Smith” The last letter in this collection is also from Chas. F. Smith to Allie. It is dated Feb. 6, 1908, and it was written from Brookline, Massachusetts. Charles F. Smith was a long-time family friend who knew Jerome Peirce before Jerome enlisted on August 4, 1862. Smith also sent a letter pertaining to the time Jerome and he were friends as youngsters that was read at the funeral service in Orange, Massachusetts, in June 1864. NOTE 3: The “Maj. Ranlett” referred to in his letters was Seth Alonzo Ranlett. Ranlett enlisted in Co. B of the 36th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment as a Private on July 24, 1862, at age 22, and he was from Charlestown, Massachusetts. He was promoted to First Sergeant on August 27, 1862, and was commissioned as a First Lieutenant on December 1, 1862. On December 17, 1862, he was appointed Adjutant of the Regiment. He was mustered out “on account of physical disability from disease incurred in the service” on February 20, 1864. Ranlett was born on March 18, 1840, in Charlestown, Massachusetts, and he died May 21, 1905, in Newton, Massachusetts. Ranlett’s wife was Ellen Peirce Ranlett, with a date of birth of March 22, 1842, and a date of death of January 12, 1914. They were married on January 21, 1864. Ellen Peirce was one of the children of Foster Peirce and his wife Catherine Abby Beaman. Also, Foster Peirce was a brother of Jerome. Therefore, the Ellen that Jerome mentions in his letters was one of Jerome’s nieces, and starting on January 21, 1864, Alonzo was the husband of one of his nieces. 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 Chas. F. Smith to Allie, May 25, 1905 Subject The topic of the resource Smith, Chas F. Allie Boston, MA Description An account of the resource From Chas to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Chas F. Smith 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 1905-05-25 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 #255 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 Boston Chas. F. Smith MA https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/c488d140b3b1ed5f69f8a24765f056c0.jpg d31321c3b83217ec118d076e37138167 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/a22e48d9544f3eb2f84140482fb264dd.jpg c6e2e2100050eab5dea805ea7eabbfa6 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/88a11a417c7ffdbea67c166c3d5261e4.jpg f78da72b10c951c771efba50ad21e505 https://peirceletters.umwhistory.org/files/original/1dc1f24d43503967fb34d134b5011395.jpg 7cd167e27559906e3ccdf0c077ca56e4 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 Boston, Dec 29, 1904 Dear Mrs. Pierce, My wife showed me your letter received about the time of Belle’s marriage and I fear that in the hurry and bustle she has omitted writing to you and so I will try my hand at writing. Your letter called up some sad as well as pleasant memories of the old days. I was sorry to learn that some of the old friends left your letters unanswered as though they had forgotten you or had grown out of the old memories. I shall never forget what a snug and happy home you and Jerome had in the place leading from Elm Street in Charlestown (the name I have forgotten). It must be nearly 50 years ago. How time flies! How proud and contented Jerome was. He was a rare man and it seems a strange providence he should lay down his life as he did. Well we little know what is before us. You certainly deserve great credit and the approval and sympathy of your friends in the fight you have made to sustain yourself and daughter. I wish you would make us a visit and call on some of the people you used to know. Mrs. Wyman and Miss Phipps live in the small block with us on Beacon St., Brookline and Miss Nancy Fosdick and her sister live opposite and Mrs. A.E. Cutter lives not far away. I think all these people will be glad to see you. My large family is dwindling in size. Only two daughters and one son now at home. I occasionally see Mr. Drew and learn of you and Lucy. He tells me his only daughter is married and gone to Chicago to live. [Paragraph] I know what a vacancy it leaves when a daughter leaves the home circle even when there are more daughters remaining. Mr. and Mrs. Drew must feel lonely enough. I have had it on my mind to write you for some time and I have seized the opportunity today. I wish you a happy new year and hope to see you at the house before long. Yours truly, Chas. F. Smith TRANSCRIBER’S NOTE (Josef Rokus) A subsequent letter in this collection from C. F. Smith, from Boston, dated May 25, 1905, and also addressed to Mrs. Peirce was written on business stationery of the Commonwealth Trust Co., Boston. On the letterhead, C. F. Smith is listed as the treasurer of that company. The closing reads, “Yours very truly, Chas. F. Smith” The last letter in this collection is also from Chas. F. Smith to Allie. It is dated Feb. 6, 1908, and it was written from Brookline, Massachusetts. Charles F. Smith was a long-time family friend who knew Jerome Peirce before Jerome enlisted on August 4, 1862. Smith also sent a letter pertaining to the time Jerome and he were friends as youngsters that was read at the funeral service in Orange, Massachusetts, in June 1864. It is interesting to note that Allie’s name is incorrectly spelled Albenia instead of Albinia. 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 Chas. F. Smith to Allie, December 29, 1904 Subject The topic of the resource Smith, Chas. F. Allie Boston, MA Description An account of the resource From Chas to Allie Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Chas. F. Smith 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 1904-12-29 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). 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 #254 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 Boston Chas. F. Smith MA