Reverend Leonard Francis Smith
Reverend Leonard Francis Smith was a Methodist preacher appointed to the Girard, Illinois, circuit at the time of Lincoln's death. He traveled to Lincoln's hometown of Springfield, Illinois, two days after the assassination and observed the collective mourning. Smith also held a service in his church the day Lincoln's ceremonial burial service was held in Washington D.C. In his diary, Smith recalls these events and comments on the progress of the hunt for Lincoln's killer and the person who attempted to murder Secretary of State, William H. Seward.
April 1865
[continued from previous page] W R Constant & Christian Commission Annual Report. Another dona-
tion. 2 dresses for wife 7.85. J C Drake donator. Prayer meeting.
Lovely day for the first in sometime. Things are growing some.
Friday 14 This is Good Friday & tenaciously observed by some
as the time for planting potatoes & other roots to have a good
crop. This is the day the redeemer was led to Cavalry & suffered
in our stead. The just for the unjust that he might bring us to
God. Sure such an event is fraught with great importance to us &
should make a deep impression on our minds & consciences. Am free
to confess it does not today have that regard it was worthy of.
Pardon me, O Lord. Busied myself in writing & reading today. Took
some shoulder & potatoes to W Morris. It is now raining.
Satruday 15 Sat night & I am yet alive. Have performed most of
the duties of the day & evening. Attended Masonic Lodge. Felt de-
pressed on account of the sad news reached us of the death of
Abraham Lincoln & Secy Seward. Lincoln attended a theatre last
night & was shot through the head & died this morning. Seward was
murdered in his bed. It was the secessionist work. They are dirty
devils. What a suddn unsuspected affair. Sold 1 bush. and a half
of potatoes to Aylsworth & Kendalls. Bot sugar $1. Sent letter to
Father in law. Paid out to treas. of Lodge 95¢. Rained today.
Sunday 16 Easter Sunday. Christ the first fruits of them that
slept arose from the dead. A pledge of our Resurrection. Though the
skeptic & materialist may deny the resurrection of the dead, etc.
yet the testimony of the Apostles & his appearances at different
times is sufficient evidence of his being resurrected. Over 47 at
S S this a.m. in Wmsville. Recd of Mother Aylsworth 35¢ on papers.
35 of Keagle for Golden Chain; 35 of Drakes for Chain. Covers &
J Constants each dr for Chain. Let Schliffe at Bices have Chain &
Quest. Book 15¢. Broughtons, Chain 35. Hickmans, G T, dr to Chain
35. Coll. at Wmsville 5.75. Bices S H large turn out. Recd one into
church, Mary Waters. Miss. Anniversary. Raised 6.05. Joanna Ramey,
Mary Miller & Eli Blue went to Bices with me. Lovely day indeed.
Monday 17 Visited Springfield this day. Most all the stores &
businesses as well as many private residences were draped in
mourning. The people everywhere are speaking of the great loss, &
the people are nearly as a whole sad at the loss of so great a man
as Abraham Lincoln. He sleeps in death. Secy Seward who was re-
ported dead is still alive & probably will recover. Bot Journal
with all the particulars 10¢. Bot at Kimbers me a hat 3.25. Corsets,
gaiters, trimming etc. hoop skirts, veil, -----& comb amounting in
all to 24.70. Paid Kimber 2.50 owed before . Bot halter stem 75¢.
Fare on R R 1.80. Bot envelopes & stamps for Lodge. Sent summons
to Cantrell, Thompson, Canterbury, McLeod, Mitter, Lawrence & Winn.
Ramey brought us bag of flour 20lbs. Oranges 60¢. Lovely day.
Windy. Rain at night. Home in the rain & mud.
474
April 1865
Thursday 18 Lincoln, brave, honest & great. Abraham Lincoln is
dead. He died a martyr. Yea he lived to set menfree. He rests from
labor. His body will shortly be buried. His memory will be cher-
ished through the future ages. He was the country’s friend. Has
fallen. The wretch is not as yet captured. Vengeance will yet over-
take him. Good news. Mobile is ours. Johnston negotiating. Recd
dispatch from Elkhart inviting me to officiate tomorrow. Signed
D L Dana. Letter from Jesse K. Sent letter to George Smith, Rev
Simms, P Cartwright. Recd 75¢ of C Brest & $2 quarterage, Sister
Purce;$10 donation of Wm. Mount. Beans of Council. Paper 10¢.
Planted beans & potatoes. Quite warm. Rain 8:30.
Wednesday 19 Today the citizens of the town & country assembled
in our church to commemorate the burial of Abraham Lincoln at
Washington. Services were opened by reading from 2 Sam 1:17 and
Psa 46. Then singing & prayer, then sketch of his life, the speech
by Jacob Beck, then singing, then Bro Todd spoke. Took text. Then
I read his Farewell Address at Springfield. Then a little talk &
resolutions which were adopted by all save a few Copperheads.
Church was draped in mourning. Recd sub. to Central, Fletcher
Council, & 2$ through Bro Laucke. Had some eggs etc. exchanged.
Set a hen. Paid Olsen $5 which pays till June 26. Recd letter etc
Planted some corn. Quite summer like. Peaches are out in blossom.
Thursday 20 The supposed assassin of Seward caught. Should be
hanged up till dead, dead. Sent letter to Capt J B Jenkins, Baton
Rouge. Indebted to Lodge 72.00 & 61/2 yrs interest. Bot stamps 25¢.
Sent letter to Mason, Bloomington. Recd one from Kittie Lowe & $10
in it. Were aroused at 3 a.m. by neighbors. Pickerell Bices store
& two dwelling were burned by some incendiaries. Planted corn,
beets, squashes, butter beans, cymblings [cabbage sprouts] and
transplanted some hemp. Prayer meeting. Dr Winn joined on Prob.
& Langley & wife by letter. Rained by spells some today.
Friday 21 Fasting primitively was regarded by the Saviour as
essential to the casting out of stubborn devils or dumb spirits.
The directions for fasting were important. Examples worthy of
notice in reference to fasting are given us. The blessed Master &
his Disciples & Apostles fasted often. We do not fast as often now
since we do not have such humble views of ourselves as we ought to
have. Since we are not as holy nor as useful. Letter from Rev
Gooding. His babe died. Circular Syrian Lodge No 333. Bought sugar
(white) 4 lbs $1. Coal oil 1. per gal. Recd 35¢ for Chain. Bot
Tribune 10¢. Put some cucumber seed in the ground. Heard opening
sermon at the Presbytery. Rev Marcus, Micah 7:7. Bro Bishop Haller
supped with us. Rained by times all day.
Saturday 22 Lamentations 3:26: It is good for man – Dr Cartwright
preached at 11 a.m. from that text to small assembly at Yocums S H
Dined at Wm Yocums. Quarterly Conf. Recd of Wmsville this quarter
$28, 4. already allowed; of Fancy Creek 37. quarterage & 5.00
Donation; & $11 for potatoes; of Yocums 9.00; of Wolfe Creek
475
HC.00190 - Reverend Leonard Smith Diaries Collection
Educational use only, no other permissions given. Copyright to this resource is held by Michigan State University and is provided here for educational purposes only. It may not be reproduced or distributed in any format without written permission of the University Archives & Historical Collections, Michigan State University.
Reverend Leonard Francis Smith. "Reverend Leonard Francis Smith ". Michigan State University Archives & Historical Collections. Remembering Lincoln. Web. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://rememberinglincoln.fords.org/node/851
Reverend Leonard Francis Smith
Michigan State University Archives & Historical Collections
April 15, 1865
Typed on Paper
8" x 10"
from Aug. 26, 2015
Reverend Leonard Francis Smith was a Methodist preacher appointed to the Girard, Illinois, circuit at the time of Lincoln's death. He traveled to Lincoln's hometown of Springfield, Illinois, two days after the assassination and observed the collective mourning. Smith also held a service in his church the day Lincoln's ceremonial burial service was held in Washington D.C. In his diary, Smith recalls these events and comments on the progress of the hunt for Lincoln's killer and the person who attempted to murder Secretary of State, William H. Seward.
HC.00190 - Reverend Leonard Smith Diaries Collection
Educational use only, no other permissions given. Copyright to this resource is held by Michigan State University and is provided here for educational purposes only. It may not be reproduced or distributed in any format without written permission of the University Archives & Historical Collections, Michigan State University.
Reverend Leonard Francis Smith
Michigan State University Archives & Historical Collections
August 26, 2015
Typed on Paper
8" x 10"
Handwritten letter to Jane Betts from Harriet Farley, April 23, 1865
Handwritten letter to Jane (Young) Metcalf Betts from her aunt, Harriet Farley, in Burr Oak (St. Joseph County, Mich.), April 23, 1865. On the bottom of page one and top of page two, Harriet writes about the shocking news of Abraham Lincoln's death. She describes him as a "A father to his country, a tried friend of humanity". On Sunday, the local community marched from the Methodist church to the depot and had a public gathering with all three ministers present who spoke solemnly. She notes all town flags were draped in black. On Wednesday Elder Lamb gave a discourse at the Baptist house and Mrs. Wiltsie spoke at the schoolhouse. It is unclear if these last two speakers spoke of Lincoln or religious matters. This is a long (4 page) dense, chatty letter about marriages, deaths, family and local news unrelated to Lincoln. Jane (Young) Metcalf Betts and her husband 1) Taber Metcalf, later 2) William Betts, and her son, Irving Metcalf, lived in Burr Oak and Saint Joseph County, Michigan, as did her Aunt Harriet Farley. Irving served in Company D, 11th Michigan Infantry during the Civil War.
[Page One]
Burr Oak [Mich.] Aprl 23, 1865
Sabbath afternoon
This is a cold, windy day
alone by the fire side [crossed out] I have been to church, was at home
by the fire side, thinking it a favorable time to[inserted] write somewhat
to Jane & Wm & Evy [Jane, William Betts and Irving Metcalf], I Fancy to myself how you look
there in your strange home. Have all the surroundings pictured
out in my mind. I received your letter of the 20th and one
from Phebe last week. She had not received yours at that time
the 13th. I presume she has written before this time and given you
the details of the singular disease which caused the death of
your Uncle Cotton, a Carbuncle we know must be very distress-
ing, but seldom proves fatal to life, Aunt Elesta writes
that he was prostrate almost form the first attack. They had a
serious time taking care of him 3 weeks. She says he was patient
through it all. They were feeling anxious about Frank, had not
heard from him since the last battle. I begin to think more about
going to see my folks, but life and all earthly things are so
uncertain we can know but little beyond the present.
Now I would say something about the shocking event which has
brought sorrow and mourning to so many hearts, but words seem
to weak and insignificant to express our individual feelings
and when we think of a nation bereaved of such a friend
as Abraham Lincoln! A father to his country, a tried
friend of humanity, we may only commune with our own
hearts and be still. Yet there have been efforts made here
as in other places to manifest the sincere love & great respect
that is justly due to so noble a man as our late President.
Last Sabbath an appointment was given out from the people to
[Page Two]
to meet at 3 o’clock at the Methodist church, from there
they marched down to the depot grounds where some preparations
had been made, the three ministers were present and each made
a speech appropriate to the occasion, It was truly a solemn time.
The old flag appeared impressive, draped in black on [inserted] almost every
house was the emblem of mourning, - On Wednesday the Baptist
house was crowded tho’ the rain prevented many from
attending. Elder Lamb gave a discourse as well as he was
capable of doing. In the evening Mrs. Wiltsie spoke at the
schoolhouse on the same subject. She had lectured here
the Friday before, and could not then say when she would
come again. On Monday afternoon I received a letter from her
stating that she would be here Wednesday evening, the time
was short to get notice circulated, no school, so there seemed
to be no chance to publish the appointment. A donation for
Elder Douste was to come off that afternoon and evening.
Under such circumstances we could not expect much-
However, to our surprise, the house was crowded, more than
could be seated, a very respectable and attentive audience.
Even Mr. & Mrs. Phelps, some of the WIllises and many other
Church members were there. I believe all were astonished.
The discourse was splendid. Some said she had her subject
well studied. She solicited bid for the poor soldiers, took
over twelve dollars, and nine dollars on Friday evening before.
Now it occurs to my mind I must tell you of another death.
Isaac Toll’s wife. The gay and musical woman has passed
from earth to the spirit world.
[Page Three]
It is getting late in the evening. I shall not be
able to finish my letter tonight. My eyes are quite weak.
They were very sore when my cold was so bad, my health
is pretty good again, my ear has come to its hearing again.
Carrie has been over to see me since I commenced writing she
is very kind and attentive since you left. So is Mrs. Cross
and all the folks. I shall not seem any time to be lonesome.
Monday morning [sidewise in the margin]
Mrs. Ward has bought a cow. I have all the milk that I need, and
Saturday Carrie churned, got a fine roll of butter. They intend to
sell the milk in future. Last week was a busy time with me
had visitors withal, Old Mrs. Vance from Branson staid [sic] with
me 3 nights, had the Gates one day, came in the morning, and
Mrs. Perry part of two days, staid [sic] over night, but not with me. I find
it rather difficult to get up a meal of vituals [sic] in order in my little
cluttered room, but make out to get along somehow, went over to
Ward’s to bake bread and pies. Thursday I got time to see some on
my dress, for the first since you left. Friday did a large wash-
ing (for me). Saturday finished the dress. It looks nicely, so the
ladies say, and I think so too. – Now withal[sic] the excitement and
doings that transpired last week Sarah Jane was married to
Dorsey. The wedding came off Thursday morning, and they
started on the cars, for a wedding tour, like other folks.-
Minta & the Col. Made quite a spread. They invited Mr. & Mrs.
Schmidt Mr. & Mrs. Parker and their daughter Mrs. Sutton,
Mr. & Mrs. McDonald, Elder Douste and lady of course, Ell Crane
and his lady were appointed to wait on the bridal pair, stood up
with them & etc. Kena was invited. She says everything was very
nice indeed. But there seems to prevail a general feeling of p8ity for the
Thoughtless girl.
[Page Four]
I don’t think of much more to write just now.
I read your letter to Father & Mother Betts. They seemed
to feel some better about you. I was not surprised
that you had rather a bad time of it at first, expected it
would be so. We were glad to hear that Evy’s eyes are well.
When I heard they were sore thought probably it would
result to the benefit of his general health as I think mine
did, tho’ I pitied him and you too. I heard from you
so often the time did not seem long since you wrote
to me, write when you can conveniently. Father Betts
talks of sending a bottle of ink, because you write with a
pencil every time. Charles was at home yet tho’ I heard
the children don’t mind this cough much, I believe it is
not the regular whooping cough. Now I think of a little
more to tell you tho’ not very interesting. George McMellin
was married [sic] week ago last Sunday to Mrs. Livermore’s daughter
Also Mrs. James ‘ daughter to Jake Whitman. Thus we hear of
deaths and mariages[a-inserted, sic]. Yet the world moves on in its course.
We think that Kena has got into the element that
suits her pretty well at last. She appears quite like a woman.
Has plenty of work, employs 3 women besides herself C and C.
Mary Ann Weaver got hurt badly by falling, was not able to do
anything the last I heard from her. It is now about 10 0’clock.
Have not had my breakfast yet. You will think it is time
for me to stop writing I hope. Wm. Will try to be more care-
ful of his health, and not work himself all up, be more patient.
I want to say to Everett He better get a few
more hens, if he can. I want to hear something
about Mrs. Leathrop next time you write. Harriet Farley
Clarke Historical Library, Central Michigan University, Doris L. King Family Papers, 1822-1877
This item may be reproduced and used for any purpose, including research, teaching, private study, publication, broadcast or commercial use, with proper citation and attribution.
Harriet Farley. "Handwritten letter to Jane Betts from Harriet Farley, April 23, 1865". Remembering Lincoln. Web. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://rememberinglincoln.fords.org/node/850
Harriet Farley
1865
Letter
10x15.5 inches
from Apr. 23, 1865
Handwritten letter to Jane (Young) Metcalf Betts from her aunt, Harriet Farley, in Burr Oak (St. Joseph County, Mich.), April 23, 1865. On the bottom of page one and top of page two, Harriet writes about the shocking news of Abraham Lincoln's death. She describes him as a "A father to his country, a tried friend of humanity". On Sunday, the local community marched from the Methodist church to the depot and had a public gathering with all three ministers present who spoke solemnly. She notes all town flags were draped in black. On Wednesday Elder Lamb gave a discourse at the Baptist house and Mrs. Wiltsie spoke at the schoolhouse. It is unclear if these last two speakers spoke of Lincoln or religious matters. This is a long (4 page) dense, chatty letter about marriages, deaths, family and local news unrelated to Lincoln. Jane (Young) Metcalf Betts and her husband 1) Taber Metcalf, later 2) William Betts, and her son, Irving Metcalf, lived in Burr Oak and Saint Joseph County, Michigan, as did her Aunt Harriet Farley. Irving served in Company D, 11th Michigan Infantry during the Civil War.
Clarke Historical Library, Central Michigan University, Doris L. King Family Papers, 1822-1877
This item may be reproduced and used for any purpose, including research, teaching, private study, publication, broadcast or commercial use, with proper citation and attribution.
Harriet Farley
April 23, 1865
Letter
10x15.5 inches
Photocopy of handwritten, unsigned letter to Friend Elizabeth, April 20, 1865
Photocopy of a handwritten, unsigned letter from a Union soldier in Harper Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, April 20, 1865 to Friend Elizabeth [perhaps the widow Lib (Mrs. Levi) Smith]. The writer enjoyed her letter and hopes she is well. He is sympathetic over the loss of both her cousin and husband. The writer may have served or been hospitalized with both of these men. He heard from home that the president was killed. He notes that some people rejoiced over the news and two soldiers were fined a month's pay each and jailed because they rejoiced. He hopes the war will soon end as drafting and enlisting has stopped. He wants out of the hospital, either to return home or to his unit. He notes several who are ill. He writes that both his father and brother are in service. He concludes the letter because his hand shakes so he cannot hold his pen and asks her to write soon. The letter is part of the Levi Smith Family Papers, 1851, 1903. Levi Smith (1832-March 10, 1865) was the first husband of Elizabeth "Lib". He moved to Elba Township (Lapeer County, Mich.) from Ohio. Together they had a daughter. Levi enlisted in Company I, First Michigan Engineers and Mechanics on December 23, 1862 as an artificer. He died of disease in Detroit on March 10, 1865. She then married another man, also with the surname of Smith, and had three more children.
Page One
Harper Hospital
Detroit, Mich.
April 20, 1865
Friend Elizabeth
It is with great pleasure that i
now sit down to answer your
kind letter which which [sic] i received
yesterday it found me well as
usual and hoping these few lines
Will find you well. It is very
Warm to day [sic] it must been hard to
lose your Cousin but it was harder
to part with your husband so kind
and good. There was bad news home
that our president was killed.
There was some that rejoiced [sp?] over
his death. There was ttow [sic] soldiers here
that rejoyced [sic] over his death and
they put them in the guard house
and they took two [crossed out] one month's pay
Page Two
From your [sp?] friend Zachary [sp?] Bigelow
away from them i don't think that
this war will last long then we
all can go home to our friends,.
They have stoped [sic] drafting and
they have stoped [sic] enlisting. i think
that we will get our discharge. i have
put in for an examination. i hope they
Will give me my discharge or send
me to my regiment. i get sick
of hospital life. There is 5 [?] that
is in a bed now. There have but one
that is dangerously sick. Holister is
sick. he has been sick about a week.
I got a letter from home mother
had put her ankle out of joint she
will have it pretty hard till some
of us gets home. Father is in the
service and my Brother is two [sic]. i haven't
Heard from father since the last furlough [sp?]
i will have to close for this time my hand
Trembles so that i can't hold my pen still.
Excuse me for this short letter. Write soon
Clarke Historical Library, Central Michigan University, Levi Smith Family Papers, 1851, 1903
This item may be reproduced and used for any purpose, including research, teaching, private study, publication, broadcast or commercial use, with proper citation and attribution.
unknown, part of Levi Smith Family Papers, 1851, 1903. "Photocopy of handwritten, unsigned letter to Friend Elizabeth, April 20, 1865". Remembering Lincoln. Web. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://rememberinglincoln.fords.org/node/849
unknown, part of Levi Smith Family Papers, 1851, 1903
1865
Letter
original was 4.5x7 inches, the photocopy is 8.5x11 inches
from Apr. 20, 1865
Photocopy of a handwritten, unsigned letter from a Union soldier in Harper Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, April 20, 1865 to Friend Elizabeth [perhaps the widow Lib (Mrs. Levi) Smith]. The writer enjoyed her letter and hopes she is well. He is sympathetic over the loss of both her cousin and husband. The writer may have served or been hospitalized with both of these men. He heard from home that the president was killed. He notes that some people rejoiced over the news and two soldiers were fined a month's pay each and jailed because they rejoiced. He hopes the war will soon end as drafting and enlisting has stopped. He wants out of the hospital, either to return home or to his unit. He notes several who are ill. He writes that both his father and brother are in service. He concludes the letter because his hand shakes so he cannot hold his pen and asks her to write soon. The letter is part of the Levi Smith Family Papers, 1851, 1903. Levi Smith (1832-March 10, 1865) was the first husband of Elizabeth "Lib". He moved to Elba Township (Lapeer County, Mich.) from Ohio. Together they had a daughter. Levi enlisted in Company I, First Michigan Engineers and Mechanics on December 23, 1862 as an artificer. He died of disease in Detroit on March 10, 1865. She then married another man, also with the surname of Smith, and had three more children.
Clarke Historical Library, Central Michigan University, Levi Smith Family Papers, 1851, 1903
This item may be reproduced and used for any purpose, including research, teaching, private study, publication, broadcast or commercial use, with proper citation and attribution.
unknown, part of Levi Smith Family Papers, 1851, 1903
April 20, 1865
Letter
original was 4.5x7 inches, the photocopy is 8.5x11 inches
Handwritten Diary of Quincy A. Moore,1866, 1869
Diary entry of Aug. 12, 1865 describes how Moore attended the Dan Rice Great Show [a circus] and saw a sideshow tableaux of the assassination of President Lincoln in Bellefontaine, Ohio. [Note: Dan Rice is one of the greatest Civil War era clowns. He dressed and looked like our image of Uncle Sam.] Moore may have been a school district official in Logan County, Ohio. He regularly visited West Liberty, Bellefontaine, Lake Branch, and Degraff, Ohio. His diary, March 19, 1865-Oct. 1, 1869, gives a daily account of his farming, church, family, social life, and illness in Ohio.
Aug. 12, 1865.
I was at Bellefontain [sic] to the show Dan Rice Great Show I saw Elephants Lions Bear wild cat yak camels buffalo monkeys Leopard Congerooh [Kangaroo]and a Blind Horse witch [which] was taught to under stand [sic] english language and a variety of other animals and I was in the side shows in one of them I saw the Representation of the assassination of Lincoln and also of secretary Seward it looked most horrible in the other side show I saw the albino family and a boy sixteen years old witch [which]was eightteen [sic]inches high the girl twenty two inches high seventeen years old a cat witch [which] had but two legs naturaly [sic] born so and a monkey go through military performance [sic] and a woman with beard it cost me for all I seen and bought just 50 [cents]
Clarke Historical Library, Central Michigan University, Quincy A. Moore Diary, 1865, 1869
This item may be reproduced and used for any purpose, including research, teaching, private study, publication, broadcast or commercial use, with proper citation and attribution.
Moore, Quincy A., d. 1877. "Handwritten Diary of Quincy A. Moore,1866, 1869". Remembering Lincoln. Web. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://rememberinglincoln.fords.org/node/846
Moore, Quincy A., d. 1877
1865
Diary
12x7.5 inches
from Aug. 12, 1865
Diary entry of Aug. 12, 1865 describes how Moore attended the Dan Rice Great Show [a circus] and saw a sideshow tableaux of the assassination of President Lincoln in Bellefontaine, Ohio. [Note: Dan Rice is one of the greatest Civil War era clowns. He dressed and looked like our image of Uncle Sam.] Moore may have been a school district official in Logan County, Ohio. He regularly visited West Liberty, Bellefontaine, Lake Branch, and Degraff, Ohio. His diary, March 19, 1865-Oct. 1, 1869, gives a daily account of his farming, church, family, social life, and illness in Ohio.
Clarke Historical Library, Central Michigan University, Quincy A. Moore Diary, 1865, 1869
This item may be reproduced and used for any purpose, including research, teaching, private study, publication, broadcast or commercial use, with proper citation and attribution.
Moore, Quincy A., d. 1877
August 12, 1865
Diary
12x7.5 inches
Edgar Lincoln Letter
This letter from Edgar to his brother and sister discussing his recent activities near St. Paul, Minnesota, including the assassination of President Lincoln. Edgar notes that the news of Lincoln's death has stunned the local populace. Edgar goes on to note that he is willing to follow his brother in regards to management of land they hold in Minnesota, that he feels may drive him into debt.
Thursday Eve,
St. Paul May 4, 1865 -
Dear Bro. & Sister
Your letter of April 25, I have just received. as it went to
Shakopee I did not get it quite so soon. I was very glad to hear from You, and am
rejoiced to know that you have returned in Safty. A letter from Augusta a few days
since informed me of Your being at Brewster and of Your good health. Isaac and
family are all well, or were Monday Morning. I left S - with about 400 Bbls lime
the 26 . April. put of 70 Bbls at the Fort. and have sold about 140 here. it goes
of very slow now and I dont know what to make of it, as it was generally supposed
this spring that there was going to be a good deal of building down here this year .
The news of the Murder of our good President has knocked every thing in head, and
people do not like to do any thing until they know how things are going to turn
out. I have brought down 720 Bbls before this trip, which sold for $1.50 per Bbl,
most of which we got the money for. Since I have been here this time Reice has been
here and made contract with most of the large masons to furnish them with lime for one
Year at $1.10 and so we shall have opposition again to contend with. He is a d - - d
jackass, but like all the rest of the Dutchmen here afraid that we shall make any thing.
With wood, labor, and every thing else at high as it is now, our lime costs us 86 cts
here . How long the d - - d fool will hold out against us or wheather it will be for
our interest to burn, or sell out the whole concern Isaac and I have not decided yet.
Isaac is getting about discouraged as well as myself, and it is no wonder that we do.
I feel made enough to work this summer for nothing, more than a living and if
Isaac has not such a large family I should want him to, and give Reice fitts.
I shall send Isaac Your letter tomorrow and let him answer You in regards to buying
Your part. As I have no desire to run in debt to possess more property in this
place I should be glad to take $1000, for my interest in the concern, on the same
terms that you offer yours. I shall write Isaac to answer You immediately at Boston
care of Crosby.
I would not go in the Bark again if they would not give me more
wages, but get a vessel and go the same as Allison does. I should have probably
been in Calcutta now, but Augusta was not well enough to go with me and as we have
but one life to live here we thought we might as well be together once in a while,
or try to be at any rate, as it is I dont know as we shall as Father Snow is so unwell.
I think it her duty to stay at home, at present, I suppose that I can bear
the cross, but think that all of us have had our share of them. I am very sorry that
Lucinda has a cough and hope that she will take good care of herself. I hope that
Free will come home from Spain, I am writing in the Cabin of the old flat Boat. and
expect to make it my home here until the misquitoes come. Shall try and not let the
faithfull old boat sink. Write on receipt of this to S - Tell Anthony that I am hearty
and hope that he is the same, and when he wants a mate to let me know. Give my love to
Mother and all enquiring friends. Please dont let the contents of this letter get out
much in Brewster, as it would be nuts for those busy bodies, and I dont intend to
furnish them any without paying for them with my best wishes for your good health
and prosperity, Freeman Your aff. Bro. Edgar
This item may be reproduced and used for any purpose, including research, teaching, private study, publication, broadcast or commercial use, with proper citation and attribution.
Edgar Lincoln. "Edgar Lincoln Letter". Remembering Lincoln. Web. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://rememberinglincoln.fords.org/node/845
Edgar Lincoln
May 4, 1865
from May. 4, 1865
This letter from Edgar to his brother and sister discussing his recent activities near St. Paul, Minnesota, including the assassination of President Lincoln. Edgar notes that the news of Lincoln's death has stunned the local populace. Edgar goes on to note that he is willing to follow his brother in regards to management of land they hold in Minnesota, that he feels may drive him into debt.
This item may be reproduced and used for any purpose, including research, teaching, private study, publication, broadcast or commercial use, with proper citation and attribution.
Edgar Lincoln
May 4, 1865
Joseph Lincoln Letter to Wife
This letter from Captain Joseph Lincoln to his wife talks about his experiences as a merchant sea captain towards the end of the Civil War. Captain Lincoln mentions the death of John Wilkes Booth in his letter as well as his hope that the assassin would have been taken alive.
Boston April 27th /65
My Dear Wife,
Have been looking for a letter from you yesterday & to day, but none
came. suppose that you are busy getting ready for another voyage. do not know where
she will go the next voyage, but there is some talk of her going to Philadelphia. to
load coal for New Orleans, if so think you had better go as far as Philadelphia with
me. If the weather continues good shall be all discharged by Saturday night. then
I suppose it will be driving times till they get her away. Have not settled with them
yet but see that they have the voyage made up and charged me the rate of exchange
on all money drawn away. Which bring me in debt to the ship. instead of having
5 or $600 coming to me, but I do not think that is the way they intend to settle with
me, if they do I want to make one more voyage for them and pay myself, that I should
call mean enough would make my wages less then $40 pr month Sailors are getting $50.
but will say no more till I know what they intend to do. to day we have the news that
they have got Booths body which is good. but was in hopes they would have taken him
alive. Write me so that I can get it Saturday night to the Webster House, Emma has a
little girl
Yours affectionate
Husband
Joseph L. Lincoln
This item may be reproduced and used for any purpose, including research, teaching, private study, publication, broadcast or commercial use, with proper citation and attribution.
Joseph Lincoln. "Joseph Lincoln Letter to Wife". Remembering Lincoln. Web. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://rememberinglincoln.fords.org/node/844
Joseph Lincoln
April 27, 1865
from Apr. 27, 1865
This letter from Captain Joseph Lincoln to his wife talks about his experiences as a merchant sea captain towards the end of the Civil War. Captain Lincoln mentions the death of John Wilkes Booth in his letter as well as his hope that the assassin would have been taken alive.
This item may be reproduced and used for any purpose, including research, teaching, private study, publication, broadcast or commercial use, with proper citation and attribution.
Joseph Lincoln
April 27, 1865
Home of Lincoln
A photograph of Lincoln's home in Springfield, Illinois. The home of the President was draped in black mourning cloth. On the left side of the image is a printed description of the image.
Use of this item for research, teaching and private study is permitted with proper citation and attribution. Reproduction of this item for publication, broadcast or commercial use requires written permission. For permission, please contact Huntington Digital Library, San Marino, Ca.
Ridgway Glover. "Home of Lincoln". Remembering Lincoln. Web. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://rememberinglincoln.fords.org/node/836
Ridgway Glover
1865
8.3 x 17 cm (3 1/4 x 6 3/4 in.)
from May. 4, 1865
A photograph of Lincoln's home in Springfield, Illinois. The home of the President was draped in black mourning cloth. On the left side of the image is a printed description of the image.
Use of this item for research, teaching and private study is permitted with proper citation and attribution. Reproduction of this item for publication, broadcast or commercial use requires written permission. For permission, please contact Huntington Digital Library, San Marino, Ca.
Ridgway Glover
May 4, 1865
8.3 x 17 cm (3 1/4 x 6 3/4 in.)
Hearse at Indianapolis
This image shows the hearse used to carry Lincoln's casket in Indianapolis. Soldiers stand around the hearse, while an eagle statue, with its wings spread open adorned the top of the hearse. The hand writing on the left reads "Hearse at Indianapolis."
Use of this item for research, teaching and private study is permitted with proper citation and attribution. Reproduction of this item for publication, broadcast or commercial use requires written permission. For permission, please contact Huntington Digital Library, San Marino, Ca.
Ridgway Glover. "Hearse at Indianapolis". Remembering Lincoln. Web. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://rememberinglincoln.fords.org/node/835
Ridgway Glover
April 30, 1865
8.3 x 17 cm (3 1/4 x 6 3/4 in.)
from Apr. 30, 1865
This image shows the hearse used to carry Lincoln's casket in Indianapolis. Soldiers stand around the hearse, while an eagle statue, with its wings spread open adorned the top of the hearse. The hand writing on the left reads "Hearse at Indianapolis."
Use of this item for research, teaching and private study is permitted with proper citation and attribution. Reproduction of this item for publication, broadcast or commercial use requires written permission. For permission, please contact Huntington Digital Library, San Marino, Ca.
Ridgway Glover
April 30, 1865
8.3 x 17 cm (3 1/4 x 6 3/4 in.)
Hearse and Coffin in Philadelphia
Image title take from heading placed on the left side of the photograph. This picture clearly shows the coffin of President Lincoln and the hearse that carried his body through the streets of Philadelphia. A large crowd gathers around the hearse, as onlookers are visible on the roofs, awnings, and from the windows, as well pressed in all around the hearse. Additionally, this image clearly shows the honor guard that escorted Lincoln's hearse.
Use of this item for research, teaching and private study is permitted with proper citation and attribution. Reproduction of this item for publication, broadcast or commercial use requires written permission. For permission, please contact Huntington Digital Library, San Marino, Ca.
Ridgway Glover. "Hearse and Coffin in Philadelphia". Remembering Lincoln. Web. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://rememberinglincoln.fords.org/node/834
Ridgway Glover
April 1865
8.3 x 17 cm (3 1/4 x 6 3/4 in.)
from Apr. 22, 1865
Image title take from heading placed on the left side of the photograph. This picture clearly shows the coffin of President Lincoln and the hearse that carried his body through the streets of Philadelphia. A large crowd gathers around the hearse, as onlookers are visible on the roofs, awnings, and from the windows, as well pressed in all around the hearse. Additionally, this image clearly shows the honor guard that escorted Lincoln's hearse.
Use of this item for research, teaching and private study is permitted with proper citation and attribution. Reproduction of this item for publication, broadcast or commercial use requires written permission. For permission, please contact Huntington Digital Library, San Marino, Ca.
Ridgway Glover
April 22, 1865
8.3 x 17 cm (3 1/4 x 6 3/4 in.)
Funeral Passing up Broad St.
This image shows the funeral procession of Abraham Lincoln as it passed along Broad Street in Philadelphia. In the background American flags fly in the breeze and spectators gathered along rooftops and the balcony of the Union House & Dining Saloon.
Use of this item for research, teaching and private study is permitted with proper citation and attribution. Reproduction of this item for publication, broadcast or commercial use requires written permission. For permission, please contact Huntington Digital Library, San Marino, Ca.
Ridgway Glover. "Funeral Passing up Broad St. ". Remembering Lincoln. Web. Accessed July 16, 2025. https://rememberinglincoln.fords.org/node/833
Ridgway Glover
April 1865
8.3 x 17 cm (3 1/4 x 6 3/4 in.)
from Apr. 22, 1865
This image shows the funeral procession of Abraham Lincoln as it passed along Broad Street in Philadelphia. In the background American flags fly in the breeze and spectators gathered along rooftops and the balcony of the Union House & Dining Saloon.
Use of this item for research, teaching and private study is permitted with proper citation and attribution. Reproduction of this item for publication, broadcast or commercial use requires written permission. For permission, please contact Huntington Digital Library, San Marino, Ca.
Ridgway Glover
April 22, 1865
8.3 x 17 cm (3 1/4 x 6 3/4 in.)