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Creator: Gallup, Lillie (Taylor)
Descriptor(s): Bielat, Isabel
Date: 1865-1867

Creator: [Bagg, Sophia D.], [Burnham, Sophia R.]
Date: n.d.
Text: "Silent Time". Saturday morning. Dear Annie* I want to thank you for the essay which you read last evening in chapter meeting. I had been making myself very unhappy all the after- noon* and was quite sure that my "doll was stuffed with sawdust". There were words in your essay which made me feel better fc happier & for them I thank you. Yours with love Sophie B. (Possibly Sophia D. Bagg, <69 or Sophia R. Burnham, '69, To Annie (Glidden) Houts, >69Annie M....
Show more"Silent Time". Saturday morning. Dear Annie* I want to thank you for the essay which you read last evening in chapter meeting. I had been making myself very unhappy all the after- noon* and was quite sure that my "doll was stuffed with sawdust". There were words in your essay which made me feel better fc happier & for them I thank you. Yours with love Sophie B. (Possibly Sophia D. Bagg, <69 or Sophia R. Burnham, '69, To Annie (Glidden) Houts, >69Annie M. Glidden
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Creator: Holtz, Eliza
Date: n.d.
Text: My dear brothers, As I owe you both a letter and as this it to be a descriptive letter I thought you would not care if I wrote you on the same sheet. George told me you did not know anything at all about the College. I suppose you know where Poughkeepsie is do you not? but to be sure it is a city on the east bank of the Hudson half way between Albany and New York. is is not very large nor yet very small. some 2 1/2 miles at the south east - you come to the red fence that marks the college...
Show moreMy dear brothers, As I owe you both a letter and as this it to be a descriptive letter I thought you would not care if I wrote you on the same sheet. George told me you did not know anything at all about the College. I suppose you know where Poughkeepsie is do you not? but to be sure it is a city on the east bank of the Hudson half way between Albany and New York. is is not very large nor yet very small. some 2 1/2 miles at the south east - you come to the red fence that marks the college grounds you know how the College looks by the picture. I have sent home the distance from the gate house is house is quite as far as from the south gate to the bridge by Mr. Thompsons and the corridors are as long as from the front door to Mr. Thompsons they are an eighth of a mile long, three times round the College out-doors is a mile. you can think how large it is. There are a hundred study parlors, two public parlors and eight or then private parlors with out counting all the bedrooms, recitation rooms of which there are I do now know how many the begin with letter A and end with T inclusive, then there are all the professor's houses there are four of them + the Presidents house the dining 2nd floor dining room the first floor kitchens, the 1st floor laundry, cellar bakery, the 2nd floor chapel, 2nd and 4th music rooms, the 3rd library, and 4th art gallery, + the 5th cabinet the numbers over the names denote which floor they are.Boys think of it there over four hundred persons in our family (as Mrs. Syman calls it) we use a barrel and a half of flour in white bread every day. we have an oven a brick oven that will hold 500 of Jules largest loves of bread, and it is filled every day with white and brown bread. then it fills the over full when we have pies the oven if full. we keep two men at work all the time. there is a cook (a man) and six of so women assistants, some twenty waitresses, 20 or 30 in the laundry, and about fifteen or twenty chambermaids each of those have there respective heads. The library is open all the time ,it has over twenty five hundred volumes and new ones coming all the time. The art gallery is not open all the time or any of the ? for that matter to any but the art students, the collection is said to be very fine indeed. I forgot to say that there are threelibrarians. the bookkeeper is one, he does very little about it, one of the teachers and a pupil teacher are the other two. we can draw books twice a week for one hour in the day, but we can not keep them over one week. I do not know very much about the cabinet but i think the collection is very fine. The chapel is on the third floor. it is a good deal larger than our church. It is two stories high and seats some what over five hundred galleries and all the dining rooms is almost as large though it is not so high it is the same every other way. it seats 300 now, but can seat 500. There are five professors houses + presidents house. one office a store and I guess thats all. There are no parlors for study do not have at least two bedrooms off of themlibrarians. the bookkeeper is one, he does very little about it, one of the teachers and a pupil teacher are the other two. we can draw books twice a week for one hour in the day, but we can not keep them over one week. I do not know very much about the cabinet but i think the collection is very fine. The chapel is on the third floor. it is a good deal larger than our church. It is two stories high and seats some what over five hundred galleries and all the dining rooms is almost as large though it is not so high it is the same every other way. it seats 300 now, but can seat 500. There are five professors houses + presidents house. one office a store and I guess thats all. There are no parlors for study do not have at least two bedrooms off of themP.S. Tell Nora that Doctor Ray Monds address is J.H. Raymond S.S.D. Vassar College Pougkeepsie, N.Y. Poughkeepsie is in Dutchess Co.
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Creator: DeCaindry-Corson, Ida
Date: n.d.
Text: Vassar. Sunday afternoon. (Probably Nov. or Dec. 1871?) My dear Helen: As I have but one postage stamp left, and have no money to buy any more, I need not write but this one letter, although I have several to answer. I spent all of yesterday afternoon directing invitations for the Philalethean entertainment, which takes place on the Sth of Dec. ff I don't get any money soon I cannot write any more letters, for this one takes my last stamp, but happily for me I expect to receivesome of...
Show moreVassar. Sunday afternoon. (Probably Nov. or Dec. 1871?) My dear Helen: As I have but one postage stamp left, and have no money to buy any more, I need not write but this one letter, although I have several to answer. I spent all of yesterday afternoon directing invitations for the Philalethean entertainment, which takes place on the Sth of Dec. ff I don't get any money soon I cannot write any more letters, for this one takes my last stamp, but happily for me I expect to receivesome of the necessary article very soon. I have sent in my request at least. Thee will do me a great favor by going to the nr iddle drawer of the side board in the square entry & finding there two compositions of mine, one entitled "Clouds" & the other "They Builded better than they Knew." I want them very much for some particular purpose & wish thee would send them to me. Please do notiforget them. If they are not in that drawer please look in my drawer in Marcus' room. I hope thee can find them for I am anxious to have them before Christmas. I had a dreadful letter from Uncle George a few days since on my manner of letter writing. It has made me more particular in my letters to him. I have fallen into the habit of writing short letters dealing in generalities alone it not enter- ing into particulars and he does not like that, so I immediately sat down fc wrote him a long letter dealing in particulars as much as possible. (Probably Nov. or Dec. 1871?) - 2 Does thee think will stay at our house another year ? I hope so don't thee? It will seem so strange for me not to come back here next year. I am sure I shall feel very sorry not to be able to do so. It seems hardly possible that it is so near time to come home for the Christmas vacation, but I am glad I am coming home. I have had a sort ofimpression that uncle George was going to advise me to remain here till June, but he seems in favor of my coming home. Has thee come to any further decision about thy art studies ? Has thee decided to stay with Prof. F. J.W. ? Uncle George was perfectly when I asked him if I could get the class ring. He told me to let him know when I wanted the money & he wouiit send it, but I do not want to ask for any more for a while. I had some questions to ask thee about my dresses but I believe I cannot think of them now. Has thee heard anything further in regard to the sewing machine ? I presume not. I have two dresses now that are too short in the skirt, but I am going to leave them unaltered till I come home. Has thee had any new dresses lately? I presume that question is a perfect mockery, but still there is nothing like asking to find out.Tell Marcus that I would like to hear from him oftener even if I do not answer his letters always- Do write soon It tell me all the news- (Frobably Nov. or Dec. 1871?) - 3 With love to all I remain thy loving Sister Ida- Ida (Corson) DeCaindry, '72
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Creator: Foster, Frances (Harmon) Miller
Descriptor(s): Bielat, Isabel
Date: 1864-1866

Creator: Knefler, Frederick, 1824-1901
Date: September 14, 1864
Text: ‘ many others, who must leave wives be- 1lOflGr 0- ‘Al ’ . . an Ae?,l,Pb.’,,§’=.3l7aff,_,:.§_~Q,~i& ’ -' '5?» I.‘ §§"£3z‘1't”’l11:-¢19§,,: p , A few ﬂjse 4 Miller, Asst. Ad’jtGenernl, was klled in a ﬁ;_;ht on the 2d inst., south of Jones- boro, Ur.‘-.l.. Capt. Miller was a brave and accomplished young officer, and none truer have drawn the sword in defense of their country. He fell nobly and he-._ 1‘0lC.‘vI.ll_\,’ doing his duty, and his death” will long be mourned by...
Show more‘ many others, who must leave wives be- 1lOflGr 0- ‘Al ’ . . an Ae?,l,Pb.’,,§’=.3l7aff,_,:.§_~Q,~i& ’ -' '5?» I.‘ §§"£3z‘1't”’l11:-¢19§,,: p , A few ﬂjse 4 Miller, Asst. Ad’jtGenernl, was klled in a ﬁ;_;ht on the 2d inst., south of Jones- boro, Ur.‘-.l.. Capt. Miller was a brave and accomplished young officer, and none truer have drawn the sword in defense of their country. He fell nobly and he-._ 1‘0lC.‘vI.ll_\,’ doing his duty, and his death” will long be mourned by hundreds of l warni friends here, who know him best and loved him most. His remains are daily expected to ar- rive at this place for burial. ..,’; erty, ‘Fr; , . . At” seven 9 ‘V’ . V ~ . united with the Baptist church, where his cheerful faith was shown by his works; while thus devoted to the religious duties consequent upon his position, he mani- fested the liberal spirit which recognizes the greater brotherhood in Christ, unit- ing all heaven——seeking souls into one family". As a civilian, he was true to ev- ery trust, remaining for seven years with one mercantile ﬁrm, a member of which pronounced his business talents to be of the first order. He was frank, yet always courteous, winning the esteem of all who knew hi;.u well. In April, 1861 he €1‘1l-ch ti as a private. When relating the tact L\..— .« friend, he said smiling: “1s it i" right? I never knew hefore how much I loved my country! I can go better than hindp. lvn,_l8f‘33;ihe was made "A_.mA__.\Ge.n., a ‘ E 1.” mi. ' is mhe ‘vi 7 :1. . r.‘ _, "2 -i W ii.‘ i‘- . 3; ‘H A ' d’ _ . :. 'L‘}3.l\ . ‘V. - ‘*5 A reached this place tl'1itt Captain _. , .21 0’ g _ _ . “ ' , p i V ‘ll;-con:ie ' fbr good! I am happies“ er expected to be, and I look forward to a very happy life.” He was killed Sept. 2d, l864. A dis- tinguished oflicer writes from the field, “None have fallen more gloriously; his heart was pure, his character noble, and mellowed by the sweet inﬂuences of Christianity. He did not permit the strifes which grow out of the necessi- ties and ambitions of life to drag him down from those sublime conceptions and intuitions of goodness which Deity designed we should cultivate until they would raise us above the reach of tempt- ation. W'lie-ii he fell. numbers who ad- mired his brmrery, said. ‘ 0, if I were on- ly as well fitted in <ii~.-- as Captain Miller I would be (‘.Ol’lI+‘I!i with any fate.” His inﬂuence was felt for the right by all with whom he acted. His zealous and efficient serviors in this great war were conspicuous and acknowledged. Gen. VVood said to me, “Captain Miller was a gallant oﬁicer. and he was the soul of his B1-_Aiga.\s~. His Brigade commander said to me... “It seems to my mind that ‘the Brigade will not be worth anything without Captain Miller. The whole com‘ maul loved amt respected him, and his loss effects all our hearts; his character seemed noble, perfect, and his bravery was never excelled.” I saw him afew hours before he was borne from the ﬁeld of battle; no one was nearer the foe than he, and no one was offering an example more worthy of emulation. The ﬁres of his soul were all ablaze, as he motion- ed the troops to “Come on! He died for a qause inferior only to that of heaven. Frhm brother-ofﬁcers and from privates, the same unvarying testimony assures us tlmt. he was in the camp and on the bat- tle. field the christian patriot and soldier. and the competent faithful officer. |_.A L'\h—d$-4 r\')»_4 Er‘ MAD.&M:—Owing to’ a severe acciden ' to one of my eyes, I have not been able sooner to communicate to you the cir- cumstances attending the death of Cap-1 tain Miller. On the 2d of September towards evening, the Brigade was order- ed to assault the rebel works. It became necessary for me to go on the skirmish, line to reconnoitre the position; the Cap- tain accompanied as usual, the rebel works being in close proximity, the fire was very severe. Taking position behind a log for pro- tection to make the necessary observe», tions, the Captain and Lieut. Colclazer, another officer of the staff‘, were in the rear of me. lwas just turning around to speak to the Captain, when the fatal bullet struck him passing through his head, and severely wounding Lieut. Col- clazer who was behind the Captain. I__ bent down over him to hear any words he might utter, but he was unconscious; after a few long drawn breaths he expired, and I had his body conveyed to the rear, This most unhappy accident has cast a deep gloom over all. No man was more universally loved and respected. While his fate may at any time be our own, I had fondly hoped that he would survive all perils, and that it would never be my sad duty to inform you of his death:-— I had the pleasure of knowing the Cap- tain intimately; we have been in friendly! or oﬂicial intercourse almost daily for the lasttwo years, and I had many opportuni- ties to appreciate his virtues as a man and soldier, he was the most conscien tious man in the discharge of his many arduous duties, untiring in his zeal, con- ‘ spicuously brave and gallant, and most gentlemanly and kind in his deportment Amidst all temptations riﬁce of such precio in vain. Allow me to tender you, and his fami- ly, in behslf.of oﬁicers, and soldiers, who loved him, the deepest felt sympathy in your grievous loss and sad aﬂliction. Believe me madam, with my sincerest regards, Your obedient servt., FRED KNEFLER, Col. 79th Indiana Vols.,
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Creator: Greer, Florence
Descriptor(s): Bielat, Isabel
Date: Nov 1895

Creator: Arnzen, Laura Earl
Date: 1865

Creator: Holtz, Eliza
Descriptor(s): Bielat, Isabel
Date: 1865-1866

Creator: Fales, Helen Augusta
Descriptor(s): Ditkoff, Andrea
Date: 1865 [TS]

Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Descriptor(s): Ditkoff, Andrea
Date: 1865

Creator: Adams, Ruth
Descriptor(s): Bielat, Isabel
Date: 1865

Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: September 1865
Text: Julia & I are at present very much engaged in catching zoological specimens. We vent out to-day and caught five grass-hoppers. Perhaps you will say that is not much - nothing but grass hoppers. But just you wait until you see them & WMH if you not agree with me as to their beauty and of the finest kind tooI am much mistaken. We have a stretcher and each one has to be spread until it is perfectly dry. We were so busy when the tea-bell rung to night that we prefered to go without our...
Show moreJulia & I are at present very much engaged in catching zoological specimens. We vent out to-day and caught five grass-hoppers. Perhaps you will say that is not much - nothing but grass hoppers. But just you wait until you see them & WMH if you not agree with me as to their beauty and of the finest kind tooI am much mistaken. We have a stretcher and each one has to be spread until it is perfectly dry. We were so busy when the tea-bell rung to night that we prefered to go without our tea and get them all fixed.You would laugh if you could have seen us as we started out this after-noon. I had on my little sacque which you know has two pockets, in one I had a bottle of benzone and in the other a bottle of alcohol. Julia had the box to put them in and you can imagine what a picture we presented racing up hill or down wherever we saw a specimen. We expect to have our nets tomorrow & then for the Butterflies. I don't know whether I should have prevailed upon Julia to make a collection if Cally had not have been so anxious for her to but now she is full as enthusiastic as I. The pracitsing in Gymnastics is very much like dancing. I can describe it in no other way but when I come home I can show you. I practise from nine to twenty minutes of ten in the evening and as we only practise every other evening I shall have to practise next Wednesday eve. so dont be surprised if I write Tuesday or Saturday instead. However I shall write to you again before that. It is almost time for the last bell so I must close this. I have have had to stop twice to kill and stretch some millers which come in, attracted by theand I so much. Can you not get a ? green. If not do as you think will be prettiest if you decide to get it. I am very anxous to hear you are really living in the house again though I suppose I need not expect to in a week or two yet. Your speaking of having Nellie
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Creator: Sylvester, Helen (Seymour)
Date: September 22, 1865
Text: Vassar College Sept. 22nd [1865?] My dear father, I am more than satisfied with my new school - everything Is on the grandest scale. I wish you could see the Library Art Gallery Geological rooms fee. I spent the morning - most of it - looking at some beautiful books of engravings you can amuse yourself here any way you please, and there are some very nice girls here - I should think It would take two weeks to classify the girls and get them settled - I had an introduction to Mr Vassar who was...
Show moreVassar College Sept. 22nd [1865?] My dear father, I am more than satisfied with my new school - everything Is on the grandest scale. I wish you could see the Library Art Gallery Geological rooms fee. I spent the morning - most of it - looking at some beautiful books of engravings you can amuse yourself here any way you please, and there are some very nice girls here - I should think It would take two weeks to classify the girls and get them settled - I had an introduction to Mr Vassar who was very kind indeed to me. He took dinner here to-day and we had ice-cream for dessert. They furnish a good many things here that you were obliged to buy at Utica - so in the end It will probably be no higher - The weather is delightful here now and the grounds look very prettily. They have a real post office with boxes and a boy to tend it In the building- I shall have to get me a gymnasium dress for they require all the girls to have one, and will you please a end me the stamps that Henry neglected to get- I don't want to buy any more of them here than I can help- I have one of my schoolmates at Utica here - Clara Spauldlng and her Mother found some acquaintance a here Mr Chandler and family and came with them to the college to our room and In the course of their conversation they asked where I was from and on learning that I was from Brockport said that they lived there thirteen years ago - and knew you. Libby Anderson says she would like to have me meet any one who did not know some one that I knew This gentleman was a minister - of what denomination I do not know- Mr Weaver stopped at Mr. Eastman's the Commercial College Men and introduced me to his brother for the Mr Eastman was not at home. He came to the carriage and talked a few minutes to us- Altogether I have had a delightful time since I have been here. I must close so as to send my letter to-day. Mr Weaver gave Mr Vassar a check for they have to pay upon entering for the half year. Please send the money to Mr Weaver at 162 State St Albany - Write soon and tell me how the house is getting along- Your affectionate daughter Helen. Geo S. Weaver [in another hand]
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Creator: Sylvester, Helen (Seymour)
Date: September 22, [1865?]
Text: Vassar College Sept 22nd [1865?] My dear Mother I arrived safely at Albany Tuesday night. On arriving at Utica I met Libby Anderson who got on there to go to Vassar College.- Netta met me at the depot with her new carriage. Mr. Weaver could not go Wednesday and so we took a ride and visited - I was glad to have a rest before I went on to school, for I was very tired- We had a very pleasant journey from Albany and found Mr Vassar here at the College. He was very kind and told me when- ever I...
Show moreVassar College Sept 22nd [1865?] My dear Mother I arrived safely at Albany Tuesday night. On arriving at Utica I met Libby Anderson who got on there to go to Vassar College.- Netta met me at the depot with her new carriage. Mr. Weaver could not go Wednesday and so we took a ride and visited - I was glad to have a rest before I went on to school, for I was very tired- We had a very pleasant journey from Albany and found Mr Vassar here at the College. He was very kind and told me when- ever I wanted a favour and met him In the halls to speak to him- I had an Introduction also to a nephew of Mr Vassar about twenty- A girl from Utica who attended Miss Kelly's School Introduced us to him. Her name is Florence Hart- There are seven girls here who attended school at Utica when I did. Our room was engaged by Libbie's cousin in Poughkeepsie some time ago and is one of the best. I have not had a touch of homesickness yet- everything is so pleasant here I do not see how I can. Our room is about eleven feet high - We have a sitting room and bedroom There are three bedrooms to our sitting room. Every-thing is just as nice as anything can be. We visited the Library - Art Gallery - Geological rooms and Astronomical observatory with Mr It Mrs Weaver They were both delighted with everything (as everybody is) and Mr Weaver thought he should certainly send Kitty and Liszle here when they were old enough. Mr Mitchell was in the observatory and explained the telescope and gave us quite a little lecture on Astronomy - The teachers are all very kind indeed, and the lady principal has all Miss Kelly's good traits without her formality, and unapproachableness - We can see College Hill Military school from our sitting room window. The whole building seems more like a large elegant Hotel than a school. There are three hundred and fifty girls here already and I have made quite a number of acquaintances already - The building is much pleasanter than I thought it would be and though the pieces [sic] of cake are decidedly small and the preserves are minus the fare is very good. The bill is high enough father will find to warrant a good school. One gentleman from Brooklyn has seven daughters here - It will cost him something from $2500 to $3000 - I hope you are not working yourself to death. Have you any help? Write to me soon and tell me the town news. I am very anxious to hear from home. Your affectionate daughter Ella
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: September 23, 1865
Text: assar College, Po'keepsie Sept. 23rd, 1865 My Dear Father. It is quite late to commence a letter to you but I thought I would not let the evening go without beginning one at least as I have been thinking all day I would write you. I am enjoying myself as well as it is possible to away from you and Mother and my pleasant home. Mother will doubtless by the time you get this have given you a full account of Vassar College and its vicinity and much better than I could do it by writing. There...
Show moreassar College, Po'keepsie Sept. 23rd, 1865 My Dear Father. It is quite late to commence a letter to you but I thought I would not let the evening go without beginning one at least as I have been thinking all day I would write you. I am enjoying myself as well as it is possible to away from you and Mother and my pleasant home. Mother will doubtless by the time you get this have given you a full account of Vassar College and its vicinity and much better than I could do it by writing. There hasbeen a perfect room full of girls in here nearly all this evening which accounts for my putting off my writing so long. One of our room mates, Nellie Dickson, seems to have a peculiar facility of making acquaintances and I guess does not fail to ask them to call from the amount of company she has. It Is not always pleasant for Emma Mary and myself but we hope it will not be so after studies commence. I have not been examined yet but hope I may get through Monday. Mary Cornell and Emma are the only ones of our party who have finished and although they got through very well I judge it is pretty severe and I dread it quite a good deal. We had a Holiday this after-noon and Mary Cornell to-gether with some of the other girls had a game of Croquet but none of us joined as I had mending to do Emma a letter to write and Mary Rhoads £ took a nap. It is almost ten o'clock now and as they wish us to have the gas out by that time I will leave this for tonight. Sunday afternoon. We have just had services in the Chapel and as it is after five o'clock I do not know as I shall have time to finish this before supper but I will try. I do not know yet whether they will allow us to go down to Po'keepsle to church or not but if they do I guess it will not be very often. They are very struct indeed now and have made the rule (they say for the present) that we cannot mail any letters except those directed to our parents but can inclose any we wish so do not be surprised if atany time you receive a letter directed to you but not for you. I hope they will not keep up that rule long for it will be very inconvenient when I write to Auntie. I have heard that another rule Miss Lyman has given is that no one will be allowed to receive calls from gentlemen, excepting their Fathers, without a letter of introduction from their parents to Miss Lyman so if you have occasion to write to Mr. Wilkinson or Mr Bartlett please for my sake send a letter to them for safety if they should call. I have a great many things I should like to tell you but I have not the time and expect I shall have to wait until I get home for many. Please if you see Kate or any of the other girls who speak of my writing tell them I will as soon as possible. I wish some one would write to me for I am so impatient, I have not had one yet and almost all the rest have Mary Rhoads has had a paper too which looked so good. I wish you would send one to me some times and also I should like the Atlantic £o much if you think best. We had such a queer dinner to-day. First we had oyster soup and as we all thought we were to have something after it we did not eat much at our table but when they took our dishes away they brought on apples and grapes and that was all we had. The apples were awful hard but they tasted good nevertheless I would give almost anything if I had some apples and pears. I must close now for it is time for suppler, and I can hardly write either for there are nine girls In here & they keep up a perfect chatter. Please do write soon for I want to hear from you so much and tell all my other friends to write. Good night now. I will try to write soon again. With much love to all my friends I am ever your loving daughter Ella Remember me to Jennie. There have three more girls Just come in.
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: September 25, 1865
Text: My Dear Mother, You will doubtless be surprised to hear from me again so soon as it was only this morning that X sent a letter to Father but I have so many little things that I wish to say to you I have concluded to write a short letter to-night. We have just come to our rooms for the evening and Emma and Mary are both writing at the same table as myself.The other girls have gone out to a surprise in one of the other rooms.Emma received two letters this morning and it was very hard for me to...
Show moreMy Dear Mother, You will doubtless be surprised to hear from me again so soon as it was only this morning that X sent a letter to Father but I have so many little things that I wish to say to you I have concluded to write a short letter to-night. We have just come to our rooms for the evening and Emma and Mary are both writing at the same table as myself.The other girls have gone out to a surprise in one of the other rooms.Emma received two letters this morning and it was very hard for me to be reconciled to not having yet received one. My examination commenced this afternoon but I did not have time for anything but my conversation with Dr. Raymond and examination in Geography. I got along in that passably well for although I did not pass to my satisfaction I think I did as well as the other girls who were examined at the same time. I went to Prof. Knapp for my French and Latin but it was so late in the afternoon he only took my name and wishes me to be excused from Chapel exercises and come at that time to-morrow morning. I do not dread them half as much since I have got commenced. Emma is going down to Pokeepsie tomorrow to spend the day at Mrs Booth's as there is to be a wedding, one of her relations. How I should like to be away too. When I went up with Em. to-day to see Miss Lyman about being excused to-morrow she told me to ask her about calls so I did. Miss Lyman wished to know If I had friends here and I said yes there was a gentleman in Pokeepsle with whom I was acquainted and Em. spoke up and said it was Mr Bartlett a presbyterian minister so Miss Lyman said "of course I could see the Rev. Mr Bartlett under whose charge I was." I thought Em. and I would laugh but we did not say anything and managed to keep sober until we got out of the room. So now you see she considers me "under his charge" and I do hope he will call for Iam half crazy to see some one from outside this prison. Do hurry and write me whether Mr. White has accepted the call to Ithaca and all about it. I commenced this letter because I had several things I wished to tell you but it has seemed almost impossible to break off writing other things. X have so much I should like to tell you. But now first Mother I want a calico bag for my soiled clothes. We are all required to have one to send them to the laundry in. I think one as large as a pillow case would be about right, if you cannot send it let me know and I will get the material and make it here. And about my dress for exercising, you will want the skirt about three quarters of a yard long I think and the drawers long enough to come to my ankles when down the whole length and the elastic will keep them up, some are having theirs made of water proof cloth. It takes 5 1/2 yards of that I believe, I may think of something more if so I will add it tomorrow morning. And now good night and remember you owe me ever so many letters. With love to all Your affectionate daughter, EUaP.S. I forgot that I want my ball of yarn for mending my stockings & which I forgot and I wish you would send me some little fancy work, a band to embroider^ or something of that kind. I think that is all but if I think of anything more you will have another letter soon. I think I shall write to Auntie to-day if I finish my examinations. Miss Lyman said I might write to her if I would bring the letter and have her initials put on. Good bye now and write soon EUa Rember to Jennie and all othrs who enquire.
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Creator: Sylvester, Helen (Seymour)
Date: September 26, [1865?]
Text: Vassar College Sept 26th [11865?] My dear Mother I am expecting a letter from home but still thought I would commence a letter as I had now time. I have left your letter to-day as I had to be examined and having now passed through that ordeal I am able to finish my letter. I received James1 letter to-day and was rather surprised to find you had not received mine. It is strange to see how contented the girls are here. I hear of very few eases of homesickness. They have to get Gymnasiumdresses...
Show moreVassar College Sept 26th [11865?] My dear Mother I am expecting a letter from home but still thought I would commence a letter as I had now time. I have left your letter to-day as I had to be examined and having now passed through that ordeal I am able to finish my letter. I received James1 letter to-day and was rather surprised to find you had not received mine. It is strange to see how contented the girls are here. I hear of very few eases of homesickness. They have to get Gymnasiumdresses here and I have engaged mine with some of the rest of the girls. The gymnastic teacher gets them. There is a dress and trousers of gray flannel and it costs about $12 or fourteen dollars and will do for a bathing dress when I get through with gymnastics I have paid $7. towards it and would like to have father send me enough to pay the rest and something for school books- I am enjoying myself very much and have two old schoolmates at Utica to room with me beside Libby Anderson. Write soon to me. I did not see Sophie at Rome when I looked out of the window. Please ask father to send that soon for I want to pay the teacher. Please, answer soon and tell Henry I shall expect him to write first as he owes me so many letters Give him my love- Your affectionate daughter Ella.
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: October 2, 1865
Text: My Dear Mother, I believe I wrote to Father last so it would be my turn to write to you were I particular about that but of course I mean my letters as much for one as another. However this time I shall probably write what will be of more interest to you Mother. I received my things which you sent me late Saturday evening and you have no idea how delighted I was. Every thing you sent was perfect and just what I wanted. I do not know how to express my thanks sufficiently but if you could have...
Show moreMy Dear Mother, I believe I wrote to Father last so it would be my turn to write to you were I particular about that but of course I mean my letters as much for one as another. However this time I shall probably write what will be of more interest to you Mother. I received my things which you sent me late Saturday evening and you have no idea how delighted I was. Every thing you sent was perfect and just what I wanted. I do not know how to express my thanks sufficiently but if you could have been here to see me as I opened each thing I think you would have felt repaid for all you trouble. I like my dress very much and all the girls think it so pretty. It Is a perfect fit every way I dont see how you could get every thing so exactly as I could wish it. The length of the skirt, the sleeves bands, every thing just right I have not got a dress I like better. Emma has spoke several times that she did not see how you got the skirt such a good length. I know it would not have been so good if I had been home. I would like to know who made it. My clothes bag Is just the thing. I wish you had seat some embroydery patterns for I do not find any here yet that are exactly what I want. I have some marked off in my work box I believe and if you will I think I should like to have you send them in your next letter* By the way Iwant some tape to bind my skeleton skirt. Perhaps you can send that in a letter-et or paper. I wish you would send me the papers or mag Is ins if you think best for I should like them so much. Dont laugh because Z always find so much to send for but forgot to send some of my Photos. Well then I sat down I thought I should not have time to write much but I find we are not to have recitations until this afternoon and so I can write more though you do not deserve it for you do not half write to me. Saturday fore-noon we went to Springside Mr Vassar's country residence. There were three omnibus loads went first and we were gone about an hour and then three more loads. In the afternoon three more and I believe there are three more loads to go this morning which will take all that wish to go.It is about two miles from here and is one of the most delightful places I was ever in. I cannot begin to describe it for it would take so long but I can do that when I get home. Oh dear me you dont know how much I have got I want to say I never finish a letter but that I feel as though I wanted to sit down and commence again. I think so many times if I could only sit down with my work beside you in our pleasant parlor I should hardly be able to stop my tongue I should have so much. I expect to talk a steady stream about Vassar for a whole year after I get home so be prepared. I heard yesterday that we are to have holidays from Wednesday until Monday at Thanksgiving. I do hope you and Father will come and see me then. I have been thinking of a little trip to a city not very far from here which would be very pleasant in my estimation. I had a letter from Mary Van Rensselaer Saturday and she thinks she and Mr Van R. will come up here soon and make me a visit. Why dont Kate Spencer answer my letter has'ent she got it? I suppose there are ever so many things I have forgotten but I do not feel like writing more now so I shall not H4Ua try very hard to think. We have not recited any yet but expect to commence to-morrow as the order of classes will be given out this afternoon. I was a little disappointed that I did not get some of Jennies good ginger cookies with my things but of course just as you think best. Oh I want to tell you about a gim. suit here which is so pretty. It is black alpaca trimmed with black and white check skirt and waist. Give my love to all my friends and remember me to Jennie also. Please write soon Your loving daughter, Ellen.The rules of Vassar require that we have a list of our correspondents signed by our parents so I have made one which I will send and wish you to send back as soon as possible. I do not know that I shall write to all but I put down every one which there was any possibility I should ever wish to write to. If you think of any other please add it or if you object to any of those I have I have written them in a great hurry but please excuse looks and mistakes. Ella.
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: October 8, 1865
Text: My Dear Mother, It is very quiet indeed here to-day. I think the most so that it has been since I have been here. It is about twelve o'clock and I expect I shall have to dress for dinner soon, but I have been sitting here by the window and thinking of you all so long that I felt as if I must write a few words at least. The other girls are all in their rooms and I am alone in our parlor. It is a warm pleasant day and so still and peaceful that as I sit here by the open window I cannot...
Show moreMy Dear Mother, It is very quiet indeed here to-day. I think the most so that it has been since I have been here. It is about twelve o'clock and I expect I shall have to dress for dinner soon, but I have been sitting here by the window and thinking of you all so long that I felt as if I must write a few words at least. The other girls are all in their rooms and I am alone in our parlor. It is a warm pleasant day and so still and peaceful that as I sit here by the open window I cannot help wishing Ah that I had the wings of a dove that I might fly—home. I imagine my pleasant SundaySchool and wonder if any one thinks of the one whose vacant place is there. I see, in my thoughts, as the good people wend their way through our pleasant park and long to be with them And how long I linger over the home scene, the pleasant chat with you and Father, but alas! I am aroused by some voice some sound which reminds me I am still at Vassar. We are usually to have a Bible class Sunday morning after Chapel service but two of the Professors wished to go down to Po*keepsie this morn, to church so our class is put off until this evening. I suppose we shall have services this after-noon in the Chapel at half past three o*clock and a sermon from Pres. Raymond. I hope he will be more interesting than he has been on the previous Sundays. I commenced a letter to Kate last evening but did not finish it on account of a, to us,great event. Namely, Emma and I received a large box of grapes from H.V.B. Ithaca. We were very much surprised & very much delighted. Mary Rhoades Father sent her a large basket full several days ago which were not all gone but ours were none the less acceptable. Anything in the way of eatables tastes so good here. I suppose because it comes from home for we are not starved though we do not have fruit. Ours did not come quite as nicely as Mary's I think because a basket is better than a box. Oh how we have feasted last evening and to-day, we owe many thanks to our kind and thoughtful friend for such an acceptable present. I have not seen Mr Bartlett yet and I think it is too bad for I expected to see him before this. They are very strict about visitors not even allowing brothers and sisters admittance without a letter of introduction from their parents. I have not been to the city since you left. We are only allowed to go with teachers and only three or four girls for a teacher and as hardly ever more than two or three teachers go and very seldom the consequence is we get to Po'keepsie very few times. However I have had no very particular desire to go. We had the best dinner yesterday we have had yet. Only think of it we had three courses. It has been the principel theme of conversation among all the girls ever since & I have heard several say they must write home immediatly all about it. So you see I am following the prevailing style and writing of it to you. First we had soupe. We usually have that about twice a week but never any-thing but desert after it. But yesterday we had either roast beef or lamb with sweet potatoes etc. and to crown the whole mince pie* We did not know what was going to happen but perhaps we shall make up for it to day by a cold dinner as we had last Sunday. I miss our waffles for breakfast or the cookies at tea time the most of anything I think. If you have not sent my list when you get this please copy it before you send it to me. I dont know whether I told you or not. We have had a sermon from Pres. Raymond 50 minutes long, only think of it and prayers to correspond. I must say it is slightly tiresome especially when you have to give an account of it to your teacher next morning. I cannot tell you about my studies yet but hope to be able to soon. Give my love to all my friends and write soon. I wish if you have not sent my suit when you get this I wish you would send me some note paper or rather. Father, for dos'ent he get it cheaper in the office. I dont think of any- thing more now but perhaps will by morning. EllaP.S. If you have not sent my list please add Allie Davis* name though I dont know as I shall write to her. Your loving Ella
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Creator: Sylvester, Helen (Seymour)
Date: October 11, 1865
Text: Vassar College - Oct 11th 1865. My dear father, I received your very welcome letter and also the money which was very acceptable indeed- I had begun to think you had forgotten my existence at home I had not received a letter in so long a time. I will try and not send for any more money in a long time but if Mother and James do not answer my letters I will not answer theirs very soon, and Henry must write to me first for 1 have a long list against him of unanswered letters. It is very pleasant...
Show moreVassar College - Oct 11th 1865. My dear father, I received your very welcome letter and also the money which was very acceptable indeed- I had begun to think you had forgotten my existence at home I had not received a letter in so long a time. I will try and not send for any more money in a long time but if Mother and James do not answer my letters I will not answer theirs very soon, and Henry must write to me first for 1 have a long list against him of unanswered letters. It is very pleasant indeed here and I like the School more and more. Two more girls from Miss Kelley's School came here yesterday, the Osborn girls and there are now eleven girls who attended that School. We have not had many rules made yet so we can have about as much liberty about the grounds as we wish- Rev. Thomas K. Bircher of Elmira is going to preach in the College Chapel next Sunday- President Raymond usually preaches and we like him very well- I have become a little acquainted with Emma Helmer cousin Henrietta's "daughter" and like her appearance very much - We have a very fine french teacher here Professor Knapp- We use his grammar and reading book- He was professor of languages in Madison University New York- I am so glad that the house Is getting on well and that you are having gas put in. I wish I could see it. You must write me all about the arrangements very particularly and how it looks. Have you had the Balustrade made yet? I am writing under difficulties- There are some girls in our room and they are talking with all their might so I get somewhat con- fused in my sentences. I hope you will write soon for my correspondence this year is rather limited on account of the rules here. It Is very late now and I must close and If I have not written a long letter I have made the most of my space - I will write just as often as I receive any- Is Henry going to go to Albany or not. And is he going to come this way this fall? Please write soon and till all the others to write to me. Your affectionate daughter Ella. P.S. Dont forget the postage stamps in the next letter.
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Creator: Foster, Frances (Harmon) Miller
Date: October 14, 1865
Text: Vassar College. September 18- 1865 My dear Jen, Very often have my thoughts traveled towards "the setting of the sun" since I have taken up my abode in Vassar but this Saturday is the first day 1 have found to write you* I need not tell you that your card had a hearty welcome from Jane - that you may always know. And now where can I "begin to commence" to "send forth" for your edification, — 1 am again a school-girl in name and truth under law and order as in the...
Show moreVassar College. September 18- 1865 My dear Jen, Very often have my thoughts traveled towards "the setting of the sun" since I have taken up my abode in Vassar but this Saturday is the first day 1 have found to write you* I need not tell you that your card had a hearty welcome from Jane - that you may always know. And now where can I "begin to commence" to "send forth" for your edification, — 1 am again a school-girl in name and truth under law and order as in the days we used to know - but how changed! - Yet Jen I am so contented here - so satisfied - there is not that uneasy restless feeling in my heart which I have before felt ever since s year ago when the object of my life was taken from me. X find in close study and new thoughts the refuge from sadness which X longed for. The first few days X was lonely and strange enough but now X am acquainted with so many and find such good friends among the students and teachers that I am with them at home. X have been here three weeks and over. The last few weeks at home were full of business - until the starting day came on. A concourse of people followed me to the depot consisting of the near friends, Amelia, &c. The train abounded in Warren people so we were not without company as far as Cleveland. We came around by Albany. The ride down the Hudson was perfectly charming. The day was especially beautiful and the scenery along the wayfilled my heart with peacefulness. The hills are as friends to me In their grandeur. 1 went to New York and stayed over night with Marcia at Mr a. Brown's. Wednesday night that was. On Thursday we went out to Central Park and enjoyed exceedingly the many beauties there. We spent four hours there. I was completely lost in admiration but you know Its attractions. On Thursday at three o'clock I left the city and was all alone found myself a stranger among a traveling world with a new future before me. At seven I was put dowa la Poughkeepsie but it being too late for admittance Into the College I helped fill up the Hotel and waited for the morning's light with anxiety. At 8 on Thursday the omnibus appeared marked "Vassar College" and "Mrs. Miller" patronised It. We are two miles from the city so about half past eight I found myself facing the elephant with a fluttering heart. I gave my ducted up four flights of stairs to my sanctum which had been assigned me. Aloae and away from home, no Jen or Amelia around, how desolate for awhile until the Saratoga came, then I had plenty to do unpacking what mother had carefully stowed away. The first day two hundred arrived and they have been coming ever since until now our family numbers three hundred and thirty - excepting Professors, Teachers and their families - There are 340 students accepted for this year. The building is very extensive and fine beautiful within in newness. Our rooms consist ol a Parlor containing a round center table, a "what-not", chairs, with walls of hand finish and wood dark. These Parlors are our study rooms. OH from them are two, three, and sometimes four rooms - for bed chambers. These are nicely furnished with oak furniture - a cottage bedstead, wash-stand, bureau, wardrobe, and a chair - no carpet on the floor, except a strip in front of the bed like the Parlor one. We have a good mattress and plenty of nice accompaniments - are warmed with steam and lighted by gas. We have bathrooms on every floor, also warm and cold water. The College looks so nicely now while new. On the First Floor are the Post-office, chemical rooms and in the back part the kitchens, so well arranged in everything. The second floor. The Parlors, furnished with green and rose colored covered chairs and sofas, marble tops, fee. also the dining room, President's rooms. The Third Floor has the Chapel, Library, Principals Rooms. The Fourth, the Art Gallery and Filth the Cabinets. Then in every floor in each side of the halls are the recitation rooms, more parlors, and the Teachers' rooms. On our Corridor is the Infirmary - in cafe (ol) a Lady Physician, Dr. Avery. I wish I could conduct you, and your very appreciative Father and Mother through our home here. The Art Gallery, Cabinet, and Library are splendid - so complete In beauty and elegance. I could spend hours there studying the new delights - such line paintings and hundreds of specimens. Prof. Tenney, whose Geology we studied is Prof, of Natural History. He is very fine looking sad pleasant, and has given us one lecture. There is a Prof, at the head of each department - and under them lady assistants. Prof. Knappof Madison University is "Captain" of languages. There is one French lady Teacher, Madame Spartan, who has only been imported four months. I am in her class. Miss Lyman is very lovely. She is our Principal, is rather old, her hair is grey, but she has a young lovely face and heart. Pres. Raymond is all that is good and noble. We admire him very much, he is so very high minded - and intelligent * He conducts the chapel services morning and evening, also preaches to us on Sabbath afternoons - Sabbath mornings we have our Bible Classes. I am in Prof. Farrar*s class. They allow those who are communicants to go to the city on Communion Day only - and whenever we go to the city we are not allowed to go without a Teacher. We arise at six and retire at ten - breakfast at seven, dinner, noon, tea, six, an hour allowed for each. We have excellent fare and plenty of every- thing. The tables look nicely with white cloths, silver and white dishes. We are seated at round tables, twelve at a table, and on,e, Teacher. We are to have an organ in the Chapel, back of this are a great many rooms containing each one piano for our practicing - they are very good ones. We make our own beds. Servants do everything else. Every Monday morning we meet our Corridor Teacher and are all obliged to give an analysis of the sermon heard the day before. Other mornings we meet Miss Lyman in the Chapel for twenty minutes, after Chapel service. I am studying French, Chemistry, Rhetoric, Music, and think I shall take writing lessons. Then we are required to practice gymnastics. I have a costume - as allhave * wool dress, hose, waist and bloomers like the dress. X shall not take singing lessons. There Is a skating pond near. We are not in sight of the Hudson, which I regret so much. The Observatory is very fine indeed. They have next to the best telescope in the world. Miss Mitchell Is Prof, of Astronomy. X take it next year. I like her very much and In so many of the Teachers have found warm friends. The scenery around is delightful - hills and mountains. The forests are turning into a deep scarlet and russet brown. I have an east window in my room. The sunsets are glorious here. X have a room- mate from N. York, Miss Helen Phillips - she is pretty, smart, tall, quiet, but very warm hearted. There are three other young ladies in our Parlor whom X like very much. One Is a lame girl, another very beautiful - she commences the regular course, while the third is quiet and good. They are all good, though not professing christians. I am fortunate In being thrown among those whom I can love - but I must not forgot to tell you about tho examinations which were the higher you know. Oct. 14, 1865 - 6 The first week or two was taken up in that delightful way. We all went to Pres. Raymond first. He gave us a list of what we must be examined in. I was pounded in Arlth., Gram., Geog., History, Rhetoric, spelling, also French, and we were obliged to write an essay and hand to the Prof, of English Literature. Well this was all delightful you know. I was so excited and anxious - but X had reviewed my common branches before coming away and I am happy to tell you that I came out of the mill alive and sane. The highest mark was 10. After the examination, Pres. R. read off a long list of names, under mediocrity, and said opposite thosenames was put not fit to enter "Vassar College". He gave them the privilege of being examined over again or of going into Grammar & arlth. on the spot. I was not one of those under the line for which I know you will congratulate me. I succeeded beyond my anticipations in not missing. I am very busy indeed. I fear I will not have much time to write or read but do keep me supplied with letters. I shall see Lou and Will in the winter. I do hope you can go to Warren this winter though you cannot imagine how badly I would feel not to be there. Give so much love to all and I am your ever loving Franc Frances Harmon Miller to Jennie Elizabeth Clark.
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: October 15, 1865
Text: My Dear Father and Mother, I believe Mother said In her last letter that she wished I would either write on larger sheets of paper or else fill two sheets of the smaller. I thought I could not afford the latter so I have borrowed this sheet of Emma and I hope you will be satisfied with the size. Do not be frightened at my writing again so soon perhaps you will not be afflicted with such frequent epistles much longer if I get to studying next week. I have nothing to read to-day that I feel...
Show moreMy Dear Father and Mother, I believe Mother said In her last letter that she wished I would either write on larger sheets of paper or else fill two sheets of the smaller. I thought I could not afford the latter so I have borrowed this sheet of Emma and I hope you will be satisfied with the size. Do not be frightened at my writing again so soon perhaps you will not be afflicted with such frequent epistles much longer if I get to studying next week. I have nothing to read to-day that I feel interested in as I concluded I would try and of all the little odds and ends that I have ommmitted In my other letters, ft has been a very unpleasant day here, rained stormed blew and made everything see as dreary as possible, quite a contrast from last Sunday when I sat by the open window & wrote you. However it Is a little lighter now and X think It Is going to clear off. ft is only the second day It has rained since I have been hare and after such extraordinary beautiful weather It seam almost good to have a "rainy day." I am glad for I was afraid I should gat "blue" and "homesick" when we had any dismal days. Oh you would laugh to hear us count up the days before Thanksgiving and the Holidays. Not that we are homesick but In fact we have not had much to do so far, but think of the good-times coming, I do hope nothing will be opposed to your coming here Thanksgiving for I cannot help looking forward fe hoping for that. I suppose It will seem foolish to you that I begin to think of it so soon but really it seems as though I had been here months instead of weeks although last week has been the shortest of any since X have beea here. I suppose because I have had more to do, which makes me think the time will seem much shorter when we get really at work. I have worked quite a good deal on my embroidery which has beea very pleasaat pastime. I got a pattern of one of the girls which is quite pretty end as it is not much work I should get along very fast if it were not that I spend so much time out of doors. But the lovely days have been such a temptation to stroll, and another and I guess you will agree with me in thinking an even greater inducement, there are so many chestnut trees on the grounds and by taking a short walk we can almost always find at least a double handful. The grounds are very large and in addition to that we used the first week or two to take long walks far beyond the college limits but now we are not allowed to go out of the park though I do not think there was much need of the rule for we will not have time to go any farther than that now I should Judge. Yesterday afternoon Emily, Mary Rhoades and myself went over to call on Miss Natchell. We found her alone and unoccupied so we had a very pleasant time. Her Father came in after a while and I had quite a talk with him. He had Just come in from a walk so I asked him if he walked very much. He said that he had not walked as much as ha usually did or as much as ho liked to but that they had been haying such beautiful weather for observations that he had not exercised as much as he ought. I had noticed the schuttles on the dome of the observatory open for several days and wondered what observations they had been taking so I asked him and he said they had been finding their geographicalposition. Miss Mitchell also said they had been studying Venus. I should like very much to take Astronomy but do not be disappointed Mother when I say I do not think I shall. It would take a great deal of time If I should, more I think than I should be willing to give to it If I am to be here only one year for I should have to go through quite a course of Mathematics before I could take Astronomy proper and I do not think I should care for Mathematical Astronomy much any way. I guess I have about as good an Idea of Astronomy as most girls. Mary does net know yet whether she will take It yet or not. I most go to Chapel —— —— Have Just returned from Church and Indeed It was the most like Church of any service we have had here yet. Mr. Raymond has always preached before and I cannot help It but I do not think him Interesting but to day we had a sermon from Chariee- Thomas H. Beecher and it was excellent. I see as I commence this letter again that I am on the third page and have not yet said any of the things I thought of and expected to when I commenced but It Is always the way when I write to you I find so much to say. Every Sunday morning alter Chapel service we have bible classes which last about an hour. Of course the school has to be devised into different classes, and it Is quite provoking that Mary, Emily and I are all seperated, though Mary Cornell and I are in the same class, namely Prof. Tenney's the one I expect to recite Geology — to. I like him very much indeed and think he will make the class very interesting. We are to study Isaiah. Emily is in Prof. Knapps class and Mary in Mrs Wiman's. Mother said Mrs P Beers had been over to enquire about me. She is very kind and when you see her remember me to her as well as the others and give a great dealof love to "Grandma" Patterson. Tell them I am expecting Mary up to see me every day as I have answered her letter telling her to come. You spoke of Mrs Stowell being sick I am so sorry and to think that Minnie is away. I should think she would be ashamed for you know Col. said there was no need of her going. You must give my love to Mrs Stowell when you see her I am so sorry she is sick. I have been waiting for my list before writing to Julie as I did not want to send the letter home first it would be so much bother and now I am going to write soon if I can only find the time. Mr Beecher was here a short time ago and spent the day and I had quite a conversation with him. He told me that Julie had been quite sick with bilious fever I think he said but was better when he left. It is strange so many of the Stowells have been sick is it not? There are not any more sick here I guess than might be expected in so large a school, and none that are seriously so* There are quite a good many that have colds and I of course among the rest, though 1 cannot tell to save me where I can have got it. Unless the damp foggy mornings may be bad. Sometimes the fog will be so thick that we cannot see the observatory from our window and it will not clear away until nine o'clock. Of course we do not go out but the air in the house even seems damp. They are building the Gymnasium now and expect to have it done in about three months they say. It is not quite as far from the College as the Observatory and on the other side. — —How strange that Mrs Tolfre and Sarah are boarding at the Clinton House. Louise wrote me they were but did not say how it happened. Why do they wish to sell their house? Tell Chick to hurry up and send her Photo. She said In her last letter she was going to have some taken and I forgot to say anything about it in my answer. I wish I had more of my Photos, for I did not even bring this little Album full and the rest of the girls have so many more and besides I find I miss some of them myself. What do you say to sending one or two each time you write if there is room. It does not make much difference what ones only the best looking and you know it will be almost like new receiving them in such a way. Mr and Mrs Williams have promised me theirs and I wish I had them. U you see them you must give them my love* How are the Esty's and all the other neighbors ? You must remember me to all especially Mrs Treman and Lizzie. You will think Emily and I are both hard up for paper from this piece but we neither of us noticed this hole until I had got the first page. We did not know but you might think we were most starved and had bitten this piece out it is such a funny shape so I have explained. In Father's letter her said he had heard a rumor that Mr White was not going to accept. I am so anxous to hear, and whether Mr Bartlett is going to Trumansburg fe when? I am getting very impatient for some of my callers to come. I am so anxous to see Mr Wilkenson and Mr McChain. Emma hasjust said she thinks Mother will have a job to read this and I think so too so I will try to stop though as you have perhaps seen I find it hard work. Have you seen the baby yet and Is it pretty and what has Aunt Eliza named it? You have forgotten to tell me. Are Grand mother and Lizzie with you yet if so give them ever so much love. I took a splendid bath to-day. I think you will have to get a bathing place fixed by the time I come home or I dont believe I can hardly stand it for I enjoy it so much taking them here. And now dont say I have not written you one good long letter at least and dont forget that you owe an answer for I shall remember the latter longest. The cookies are most gone but they have been splendid. I am getting so I eat most everything, only think I eat bread and syrup for tea. But I must stop. Write soon. Give my love to all my friends. Ever your loving daughter Ellen. I sand this piece of paper to see if it reminds Father of anything. It made me laugh.
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Creator: Houts (Glidden), Annie
Date: October 17, 1865
Text: Vassar College, Thurs. Oct. 17, 1865. My dear Brother, I came in yesterday, from my class, at the time the letters are distributed, and looked anxiously around for one. Not see- ing any, X was just about to "resign my-self to my fate," when I heard my room-mate say "You hateful girl, you, to get three letters." I was quite astonished, myself, especially, when 1 found one was from you. It was quite refreshing to hear from you, and I hope you will favor me often in that way,...
Show moreVassar College, Thurs. Oct. 17, 1865. My dear Brother, I came in yesterday, from my class, at the time the letters are distributed, and looked anxiously around for one. Not see- ing any, X was just about to "resign my-self to my fate," when I heard my room-mate say "You hateful girl, you, to get three letters." I was quite astonished, myself, especially, when 1 found one was from you. It was quite refreshing to hear from you, and I hope you will favor me often in that way, for it will be a great favor to me. You speak of being very anxious to know what year I will enter. That will probably not be known until the catalogue is made out. But I think, if I take the regular course, I am in for three years anyway and maybe four. In Latin, I am reading "Cicero," in Mathe- matics I am in the highest class in the college But don't imagine from that that it is very high, for we are studying Geometry. They will have no juniors nor seniors this year. There goes the dinnerbell and I must leave you.French of course I am beginning, and my other study is English Grammar, not having passed the examination in that. But we have the chance to be examined every Sat. morning and when we get nine, on a scale of ten, we can be excused from the class. X have been to Poughkeepsie but once, since I've been here, and then I had a dress fit and got a few things, managed to spend all my money, any-way, though I didn't get much. But my books have cost quite a little sum. I should say ten or twelve dollars, and I still owe a dollar seventy-five for my French grammar. I'll have to get me a hood for winter, Oct. 11. 1868 - 568 a pair of shoes, and X want to get some delaine and have a warm dressing- gown made to wear evenings, also we want to get an easy chair, lounge, drop-light, and a few other things to make our room look more homelike, and be more comfortable, so the conclusion of this long rigmarole is, that I would like you to send me some money, if you please. We have very good eating here, everything is well-cooked and there is plenty of it. My room- mate is Helen Thomas of Utica. She is a very pleasant girl, and is just aswitty as she can be. She makes fun for all of us; some evenings here, we have some real gay times. She is talking of leaving the room, but I will try and tease her to stay, but if she does go I am going to ask Miss Lyman to let me keep my room alone, but I dont expect she will, for it is a double room. The professors have parts of the building set apart fro themselves, and they are as much to them-selves, as if they were in a private house. Miss Mitchell has charge of the Observatory and teaches Astronomy. The advantages here are so good for that study I think I shall pursue it, though not at present. They have a laboratory and complete apparatus for Chemistry and Natural Philosophy, a fine cabinet for Geology, and a great many stuffed and other specimens for Natural History. Are you staying at Mr. Bell's now? I thought you spoke as though you were. I was very glad to hear he had arrived safely at home. W ell, I don't think 1 can spare any more time from my studies, so I guess I will say good-evening to you. Give my love ever so much to Mary, and keep a good share for your-self. Now do write soon to me. Your aff Nov. 15, 1874 - 569 sister - Annie Friday morning. Dear John, I've nothing more particular to say, but I had a little spare time to write, and so thought I would finish out this page. They have a very good library here, but I dont expect to have much time to read. I will have time vacation. By the way, they are going to char £ ,e seven dollars and a half a week for those who stay here vacation. I have been surprised at myself, how little home-sick I have been, but I guess the secret of it is, I dont have time. I have not seen a paper since here I've been. Johnson and all his cabinet might be assassinated and Washington burned, and I dont believe we would hear of it. A Cin. or Ports, paper, would be very acceptable, if you would send them. The time for rising is six, but we almost always arise at six, so as to have an hour to study before breakfast. That meal is now ready, so I will again say good-bye. Your loving sister, Annie M. Glidden (Annie (Glidden) Houts, '69,
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Creator: Arnzen, Laura Earl
Date: Oct. 22, 1865
Text: Vassar Oct. 22nd 1865. My Dear Carrie and Abbie, I received your long-expected and welcome letter only yesterday and hasten to answer it hoping you will not be long in writing next time for I think you ought to be good to pay me for my writing to you so often last winter - so be good in future my dear children and your reward shall be great. But honestly girls I want you to think about it and decide to come back. Write me after Christmas. I know you would like the school and X am sure If you...
Show moreVassar Oct. 22nd 1865. My Dear Carrie and Abbie, I received your long-expected and welcome letter only yesterday and hasten to answer it hoping you will not be long in writing next time for I think you ought to be good to pay me for my writing to you so often last winter - so be good in future my dear children and your reward shall be great. But honestly girls I want you to think about it and decide to come back. Write me after Christmas. I know you would like the school and X am sure If you Intend to go away to school you ought to go this winter, just think of waiting a whole year longer and then going away for a year. Just think you won't get out of school In time to take any comfort at all. I feel now so old to be coming to school and as though I should be too old to do anything but knit stockings on account of the falling eyesight that comes on with age. I do so wish you would decide to come back with me. I think you would enjoy it although of course It Is very quiet but all the girls, or at least the greater part are very pleasant indeed and I have made so many pleasant acquaintances. The only time I really wish I was at home is rainy Sundays and I get letters telling of some grand time just passed or else la process of preparing. I don't doubt you had a nice time over to Dartmouth. I should like to have been with you much. I having been once or twice on similar festivities can judge something what kind of a time you had but how could you be so harsh as to tell me that Fred Gentleman Fred was lost to me at least forever, and that without one word of preparation. It was cruel and I have barely rallied from the shock and there is bat little left of me. (by the way I was weighed a day or two ago and weighed 123£ lbs. which Is six and a half pounds more than I ever weighed before in my life.) how you could have been so inconsiderate I can't Imagine. I never would have been so harsh if it had been your case. last imagine my disappointment. Oh well - let as be patient these severe afflictions sometimes prove to be our greatest blessing and it may be so la this case. Bat I can readily account for the you behaved fact that you behave better on your Smiths Mills Expedition because I was not there which mast have produced a good effect. Long life to sofa - and a long and oh a sad farewell to the same. Weddings still continue to be the rage la F.R. it seems. How I pity those poor girls who not succeeding in catching a beau were obliged to go away to school in order to conceal their despair. I can sympathize deeply with them. Did you know by the way that Will Hooper won't go to Mary Hathaway's wedding. Libbie was one of the bridesmaids and I should think that they might have had H. for her attendant. Perhaps they did but I did not hear so. And so Mr. Bateman and his gray horse have again appeared upon the stage of activities. What blissful emotions you must have experienced when you saw him la the dim distance gradually drawing nearer and nearer - and a friend, too. I don't believe you properly appreciate the honor conferred upon you. My studies now are fairly under way. I have taken French, German, Algebra and am for the present reviewing Arithmetic. and not a day passes without there being more or less visitors. Then too a good many young gentlemen come to walk over the grounds, young ones, and we flirt horridly with them. Although today has been the Sabbath there has been a busy time in that time and I've sat by the window, bowed, waved my handkerchief fee till I was positively tired and retired from the window more than satisfied by my day's work. I have not been down into Poughkeepsie since I have been here because we can't go without a teacher and as I have had a chance to send down for anything I wanted and could only go by having a teacher trot around with me I did not feel very particular about it - I mean to try it however in a week or two and see if I can't get lost from the teacher some of the gidiare so [unfortunate] sometimes and well when they get lost of course they try to enjoy themselves as much as possible under the circumstances. They are not to blame for that of course. How do you like the idea of Hubby coming - how I see you all hiding your diminished heads. I don't see how you came to consent to It. I had no idea she would teach Mary again - I hope you will both bear up under the trouble bravely and I must say that I fully coincide with the conclusion expressed in your final sentence. I don't care if she does have more attention from some people I don't think it is worth the minding. Don't I wish I was over the river with you. I should not be surprised if we could manage to enjoy ourselves passably well and also think it possible that we might find something to talk about for the space of five minutes at least. By the way in my last letter did I describe my room and the College also to you if not I will in my next letter for I want you to have some idea of how I am situated but I was not sure whether I had done so or not and I thought It would be rather uninteresting for you if I should describe it for your benefit twice over. As for my letters you need not fear their reading them, they don't have time nor an opportunity to do it for we get the mail as soon as it comes In direct from the Office. We go off on long walks, nutting and after apples. We can go to such places without having a teacher trotting around with us, and then we play Croquet a good deal but not with nice partners as X have played with no gentry and for some reason or other it was not so much fun. Strange wasn't it. Can you imagine any reason for the fact. I hope you will write me very soon again and I hope you will excuse this uninteresting letter but we have scarce any news out of the College and that isn't interesting for you but do tell me all the news. I shall be grateful even if I cannot repay it. With much love to you both and to your Mother Mary also. I remain your affectionate friend Laura Arnzen [continued from page 4, "reviewing Arithmetic…"] I was not obliged by my examination to take up the latter study but I did not want to leave school without a mere thorough knowledge of some parts than I possess but my teacher does not wish me to continue It She says it is a mere waste of time and thinks I had better take another study in its place. Whether I shall or not I have not yet quite decided. The lessons in all the studies are generally very long and there is some complaint but not much. And the girls like all the teachers very much. There are over thirty teachers and Professors. We can scarcely move without running into one - but among all the Professors there is not a marriageable man, every one is married. They have put us out of the way of temptation quite thoroughly but as the college is a new one there is a great deal of curiosity felt about it among people [Laura Earl Arnsen* spec. '65-66, To Caroline E. and Abigail L« Slade, both spec. '65-66.]
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: October 24, 1865
Text: My Dear Mother I received your letter of the 21st yesterday noon and one from Chick today. I have only a few minutes to write this evening as it is almost ten o'clock but I am going to write as much as possible for fear I shall not have time to finish this to morrow evening if I do not. I have been studying all this evening & the other girls have been either studying or writing. You would have laughed if you could have seen Emily and I. Immediatly after our private devotion hour...
Show moreMy Dear Mother I received your letter of the 21st yesterday noon and one from Chick today. I have only a few minutes to write this evening as it is almost ten o'clock but I am going to write as much as possible for fear I shall not have time to finish this to morrow evening if I do not. I have been studying all this evening & the other girls have been either studying or writing. You would have laughed if you could have seen Emily and I. Immediatly after our private devotion hour which is just after supper and lasts until a little after seven, Emily and I took off our clothes and put on our "Glm" dresses and then we each turned a chair over, so that the back slanted down to the floor (you will know how) and then we put pillows on them and our water proofs and shawls and we have been reclining on our make-believe "lounges" all the evening studying I say studying for I, have been studying real hard and have got my lessons pretty good I guess, but Emma gave up in the early part of the evening and has been sleeping as sound as could be in such is sleeping yet down on the floor just behind me though I guess it is about time I bundled her off to bed. Wed. eve. 8-1/4 o'clock. Just as I had got that written last evening Nellie came In from one of the rooms and commenced talking to me and before she had finished the bell rang and 1 had to wake Emily up and we had to undress partly in the dark as the lights have to be put out when the bell rings. I have commenced writing this evening earlier than usual but my lessons are not quite as bard as usual and besides I am going to try and stop writing in time to study a little more. About five o'clock this afternoon it was so pleasant and I had not been out of doors to day and knew I ought to exercise some, so I proposed a walk to sun-set hill which Is not a very great distance from the house. So Nellie, Emily, and myself started. We went once before but It was so windy we could not stay long enough to see the sun set, but to-night it was perfectly quiet though rather cold, though we hardly counted the last as an objection as we were rather late and Nellie and I ran most of the way for fear we would be to late. Em. was with some of the other girls. We got there just la time and a more beautiful sight I never saw. Just below us were the buildings and grounds of Vassar College with groups of girls wandering here and there, the whole lighted up by the last brilliant rays of the sun. In the distance lay Po'keepsie. The river was not visible but even had it beea I do not know that 1 should have looked at it for Just beyond rose the Catskills and I behind their clearly defined summits the sun was just sinking in all its glory. I never saw any thing more glorious. It seemed a ball of fire and every tree on the hill top this side of it was as clearly defined as if printed on canvass. But 1 cannot do it justice. I only wish you could have been here to see it. I was very tired when I arrived here again but X felt repaid for my exertion and I presume I am not as sleepy this evening as I should otherwise have been. We have got quite regularly to studying now and so far I have got along very well. I recite Geology and Zoology alternately every day from 11 till nearly 12. Rheteol♦ French from two until nearly three and Rhetoric from that time until nearly four. The German Class has not been arranged yet and Emily does not think she will take it when it is. A number say they will not take it because they think the teacher is not a good one. I hardly know what to do. What do you say, I want to study it some time. I think I shall like Rhetoric very much for al-though I think Prof. Buckum is going to be pretty strict I like him so far very much. I imagine I have done pretty well so far in the class for I think there has not been a day yet that I have not had something to say and for the first two or three it was all volunteered reciting. To day on the subject of "objections to Rhetoric" he asked for some examples and I asked him about a lawyer taking the part of his client and proving him innocent when he might know he was guilty. Em. laughed at me for giving that example. I like Geology and Zoology very much so far and I hope to find it as interesting all the way. Prof. Tenney prophesies that it will be. We have a very large class, between 50 and 60 I should think. Mollis Bartlett was up here to call day before yesterday to call, we had a very pleasant time. She said Mr Bartlett had been off for several weeks on a journey on horse back but that they expected him home this week I think she said. She also said she thought Mr Wilkinson would be in Po'keepsie again soon as he is to sail the first of Nov. and I think he will be up here if he comes* I was very much pleased with the picture you sent of Mr Torrey You could not have sent one that would have pleased me better* I hardly know what ones to tell you to send. I only want two or three to fill my Album and they are more to show the girls than any thing. I would rather you would pick out any pretty one but if you cannot think of any Mr Van R. and Mary's or Charlie Sherwood (several here know him) or Ed Server etc. I shall look for a paper by to-morrow or next day. I enjoy them so much. Oh I was so delighted at what you wrote me. about Father's getting the nomination as Judge. I know how happy he must be and I thoroughly appreciate his feeling and glad on his account. How very much I wish 1 might be home to be with you Mother when he is away, but let us hope the time will soon come when I may and then I hope X may prove a more profitable companion than I have ever been before. Oh dear, I do want to see you so much already* what will it be before the time comes when I may? There may be some things I have forgotten if so I will add in the morning. I must close now so good-night. Emily sends love. Please write as often and as much as you can for I look for letters so anxiously and feel so disappointed when I do not get anything. Love to all. From your affectionate daughter, EllenI am very glad you spoke of Aunt Emily and I will try and write to her soon. If I knew where to direct I could send it from here. You spoke of seeing "Mame" Phillpps. Didnt you mean Amelia? Give her my love if you see her again. I wish I could have been home to fix Lizzie's pretty little doll you told about. Give her lots of kisses from Cousin Ella if she is with you yet. Excuse mistakes for I have not had time to look this over. With love Ella
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Creator: Sylvester, Helen (Seymour)
Date: October 24, 1865
Text: Vassar College Oct 24th 1865 My dear father I suppose you are very busy just now finishing up the house and preparing to commence at the furnace. I do wish you would hurry off Henry to Norfolk. I am afraid he will not go till Christmas if you do not. It is just as pleasant as can be here except on Sundays when we have to stay at the college and listen to a Sermon from president Raymond. I do wish there could be some way provided for us to go to Poughkeepsie to Church, but we have to pay 40...
Show moreVassar College Oct 24th 1865 My dear father I suppose you are very busy just now finishing up the house and preparing to commence at the furnace. I do wish you would hurry off Henry to Norfolk. I am afraid he will not go till Christmas if you do not. It is just as pleasant as can be here except on Sundays when we have to stay at the college and listen to a Sermon from president Raymond. I do wish there could be some way provided for us to go to Poughkeepsie to Church, but we have to pay 40 cents if we go in the "bus" and cannot often get permissionto go on any condition. Indeed it is very impossible to get permission. I have not been since I have been here. We have heard Mr Beecher (T.K.). My roommate Clare Spaulding is one of his congregation in Elmira and so went to take tea with him- He stayed at Prof Farrars, one of the professors. The salaries of the teachers &cd perhaps you would be interested in knowing I found them out by one of the professors. President Raymond has six thousand dollars. Miss Lyman the lady principal has three thousand, each of the professors 2 thousand and the assistants $450. It is the best place here to learn languages I ever was in. I am studying French German Geology and Zoology and Music. I wish I could just step in upon you and see the house and the gas. It Is so nice here to have gas. We have it In our bedroom as well as in our sitting room. I am sure I do not know what we have to use Shakespeare and Milton for, but I suppose they will come in time into use. The examination was what I dreaded most and that I have passed through and fortunately do not have to take geography arithmetic Gram- mar Algebra or Rhetoric, which some do, rather to their disgust. There are so many girls here it is a long time before we get acquainted with them. They are here from everywhere - almost. Some from Kansas and one from California - San Francisco. A good many come from New York and Brooklyn. Next room to us is Mary Cornell daughter of Ezra Cornell who is Union candidate for State Senator and who has given five hundred thousand dollars to build an agricultural College. Miss Robinson daughter of Prof Robinson the Mathematician is here, and there is a young widow here. She is only 22 though those are all the very distinguished characters here. Mr Vassar has three neices at school here. Two from Poughkeepsie one from Auburn. I am quite lost without my usual correspondents I hardly get a letter in two weeks now. I am so very busy I do not miss them as much as I did now. Two of my roommates have gone since I wrote the first part of my letter. Clara Spauldings father has been here to-day and she has gone with him to New York to see her sister who Is at school there. Libby Anderson has gone to Poughkeepsie to visit. This is the second time she has been. Mary Woodruff and Sarah Lawson are here though, but it made me feel very homesick to think I could not go too. I wish I could see you all. Tell me how you are getting along. Your affectionate daughter Helen.
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Creator: Sylvester, Helen (Seymour)
Date: October 27, [1865?]
Text: Vassar College - Poughkeepsle Oct 27th [1865?] My dear Mother I have not received a letter from you since I have been here. I suppose the reason is that you have not written and I suppose you have no time to write. I do hope you will not try and do some of your wonderful days work. Have you no girl yet? I wish I was at home to see how you are getting along and help, and more than all to go to church Sunday at home. It is perfectly forlorn here Sundays. We have to go to Bible class in the...
Show moreVassar College - Poughkeepsle Oct 27th [1865?] My dear Mother I have not received a letter from you since I have been here. I suppose the reason is that you have not written and I suppose you have no time to write. I do hope you will not try and do some of your wonderful days work. Have you no girl yet? I wish I was at home to see how you are getting along and help, and more than all to go to church Sunday at home. It is perfectly forlorn here Sundays. We have to go to Bible class in the morning that is pleasant for we have such a nice teacher - Prof Tenney. Inthe afternoon we go into the Chapel to listen to a Sermon from president Raymond, and he is generally rather dry. Mr Corning who writes for the Independent, preaches at the Congregational church in Poughkeepsie. I think they will have to make some provision before the year is over so the girls can go to church for they are so dissatisfied. Wont you tell Henry and Father not to forget to send me the Republic. It is almost as good as a letter for it comes from home and it is so little trouble to send it. When is Henry going to Norfolk? I wish I could go with him. He is only going to stay a little while I suppose, and it would do me so much good. I mean it would make me feel better, and the trouble is when will I go if I do not go now? It will not be much out of school. However if you do not wish me to go I wish you would have Henry stop when he comes and when he goes home. James has given me quite a graphic description of the way in which you have fixed the rooms that are finished. Have you got a minister yet? Have they succeeded in getting Mr Brown? I expect you will have a minister when I return. They are building a riding school and Gymnasium here I do not think it will be done very soon though. They say it will be done in sixty days as they can use it when the walls are up and the roof on. You must remember me to Mrs Walker and Mr & Mrs Norton and Fanny. If Mrs Walker is going to Albany I will call on her Thanksgiving when I go there. They are entirely too strict here about the girls writing letters receiving calls and visiting their friends in Poughkeepsie. All the girls are dis- satisfied with them and I do not think they can be so strict long. Miss Lyman is from Montreal and is very "English" in her notions. Tell Henry if he wants me to finish the remainder of his afghan he must bring me some money to buy the worsted when he comes to see me. I will get it at New York. Clara Spaulding one of my roommates is makinga beautiful one. I am making mine after the same style. Do write to me soon and tell me what you are doing. Your affectionate daughter Ella
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: October 29, 1865
Text: My Dear Mother, I wrote to Aunt Emily yesterday as you will see from the enclosed and X have left it unsealed that If you wish you may read it and you may find something new in it. I was very much disappointed yesterday that I did not get either a letter or paper from you. I felt more anxous after the letter I got from Louise Beers yesterday morning. She spoke of several things in such a way as only to excite my surprise and enquiry and seemed to take it for granted that I understood and knew...
Show moreMy Dear Mother, I wrote to Aunt Emily yesterday as you will see from the enclosed and X have left it unsealed that If you wish you may read it and you may find something new in it. I was very much disappointed yesterday that I did not get either a letter or paper from you. I felt more anxous after the letter I got from Louise Beers yesterday morning. She spoke of several things in such a way as only to excite my surprise and enquiry and seemed to take it for granted that I understood and knew all about it. For instance she mentioned the death of Miss Seely's brother and that Miss Seely was quite sick. Which brother was it? The one that had the Photo. Gallery? and which Miss Seely is sick? She also said that "Arthur Johnson's death was very sudden." that was all she said about it and Mary and I are very anxous to know which Arthur J. it was and what was the matter with him. Shealso spoke of several who were injured at the time of the rail-road accident and if it had not been for a letter which Mary received from Flora Dowe saying there had been a rail-road accident I should not have known what she had reference to. As it is we have not heard the particulars at all and are very anxous for information. Our friends do not seem to understand that we are perfectly shut up here and do not see even a New York paper so that we depend wholly on you, and never be afraid of giving full details because you think some one else may have written about it. I shall be sure always to find something new. We girls have talked some of clubbing together and subscribing for a N.Y. paper. W e do want to know so much what is going on in the world outside. What do you think of it? Louise said you were away the day she wrote, attending the wedding of Emma Davis. Dont fail to tell me all about it please. Mary Cornell told me yesterday that she had heard through a letter that Allie Davis was quite sick with the fever. I am quite impatient to hear if she is much sick. You see now I have given you subject matter for quite a large part of your next letter so dont forget to satisfy me. We are having lovely weather here yet. Mild and pleasant but I do not have the time to enjoy it that I did at first for my studies take up nearly all my time now. I expect to commence my German this week as the class has been organized but where I am to find time to study it I hardly see now. I am afraid my Geology and Zoology are going to take up more time than I expected but I dont think I would give either of them up for anything. In the latter part of the after-noon yesterday Emma Colby came in to see Emma fe I about the Geology and Zooology lessons which we all agreed were very hard and we thought it could not be that Prof. Tenney wished us to learn it all so we decided to go and make him a call at his "house" and ask him about it. So we succeeded in finding our way to his quarters. which are on the same floor as our rooms. Mrs Tenney came to the door, at our knocking and admitted us Into a very pleasant parlor furnished with easy chairs and a nice lounge all of which were of course as great wonders to our unaccostomed eyes. Mr Tenney was engaged in preparing a book which he intends to publish soon It is a work on Zoology. He laid aside his work as we came in and as It was almost dusk said he hoped we would not think he was setting us an example in working so late, he then explained to us what he wished us to commit in the lessons so that they will be much easier to learn. Then he and Mrs Tenney urged us to sit down and stay with them a while so we were soon enjoying the luxury of easy seats and a pleasanter half hour I have hardly ever passed. I sat near Mrs Tenney and talked almost entirely with her. She was very pleasant indeed. She said she thought this a very nice place for scholars and Professors but for Prof's wives it was rather lonesome. I told her she must come and see me and she promised to do so. She has one little girl about eight years old and a little boy 20 months old. He was the smartest little fellow I most ever saw and they both seemed very fond of him as of course they would be. He could tell the names of all the animals his Father showed him and as the Prof, said had got just about as far as we have in the class. That is to say, the names of orders, classes, etc. They seemed quite anxous to have us come again and I shall love to do so most dearly for It seemed the most like home of any place I had been In since I left my own. I did not Intend to write so much when I commenced for I do not think you deserve a very long letter as I have not heard from you since the first of last week but I have been led on from one subject to another. I must stop now in order to dress for dinner. I hope X shall have a good long letter from you soon and dont Father have any time to write. I love to hear from him so much. I told Louise to tell you about sending my Besique cards. We all want them so much you cannot send them by Mrs Rhoades cannot you send the box by post. Mrs Rhoades sent Mary a book which only cost twelve cents. I do wish you could come here Thanksgiving we would have such a nice time. Give my love to all enquiring friends and believe me ever Your loving daughter Ellen
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: November 1,1865
Text: Dear Father & Mother, It Is almost nine o'clock and alter studying hard all this evening It looks rather formidable to commence a letter on such a large sheet of paper but It Is the first I took up and I Intend to write as fast as possible so If you find lots of mistakes please made allowances. It will not be any great wonder If you find German letters or words before you finish this, for I am at present In the delightful (?) maae of that outlandish language. But I dont need to speak...
Show moreDear Father & Mother, It Is almost nine o'clock and alter studying hard all this evening It looks rather formidable to commence a letter on such a large sheet of paper but It Is the first I took up and I Intend to write as fast as possible so If you find lots of mistakes please made allowances. It will not be any great wonder If you find German letters or words before you finish this, for I am at present In the delightful (?) maae of that outlandish language. But I dont need to speak In that way of It for I really think after I get well started I shall like It. Today is the secoad time we have recited and Nellie and I have been trying to get our lesson this evening and have been laughing too I assure you at the various sounds we producedWe have quite a large class and recite to Mme. Sparton. She Is the queerest old thing you ever saw and I would describe her if it were possible but I can only wait until I get home and then perhaps I can give you some Idea of what she Is like. Suffice it to say at present that she has only been In this country a few months and of course Is rather queer She told one of the girls the other day to "extinguish" the black-board. I don't know how I shall like her In German but I guess pretty well after I get accostomed to her. I have to study pretty hard now but hope to get along with what I have taken. Mother wanted to know In one of her letters I believe which of my studies I liked best but I can hardly say I like them all so much. I like Geology It Zoology very much hut I dont know that I like them much better than Rhetoric for Professor Buckum makes that so pleasant and Emma Ik Nellie are both in that class. Nellie is the only one out of our room in the German as Emma has decided not to take it. I received a splendid long letter of ten pages to-day from Kate. I was perfectly delighted for she told me all about the wedding and every so much else I wanted to know. Tell her I will try and answer it soon. I also received your letters yesterday. I was very much pleased for I was expecting to hear from you. The Photos, were very acceptable. I am expecting my Atlantic tomorrow, it will seem so good to get It. Mary had a letter from her Mother a few days ago and I believe she is not to send her dress as soon as she expected. I think Mother if I had a piece of black velvet I could put It over the crown of my jockey and It would look much better. As Nellie Dickson has fixed hers in that way and many wear black velvet ones. I think then I could wear it until I come home In the Holidays. It would look better III had a plume for It I suppose Emma I believe thinks of fixing hers some way with black ones. Please write soon and tell me what you think best and send anything you may think best. I believe you wished to know whether we have good living. It is excellent. Ol the best quality, well cooked and all we can eat and more, often than we ought to. We usually have beef-steak or lamb-chops etc. with potatoes, brown and white bread and very often corn-bread which is always excellent. We always have coffey for breakfast. For dinner to-day we did not have as much as usual. We had reas* be soupe, roast beef, boiled potatoes, hominy with bread etc.' We did not have any desert but we almost always do. The warning bell has just rung and I must prepare for bed. So good night.-— I am already for bed and while waiting for the last bell to ring will add a few more words. About supper. We have brown and white bread and every once in a while nice biscuits like those we used to have occasionally at the Clinton House, not soda. You need not be afraid we will suffer from poor living The only trouble the girls are beginning to complain that they are getting too fat. We had ice-cream for dinner last Sunday and as much as we could eat It is the third time. There Is the last bell. ——— It is about six o'clock and all the girls are up (in this room) in order to study. We have had one of the girls in another room who always rises early come and wake us at five every morning this week. Was not the accident on the steamer St. John terriable I did not hear of it until Tuesday night. See what the effect of not having papers is. I was delighted to hear about my room and especially that you have that cunning little stove. I think it will be very nice. I was surprised to hear you do not expect to keep Jennie but I hope you will succeed in finding another to suit you. I must stop writing now for I have a hard Zoology lesson to learn. We recite to-day and he is to lecture again to-morrow. Please write as often as possible and tell me all you are doing. I wish I could be with you to read that work by the Schonjfberg Gatter Family. You must write me how you like it. Give my love to all my friends and believe Ever your loving daughter Ellen. There is a Miss Butler here, a relation of the Butlers and Conrads in Ithaca.
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Creator: Sylvester, Helen (Seymour)
Date: November 5, 1865
Text: Vassar College Nov 5th 1865- Dear Mother I received your letter and was very glad indeed to get it. I am very busy and have very little time to write or even keep up my acquaintance with the few friends I have made here in the College. How X should like to see the house now; it must look very nicely. I suppose you have put the furniture in and arranged it. If I had not such splendid girls for roommates I should be dreadfully homesick here sometimes. They are mostly girls that you like better...
Show moreVassar College Nov 5th 1865- Dear Mother I received your letter and was very glad indeed to get it. I am very busy and have very little time to write or even keep up my acquaintance with the few friends I have made here in the College. How X should like to see the house now; it must look very nicely. I suppose you have put the furniture in and arranged it. If I had not such splendid girls for roommates I should be dreadfully homesick here sometimes. They are mostly girls that you like better every day you know them. I wish I could be certain about Henry's going to Norfolk, but I never knew him to start for a place in less than a week after he said he would. You don't know the perfect dreariness of a day even spent here with all you arrangements made to go and everyone else going about you. Do have him start two or three days in advance. My roommates are all going away to stay from Thanksgiving till the next Monday and I do not fancy staying here in my room all alone. Llbby Anderson has been a way twice to Poughkeepsie and stayed from Friday night till Monday morning and Clara Spauldlng went to New York and stayed till Monday. One of the times they were both away together and it was perfectly dreary. I had no idea that two would make such a difference and what I should do if I had to stay here alone I do not know. I should think I might go away Thanksgiving as long as I am to be alone. If the girls were to be here I should not care so much but a disappointment here is quite a different thing from one at home. If Henry has any objections to my going to Albany I would like to have him write to me and state them and I will see if they are worth consideration. I do not think it is an unreasonable request for you said I might go there often while I was here. To-day I went to church in Poughkeepsie and it is the first time I have been out of the College grounds since 1 have been here and I probably shall not go out again unless X go to Albany or New York. Netta has invited me and I have not answered her yet. I have been very well so far, but am very tired at night. I never saw such a place for long lessons and there are some very smart girls here too. I shall be very glad indeed to have the barrel of apples. We do not have any apples here, but we can send down town and buy them at the rate of $5. dollars a bushel, and it takes my money too much to do that much. Do not put any russets in I never liked them but put in Spitzenbergs. I have no room in my closet but I have got permission to put them in one of the empty rooms of the Professors houses, In our wing of the College and in order to get them to the right place, direct to "Charles F. Farrar". Vassar College, Poughkeepsie. Be sure and send them the girls in our room are delighted at the thought of having them. We do not have any at all and they will taste very nice. I am so afraid you will overwork yourself. Why dont you get some one to help you till Christmas? I do not know when the vacation will begin but will write as soon as I find out. Henry cannot be too expeditious in settling up his business however I believe we are to have as much as two weeks. Write soon to me Give my love to Henry and Father. Has cousin Mary Anne moved? I wrote to Lizzie but have not received an answer. Your affectionate daughter Ella.
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: November 8, 1865
Text: My Dear Parents* I am so sleepy and tired to-night that I dont know whether I can write a decent letter to-night or not but I have quite a good many things to say so will try and keep my eyes open a while. Perhaps you will say I am generally sleepy or tired when I commence letters to you as I believe I have made it an excuse before but you will accept it I think to-night when I tell you that X got up this morning at half past five and have been studying nearly all the time since, except when...
Show moreMy Dear Parents* I am so sleepy and tired to-night that I dont know whether I can write a decent letter to-night or not but I have quite a good many things to say so will try and keep my eyes open a while. Perhaps you will say I am generally sleepy or tired when I commence letters to you as I believe I have made it an excuse before but you will accept it I think to-night when I tell you that X got up this morning at half past five and have been studying nearly all the time since, except when reciting. I was very much delighted yesterday on receiving your letters 4th & 5th and also the Atlantic. I was hardly expecting to get any letter as I received Mothers of the 3rd Monday and I was afraid she would not write again so soon. I dont know when X have enjoyed a letter more than Father's. I am ever so much obliged for all the little particulars which were very pleasing. I am very much obliged for that poetry and it came very opportunely for we have Just got to Poetry in Rhetoric and after the class I took it to Prof. Buckum and let him read it. After he had finished it he asked if that was my Fathers writing and gave it quite a compliment. One of the girls in the Rhetoric class has it now to copy and it is promised to another afterwards so you can see how much it is appreciated. I must not forget to tell you that I took my first lesson in Drawing to day. I think I am going to like it more than I ever did if possible, the only trouble I cannot give half the time to It I should like to. The Studio is so pleasant and the pictures and statues so fine I should like to draw all the time I believe. We are to take lessons three times a week and for about an hour and we are at liberty to draw at any other time when we please. My period is from 9 until 10 in the morning. I think I shall like Mr. Van Ingen very much and he has so few scholars in each period that he can pay each of us quite a good deal of attention. He is a foreigner of some kind I think. He allows me to go right on from where I was, (I showed him one of my drawing which he said was very well done) and I am now drawing quite a large picture of the Godess of Liberty. I like it very much. I had nearly all the things that were necessary of course but I find the most need of a knife. You know I spoke of it when you was here but I suppose you have forgotten to send it. I have often wanted one at odd times but when I could do without it and so have never thought to write about it but now I need one every time I take a lesson. I wish you could get this in time to send one of mine by Mary's things. Will it be best to get one or borrow of one of the girls until Christmas? I am getting so I like German very well and think in time I may prefer it to French. I had a call yesterday from one of our relations in Po'keepsie. DeLand I guess. Was'ent it? or something like that. She spoke of an Annie Stoddard living with them whom I should come and see. She came up to see Prof. Farrar about getting a situation here but as efce he was out at first she asked for me. I was quite well pleased with her and she gave me a very cordial invitation for* to come and see them. I have not had much time yet to read the Atlantic but have found it interesting so far. They expect to start a news room here in a few weeks I hear so there will be no necessity of our taking a dally paper but I should like it very much if you would take the Independent and send it to me now. I trust you will excuse me if I do not write more I should have hardly had time for this much had it not been that we have a lecture in Geology tomorrow and an easy French lesson. Emily and I have changed our bed-room around a little and I will draw a little plan below that perhaps you can judge from. Nellie Mary and Emily all wish to be remembered. Give my love to all my friends and please write often and as much as possible. With much love Your affectionate daughter Ellen (How are you German) These are not the right proportions The parlor is 12 by 15 our room 8 by 13 I think
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Creator: Sylvester, Helen (Seymour)
Date: November 9, 1865
Text: Vassar College - Nov 9th 1865. My dear Father I was so glad to receive your letter a few days ago and then afterwards to get the papers. It must be very uncomfortable to be without carpets this cold weather but you will soon have them down probably. You say you have had snow at home. We have only seen a few flakes floating In the air. It has been cold enough to freeze ice half an inch thick though. I would give a good deal to help arrange things at home but can comfort myself with the thought...
Show moreVassar College - Nov 9th 1865. My dear Father I was so glad to receive your letter a few days ago and then afterwards to get the papers. It must be very uncomfortable to be without carpets this cold weather but you will soon have them down probably. You say you have had snow at home. We have only seen a few flakes floating In the air. It has been cold enough to freeze ice half an inch thick though. I would give a good deal to help arrange things at home but can comfort myself with the thought that I am improving here. I hope to know French and German very well by next Summer. In our Geology class we are collecting specimens of all the rocks. To-day we got a quartz specimen or rather Prof. Tenney got it for us. I expect to come home with a great box of rocks. I am glad James got such splendid paper for his room, he wrote to me about it. I have a suggestion to make. As you have to wait for Henry every night cannot you spend the time in writing to me? It would amount to a good deal every night. I am very glad you had resolved upon a long letter, it was fortunate for me. Has James been home since he has been at Rochester? He comes home often as usual I suppose. How nice it must be. Have they succeeded in getting Mr Brown? I do hope they will have some one before I get home. James wrote they had mostly agents to preach lately. There are about 325 scholars here. Some have gone home from sickness and some were unable to come at all. They had accepted 350 but of course things happened to prevent some from coming. President Raymond had a "reception" for the teachers a day or two ago. Emma Wehner is expecting her father here to-day. I am glad Mr Kimball has received so good a call. I suppose his objections to a city church are removed. I see Henry is sacrificing himself to the good of his country. I am glad election is over before Christmas or I should not expect to see him as soon as I do. School closes on the 18th of Dec. so we are to have two weeks vacation I hear, and Henry must come on the 17th that is Monday in just about six weeks, or a little over five. He must hurry if he expects to get ready by that time and I am afraid he never will get ready to start on Monday but he must. You say your letter was getting very old. It was just as good for all that. Do you sit in the tower room any? I must close now for I have already encroached on my study hour to write to you. I send James a picture of the College for his album which he will probably show you. Will you please write a note to Pres. Raymond and send it to me asking him to let me go and stay in New York from Friday night to Monday morning? so I can give it to him? If you and Mother are willing I should like it so much instead of going away Thanksgiving. I mean the Friday after Thanksgiving. Write soon and please send me the Independent as well as the other papers. I noticed there was a speech of Gov. Seymour's in the World. Your affectionate daughter Helen.
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Creator: Sylvester, Helen (Seymour)
Date: November 9, 1865
Text: Poughkeepsie Nov. |1865, Dear Mother I will add a few words to you this time. Wont you please make me a pr of drawers and a chemise and send them by Henry when he comes? Our washing never comes up to us in less than two weeks after we send it down and so we have to have two suits in the wash and two suits out to wear till we get them again and as I have only three suits I sometimes have to...
Show morePoughkeepsie Nov. |1865, Dear Mother I will add a few words to you this time. Wont you please make me a pr of drawers and a chemise and send them by Henry when he comes? Our washing never comes up to us in less than two weeks after we send it down and so we have to have two suits in the wash and two suits out to wear till we get them again and as I have only three suits I sometimes have to wear my clothes two weeks without changing. Please make them and I will trim them when they get here. There is such a very large wash they cannot get them up any sooner. Lizzie Squler has written to me I send you the letter. If you will write and tell me that I can go some time before Christmas I will be very glad, for I want to get my wrappers and woolen stockings and go away from here once beside. Clara Spaulding is going to have a letter from her parents asking permission for her to go to New York once a month to see her sister who is at school there. I wish I could have father write a note to President Raymond asking if I could go down Thanksgiving or on Friday night and stay till Monday. They do not have vacation but the girls say they are going to write for permission to go away then. I am sorry to hear you are working very hard. 1 am sorry I did not stay at home till the house was put in order If you are going to work so. Your affectionate daughter Ella.  
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Creator: Houts (Glidden), Annie
Date: November 13, 1865
Text: Vassar College, Nov. 13, 1865. My dear brother John, Have you forgotten that you have a sister, at Vassar, has the advent of that wonderful "tenpounder," sent every idea out of your head, or why Is it you don't write to me ? I wrote to you some time ago, and looked for an answer right away, but I have looked and longed in vain, in that direction. To-day, X had made up my mind, if I did'nt hear from you, to write a real hateful, scoldjng letter that wuuld provoke you to...
Show moreVassar College, Nov. 13, 1865. My dear brother John, Have you forgotten that you have a sister, at Vassar, has the advent of that wonderful "tenpounder," sent every idea out of your head, or why Is it you don't write to me ? I wrote to you some time ago, and looked for an answer right away, but I have looked and longed in vain, in that direction. To-day, X had made up my mind, if I did'nt hear from you, to write a real hateful, scoldjng letter that wuuld provoke you to make some reply, and I had got up some real ugly things to say; but on second thought I concluded I would not, especially as Pres. Raymond gave us a lec- ture on the subject of correspondence, this morning, saying among other things, that, any-thing once written could never be recalled. So as I am afraid, if I should write such a letter, I would say some-thing I would be sorry for, I will try and prevail on you to write, by simply reminding you that I am here, if you have forgotten the direction, I'll forward it, and I should be most happy to hear from you. Now, honestly, laying aside all joking, John, I think you might write to me often, long letters if you can, but I would be very thankful for short ones, and I would wonderfully relish the rnmmmmmmmm mmmmmmmmmmmmmrn sight of a Cin. or Ports, paper, if you can spare the time to direct it, ink, stamp fee. And now, I am in need of money. I am owing a dress-maker's bill, and there are several things I need for winter, also I want to get some things to make my room more comfortable. I believe I enumerated, in my last letter, and it is useless to repeat, but I suppose I shall want as much as Nov. 13, 1865 -2 fifty dollars ($50.00). It is nearly bed-time, and I am greatly hurried to get to write this much to you. But I guess It does not matter much, for judging you by myself, which Is fair you don't care to hear from me. For, if I want to hear from folks I write to them. I am very busy here, but I always answer your letters as soon as they are received. But I am afraid I am doing what I did not intend to, so I will desist. Now, I shall look for a reply to this very soon, and if I do not get one, I can't answer for the result. As a "dernier resort," I will have to get real mad, and write you a letter you will remember for some time. But you won't provoke me to that, will you? Now, do write soon, and tell me all about "the baby" Have you named it? who does it resemble be. fcc. Give my love to Mary, and Charlie, and kiss the child. Ever your loving sister, Annie. (Annie (Glidden) Houts, '69, P.3. Please write immediately, and send the money*—
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Creator: Arnzen, Laura Earl
Date: Nov. 14, 1865
Text: Vassar. Nov. 14, 1865. My Dearest Friends, You cant think how perfectly delighted I was upon reading the decision which your letter contained and I lost no time in handing your letter to the President. He read it and asked me if they were nice girls. You perhaps can imagine what I told him. And he said there was no doubt of your competency and as there were several vacancies you might consider yourselves accepted. All required was an examination in the ordinary English branches. Arithmetic...
Show moreVassar. Nov. 14, 1865. My Dearest Friends, You cant think how perfectly delighted I was upon reading the decision which your letter contained and I lost no time in handing your letter to the President. He read it and asked me if they were nice girls. You perhaps can imagine what I told him. And he said there was no doubt of your competency and as there were several vacancies you might consider yourselves accepted. All required was an examination in the ordinary English branches. Arithmetic Grammar & Geography. And you would be classified according to your examinations. You need feel no fear if the examination you have to pass through is like the one I had. Some examples in Compound fc Complex one in percentage and one in interest was all in Arithmetic. The examination in Grammar was nothing only what is Grammar Into what four topics or branches is it divided fc definitions of V each. Number of parts of speech fc definitions Exercises in correcting sentences fc but very little parsing, that was all. Then the Examination in Geography consisted of the primary definition, upon all the map questions. The only thing I judge you will require any study upon is looking over frac- tions and the map questions. Then you send in the list of studies you desire to pursue - and you are assigned to your classes. Some of the girls were assigned to classes or rather studies they did not wish to take and in such cases the President has without any exceptlans and many such cases have come to my knowledge changed it when they had good reasons to offer. And Nov. 14, 1865 -2 now all you will have to do is to come back with me Christmas. Oh won't it be splendid. I am so delighted I can hardly keep hold of my pen- Of course it won't be so gay as you were accustomed to at Providence but I think one can get along nicer with their studies. I never got along so fast before - and it so pleasant here and all the girls are so nice. And I mean to speak with Miss Lyman before I go home about putting us in a parlor together. I presume you will want a double room and I'll speak to her about it if you would like for me to do so. And I'll get her to give me a single room opening into the same parlor. Wont It be grand. And as for my staying four years* I don't intend to stay but one although I know my father is anxious for me to do so but I'll talk him out of that notion at Christmas. I must close now or the letter won't go to-day. Write me real soon and tell me all the news. Your loving old friend Laura- iLaura Earl Arnaen* spec. '65-66,P.S. I feared your decision to stay until June only would go against you but he F resident Raymond said as there were two of you he would make an exception to the general rule of admitting pupils only for a year. To Abigail L. and Caroline Slade, both spec* '65-66.
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: November 15, 1865
Text: Vassar College Po 'keepsle Nov. 15th 1865 My Dear Parents, I received Mothers letter of the 12th yesterday and also the knife in it It was not as large as I could have wished but will answer I guess. I have got a graat many things as usual to say to you and for fear that I might forget some of them I have made a short memorandum of soma of the most important. Only think what a funny idea but I always forget so many things I want to tell you. It is almost nine o'clock so I have less...
Show moreVassar College Po 'keepsle Nov. 15th 1865 My Dear Parents, I received Mothers letter of the 12th yesterday and also the knife in it It was not as large as I could have wished but will answer I guess. I have got a graat many things as usual to say to you and for fear that I might forget some of them I have made a short memorandum of soma of the most important. Only think what a funny idea but I always forget so many things I want to tell you. It is almost nine o'clock so I have less than an hour to write and shall have to hurry, as usual. But I must tell you the most important thing first, that is that I had a call this after noon from Mrs Bartlett and she has invited me down there to spend the afternoon and take tea Saturday afternoon and If I cannot get permission then any time when I can i have not found out yet but If Miss Lyman will not let me go you may expect to see a letter from me "post haste" asking you to send on a letter to her asking permission for me to go. So you will know what it means. However I hope that will not be necessary. There was another lady with Mrs Bartlett who as I understand it is visiting her and who came to see another girl here Sarah Atwater and Mrs Bartlett has asked her too for Saturday which will make it very pleasant. She is a relation of Mrs Zabriskle, cousin I believe and is a very pleasant girl indeed. She is in my French class and rooms only a few doors from me in this corridor. She Is somewhat younger than myself I should judge and not In very good health. I like Mrs Bartlett very much from what I saw of her. I brought her In here to see my room and she sat down for a few moments and talked with the girls. I shall have plenty to write you about, if I go, next time. She said perhaps Mr Bartlett would preach next Sunday and if he does I want to hear him so much. I dont know whether Miss Lyman will let: go but I wish if you think best you would send me a letter asking permission that I may go end hear him at the Congregatlonalist Church, then if necessary I can show it. But now to business or I shall have no room. I intend to have a jockey of some kind to do for all times this Winter so Mother can have my black velvet bonnet. You are right I believe about Miss Sayles going home for the Holidays and there are several others who will go a good part of the way so there will be no lack for company. I have hardly collars enough as one of my "stand up" is lost but I think I can get along until the Holidays only please send me some more piecesmarked with my name as the ink has nearly all washed out of some of my clothes. The pianos are all used by those who take lessons and some of those have to rent If they wish to practise more than fifty minutes a day so there Is no chance for me to practise and I am afraid that I will forget all my music which I should be very sorry to do. The girls get together in clubs and rent pianos so that they each pay a dollar a month what do you say to my joining with tome club and then I need not forget what I do know. Oh Mother I do not think I am ruining my health yet by any means for I get along quite nicely with my studies and though I would like to spend a little more time on some of them there is none that I can bear to think of giving up. I am out to walk almost every after-noon for about an hour, indeed it is a rule of the school that we shall walk at least fifty minutes a day. Both yesterday and to-day as well as several times before Matie Granger Emma Colby, Emily and myself have been out geologising and v have found some splendid specimens. Oh I do wish for you so in those studies for you would enjoy it so much. I spoke to that Miss Hoyt, that is to say one of them to-day for the first time. She is in my German class and seems very pleasant. The first retiring bell has rung but I have wound my watch etc. so I am going to try and finish this before the next bell rings and then undress in the dark. I have written this In such a hurry that I presume there are many mistakes but I have not time to read this over and correctthem so please excuse. Save some nuts by all means if you can. Dont get to lonesome Mother, It makes me almost fly when you speak of IF I long so to be home with you. I have not had time to tell you about our Beaique party Sat. eve but that will go for another time. There were about ten here. Nov. 15, 1865 - 2 JLove to all Good night. Your loving Ellen.I ought to stop and study as I have Not got my lesson nay too well in consequence of writing this last night. They are putting up the organ now in the Chapel which will be a great improvementI think. I am going to draw a little this morning I guess and the second period Z am to go up in the Geological Cabinet to meet Prof. Tenney and have him show us the minerals and explain them. Part of the class meets him there every day besidesthe lecture. The breakfast bell has Just rung so good bye again. Write often Ellen
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Creator: Sylvester-Seymour, Helen
Date: November 17, 1865
Text: Poughkeepsie Nov 17- 1865. My dear Mother I have been waiting for a reply to my last letter but have concluded to wait no longer. I was very glad to get your letter and was glad it was so long. I think it is very fortunate the plastering and paint does not dry sooner for you will not have so good an opportunity to make yourself sick. I am glad on two accounts that Henry is going sooner to Norfolk. One is that you will have some help sooner and another that I shall see Henry sooner. Write to...
Show morePoughkeepsie Nov 17- 1865. My dear Mother I have been waiting for a reply to my last letter but have concluded to wait no longer. I was very glad to get your letter and was glad it was so long. I think it is very fortunate the plastering and paint does not dry sooner for you will not have so good an opportunity to make yourself sick. I am glad on two accounts that Henry is going sooner to Norfolk. One is that you will have some help sooner and another that I shall see Henry sooner. Write to me in your next when he is coming. There are about fifteen or more girls in school who live in New York or Brooklyn and my roommate is going so I am certain of having plenty of company. I shall have two weeks vacation at Christmas perhaps three so I shall have a good time in New York. There will be no trouble about keeping the apples from freezing or being eaten by others. They say apples are sixteen dollars a bushel in Poughkeepsie, are they high in Brockport? Mr Helmer has been here and wished to be remembered to me Emma said. The restriction on our correspondence is taken away now and we can write to whom we please. Your description of the house is very discouraging. It seems just as it did before I left - still I would like to see whether you are hurting yourself with work. Henry is coming to see me is he not when he goes to Norfolk? We have had our Indian summer for the last few days and I have spent a few hours outdoors every day walking about and studying. We have the most magnificent sunsets here I ever saw or imagined. They are actually beyond description and we have so many of them too. I believe this locality is famous for its sunsets and sunrises. Dr. Raymond our principal is a very fine reader and reads Shakespeare so that father would enjoy it I am sure. I hope they will have a reading class. Last Sunday Dr Magoon from Albany preached here. I enjoyed his sermon very much. He is a very original man, they say, and says very odd things. He was the one of whom they bought the Art gallery. He collected the most of it himself In Europe and many of the pictures have very interest- ing histories and are very valuable indeed. He has a neice here at school, she is in my German class. I do like Prof Tenney the professor of Nat History so much. We have splendid advantages for studying Geology and visit the cabinet once a week in groups of ten at a time so we have a good chance to learn to know the different rocks and minerals. They have quite a collection of stuffed animals and shells too. James has not written to me in more than two weeks When he comes home I wish you would give him a scolding on the subject. Give my love to father and Henry and James Write soon to your affectionate daughter Ella.
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Creator: Thompson, Mary (Coe)
Date: 18 Nov 1865
Text: VASSAR FEMALE COLLEGE, Poughkeepsie, N.T. November 18^th 1865. My dear Mrs. Boynton, As I have been quite busily engaged in my studies since I came to Vassar College, this is the first opportunity I have had to fulfill the promise I made when I bade you good-bye and it is with pleasure that I now attempt to write to you although I am fearful that my letter may prove uninteresting as I am obliged to write in considerable confusion, and that is something which I cannot now do very well - but...
Show moreVASSAR FEMALE COLLEGE, Poughkeepsie, N.T. November 18^th 1865. My dear Mrs. Boynton, As I have been quite busily engaged in my studies since I came to Vassar College, this is the first opportunity I have had to fulfill the promise I made when I bade you good-bye and it is with pleasure that I now attempt to write to you although I am fearful that my letter may prove uninteresting as I am obliged to write in considerable confusion, and that is something which I cannot now do very well - but think that in the course of a few months I shall become more accustomed to it and perhaps can then succeed better in writing letters while others are talking than now. I really hope that such may be the case. Saturday is a holiday at Vassar College the same as at other schools - and the young ladies try to improve and enjoy every moment of the time by visiting each other at their different rooms, walking, or writing letters- Quite a number go to Poughkeepsie every Saturday to do shopping. We are two miles from the City, consequently can seldom go excepting on Saturday. I like the College very much - and think that it is a superior boarding school - nearly every thing that could be done is done for the students. We all like President Raymond very much. He seems so well adapted for the position he occupies here- And so it is in regard to the Professors - They are all superior men There are about thirty five lady teachers in the College. I am acquainted with nearly all. Most of them are very pleasant, and with out doubt all are well educated - for President Raymond elected the thirty five from two hundred after a strict examination——— I have already become acquainted with a large number of the students here - some I like very much indeed- My parlor-mates are quite pleasant young ladies and we get along very nicely together. I am much better contented than I ever expected to be away from home - especially at a boarding school- On the Sabbath I miss our Bible Class so much - I always think of you then Mrs. Boynton, and often wish that I might spend my Sabbath at home and week days here- I belong to Prof’ Tenneys Bible Class in the College. He is quite an interesting teacher - but it seems so different from my class at home. There are about fifty members I should think in the division to which I belong- We are now studying in Isaiah. The class meets immediately after chaple services in the morning - at 10'oclock. We have preaching only once on the Sabbath. The students all attend ^at the Chaple President Raymond or Prof. Buckham preaches - when no Minister from the city comes.- The first Sabbath I spent here I listened to Rev Thomas Beecher- He was very interesting- But one could soon tell that he is a relative of Miss Harriet Beecher Stowe. Once Rev. Mr. Magoon of Albany preached at the Chaple - at another time Rev. Mr Babcock of Poughkeepsie- We have prayer-meeting in the evening - and sometimes the young ladies go into the Chaple and pass the remainder of the evening in singing.. I think it is quite pleasant and almost always attend. We are in hopes that the College Library will soon be opened. It contains some excellent books. Then we will have something suitable to read on the Sabbath ——— Mother writes that Amelia Enos and Mary Van Alstine has joined your class. Please give my love to all of the girls. I think of them very often.— I should love dearly to receive a letter from you Mrs. Boynton - as soon as you can conveniently write to me — Please direct to Vassar College, Poughkeepsie N.Y. No 69. My love to Mr. Boynton - Louise and Ella - And with very much love to yourself - I am Respectfully Yours - Mary A. Coe. Mary (Coe) Thompson, ’65-Feb.’66308 West End Avenue New York, N.Y. October 6, 1915. Dean of Vassar College. Poughkeepsie, N.Y. My dear Miss Caleb: I enclose the letter, written by Mary A. Coe of [Watertown?] Wisconsin, from Vassar College in 1865 to her pastor's wife and Bible class teacher.You are welcome to keep it for the college files. Yours very truly - with best wishes for the anniversary days. S. Ella Boynton.
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Creator: Fales, Helen Augusta
Descriptor(s): Ditkoff, Andrea
Date: November 18, 1865
Text: Vassar College Poughkeepsie Nov. 18 th 1865 My dear Aunt Susan, As you well know how little 1 have been away from home, and the little acquaintance X have with school life, you can realise somewhat, how very strange all seems to me here. All duties must be performed at the specified time. Walks are restricted to certain limits, and 'thus far, but no farther" the rule of college life. Young men's college life is much freer, than this, they are not so bound and fettered by this...
Show moreVassar College Poughkeepsie Nov. 18 th 1865 My dear Aunt Susan, As you well know how little 1 have been away from home, and the little acquaintance X have with school life, you can realise somewhat, how very strange all seems to me here. All duties must be performed at the specified time. Walks are restricted to certain limits, and 'thus far, but no farther" the rule of college life. Young men's college life is much freer, than this, they are not so bound and fettered by this and that rule. I would like to know if young ladies cant be relied upon, as well as young gentlemen. But notwithstanding all this, life here is pleasant and improving, though one is not exempt from the "blues", by any means, occasionally. The parlors and bedrooms are very pleasant, affording us a far greater degree of privacy, than is usually enjoyed at boarding schools, these rooms may be made to look as homelike as one desires, with pictures, plants, rocking chairs and so on, and some look very prettily. The preaident. Dr. Raymond has a family, who live entirely apart from the school family. He has three daughters aad a son, the eldest daughter is twenty-two or three. Then there are three professors with families, each keeping house too, and having little children of various ages. Besides these there are other professors, and all the assistant teachers, who eat with the scholars. Then there are the housekeeper, and steward, carpenter and about sixty servants. This may give you some ideaof the great number of people under one roof. The chapel and dining room are in the central part of the building. An organ is now being put up in the chapel, quite a large one. The aisles and platform are carpeted, and the seats furnished with magenta cushions. There are twenty-five or thirty tables in the dining hall, each seating thirteen persons, and a teacher presiding at each, as far as the number will go. The bell strikes for any meal, we go and stand behind our chairs. Miss Lyman gives the signal for sitting, by doing so herself. She sits at the head of the first central table. Then when quiet reigns, she strikes a bell for a moment's silent prayer, and eating follows. From breakfast we may be excused at any time, but not from dinner or tea, we usually sit at those meals forty or forty-five minutes. We have very good bread generally, biscuit, coffee and tea, remarkably nice milk, corn bread sometimes, usually meat and potatoes for breakfast, and soup and meat, or meat and pudding or pie for dinner. Good butter and white sugar are freely supplied, and as you may Judge, used. So much for eating. I said something about teachers in Aunt E's letter. Miss Lyman, our Lady Principal, is a lady in every sense of that word, and earnestly seeks the welfare of those com- mitted to her care. She dresses a great deal, wears grey curls each side of her face, and white caps more than black, trimmed with bright colors and ends each side either of ribbon or lace trimmed. Mrs. Medcalf anassistant taacher here taught with Prof. George Fisher in Worcester about fourteen years ago and sends her love and regards to him if you think worth while deliver them to his sister. X dont know her maiden name. Walter and I can compare notes In regard to college life. The end of my sheet brings me to the end of my letter. Is the baby named? What are the people doing In Wrentham. X s the Episcopal church flourishing. Mrs. Vassar was dressed In black not In mourning wore a white straw trimmed with black. It is a lovely day. Do write soon to me auntie please and with much love to all X am Yours affectionately, Augusta This blot came auntie since my letter was finished and In some mysterious manner please excuse it.
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: November 19, 1865
Text: Vassar College Nov. 19th 1865 My Dear Parents, It Is now ten o 'clock In the morning and I have just returned from my Bible class with Prof. Tenney. I have a great deal of news to write to you to-day, that is to say a great deal which is different from what I usually write about. I believe that in my last letter I told you that Mrs Bartlett had been here and invited Sarah Atwater and myself there to tea Saturday afternoon We asked Miss Lyman and she said we might go down and spend the...
Show moreVassar College Nov. 19th 1865 My Dear Parents, It Is now ten o 'clock In the morning and I have just returned from my Bible class with Prof. Tenney. I have a great deal of news to write to you to-day, that is to say a great deal which is different from what I usually write about. I believe that in my last letter I told you that Mrs Bartlett had been here and invited Sarah Atwater and myself there to tea Saturday afternoon We asked Miss Lyman and she said we might go down and spend the afternoon but not stay to tea as she did not want us to come home alone in the omnibus alter dark and we would have to leave there at live o'clock. I wrote to Mrs. Bartlett to that effect and the next morning (Sat. mom.) received a letter from Mollie asking 11 it would makeany difference If the visit was postponed until the next Saturday as Mr Bartlett (or rather "Cousin Edward") would be home then and she thought he would be disappointed if I was there when he was away. Of course we gave up all hopes or rather thoughts of our visit for that day and I left all my letter writing etc. for after-noon and we arranged some of our Geological specimens in the morning and I drew for an hour or more. Judge of my surprise then immediatly after dinner on being summoned to the parlor to find Mollie Bartlett. She said she supposed I would think her the most changable girl in the world but they had had a letter from Mr Bartlett saying he would not be back next Saturday so he Aunt wished us to come as at first intended. Mollie had come up with their carriage and would bring us back if Miss Lyman would let us stay until after tea, I asked MUs Lyman and she said she would be very glad to have us go. So Mary Cornell (whom she invited) Sarah Atwater and myself hurriedas fast as ever we could and were soon ready. Mollie had the driver take us quite a long drive past some of the fine residences so that we saw a good deal of Po'keepsie before we went to Mrs. Bartletts. Mrs Bsrtlett and in fact all were so pleasant and the house is a very nice one. You have no idea how perfectly delightful it was to me to be in a "home" again. And when I sat down at the piano in the parlor it brought my own beloved home so vividly before me it seemed as though I could not go back to College again. We had a very nice tea and after that we played games of various kinds. Will Bartlett seems quite young and made himself very agreeable. Henry Bartlett resembles Edward so much that X could hardly believe it was not him. He was very pleasant indeed. During the evening we had nuts and apples which made It more home like than ever. Also Will Bartlett went over to the store and brought back a box of fig paste which was delightful. About half past eight o'clock we prepared with sorrowing hearts to leave after exacting promises from allthat they would come and see us. Mr. Will Bartlett drove and we had quite a gay time coming out When we got to the gate the porter came out & inquired who was there and I told her Vassar College students and she said "all right" and immediatly let us in. It was very dark and raining a little though It had been a beautiful day. We of course bid Mr Will — good bye at the door. He told me just before we drove up to the door that he was having some carriages made in Ithaca and expected to go there soon but I did not have time to find out how much he meant by It. I hope we shall have a chance to return their kindness for it was so good of them to take the trouble to come out after us and bring us back again. Mary and I went and saw Miss Lyman soon after we returned which was about nine o'clock and told her of our safe arrival. She asked us if we had had a nice time and expressed her pleasure for it and then kissed us good-night{ was she not good? Weill I see I have made a long story of my visit and I only hope you will not think I have entered Into too many particulars for it has been almost as pleasant to bring them all before my mind again...letter from Aunt Emily and a short one from Aunt Lucy. They were all well. I have also received letters from Kate and Louise which I will answer as soon as possible but I did not write any letters yesterday I was away so long when I intended to have written, fit you hear any of the girls complaining tell them how it is and try and persuade them to write without waiting for me. And now Z think I have reason to feel a little tired of writing but do try and give me a good return for this which I call quite a letter. Em. has had a letter from her Mother in which she said that she had sent a letter of Introduction to William Johnson for her so she expects him every day. 1 wonder if 1 will see him. Mary and Emily send love With ever so much love from myself Your loving EllenSunday Eve. Mr. Cornell has been here this afternoon and we have had a very pleasant call I sent a kiss to Mother by him be sure that he gives it to you. Mary and Jennie are writing this evening and Emily is is sitting on the floor reading* I am going to try and stop writing on this letter now and write some in my Journal. Good night from (Ellen Douglass Boardman, in German script)
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Creator: Sylvester, Helen (Seymour)
Date: November 22, 1865
Text: Poughkeepsie Nov 22nd 1865. My dear father, If you conclude to send a note requesting permission for me to go to New York as I hope you will please send me some more money as I have but a little remaining. I have spent but very little excepting for my school books. I paid for my gymnasium dress $14 and have bought apples a few times with my roommates. When books - some of them - cost $2.50 it counts up. My roommate Clara Spaulding has written home for a note to request permission to spend...
Show morePoughkeepsie Nov 22nd 1865. My dear father, If you conclude to send a note requesting permission for me to go to New York as I hope you will please send me some more money as I have but a little remaining. I have spent but very little excepting for my school books. I paid for my gymnasium dress $14 and have bought apples a few times with my roommates. When books - some of them - cost $2.50 it counts up. My roommate Clara Spaulding has written home for a note to request permission to spend Sunday with her sister who is at school in N.Y. and Miss Lyman said if she had a note from home she could go. The note is required as a sort of guarantee that your parents are willing. Do let me go, Clara wants me to go with her. If you will please write next mail. Your affectionate daughter Helen
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: November 25, 1865
Text: Vassar College Po 'keepsie Nov. 25th 1865 My Dear Parents, Dont be frightened at receiving a letter from me a little sooner than usual I wished to write sooner but have not had time. I have a very important request to make and I want an answer as soon as possible. I want to give up German. Perhaps you will say that is not an important as you expected but it is of some importance. I am afraid you will not like it but I have considered the "pros. & cons." and I really think...
Show moreVassar College Po 'keepsie Nov. 25th 1865 My Dear Parents, Dont be frightened at receiving a letter from me a little sooner than usual I wished to write sooner but have not had time. I have a very important request to make and I want an answer as soon as possible. I want to give up German. Perhaps you will say that is not an important as you expected but it is of some importance. I am afraid you will not like it but I have considered the "pros. & cons." and I really think it best. I have come to the conclusion with you that I have a little to much to do and if it would make enough difference I would willingly give up my Drawing but I do not spend but a little over an hour a day on it and that time is as much recreation as as any time I have. I do not like me. very much as a teacher and there are quite a good many in the class who have studied German before, as there are only two classes, and they put me. up to giving longer lessons than I have time to get perfectly and the consequence is that I feel perfectly discouraged every day in the class. Then besides I have such excellent advantages in Geology and Zoology and Prof. Tenney teaches in such a way that you can learn just as much or just as little as you want to, in fact that is the way the teach in all the classes nearly here. I want time to go into the library and study up all the points which Prof. Tenney brings up in the class and leaves "for us to inform ourselves about if we wish. Then I am so much interested in my Rhetoric and Prof. Buckum brings up so many points which I should love so dearly to study up and read about and now I do not have time I like German very much or at least think I should if I had a teacher 1 liked but I think the advantages are better in the other^ studies and I could improve myself more by giving up more of my time to them for I shall never have such advantages in those branches I know and I am sure I could get as good advantages in German anywhere. Besides my French is getting very interesting now and I dont want to have any cause for slighting that. I like my teacher in that very much now and I think from all 1 can Judge her pronunciation and accent is very good. However I leave this subject open for your opinion or decision and I wish you would write me as soon as possible. I shall try to keep on with all until I hear from you. I do not think my time has been lost by any means thus far In it. I think if you were here you would see this in the light I do. Mr Mann was here yesterday and I was of course delighted to see him. He was with Mr. Kessar and they stayed to dinner. He will probably tell you all about it. I praised up Vassar to the skies of course and he said he was going home to tell Mother she ought to let me stay 4 or 5 years but dont think £ put him up to it. The weather has been a little colder for a few days past and the Catskill have looked beautiful from here. We can Just see them in the distance and the tops are covered with snow so when the sun shines they look beautifully. I am counting the days now until I shall be with you again, the only trouble Mary will persist in reminding me almost always when I speak of it of the time when we come back again. I dont want to think of that. I cannot write more now as I have so many other letters I want to answerI have not had hardly any letters this week as I did not write any last Sat. I am going to try & write to Auntie Kate, etc. Please write soon. You have been very good about writing this week I believe. Give my love to all enquiring friends and believe me ever your affectionate and loving Ellen. Mary Cornell bought her a hat in Po'keepsie a few days ago for fifteen dollars. Quite pretty.
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: November 29, 1865
Text: Vassar College Po'keepsie Nov. 29th 1865. My Dear Mother, I received your letter ol the 26th yesterday and your last one this mom. I was very much pleased for I hardly knew whether to expect an answer so soon. I am glad you and Father agree with me in thinking I had better leave off my German. I recited my last lesson this forenoon and then went to the President to procure my permit to leave the class. He seemed very willing and said something about thinking I had quite a list without...
Show moreVassar College Po'keepsie Nov. 29th 1865. My Dear Mother, I received your letter ol the 26th yesterday and your last one this mom. I was very much pleased for I hardly knew whether to expect an answer so soon. I am glad you and Father agree with me in thinking I had better leave off my German. I recited my last lesson this forenoon and then went to the President to procure my permit to leave the class. He seemed very willing and said something about thinking I had quite a list without the German. I really feel quite sorry to leave the class for I like the language very much and Mme. seems very sorry to have me leave. I do not have as much time now as I have had as we have evening chapel service again which is over half an hour long and breaks up the evening chapel service again which is over half an hour long and breaks up the evening so that I do not find nearly as much time to study.---— Only think Mother Just three weeks from to-night I may be on my way home; it hardly seems possible that the time is so near and yet I am very distinctly reminded of it every night by a piece of paper, which we have pinned on the door, and from which we scratch out one of the marks & then count up to see how many more days we have to stay. However this all "between us" at present. How I wish I could be home to-night for in some way I do not know how, I have caught a cold and my head is so sore from the effects of it that I can hardly turn it. But that will all be over soon undoubtedly without the soothing effects of home. Our arrangements about coming home are beginning to look very nicely. Miss Sayles thinks wecan leave here Wednesday after noon and connect with a train at Newberg and another at Chester and then get home Thursday morning. Will it not be nice if we can. There will be quite a party for besides our own party and Miss Sayles there are three other girls who live in Elmira who are going home and another who is in this corridor and whom I know quite well who lives in the northern part of Penn. and will go our way* There may be others whom I have not heard of yet. And now before It is too late I must speak about my dress. I think the light green, corded, is very pretty but I agree with you that is is not what I need here. I think the striped might be pretty for some but I do not like It. I have thought the matter over as you advised and have consuited with several of the girls and I have come to the conclusion that a black silk will do me more good than anything else. I canget. I should want a lusterless silk I think and corded, rep - or anything of that kind you would think best. How does this strike your fancy? I should want it trimmed in some pretty ways to make it look young but that need not be decided on I suppose until I get home* —— —- It is almost breakfast time so I shall have to hurry in order to send this. The retiring bell rang last night so we had to put out the light and undressed in the dark (a rather common occurrence with us.) I am glad Mother you are going to have the sleeves to your dress made full for no matter what the dress-makers say there I know that full sleeves plaited In at the top are as fashonable If not more so than the small ones. You know Ithaca Is proverbial for being always behind in the fashons and this is about as good a place as can be there are so many New Yorkers here. I have lost in the wash last week one of my tinder sleeves* The plain pair that you made last you know, so perhaps you had better be prepared to make or let me make another when I get home to match theodd one left. I am sitting at the French table now. Emma Colby and I are there from our table. I dont mind the talking at all but It is not pleasant to be away from my own table to which I have become accostomed and I shall be glad to get back again. I agree with you on the subject of writing to Aunt Eliza. I have been thinking of it ever since I have been here, and I am going to try & find time this week you know I will have more time now. You remember I had her name on my list. But we do not have to have list after all but can write to whom we please. The breakfast bell has rung so good bye. Write soon With love to Father and I hope he will try and find time to write. Ella
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Creator: Sylvester, Helen (Seymour)
Date: December 2, 1865
Text: Vassar College Dec 2nd 1865 My dear father I did not mean to let your letter go so long without an answer when I received it; on the contrary I had quite an idea of answering it at once in spite of my lessons which claimed my attention at the time. I was so glad and thankful that you wrote that note for me for it accomplished the desired object and Friday morning found me on the way to New York with Clara Spaulding. I arrived just before the streets became crowded with the New York...
Show moreVassar College Dec 2nd 1865 My dear father I did not mean to let your letter go so long without an answer when I received it; on the contrary I had quite an idea of answering it at once in spite of my lessons which claimed my attention at the time. I was so glad and thankful that you wrote that note for me for it accomplished the desired object and Friday morning found me on the way to New York with Clara Spaulding. I arrived just before the streets became crowded with the New York regiments who were on parade, it being "evacuation day" I saw the 7&in their new uniforms. They were were quite surprised to see me for I had just written that I did not think I could get away. On Saturday I went to a matinee at the Opera. I went at half past eleven and staid till after four. I enjoyed it very much. It did not seem to be more than an hour in length. I heard all the prominent New York singers - It was fortunate I went then for It was the close of the season till after New Years. I got dreadfully tired in New York, we have so far to walk if we go anywhere. On Sunday I went to church once. But I was so surprised to see Henry in New York. He came to the college the same day I left. Seeing him made me wish to come home very much, we have two weeks holidays. I came back to Poughkeepsie on Tuesday not because I wanted to but I knew Miss Lyman would be very much provoked if I staid longer. I am very glad the house is getting along so nicely. You say you are lonesome and I suppose Mother is too. How would you like to have me come home for the holidays I should like it much better than going anywhere else. They want me to come to New York but I got so very tired and worn out the last time I was there I did not think it did me much good. Besides they make a good many presents Christmas and would expect the same from me and I have no time to make anything and no money to buy anything and on the whole I think it would be pleasanter for me and cheaper for you. I shall be very glad to come. I am so much obliged for the drink of cider you say you took on my account. We have to eat by gaslight here now and enjoy our breakfast better than any other meal for we have very nice breakfasts. They are going to have a very fine dinner Thanksgiving and tell James they are going to have tableaux by the celebrated Madame Castrina! the heroine of the "pure gold thread!"I must confess I am rather astonished. Dr Anderson of Rochester was here yesterday. They are putting up the Organ in the Chapel and the Gymnasium will be finished soon if the weather remains pleasant. Really Father you are getting to be my principal correspondent and you must not say you do not write uninteresting letters any more. I afraid there is no hopes of reformation in Henry in respect to letterwriting. Do write soon to Your affectionate daughter Helen - P.S. Love to all.
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: December 3, 1865
Text: Vassar College Po'keepsie Dee. 3rd '65 My Dear Parents, ...(portion cut out) ...Penn Yan people had called and who at lirst refused sent word that he would accept, while Mr Bartlett was there. Unfortunate was'ent it? But the most glorious thing I have to tell you is that Mr Bartlett... (portion cut out)anytime I hope he will not forget to urge him to do it. He said Miss Lyman was very particular again yesterday to know if he had a letter of Introduction. After he had been here...
Show moreVassar College Po'keepsie Dee. 3rd '65 My Dear Parents, ...(portion cut out) ...Penn Yan people had called and who at lirst refused sent word that he would accept, while Mr Bartlett was there. Unfortunate was'ent it? But the most glorious thing I have to tell you is that Mr Bartlett... (portion cut out)anytime I hope he will not forget to urge him to do it. He said Miss Lyman was very particular again yesterday to know if he had a letter of Introduction. After he had been here time he asked after Emma and Mary Rhoades and said he would like very much to see them If it were possible. I said that if he would like to I thought I could persuade Miss Lyman to let them come in, so I went and found her and after pleading for some time and having her question me about all sorts of things in connection with them she said they might go in and stay for a short time but not too long. So we had quite a gay call. He stayed until a little after twelve. During his conversation he happened to "let the cat out of the bag" by saying In some inadvertent way that he was going to preach to-day. So i said I was going to get Miss Lyman to let me go down If I could. I asked her and she was very willing to let me go as it was communion Sunday at several of the churches and a good many were going down. Miss Lyman thought that it was communionSunday at several of the churches and a good many were going down. Miss Lyman thought that it was communion at the Congregatlonalist and gave all those who wished to go permission. I did not think it was but of course had no objections to their going. We all met in the parlor end expected to go in the omnibuses but there were only three who were going to the Dutch church and they were going In a carriage so as there was room for two more Miss Sayles asked me to go with her as we were both going to the same church. We had a delightful ride so much pleasanter than to have gone in the omnibus. We felt the three at the Dutch church and then the driver took us to the congregational We were just in time and had a very pleasant seat with only one other lady in it. The other girls who came in the omnibus were very late. They sat on the other side oI the church from us. We had an excellent sermon. Every one that I have heard speak of it liked it very much. The carriage was waiting for us when we came out and as we did not have communion we were out much sooner than those at the Dutch church so Miss Sayles told the driver instead of waiting before the church to drive around a few blocks as it would be some time belier they would be out. It was warm and pleasant and we enjoyed the ride very much. We did not go very far but we saw some very line residences. Miss Sayles has promised to take Emily, Nellie, Jennie, and myself down to Po'keepsle shopping some alter noon this week. We are to have a holiday Thanksgiving and I believe there is to b9 * lady here from Po'keepsle to get up some tableaux but I have not heard much about It yet. The organ is to be used on that day for the first time. My under sleeve that I believe I wrote you was missing came up last week so I believe now I have lost nothing but a pair of stockings and I manage to get along without those. I am very anxous to hear what you think about my dress. All the girls seem to think black silk would be the nearest what I want of anything. I feel so much more at ease since I have left off my German. I guessit is just as well for the present. Miss Avery has lost her Father: she left for home last night. It is to bad she has to be away now as quite a number of the girls are sick. Nellie has not been feeling very well yesterday and has not set up all day to-day but is in hopes to be well to-morrow. I am sure we hope so. Oh Mother I am getting so anxous to be home I can hardly wait. Seventeen days from to night, week after next, I may be on my way home. I have heard to day that there is a train leaves Po'keepsle at five Wednesday after-noon so that we could connect all the way through and get home Thursday morning. We shall probably take it if there is such an one. Write me if you have any orders or wishes about what I shall bring home. I wrote to Aunt Eliaa yesterday. Please write as often as you can for letters are my only consolation now. I think I have done quite well now considering that I feel rather tired after going down to church this morning and sitting (I won't say listening) to a sermon from Pres. Raymond of fifty-five minutes. I was too tired to listen to such a long sermon and I dont suppose I can say anything about it tomorrownight, but I do know that I can say nearly all of Mr Bartletts for I have said it almost all to the girls since I returned. But I must close & go to bed I guess for I want to get up stairs early tomorrow morning. Give my love to all enquiring friends and believe me Ever your loving daughter Ellen.[Parentheses indicate letters cut off.] I forgot to tell Father that I have found a "Sig" friend here, the President's daughter. She seems very pleasant; has met William Bostwick and is acquainted with him. One of the Profs has a brother who a a "Sig". You asked me in one letter (1) believe if I had money (e)nough to come home (w)ith. I had almost forgotten (a)bout it. I have about (2?) 0 dollars at present but shall spend three or four probably if I go down to the city. You know better (t)han I how much it will take to go home.
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Creator: Houts (Glidden), Annie
Date: December 04, 1865
Text: Vassar College, Mon. Dec. 4, 1865 My Dear Brother, I received your nice long letter last Friday, and was very much gratified to hear from you. I wrote to you last week on rec't of the dft. you had forwarded to me. I also read a paper Sat. the direction of which looked much as though it might have been written by Mary. Am much obliged for the same, aad for all your kindnesses to me. I don't care about taking the Forts, paper, but if you would send me one once in a...
Show moreVassar College, Mon. Dec. 4, 1865 My Dear Brother, I received your nice long letter last Friday, and was very much gratified to hear from you. I wrote to you last week on rec't of the dft. you had forwarded to me. I also read a paper Sat. the direction of which looked much as though it might have been written by Mary. Am much obliged for the same, aad for all your kindnesses to me. I don't care about taking the Forts, paper, but if you would send me one once in a while, I shall be very willing to accept. You are very kind to me indeed and don't think because I don't say much about it, I do not appreciate it. What I say or write always seems so stiff, that I sometimes think I would do better to leave it unsaid. I will try and keep an account of money, as you wished, drawing from the Bank here. I shall have to see Mr. Vassar, the treasurer about it. I wish you would write a note to him about it} you can send it to me, and I will give it to him. X am afraid he might think there was some mistake in it. You know there are so many girls here, and they've nothing to trust to but appearances. So if you will do that, I will be ever-so-much obliged to you, I went to the city Sat. and came home, nicely tired out. X have a Job on hand X am greatly dreading and that is to have some teeth fixed. They have a dentist come out here every Sat. and I guess I'll take my turn next Sat. The sooner over, the better. X think you have given your boy a beautiful name. I always like "Robert,"— I suppose it is "Bobby" for short—and hope he may prove as Dec. 4, 1865 - 2 good a man as his name-sake. I am sorry to hear that Mary suffered so severely* and very much rejoiced to know she Is improving. The bell has rung, and 1 must go to gymnastics, will finish this evening. I am glad you are getting along nicely with your house, but you must not be in too great a hurry and take your family—ahem—into it before it is sufficiently dry. Better live crowded a little while. I scarcely know what to write to you about, there is nobody here you know any-thing of, but my-self, and I must either talk about that interesting personage, or imagine you know every- body, as well as I do. Guess I'll adopt the latter method as I've no desire to b become egotistical. One of our teachers Dr. Avery, received sad news a few days suice, namely, the death of her father. Ol what a loas it is to lose a father) One never knows how precious the relation is until the dear one has gone, never more to be seen on this earth, never more to mingle in the paths of men. The more I think of our dear father, the more I lament his departure. I, some-times, when I hear other girls speaking of father or mother, and looking forward with such happy anticipations to the time, when they will meet one or both, think it is very hard, that I should have, so early, been deprived of both. But when I think how much better off I am than many a poor orphan, how good God has been to me In giving me, brothers, aunts and many kind friends to care for me, when I so little deserve any, I am rebuked, and ready to fall to the dust with shame for daring to quarrel with such gaacious Providence. Dec. 4# 1365 - 3 The girls sre ell studying, perhaps I should be doing the same. One of them just remarked "Why, Gild, have you got all your lessons for tomorrow11? I guess I will have to look over them a little yet this evening, but there's glenty of time. We are taking pretty long lessons in Cicero now, as we want to finish this oration before Christmas. What do you say to my coming here four years ? I don't know yet how the course will be arranged, but I have a desire to take the regular course. However, I think probably I can accomplish my work in three, and I guess I will be willing to leave school, by that time. Though I am so much accustomed to school-life, X don't know hardly how I'll conduct myself, when I am free from &TAch fetters. I guess I will always stay at "Vassar", and perhaps some-day attain the honor of "lady-principal-ship." No, I have no such ambition, but really. If I ever should teach, I would like to teach here. The teachers all have nice salaries, and don't any of them, teach more than four hours a day. Then Prof. Knapp has a class in German for the teachers so they can pursue that study. Our ink is getting pretty thick, and I cannot see the lines of this paper, so you see I am laboring under difficulties. In two weeks is vacation and the girls all go away. One of my parlor-mates is going to stay. I sm going to spend my time reading, writing, and skating if there is any ice. There is a poor show for it now. The weather is unusually warm. You say yod^eard from Carlos. I wish he would favor me in a like manner. I wrote to him a few days after I first came here, but never a scratch of thepen have I had from him. I think I*U have to do, as I did with you, keep writing until I get some response. I am much pleased to hear the "Spader" is to prove successful, for both of your accounts. I should like to see you all tonight, and the baby; most of all. I am very anxious to get a peep at it. Sallle wrote me it looked just like our mother's babies, fit it looks like Cora or George, I know it is pretty; but I can't say about the rest. Well, I must look at my lessons a little, though I think I've about mastered them. Give love to Mary, Charlie, the baby, and last but not least, in stature or in love, your own self. Wishing you a happy good-night, I remain, Your loving sister Annie. (Annie (Glidden) Houts, '69, P.S. I will take back what X said in my last, and ask you to write soon, often, and as much as you can. Yours fcc. Annie.
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: December 6, 1865
Text: Vassar College Po'keepsle Dec. 6th 1865 My Dear Parents, Again I am obliged to begin my letter by saying that I have got so much to tell you I dont know where to commence It seems a shame that when the time is so near when I may talk to you and tell you all the many things I long so to say, that I have to sit down here and spend an hour or more in trying to give you an idea and that a slight one of all those things. But I am forgetting myself and must "proceed to business." You...
Show moreVassar College Po'keepsle Dec. 6th 1865 My Dear Parents, Again I am obliged to begin my letter by saying that I have got so much to tell you I dont know where to commence It seems a shame that when the time is so near when I may talk to you and tell you all the many things I long so to say, that I have to sit down here and spend an hour or more in trying to give you an idea and that a slight one of all those things. But I am forgetting myself and must "proceed to business." You are probably aware that tomorrow will be Thanksgiving, We are at least. Only think of it Mary Emily k myself are invited down to Mr Bartlett's to spend the day. Is it not very kind of them. Mary Cornell is also invited but she leaves tomorrow morning with one ofthe other girls for Rhynbeck to visit Mrs Kelley and they will not return until Monday so she cannot go. But the rest of us of course we can go. I was so surprised for I supposed every body in Po 'keepsie would be having a good time with their own relations and never so much as think of us. I think there are going to be more at Bartletts than us but I am not certain. To say the least I think it very kind and especially to invite all of us. I believe I wrote you Mr Bartlett was up here Sat. lc I heard him preach Sunday. Yesterday Mollie Ik Mr Bartlett's sister Carrie came up here in the after-noon and made us quite a call and said that Mrs Bartlett wished them to ask us and to say that they would see that we got back here all right. We asked the President and he was perfectly willing to let us go. We went to Miss Lyman afterwards and she has given us permission to go down to church and go right to Mr Bartletts from there and stay as late as we please. It is quite wonderful that she is willing that we should go down to church without a teacher, but she asked us "to look at her" and then said she thought she could trust us, quite a compliment don't you think so. I expect to go to the Congrlga- tional church again as there is to be a union of the other churches with that and Mr. Bartlett is to preach. Mary and Em. are going to the Episcopal. We shall miss quite a good deal here but I am willing. I must give you the programme as Miss Lyman read it to us this morning. Breakfast at half past eight (only think of that when we usually have it at seven) Service in the Chapel at ten or eleven, dinner at half past four and, I must tell you the courses as I have heard them from good authority. First oyster soup, then turkey & various vegetables, celery, & cranberry sauce, after that plum-pudding, and confectioneries. Is'ent that grand. After that there is to be a grand reception, the President's and public parlors being thrown open for the purpose. At seven o'clock there are to be tableaux in the Chapel There is a woman here from Po'keepsle who is gettingthem up. Her name is Mme. Cassteon (I think) and I believe it is her business to go around and get up Tableaux. But I will describe all this more at length when I get home for that time will soon come now I trust. But about my dress. I like that sample you sent me very much and 1 do not think It will look to old for me. I think it will do me the most good of anything 1 could get. I do not like alapaca for they were wornjE so much here in the fall and are rather common and a little old style I think. I like your Idea of engaging Miss Perry and for my cloak too for X want that fixed just as quick as I get home. I have ever so much I want to tell you about a literary society they have started here. I think it is going to be a very fine thing. The first girls are in it. I have joined but can have my name taken off I think if you write you do not wish me to be in it. It is not fully organized yet, but the president is taking great interest in it and will make the first kind of a society and for our literary improvement. The admission fee will be two dollars and the yearly fee one dollar. We have chosen4fce»Dr. Raymond as Pres. of the whole society and some of the other girls and the smartest, as other officers. The society will be devided into chapters which will be entirly independent of each other except as under the controll of the same higher Officers. I could say a great deal more but the first retiring bell has rung and I must close this for I suppose I will have no time tomorrow. Much love to all friends Write soon. I will try and find time soon to tell you of my visit. In great haste Your aff. daughter EllenIt has boon snowing awfully That is to say not so deep but it has spoiled all our plan. We hardly know what to do. I think we will go down in the omnibus. It is too bad It has snowed for now we shall have to come back early in the omnibus for of course we shall not want to put them to the trouble of coming out here with us. But I must seal this and send it. You will hear of our adventure soon. Yours in great trouble. Ellen
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Creator: Sylvester, Helen (Seymour)
Date: December 10, 1865
Text: Poughkeepsie Dec 10th 1865 My dear Mother I suppose you have received my letter announcing my intention to spend the holidays at home. I have waited and waited for news from home but have not had a letter in more than two weeks, and am homesick and afraid there is something the matter because you don't write. Wont you please ask father to send me some money to come home with? I am afraid he has forgotten that I will need some. And I would like about five more to get a hat. I have had my...
Show morePoughkeepsie Dec 10th 1865 My dear Mother I suppose you have received my letter announcing my intention to spend the holidays at home. I have waited and waited for news from home but have not had a letter in more than two weeks, and am homesick and afraid there is something the matter because you don't write. Wont you please ask father to send me some money to come home with? I am afraid he has forgotten that I will need some. And I would like about five more to get a hat. I have had my feather dyed green in New York. It was very much faded. How is James? I have been afraid he was very sick for I have not heard from him in five weeks. We had a very good time here Thanksgiving — considering. We all concluded to stay, mostly because we did not believe we could get permission to go away. Our old french teacher in Utica is teaching in Poughkeepsie and came up here to see us last Saturday. I shall not care if the house is not in order when I come home, but I want to come - awfully. I'shall start either Wednesday night or Thursday morning- I have not found out about the trains yet, but am coming on a train that will go through without changing to Rochester. I was afraid to stay in New York longer than Tuesday for fear Miss Lyman would scold and I could not get anything out of Henry about home. I have not very much to write about. On Thanksgiving day we had a very good dinner. All the Vassars were here to dinner. We had Tableaux in the evening, some by Madame Castina and others by the teachers. We passed part of the day pleasantly, but by fits and starts we were homesick, and thought of home a good deal and that made it seem rather forlorn. Are you well still? I should think you would need some help in your work. I hope Henry will come home before Christmas. All the Rochester girls are going home and Emma Helmer and her friend from Lockport are going too. Has James gone back to Rochester yet? I have not received the letter he promised me. I cannot find anything of interest to tell you so I will close with love to father & James. Your affectionate daughter Helen Seymour
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Creator: Williams, Ellen
Date: December 10, 1865
Text: Vassar College Po'keepsle Dee. 10th '65 My Dear Parents. I have not received aay letter from you since last Tuesday. I was rather disappointed yesterday but 1 suppose you have been very busy. I suppose the tableaux went off very nicely I wish I might have been there to see them but I shall expect to hear all about them when I get home If not before. We had a very nice time Indeed here. I say we for from all accounts the girls here at the College did, and I am sure Mary Emma and I...
Show moreVassar College Po'keepsle Dee. 10th '65 My Dear Parents. I have not received aay letter from you since last Tuesday. I was rather disappointed yesterday but 1 suppose you have been very busy. I suppose the tableaux went off very nicely I wish I might have been there to see them but I shall expect to hear all about them when I get home If not before. We had a very nice time Indeed here. I say we for from all accounts the girls here at the College did, and I am sure Mary Emma and I did. We left here a little after ten, In the omnibus and got out at the Gregory House. From there we walked to church. Mary and Em went to the Episcopal church. I went to the Congrigational. Mr Bartlett preachedI do wish you could have heard him. He had only a little slip of paper with a few notes and as it was mostly about the war you can imagine with his experience how interesting he could make it. I am more and more sorry every time I hear him that we could not have had him in Ithaca. He says he does not think the people at Penn Yun were very well pleased with him, at least that he was not pleased with himself for he was not feeling at all well at the time and therefore did not do at all well. I am so disappointed that he cannot go to Ithaca in the Holidays but he said Thursday he hardly thought it would be possible. He thinks some of going to Springfield for the Winter. But I must return from this digression. After church I went to the Gregory House and waited until the girls came from the Episcopal which was out alittle later. Will Bartlett also waited with me and we all walked over to the house to-gether. There were quite a good many of the relations there but they were all so pleasant that I could not help but feel at home. We had an excellent dinner which I will describe when I get home if you have any desire to hear about it. In the evening there were three young gentlemen whom they had invited there, and we danced and played all sorts of games. One of the young gents, brought us out here to the College in a sort of democrat wagon. We did not get here until almost ten o'clock. We were in time to see three or four of the last tableaux and the girls said they were all very good. They gave glowing accounts of the grand time they had had here but I did not feel sorry I was not here. We are beginning to feel now as though we will soon be home and some of the girls have already got their trunks down and are beginning to pack. I hardly know what to do about bringing my things home. I do not think I shall want to leave much here except my books for you know there are no locks on anything and I have only one trunk. There are quite a number of things in my trunk now which I think it will be Just as well to leave in, you know I had to have my trunk taken out of my room. Yesterday morttng Nellie Dickson Jennie Hunt and I went down to Po'keepsie with Miss Sayles we were gone all the morning and did quite a good deal of shopping that is to say the other girls did. I did'ent have much to get. Miss Sayles is not certain when we shall start yet but I have heard something lately about Tues. night I don't know anything about it yet. The bell is ringing for Chapel so I must close Love to all. Write soon. Your loving Ellen
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