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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: Warner, Martha S.
Descriptor(s): Ditkoff, Andrea
Date: 1865-1868

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: 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: 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: Warner, Martha S.
Date: October 19, 1865
Text: Vassar Oct. 9, 1865 My dearest Mother, I went to church yesterday. Only think how grand I felt as I saw the windows crowded with girls who couldn't go, because it wasn't their communion Sunday. I actually laughed to myself all the way down. I was so delighted to get out side the lodge. I can't say that I enjoyed it so well when we reached the city and every one stared with their eyes and mouth wide open, and every one going into church stood still to see us gracefully descend...
Show moreVassar Oct. 9, 1865 My dearest Mother, I went to church yesterday. Only think how grand I felt as I saw the windows crowded with girls who couldn't go, because it wasn't their communion Sunday. I actually laughed to myself all the way down. I was so delighted to get out side the lodge. I can't say that I enjoyed it so well when we reached the city and every one stared with their eyes and mouth wide open, and every one going into church stood still to see us gracefully descend from the omnibuses, I walked in first with Miss Usher, and sat at the end of the seat. The church is small and very fanciful. Mr. Corning who writes so much for the Independent is the minister. I liked him very much indeed except a furious denunciation of the Conn. legislature for refusing the negroes the right ofsuffrage, and at the Communion he compared John Brown's last supper with his wife, to that of Christ with his disciples. His text was, "Not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed in life" It was very finely written indeed. His manner in many of his expressions were like Dr. Hogan, or, as I heard others say, a faint imitation of H. W. Beecher. There are seventeen of the girls long communicants, six teachers at least, and Profs Buckham and Farrar. These two gentlemen walked down yesterday and home again. Prof. Buckham didn't come into dinner until we were eating our pudding. I am in Prof. Farrar's Bible Class. I like him very much. We are to be subdivided next Sunday, when I am in hopes I shall fall to Prof. Tenny. I must tell you an adventure of Nettie Huntingdon's. Prof. Buckham didn't hear his bible class until evening yesterday, because he went to church in the A.M. Nettie is in Miss Lyman's class, but was very anxious to hear Prof. Buckham so she thought she would go into the gallery, but be-ing very anxious to avoid attention, she took off her shoes and proceeded on tiptoe. Alas! for the fallacy of human expectations! Her foot slipped going from one row of seats to the next, and down she went, bump, bump, on the two next. Great agitation below! Prof. Farrar Buckham anxiously inquired "Has any one fallen?" A small girl in the gallery rushed to the rescue. On her way she discovers Nettie's shoes which she seizes, and presses on, mistaking Nettie's entreaties to keep quiet for signals of distress she ran to her, still bearing the shoes aloft, and announces to the alarmed Prof, "no one hurt." Poor Nettie retired completely overwhelmed with chagrin and mortification, inwardly resolved never again to attend Prof. Buckham's Bible Class "sub rosa". Pres. Raymond preached us an excellent sermon yesterday afternoon, text "The perfect law of liberty". I like him very much indeed. Prof. Knapp is splendid! I really believe he's the best teacher I ever saw. He is a wonderfully, linguist. He has lived in Paris and understands all the crooks andturns completely. We study our French just as we do Latin, take the Grammar thoroughly and parse and every thing. He is very handsome too. I am very glad you are out at Kalamazoo, but you must be sure sad come and see us. Hattie is studying Astronomy. Prof. Farrar thought I had better, but I told him I thought I had better study it another year, as I wanted to study Analytical Geometry & Chemistry first. Like a reasonable man he acquiesced in my judgement and thought so too. Give a great deal of love to Uncle and Aunt, they must enjoy your being there. Have you seen any of Hattie's friends? Is Willie going out to Kalamazoo? How does he get along? I do so much want to see him - Isn't it funny about Mary Colburn? Give her my congratulations when she comes home I wonder how Mr. Colburn likes it. I have decided to fascinate Matthew Vassar Jr. or "Young Mat" as he is universally denominated. He is a gay young widower of fifty or more, who makes himself quite popular among the girls. I wish you could see old Mr. Vassar, his face is a perfect sunbeam,he seems entirely happy and contented to walk over the buildings and nod at all the girls. Every pleasant day his carriage is here. Mother dear, if I don't tell you what you want to know or anything you must tell me. I think I write my letters very much at random, but I don't make any progress in improving them. I do want very much to see you, but I haven't been homesick a bit. I said this A.M. at breakfast that I hadn't shed a tear, and Miss Deppen said she wished I had done some of her crying for her. How is Mrs. Howard? & Bell Adams, give my love to Mr and Mrs. Raymond, when you go home. Do stay ever so long. I wish I could kiss you good night. Mattie (Martha Warner, '68)
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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: Warner, Martha S.
Date: October 16, 1865
Text: Vassar Oct. 16, 1865. My dear Mother, I came very near writing to you last night if it was Sunday, and was only prevented by being so sleepy that I went to bed instead. Yesterday went off quite as entirely to my satisfaction, perhaps more so, than any since I have been here. In the first place it was rainy, and that was precisely what we had been wishing for, ever since we came. It rained violently all day and, I hope, has done much good. Then we were all dressed some time before the bell...
Show moreVassar Oct. 16, 1865. My dear Mother, I came very near writing to you last night if it was Sunday, and was only prevented by being so sleepy that I went to bed instead. Yesterday went off quite as entirely to my satisfaction, perhaps more so, than any since I have been here. In the first place it was rainy, and that was precisely what we had been wishing for, ever since we came. It rained violently all day and, I hope, has done much good. Then we were all dressed some time before the bell rang, a very unusual circumstance which put us all in high spirits. Next the Bible Classes were subdivided yesterday and to my intense joy I was assigned to Prof. Tenney — Hattie and Minnie to Prof. Knapp. He takes it up with reference to the Greek.We are going to study Isaiah. It was so stormy yesterday that Prof. Knapp who lives in the city was not present, so Hattie came into our class, she told me afterwards, that she did not know but she envied me after all. In the afternoon Rev. Thomas Beecher, of Elmira, preached for us. His text was, Luke 24.32. "And they said one to another. Did not our heart burn within us while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the Scriptures?" It was very plain and simple, not at all Beechery in his style or manner, but it was certainly one of the best sermons I ever heard. I don't mean in point of rhetoric, but of instruction. I hope that Henry Ward will come up to see us this winter. He ought to, being one of the Trustees. Miss A very doesn't look as if she had had a history although after the reading of your letter, Hattie and Minnie concluded that there is something about her mouth conveying the impression of some kind of a secret. (What a graceful sentence) She looks to me something like young Mrs. Wardwith all the sweetness taken out of her face. She has a very decided look, just as if she was capable of doing what you said. I don't know her at all, but she is not a favorite with those who do. I only hope I shan't be sick here. Hattie says that she shall never let me be taken to the "Inventory". I don't think Miss Lyman is much of a sight. She is very pleasant, but can be awfully stern. I don't think she is any more like Mother than I am sure I don't know what. Prof. Knapp, Prof. Tenny, and Mrs. Pres. Raymond, are our biggest sights, also the little Raymond child aged four years - I wouldn't have you think that I don't like Miss Lyman. I do, very much. I am growing very impatient to see you. you are surely coming are you not? I am going to take you up to my room, see if I don't - I feel just as stupid as an owl - therefore you must excuse the brillancy of this document. I shall try and do better next time. (You'll get tired of that before long I'm afraid).Minnie had a paper this morning saying that Tillie Davenport has married her Major General. I am very glad. The same paper brought intelligence of the death of Mrs. Degarmo Jones. I didn't suppose she was so old. What a pity that you couldn't remember Mr. Freeland's message - Please give our love to him especially mine - Mrs. Raymond I always send love to, whether I say so or not, also Mrs. Freeland Mrs. Hibbard and the girls - How is Mrs. Howard? Tell Nell I shall write to her pretty soon, unless there is a prospect of something interesting's happening - Our life goes along in a sort of monotone, nothing occurs that would interest any one outside the building. Rev. Mr. Beecher took dinner here today. Miss Sayles and Miss Avery sat one on each side of him - We have lost our nice dining room girl. She had a fuss with Mrs. Fowler, and was started off - We have got the pokiest thing in her place. Yesterday she didn't get us helped to meat until we had been at the table twenty five minutes - We had ever so much fun and Mrs. Fowler gave her a scolding that made her cheeks burn. She did better today - Minnie and Hattie sendmuch love - Has Father entirely forgotten us. He hasn't so much as sent his love to us since we left. How is Le Maire? likewise Billy Gray? Love to all at home & abroad - Your loving daughter - Mattie S. W. You didn't ask me any questions did you?
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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Date: October 17, 1865
Text: Vassar Oct [?] My darling dear mother, What business have you to go home before you got my letter, which I sent to Kalamazoo? I hope Uncle Safford will not take the trouble to send it to Detroit. I can't say that it was a classical production. I am mad enough tat aunt Mary Frances to [?] her up and despatching her to Belancy Bay. So seldom as Aunt Safford attempts to go any where too! How many weeks is she expecting to remain? I am so glad you had Miss Weed stay at our house: it must...
Show moreVassar Oct [?] My darling dear mother, What business have you to go home before you got my letter, which I sent to Kalamazoo? I hope Uncle Safford will not take the trouble to send it to Detroit. I can't say that it was a classical production. I am mad enough tat aunt Mary Frances to [?] her up and despatching her to Belancy Bay. So seldom as Aunt Safford attempts to go any where too! How many weeks is she expecting to remain? I am so glad you had Miss Weed stay at our house: it must have given you a great deal of please to se her. There is a teacher here Miss Wiley who looks some like Mrs. Kindab. Did you have a pleasant wine there? How did her hopeful children behave Did Mrs. Dr. Barrett go to our house with the rest of the family? Have a doubt of it. Do tell us something about Mary Calburn. how she is, and what the baby's name is. I think I shall invite them to call it Martha Spooner I had a very nice letterfrom Carrie yester- day. Nellie is owing me a letter, but I shan't expect one till house cleaning it over. Please tell Willie that I watch the mail every day in hopes of seeing his handwriting. Minnie had a letter from Hattie today. She says that Father has reported Minnie's cold, she is quite over it now. The letter was very interesting told all about Mayor Duncan's wedding and Mr. Johnsons funeral. I wish you would please send us papers occasionally. I had no idea I should miss them so much. Minnie, Hattie and I started out yesterday afternoon at five o'clock, and made four calls before tea. One was on Miss Leland fourth floor, a fat little thing who looks like and appears very much like Emma Kellogg. I like her even as much. We fixed her gas with a hair pin to make it burn better. Our next call was on the second floor, at Miss Dibble'sShe was nice enough, but her room mate Miss Rhoades was even so much nicer. She is the smartest girl in our Latin class. I should judge, from present appearances. Then we went to see Miss Bechwith on the first floor. She was not at home so we pro ceded to Miss Usher's where we stayed till supper. I like her very much indeed. After tea and chapel Prof. Farrar met us in the Chemistry room to see about Chemistry. Then we came home and studied a little while till Miss johnson and Lizzie Cramer came in. We had just the jolliest time possible. We always do when they are here. Lizzie is going to study Geology. I want to even so much but Hattie would let me , and Miss Gilbert says that you lose much more than you [?] by trying to do too much. Consequently I have submitted with as good grace as posse ble. We have been sealed alphabetically in chapel. Minnie of course is at one [?] and we at the other. We have this advantage however we can watch Miss Lyman and see how shebehave in chapel. Also we can see any visitors, who by hook or crook are in at chapel which is a great privilege. I have there by seen three coat wearing animals whom I otherwise should never have known existed. Mother I do wish you could see Madam. she is so silly Satuday she took several of the girls down town and they to get on the good side of her, flattened till she was half crazy with pleasure. The poor woman actually bought herself a light blue [?] (she is fully forty three) and took it to the dress makers. she is told then to make it any two or three inches in front. "Oh no" the dress maker said "not in front" "yes indeed I walkways hold up my dress so" she does make the most ridiculous appearance of any on I ever saw. I do want to see you ever so much. I hope you will make your appearance before long. Do please send me a piece of your dress and [?] us every thing that happened. You write spleen did letters. I wish I could send you some chestnuts. The frost starts them off nicely now. I am going to get some this afternoon I guess. It will depend upon what time we get out of chemistry. Is De. Barrett's sister that is there Ellen? Give a great deal of love to father and the rest. Tell every one to write to us. How is Bridge? Tell her that our girls name at [?] is Mary O'Hare. I don't know what one chambermaid's name is the one we did have suddenly disappearedher substitute informed us that she had "the shakes". She is fully impressed with the fact that Hattie and Minnie are teachers I wish it would rain We are suffering for the lack of it. We are all very well Hattie and Minnie send a great deal of love [?] tell Emma to write to me sometimes love to Miss Raymoona Mrs. Gre land Mrs. Hittard and every one. I do wish I could kiss you. Goodbye Your loving daugh ter Mattie How many grapes did you have. I wish Charles Goldburn would mind his business & write to us. Have you written to Aunt Rebecca yet? I hope Auntie I will write to us MattieTell Nellie that I am listening attentively toward the West for howls. I support that having no one else to quarrel with she has begun on her image in the look glass. I hope she [?] cracks in the looking glass.
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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: Warner, Martha S.
Date: October 18, 1865
Text: Vassar, Oct. 18, 1865. My dear sister Nellie. Don't read this out load. If Father or Willie are around. My principal, particular, and exact reason for writing to you just now is to sound the praises of Prof. Knapp. We assembled this A.M. in the Livy class, fear and trembling on our countenances, a most horrible Romulus and Remus lesson in our hands. I thought I was completely steeled by my Cicero and Virgil experience, but I never dreaded the thought of reading any thing so much, in my...
Show moreVassar, Oct. 18, 1865. My dear sister Nellie. Don't read this out load. If Father or Willie are around. My principal, particular, and exact reason for writing to you just now is to sound the praises of Prof. Knapp. We assembled this A.M. in the Livy class, fear and trembling on our countenances, a most horrible Romulus and Remus lesson in our hands. I thought I was completely steeled by my Cicero and Virgil experience, but I never dreaded the thought of reading any thing so much, in my life. Prof. Knapp called the roll, took our review translations, which we write out and bring into class, gave us ours for yesterday, told us that he was otherwise engaged and would not heard us this morning, and by the way, we needn't write out the translation for tomorrow, and dismissed us, with the injunction "Go quickly to your rooms." It was all done so naturally and unconcernedly,that a stranger would never have imagined that any more was the matter than he stated. I actually feel affection for him already. I presume at least I hope, that his engagement was to attend a class of Madame's. she doesn't know how to teach very well, and her classes feel somewhat out of patience with her. Miss Johnson went to Prof. Knapp a day or two ago, and asked to be put into a lower class which Miss Fesseadeu teaches, he questioned her a little and said he would go into her class and hear her. Consequently I presume he has gone now. As far as Madame's table is concerned, I sat there for three meals, and found that they only talked French around Madame and never uttered a syllable while I was there, the result was that I was sick with headache and went back to my own table. I believe that they do talk rather more French there now. Prof. Wiebt "the music man" has a German table which I think I shall join. They have no opportunity to speak English under the watchful eyes of Mr. Mrs. and Miss. Imagine methere. The sun has been beautifully eclipsed today. Did you look at it? Miss Mitchell gave Hattie some pieces of glass and we spent most of the time we were not in classes, squinting at his Solar Majesty. Miss M. has been making observations all the morning. We had our study hours assigned today. I am glad for we have been annoyed by visitors when we wanted to study. They are from nine A.M. until twelve, from two till five, and from half past seven until nine - I did beautifully in Livy this morning congratulate me. (I presume that by this time, you understand that today is tomorrow). We were very glad to recieve a paper this morning. How sad Mrs. Strong's death is. I wonder what will become of her little children. I don't know what to say about John Ward, it seems almost as if he deserved it, but think of his poor wife, almost a bride, and of that boy. I should not think he could forget a single instant that he is a mur-derer. Have you got Hattie's letter about that chenile? Minnie's birthday comes next week. Miss Gilbert sent a great deal of love back to you, therefore you need not be afraid to sen some more. She often mentions you and seems to consider you nearly perfection. I guess it is her way to make a great deal of anyone whom she fancies, she does just so by Minnie They are both great favorites here. Miss Mitchel thinks Hattie is fine, she told them one day at the Presidents table about her, and how smart she is, and Miss Wiebe came in here one day and told of it, in her funny German fashion. No American would ever have done it so. I am very hungry for a letter. I had no idea that they made such a difference. I hope you didn't ask any very important questions as I can't find your letter. Who were the ministers at our house? Were they pleasant? I would a great deal to be able to take tea at home tonight, and spend the evening in the back parlor. Give my love to the familyand the girls. I suppose that busy is no name for Sara's state of mind. Prof. Buckham has brought home his family - such sweet pretty little things - the orthodox number for Vassar College, a little boy and a little girl, the girl with light curls. Prof. Buckham looks like a different person. Mrs. Farrar had been visiting almost ever since school began, and that is why we haven't seen her - Quantities of love from all of us to all the people. Your loving sister Mattie (Martha S. Waraer, '68)
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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: 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: Warner, Martha S.
Date: October 25, 1865
Text: Vassar Oct. 25/65 My darling Mother, I am going to try and write to you before the retiring bell rings, so that it can go tomorrow A.M. but I hardly think I shall succeed — I am very glad that my belongings are turning up so rapidly - I hope you will appropriate everything you find. Miss Fessenden came in here this evening just before tea and made us quite a visitation, she admired Katie Peale very much. I think she is the nicest of all the lady teachers. Minnie, Hattie and I had the honor of...
Show moreVassar Oct. 25/65 My darling Mother, I am going to try and write to you before the retiring bell rings, so that it can go tomorrow A.M. but I hardly think I shall succeed — I am very glad that my belongings are turning up so rapidly - I hope you will appropriate everything you find. Miss Fessenden came in here this evening just before tea and made us quite a visitation, she admired Katie Peale very much. I think she is the nicest of all the lady teachers. Minnie, Hattie and I had the honor of sitting at Miss Lyman's table Sunday night. We had a very pleasant time, and I soon discovered that she considered Mrs. Sumner "one of the rare women of the earth".Mrs. Perkins she evidently did not admire, and said that she could hardly realize that Minnie was a married woman. She spoke very highly of Mrs. Geo. Foote i.e. Miss Dwight. Miss Mitchel I admire more than I do any woman here, she is tall, has grey hair which she wears done up in two little knobs on each side of her head, that look as if they would be curls sometime, the rest is in a black chenile net drawn up on top of her head just as Emma's is. She being a Quakeress always wears black and grey, and her whole appearance never alters a particle. She is a noble woman. She asked me yesterday why I didn't come into her class this year. I told her I thought I could study it to better advantage another year she said she should never have another class like the one she has now. I forgot to tell you that Miss Lyman didn't know me in my everyday clothes and invited me there yesterday noon. To day is Minnie's birthday. I am very sorry that your answerto Hattie's letter hasn't come yet. She is very much disappointed. Finding that I have plenty of time, I am going to read the Odessy, as soon as the books come. There are only four of us in the class and as one of the teachers said, "there's is metal there". Miss Starr Prof. Knapp says pronounces Modern Greek better than any American he ever heard, she seems to be a born scholar. Miss Glover is a very fine scholar, so is Miss Blatchley, time will develop the resources of Miss Warner. We are all in the same Latin class. There is one little girl here Miss Carter, who is only fifteen, is reading Livy, in the first French class and studying Astronomy, she is a very throrough scholar also. We are all of us very well, haven't had a sick day yet. Minnie was threatened with a head ache last week, but didn't have it. Country air and bread and milk are beginning to tell upon my physical frame. I shouldn't be surprised if I had gained several pounds. The President gave us a lecture yesterday, on the subject of waste in gas and heat, both of which are a far greater expense to the College than they had anticipated. Give a great deal of love to all. Tell Helen that Hattie was delighted with her letter, and will answer it before five weeks are up. Minnie and Miss Gilbert send much love. The breakfast bell has rung - I haven't been writing all night. Good bye - your loving child Mattie. Excuse haste.
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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: 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: 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: Warner, Martha S.
Date: November 10, 1865
Text: Vassar Nov. 10./65 My darling dear Mother, How much do you suppose I can get written before the tea bell rings? I shall try to get down the page. I can't tell you how delighted I was to hear from you, as for worrying about Hattie's having more letters from you than I, it never occurred to me that she did, but what comes to her comes just as much to me. What a shame that Alice Holmes and her baby are so feeble. I hope that it will live. Is she going to try Mincassia? There is a Miss...
Show moreVassar Nov. 10./65 My darling dear Mother, How much do you suppose I can get written before the tea bell rings? I shall try to get down the page. I can't tell you how delighted I was to hear from you, as for worrying about Hattie's having more letters from you than I, it never occurred to me that she did, but what comes to her comes just as much to me. What a shame that Alice Holmes and her baby are so feeble. I hope that it will live. Is she going to try Mincassia? There is a Miss Treadwell here from Jackson who lives very near Mrs. Hobart. I like her very much indeed. She has a really remarkable face. Miss Wiebe says "she looks like our poet Schiller." I feel quite proud of her.I expected nothing more or less, than that the Brooks and Bernards would appear in red or green on the first Sunday How do you admire the new style of bonnets ? I think that they are the most graceful shape that I have seen. How thankful I am that Mrs. Wheaton has something new to put over her self. Where is Mrs. Tarbox going to live? I should like to have seen her married - at least I should to have seen her husband during the ceremony. There is the tea bell. Don't you think I'm smart. Miss Gilbert is sick. I am afraid she has a touch of ague. She really is quite sick. I had the honor of teaching our Greek class, as for giving out the lesson went. She is so different from what E has always imagined. Every one likes her very much - Some of the girls think she is the nicest teacher here. She has been very kind to us, very indeed. I had a nice long letter from Sara today, she does write capital letters. I do want to be at home next month. What are you going to do Thanksgiving Day? Doesn't it seem improper to have it in December. Aren't you sorry for Mrs. Rumney? It does seem as if she had children enough. How's Cousin Bell? Give a great deal of love to her. Are the old lady and gentleman any respectabler than formerly? Frankie Hunt wrote to Prof. Farrar's wife to the effect that we were here Prof. Farrar stopped Minnie coming out of chapel last week and told her that his wife despaired of hunting us out and therefore wished us to call on her, consequently night before last, we started out and invited Miss Sayles to take us. We had a most delightful visit. I do love Prof. Farrar, his wife is very pleasant. The Prof. knew Mr. George Curtiss very well, (you know he came here from Elmira) It seemed so pleasant and home like there, that nothing less than the demands of some terrible lessons at home was sufficient to tear us away. I am going to cultivate Prof. Tenney, he lives so near it would be delightful to go and see him. I have given away my beloved mud turtle. H. and M. didn't find him a congenial parlor mate. Miss Avery came in here Sunday and staid nearly an hour. She was very pleasant, talked about almost every thing. We have got to go into the Labratory at least half an hour a day - I presume we shall enjoy it very much. What a kind considerate man Mr. Pease is, the more I know of him the better I like him. Do tell me what Mrs. Coucklin did to those collars? Did she make them chokers or what? I don't believe I brought your stocking - I remember seeing one and not the other when packing but thought the other one had been put away I am very sorry about it. When is Father coming? Nobody had mentioned it lately. Do the girls say much about their Father marriage? are they making many preperations for Mrs Fomeroy? How does Mary feel? How's Miss Seger? Love to her. Mrs. Sumner Mrs. Raymond, Mr. and Mrs. Freeland ditto - How I wish I could go to church.You don't know how much I like to hear from you. Give a great deal of love to every one I known especially May Colburn and her baby - Send us some pound sweets do. I think I should like to have you send the whole city at the same time. How does Helen get along? Tell Willie I do want a letter. Can't you come with Father? I fairly ache to see you. Good bye your loving daughter Mattie
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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: Warner, Martha S.
Date: November 17, 1865
Text: Vassar Nov. 17./65 My darling dear Mother, What a dear good woman you are to write to me so often. You are worth half a dozen Helen's in that branch of the fine arts. Not that she is at all to be slighted - but I don't believe she has injured her eyes sitting up at night to write. However Nellie "its very good what there is of it." I should like to see Mrs. Taylor - Did she tell any news worth hearing? Anything about the Peases or Catlins? I suppose she has material for...
Show moreVassar Nov. 17./65 My darling dear Mother, What a dear good woman you are to write to me so often. You are worth half a dozen Helen's in that branch of the fine arts. Not that she is at all to be slighted - but I don't believe she has injured her eyes sitting up at night to write. However Nellie "its very good what there is of it." I should like to see Mrs. Taylor - Did she tell any news worth hearing? Anything about the Peases or Catlins? I suppose she has material for conversation sufficient to last at least one year. I should enjoy hearing her talk. By the way where's Miss Seger? Please remember us to her. Also to her Mother. Miss Grant that was, Mrs. Ban-ister that is, is visiting Miss Lyman. She is a very remarkable looking woman. We haven't been to see her yet, but are going tomorrow morning. Miss Lyman told her about us, and she expressed a strong desire to see us. She spoke very highly of Mother to Miss Gilbert. I was delighted with her appearance as far as I saw at chapel. She is as tall as Miss Lyman, and I had always imagined her short. I wish I could pass myself off on her as Miss Morrison. By the way I am going to send home for our family Bible in order to prove satisfactorily to myself and the world at large, that my name is Martha Spooner Warner, and not Morrison. On the whole I have decided not put my eyes out looking for Father. I have concluded that he will be visible to the naked eye when he does arrive. Bridget must be a useful member of society since her two wakes. I wouldn'twake a man that died drunk seems to me. "But every one to their taste as the old woman." I read that chapter. It is very beautiful. They are building the organ in the chapel, so that we can't have our half hours with Miss Lyman. I am sorry for she wanted Mrs. Banister to address us. Prehaps however the organ will be finished before she leaves, as I believe she is going to stay some time. Minnie had a letter from Maggie a day or two ago, in which she said "Mrs. Powel has just returned from Elba. Mrs. Town is ill, she has but one opinion in regard to her sickness - consumption." Won't it be dreadful if we never see her again. Only four weeks more to Christmas! Does it seem possible? Has Aunt Rebecca written anything more about our coming there? I believe I should prefer Vermont on some accounts. Aunt Mary is very anxious we should come and see her. I should like to I think. Who is the "little minister" at Mr. Eldrige's church? I thought Dr. Eels was there.Tell Father I am extremely obliged to him for putting "Knickbocker" in with our books. For that matter the girls feel their obligation equally with me. I read out loud in it last night, to the great edification of all present. I had no idea it was such a keen satire. Mill Gilbert sends much love. Hattie and Minnie are considering the subject. O Mother! You can't imagine how much I want to see you, and have you see us, and how comfortable and happy we are here. I do believe that we three girls are as contented a trio as can be found in the college. Every says when they come in here, "Oh! what a pleasant room! only two bedrooms, how's that? Just you three, why how happy you must be! All I want to make me "perfectly happy" is, some sweet apples. I want you to see Miss Starr, she is lovely - Tell Nellie that a letter that came from her would be highly acceptable - But I know the dear child is very busy - Remember us to every body - kiss Mary Colburn's baby for me. Tell Mrs. Raymond that the President's little Nellie reminds meme extremely on her little Hattie. Give my love to every body and tell them I want very much to see them - We have begun to practise in the labratory. I like it very much. If I hadn't anything else to do - I think I should stay there all day long — I do love Prof. Farrar dearly - There's chapel bell Good bye my dear dear Mother - Your loving daughter Mattie Dr. Magoon of Albany preached for us Sunday. We liked him very much.
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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: 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: Warner, Martha S.
Date: November 25, 1865
Text: Vassar Nov. 25 My dearly beloved and ever to be respected Maternal Parent, With whom do you think I have had the exquiste felicity of visiting this evening - Guess. Its no use, you'd never imagine in the world. It was no less distinguished gentleman than John Gilbert! He came up on his way to New York, and Miss Gilbert obtained permission for us to see him - As you may imagine we were nothing loth to avail ourselves of the opportunity to converse with one of the species of Sunday A.M....
Show moreVassar Nov. 25 My dearly beloved and ever to be respected Maternal Parent, With whom do you think I have had the exquiste felicity of visiting this evening - Guess. Its no use, you'd never imagine in the world. It was no less distinguished gentleman than John Gilbert! He came up on his way to New York, and Miss Gilbert obtained permission for us to see him - As you may imagine we were nothing loth to avail ourselves of the opportunity to converse with one of the species of Sunday A.M. coat wearing animals. He is quite good looking, very pleasant, very much of a gentleman, and althogether is a remarkably agreeable person. Hattie and I were the envied ones at our table last night I can assure you, as we gave mostglowing descriptions of our call. Miss Gilbert went down to New York with him, and never took us too! wasn't she mean? I hope they will see Father. Mr. G. took Uncle Edwin's address. They both seemed anxious to see him. Miss Gilbert evidently considers him something little short of a miracle. Father is splendid! He has written to us every day since he has been in New York. I think he is very kind indeed - Isn't it delightful that he should have met Mr. and Mrs. Catlin? How delighted they all must have been! I wish they would invite us up to Burlington for the Holidays - wouldn't it be magnificent - I think they might. Hattie is half crazy to walk down to church this morning. I think Miss Lyman might let her, but Hattie won't ask her as she doesn't know of any teacher who is going, and has no faith in being allowed to go alone. Minnie has a hard headache today - Two of the Episcopalian girls came in to see if Minnie would be willing to ask MissLyman if she could take them down, but Minnie was not able to go - and Miss Lyman wouldn't let them go alone. I do hope we shall all be allowed to go to Church Thanksgiving day - I really think they ought to. If we have service here, I hope and trust that it wont be in the afternoon. Next Sunday is Communion Sabbath, so that we will all go without difficulty. I wish that we had Communion on the same Sunday that you do at home, it would be much pleasanter, then it comes immediately after morning service, which seemed very strange to me, as I had never seen it before. It seems so queer to have Miss Gilbert gone. I find myself listening for her step and wondering why she doesn't come. She has been very good to us indeed. I didn't dream of her being so good and kind. I think those tintypes of baby are very good. We all like them much better than the photograph. Are they all scratched? I hope not. How is the little Colburnbaby? I hope you go up there often. When you see her kiss her for me. I wish I could see all three of them. Tell Will that when the organ is quite built I am going to propose his name to the Executive Committee as blower thereof - Does it seem possible that Christmas is almost here? We have had scarcely a thought of winter here. Some of the girls are very busy preparing for Christmas, but we benighted creatures at 23, have almost forgotten that there was such a day, to say nothing of making presents for it - I assure you we were much gratified by your kind invitation for spend Sunday at home. Minnie said "I say girls let's go." We all said "Yes by all means, of course we will", but Miss Gilbert put an end to all our plans by marching off to Now York and we couldn't go without a teacher. I would be ever so much obliged to you, if you would send me some of that very narrow red velvet. I think I could wear it and I should like it extremely. I thank you very much for the blue it is beautiful - Please give a great deal of love to Mrs. Raymond and Mrs. Freeland, Mrs. Hibbard & Mr Freeland of course - I am very glad Mrs. Clark came to see you. What has become of John & his wife? How sad about Mr. Sile-bee. What has caused his sudden poverty? I wish I could kiss you Mother dear Shan't I be glad when next summer comes? Are you going to have any one at home Thanksgiving Day? I am fairly aching for a sight of home and home people. Now don't you say I am homesick - On the contrary I am gaining flesh every day - There are some dear good girls here. Minnie is an immense favorite & Hattie & I shine comfortably in reflected glory. Minnie is just as good and lovely as she can be. I love her better every single day of my life, love to every one from your loving daughter Mattie.
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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Date: December 1865
Text: Vassar, Dec. 1865. My dear Nellie, I can't wait another instant tar to tell you what a grand time we had yesterday - In the first place we didn't have to get up for breakfast until eight - i.e. we had breakfast at half past eight, and Miss Lyman gave express orders that no one should wake up her roommates but that every one should sleep as long as possible. After breakfast every one did what seemed good in her own eyes. Hattie and Minnie went up to Miss Sayles room to help about the...
Show moreVassar, Dec. 1865. My dear Nellie, I can't wait another instant tar to tell you what a grand time we had yesterday - In the first place we didn't have to get up for breakfast until eight - i.e. we had breakfast at half past eight, and Miss Lyman gave express orders that no one should wake up her roommates but that every one should sleep as long as possible. After breakfast every one did what seemed good in her own eyes. Hattie and Minnie went up to Miss Sayles room to help about the tableaux, and I came home and read Aurora Leigh, until Helen Dana and Nettie Huntington came in and talked until chapel time at half past eleven. Pres. Raymond preached a very fine sermon. The choir chanted the "Te Deum". Cousin Emma(as she told us to call her), is a very beautiful singer. She and Prof. Wiebe sung the principal parts. I heard a great many remarks of the difference between her singing and Miss Wiley's. After chapel she came home with me, and stayed till about half past two during which time I recieved a letter from Charlie and one from you, wasn't I delighted tho'! I like her very much indeed. She is exactly my height - has light hair, and a very sweet expression. Likewise she is a very perfect lady. After she went I began to dress for dinner, and had just begun to curl my hair when Miss Griggs made her appearance saying that I was wanted immediately in the Art Gallery. I slipped on a wrapper and ran with my hair all flying. I was seized by Miss Fessenden, and told that I was wanted to act the fact of a fashionable young lady fixing herself before the looking glass and must collect all the finery I could. Consequently I went home and finished dressing when I appearedvery gorgeous in my alpaca and mauve ribbons. Then I rushed up to the chapel and saw the preperations, they had a curtain suspended across the chapel about a foot from the end of the stage, and a large frame, which black gauge stretched across for the front and black cambric for the other three sides making a sort of hugh box, with a seam ripped up on one side to allow us to go in and out. We flew around and rushed up and down, until a quarter past five when dinner was announced. All the Profs, and their families were invited and some other people. They filled three tables with the teachers, while the girls had charge of their own tables and carved their own turkeys. Minnie carved ours in the most highly scientific style, she and Prof. Tenney were the only ones who didn't stand to carve. Our bill of fare was as follows. Oyster Soup, very nice. Roast Turkey, cranberry sauce, squash potatoes (mashed), celery, gravy - third, plum pudding, fourth, nuts and raisins apples. It was very nearly seven when weleft the table. Every thing was very nice, and the girls all seemed to enjoy it very much. Immediately after tea there was a reception in the College parlors and the Presidents, all being thrown into one great room. We went in for about five minutes and then disappeared. I rushed down stairs and in about twenty minutes or half an hour marched into the chapel gallery in the following attire. Minnie's blue silk skirt, Hattie Johnson's white lace waist, four bracelets and Hattie's white shawl. I ought to have told you that Madame Castani, a most remarkable woman, who makes her living in that manner, came a day or two before hand, with a quantity of Greek and Turkish costumes, which she was expected to arranged into tableaux - she watched the girls very closely to find those that she could trust to fill them out - The teachers made up seven, that afternoon which were American. Profs. Farrar and Vaningen assisted them, and they did nobly, adding very materially to the interestoccasion. The first tableau was "A Pasha waited upon by attendants." It was very pretty and much admired. Next came "The Greek Fugitives," the principal figure of which was Minnie standing with her left hand pointing to the Turks in the distance, two children hanging to her skirts, while her noble liege lord squatting on the floor had another one with him. She looked vary grand indeed, and made quite an impression. Next came "Siote defending his sister" which they said was beautiful but I didn't see it as I was at that time in the dressing room. Next was the "Flower of the Family" Every one's expectation was high when the curtain rose and there sat the baker with his cap and apron on, and by his side - a barrel of flour of course there was great laughing, when the curtain ross again, when the baker hammered the hoops as if to open it and when they were all loose out came little Nellie Raymond from the barrel. She looked a pretty and cunning as could be,and as you may wall imagine the effect was capital. Next came "The old plan and the new, or the old plan, and our plan." It was a tableaux in two parts, a screen being drawn between them, sufficiently to prevent their seeming one picture, and yet allow all to be seen. On one side were Miss Mary Granger with a pallet and brushes in her hand standing before an Easel, while Hattie Johnson siting by a table piled with books was criticizing her picture, the background was formed with the College flag so arranged that "Vassar" was plainly discernable. On the other side stood Hattie with her hair done up in a knot, her hoops off, an old calico wrapper on, and her sleeves rolled up, her dress pinned up, and a calico apron on. In one hand she held a mop and a pail stood beside her, altogether she was a most capital Irish girl. Helen Dana sat beside her dressed in a calico dress sewing dilligently, while not far off (on account of the limited space)stood Marthy Spooner herself, dressed as described above, with the addition of a great heap of blue and white flowers on top of her hair, a waterfall cushion underneath her curls, making them stand out not more than half a mile a long white ribbon around her comb, a red opera cloack trimmed with swan's down hanging down her back, her best handkerchief in her hand, busily engaged in fixing the flowers on her hair, looking in a mirror for that purpose. They said it was very good and I have had quite a number of compliments. Next came a Greek tableau of which I don't remember the subject. The American tableaux were all prettier than the Greek ones, at least we thought so. The "Rose of Castile" excited much anticipation and a table nicely piled with Castile soap caused great laughter. But when the "Real Rose of Castile seen in the light of other days" was announced, we all expected something grand, and Iassure you, that the same soap with a tallow candle burning before it raised a shout. "Faith, Hope, and Charity," was the most beautiful of all. Three girls in white robes, one resting on an anchor, another holding a cross, and the third dropping her charities on the floor. It was very beautiful indeed - A portrait of Schiller attracted great attention. She was Miss Treadwell from Jackson. Her face is very much like the pictures of Schiller. The closing scenes were first a Godess of Liberty, steading by Union, while at their feet sat a weeping slave with chains around her. In the next scene Union had lifted her up and Liberty had thrown her arm over them They all went off beautifully, and every one went home feeling highly contented with herself and friends - I didn't tell you about the other Greek ones, as it would have been tedious. Miss Avery came back yesterday and brought out all her infirmary - Miss Lyman thought we could do great wonders, if we could have such fine tableaux on so short a notice. I was delighted to get your letter. What was the matter between Mrs. Birch and the Dr? I am utterly discouraged about them if that is what they are going to do. What a polite young person Miss Lawrence is! I wonder Lucy is really engaged. Of course any of us would have said the same under the circumstances. I am very glad that you had such a pleasant time at that quilting. What did you do yesterday? Write soon and tell me all about it. I do hope you had a good time. I presume you have long before this discovered the whereabouts of your paternal relative and could enlighten me as well if not better than you I. I am very sorry to hear about Eva Standish. How are her sister and niece? I wish I could set my two eyes on you your relatives and neighbors - also onher blue silk trimming. I had a letter from Charlie yesterday, he says his duties may call him here any day and wants instructions how to proceed. Please ask Mother to write him a little note of introduction to Miss Lyman, and tell him to take the Vassar omnibus, & that will unlock all doors - What a goose Mattie is. I am ashamed of her. I'd go out as nurse girl before I'd be dependant as she is, to say nothing of spending money for a plume when my family were suffering - Remember us to Jenny Davy. I would give a great deal to see her. Give a great deal of love to Mother, Willie, and all the loveable people. Minnie wants Father to send her ten $ too because her ma is an orphan. Don't you think I've written nearly enough? I do. Ask Carrie Hawley if she has decided to drop me. I haven't done or thought of a single thing for Christmas With a great deal of love from all of us I remain your off servant - M.S.W.Mattie didn't see the second "Rose of Castile". It was a row of knives, saws, instead of soap. She was'nt near enough to see the distinctly and had not heard it before I don't we you a letter. I am going to write to you a decently long letter some time. Christmas is coming - aren't you glad we are away?
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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Date: December 02, 1865
Text: Vassar, Dec. 2, 1865 My dear, dear Mother, It's Saturday evening again and I am writing to you. How ridiculous that I haven't written since Father was here. It seems at least a month. Words cannot tell you how very greatly we enjoyed his visit - It was almost like going home ourselves, the girls said the next day that it did them good to see how happy we looked. I was as proud of him as could be. You don't know how handsome he looked. He saw every one we wanted him to besides....
Show moreVassar, Dec. 2, 1865 My dear, dear Mother, It's Saturday evening again and I am writing to you. How ridiculous that I haven't written since Father was here. It seems at least a month. Words cannot tell you how very greatly we enjoyed his visit - It was almost like going home ourselves, the girls said the next day that it did them good to see how happy we looked. I was as proud of him as could be. You don't know how handsome he looked. He saw every one we wanted him to besides. I think we had a delightful visit. I had the pleasure of reciting Greek yesterday before John Gilbert, likewise of shaking hands with him to the distress of all the other young ladies of the class, who couldn't say"good bye" to him, nor ask him to come and see them at home. You probably remember writing to me about Miss Avery our doctor. She went down to New York with Mrs. Banister Thursday, without leaving word where she was going to stay. The next morning a telegram came saying that her father was dead. No one knew where to send or what to do, they telegraphed to Mrs. Banister in hopes she would know where she had gone but I believe she didn't, and tonight she has come back without knowing anything about it. She stopped at Miss Grant's room and she said to her, did you get the telegram? "What telegram, is my Father dead?" Miss Lyman has gone down to the depot with her, as she has gone to try and get home before the funeral. Monday - I wrote so far Saturday evening and then went to see Prof. Farrar. The all absorbing topic just now is a Literary Society which is forming - As far as I can see Minnie and Hattie are going to havematters in their own hands to a great extent. I am very glad they are going to have one for it will do us all good. The President has been very kind indeed, and takes a most lively interest in all our proceedings. Yesterday we went to Church because Miss Lyman made a mistake, and supposed that they did things decently and in order here, and had Communion every two months. We found that it only comes once in three months, but were much delighted at being allowed to go to church. I wonder if we would have such a longing to go, if Church was accessible every Sunday. As it is there is hardly a girl here who doesn't spend half her Sundays wishing she could go to church - I suppose that Dr. and Mrs. Pomeroy will have started on their wedding tour provided, as I imagine they are married in the morning - before this letter reaches you. How anxious we all are as to the result of that marriage! If it turns out wellI think it will be a most excellent thing for all, even Mary, because if her Father was going to act so I am sure that it will altogether more agreeable to have a nice lady at the head affairs that her younger sister. I want to write to Sara in time to have it reach her Wednesday, which will necessarilly be a sad day for them. Emma says they are going to call her "Mary" i.e. Sara and Mary, while she will have to say "Mother," I don't like that. If I didn't say "Mother," I'd say Mrs. Pomeroy - I wonder what they'll do with that little girl of hers. I don't see but I have managed to write as thoroughly unsatisfactory a letter as I very well could. Hattie had a letter today from Lottie Dwight - she didn't tell any news. How are Helen's eyes? Don't let her use them too much. I am going to electioneer this evening after silent hour and study hours. Mattie say tell Mother I am busy writing tickets, and sign my name and send it. Only two week to vacation, M. says send a ticket. Good by Mattie & Hattie.
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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: 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: 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: Warner, Martha S.
Date: December 13, 1865
Text: VASSAR FEMALE COLLEGE, Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Dec. 13 1865 My very dear Sister Nell, I don't owe you a letter to be sure, nevertheless, I feel moved in spirit to write you a birthday epistle in as much as I can't give you any birthday kisses. What a pity that you did make your advent into this world in summer, and then we could all celebrate together. I haven't any thing remarkable to say, having used up all my ideas on your last letter. The all absorbing topic at present is, "...
Show moreVASSAR FEMALE COLLEGE, Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Dec. 13 1865 My very dear Sister Nell, I don't owe you a letter to be sure, nevertheless, I feel moved in spirit to write you a birthday epistle in as much as I can't give you any birthday kisses. What a pity that you did make your advent into this world in summer, and then we could all celebrate together. I haven't any thing remarkable to say, having used up all my ideas on your last letter. The all absorbing topic at present is, "When are you going to leave?" A great many are going Wednesday, but we stay till Thursday, thereby going down with Cousin Emma,and seeing the last of the College also. We received a very urgent invitation from Aunt Mary this morning, via Miss Gilbert. I wish that we were not engaged for Brooklyn, as she says that it is probably the last vacation she will be keeping house. Fanny Miller has written us, not only inviting us for the Holidays, but for all other vacations we may have here. (What a pleasant thing it is to have friends. Libbie Trowbridge has sent us word that we must let her know as soon we reach Brooklyn. Hattie had a letter from Charlie yesterday saying that he expected to be at Poughkeepsie this week. Miss Lyman has given positive orders, that no young lady should be seen, save under cover of a letter of introduction. But Hattie told him to ask for Miss Gilbert, and she'll electioneer him through, having much influence at head quarters. We have had an addition to the ornamental furniture of our room, in the shape of a philipena present to Minnie, from Mother Hubbard. It consists of a man! named "Thursytes" in honor of the "homeliest man who ever came to Troy." His stately figure meas-ured four inches in his stocking feet. His dress consists of one pair of pants, of red delaine, made very loose and gathered at the ankle, a green jacket or sack, trimmed with one row of very narrow serpentine braid, flying open to display a most beautiful red waistcoat, some what disfigured by paste, and a belt of red and white which looks as if it might have bordered white cotton cloth. His head bears a blue cap bordered with red, in the center of which is fastened a rubber cord by which he is suspended to the gas fixture, then when the dear little fellow is pulled, the elasticity of the cord causes him to undergo a series of gymnastics truly wonderful to behold. His face as nearly as my unskillful pen can portray it, is as followed. as far as I can see that is quite natural. Minnie might not recognize it - Minnie has just recognized in this portrait her long lost sow Thursytes. We were much delighted by a letter from Willie this morning. How he has improved in letter writing since last year. It is as good as a feast to read one of his documents. I have taken to reading my old letters Sunday, and find it highly profitable - If you will come up here next Wednesday, we will entertain you with a translation of the first book of the Odessy. We are a were a very fine class, I beg leave to inform you. We read the whole book to Miss Grant a very fine Greek scholar, and she said it was a fine a translation as she overheard. Miss Gilbert is proud of us. I am very sorry to be obliged to stop without finishing the page, but if you have the letter Friday, and I have any dinner, it must stop here. Minnie and Hattie send much love and many wishes of a happy birthday - Give oceans of love to Mother, Father, and Willie from your ever loving sister Mattie -
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Creator: Sylvester, Helen (Seymour)
Date: December 13, 1865
Text: Vassar College Dec 13th 1865 My dear father I have concluded to start for home on Wednesday morning and will arrive home at about 10 o'clock at night. I go then because I can have company to Rochester and do not have to travel alone. All my roommates are going then too. School closes at noon on that day. I am just crazy to go home if you will excuse the extravagance of the expression. It is Wednesday the 31st of Dec. that I shall arrive upon so do not forget the day. Some one or all of...
Show moreVassar College Dec 13th 1865 My dear father I have concluded to start for home on Wednesday morning and will arrive home at about 10 o'clock at night. I go then because I can have company to Rochester and do not have to travel alone. All my roommates are going then too. School closes at noon on that day. I am just crazy to go home if you will excuse the extravagance of the expression. It is Wednesday the 31st of Dec. that I shall arrive upon so do not forget the day. Some one or all of you please meet me at the [blank]depot or if James is well enough I should like to have him meet me at Rochester. Perhaps it will be better for him to just meet me at Brockport for I shall probably have company all the way home. Only just a week from to-night I shall be at home. I would not miss it for anything. There is no train beside the one I am coming on that I can come on so I can do nothing but come when I do. Give my love to James and Mother and Henry if he is at home- Send me some money just as soon as possible. Your affectionate daughter Helen
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Creator: Holtz, Eliza
Date: December 25, 1865
Text: Vassar College Dec. 25th 1865. My dear Mother I wish you a very "happy new year". I have caught you on that If you did catch me on Merry Christmas. Mother, we are ever! and ever! fit ever.'.'.' so much obliged to you for the box we no more expected one than we did to see you or Aunty come Into the house. We never knew a thing about it till last evening and then we found It on the Christmas tree. We had a splendid tree and all the children on the place came. Miss Avery...
Show moreVassar College Dec. 25th 1865. My dear Mother I wish you a very "happy new year". I have caught you on that If you did catch me on Merry Christmas. Mother, we are ever! and ever! fit ever.'.'.' so much obliged to you for the box we no more expected one than we did to see you or Aunty come Into the house. We never knew a thing about it till last evening and then we found It on the Christmas tree. We had a splendid tree and all the children on the place came. Miss Avery, Miss Dickinson, Alice, Mr* Wheeler fit myselftrimmed it every thing went off splendidly. Dr. Raymond and Prof. Farrar read the names fit inscriptions while Miss Avery, Miss Dickinson and Alice handed them the things. When almost all the things had been taken from the tree Dr. Raymond took the cover of the box and held it up In the air fit read the names on it as Misses Alice Hubbard fit Elisa Holt fit passed the cover to Alice, she took it, k began looking around to see where it came from fit found the box and because she looked so surprised the president called out soled.1 Mother I am so tired and hot that my hand is all in a tremble and I have not yet learned how to manage my new pen so you must excuse the looks of this letter. I am very much obliged to all for my nice things, tell George I was looking at a paper cutter last time I was down town just like the one he sent me but thought I would not buy one that time. I thank Charlie for the book very much fc you for the pen and Uncle for the knife fc Auntie for the picture. I gave Miss Avery the picture you sent she was very much pleased with it and said she had been looking for one of that style but could not find one half as handsome in New York. Give my love to Julia fc thank her for the cake for me please.As the desk or the apron had no mark on them 1 took possession of them but do not know who to thank for them. Give my love fc a Merry Christmas fc Happy New Year to Grandma fc Father fc all my friends, kiss the children for me, fc with love to yourself let me say goodby perhaps for this year, from your loving daughter Eliaa Holt. P, S. I bought a splendid pair of skates the last time I was in Po'keepsle with ankle supporters on them for five dollars and I spent four more on presents fc seven seventy five in paying for books, paper, and extra washing fc other things so I shall have hardly enough to pay my board with. Goodby again from your daughter.
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Creator: Blatchley, Sarah Louise
Date: December 28, 1865
Text: New Haven. Dec 28th 1865. Dear Bell. I am afraid my letter is begun, so near the last hour, that it will hardly reach the College much before I do, still mindful of my promise I will commence now this stormy evening. We had a very disagreable ride down to the boat that night we started - there were eighteen inside the omnibus, beside at least three on top - I was not feeling well, and the motion made me sick and you may be sure was very glad when "at long last" we reached the...
Show moreNew Haven. Dec 28th 1865. Dear Bell. I am afraid my letter is begun, so near the last hour, that it will hardly reach the College much before I do, still mindful of my promise I will commence now this stormy evening. We had a very disagreable ride down to the boat that night we started - there were eighteen inside the omnibus, beside at least three on top - I was not feeling well, and the motion made me sick and you may be sure was very glad when "at long last" we reached the landing. The boat had not yet come and we were obliged to wait a half hour I should think, in the office where there was a great scarcity of chairs. Mr Swan saw us safely onboard the boat, I think he was very kind. We had a safe and prosperous voyage down the Hudson notwithstanding it was such a gloomy night; sat up in the saloon talking with Miss [Mitchell] and eating crackers and walnuts until past ten, of course we had a good time; Sarah and I had the bridal chamber, so she said, at least it was a very pleasant little state room with only one berth in it and that a broad one so that we were quite comfortable ~ except for the linen sheets, unless you have been between a pair of them in the winter time you can-not possibly realize our sensations. We did not sleep so very well, Sarah, of course, had made the most of her opportunities to take cold and had the neuralgia in the stomach - one of the Chidseys next door was sea sick and Miss[Mitchell] was in to see her, about three oclock in the morning. At four, the pumping, end splashing and shaking, and scraping ceased and we knew by that, that we were in New York; still Sarah could not be induced to get up for another half hour, saying that we should be tired enough before the day was finished anyway. We started from the boat at about six and had a long walk through the streets of New York before daylight * and a long ride just at dawn, to the New Haven depot. Miss [Mitchell], I do love so much, it will always be one of my happy memories that she kissed me good bye - when I had reached home at last - of course it was a very ordinary thing - but then I did not expect it from herShe would have done it to any of her class of course as she did to me. Sarah took good care of me all the way - you may be assured - bought my ticket checked my trunk - and saw to me generally - I think she enjoyed it, I am sure I did - "the lame and the lazy" — you know "are always well cared for." There was no one waiting at the depot for me - Charlie was making his "maiden speech" and Father had gone to hear him - besides the New York papers said the Hudson was closed up, so that they did not much expect me till afternoon. I laughed all the way home as I walked once more along the familiar streets but when I reached there, I cried I could not help it. I wish you could look in upon our little circle tonight - fromwhich I am so soon to be separated again. I have a very quiet time quieter than any of you girls would imagine - but just what I knew my Christmas would be - for we are very quiet people; still I have not been at home an evening Dec. 28, 1865 - 3 before this week since Monday that is - I have spent two away, and that will probably be all - before I go back to College again. Of course it is happiness to be at home. I called upon Carrie Galpin the other morning - she stopped over night in Brooklyn at her cousin Rienzi's, had a safe journey and like my own I suppose without incidents. Father just now looked up from his book and asked what I was writing - "a letter to Bell" I answered - he made some remark about Belle lettre - and of course after that speech, has subsided into his book 1 again. Clara is playing in the parlor "Ever be Happy" - there is some- thing very sweet about that piece I think dont you? Mother sits sewing by my side in my new brown merino, in which I expect to appear next term. By the way what awful weather it has been, this is the fifth stormy day this week - I long for a beam of sunshine. It Is well I have torn off this half sheet or I might run on indefinitely longer - as it is my space being finished I must say good night to the friendly face that I have called up in imagination before me, hoping that when the real eyes see this scrawl of mine, they will not "view it with a critic's eye but pass by the imperfec- tions of both the pens I have tried to write it with I really dont know which of them to make the most excuses for. Remember me to all the girls at the College that I know - and tell Miss Hubbard from me that if she wants to find true and lasting happiness, she must remember and be a good girl Keep up your spirits Bell and the credit of room sixty-one I think that is good advice Yours with love Iiouise To Belle Treadwell
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Creator: Brown, Frances Elizabeth
Descriptor(s): Bielat, Isabel
Date: 1866-1867

Creator: Sawyer, Kitty
Descriptor(s): Ditkoff, Andrea
Date: 1866

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