1846 Antebellum Michigan Family Letter On Daily Life, Family, And Slavery

CONVERSE, HARRIETT JEWETT [LETTER WRITER]

Publication: Inked letter written by Harriett Jewett Converse, May 17, 1846, Medina, Michigan

4-page, 10" x 7 1/2," hand-written letter from Harriett Jewett Converse in Medina, Michigan, to her cousin, Martha Jewett in Charleston, South Carolina.

A warm and unusually detailed family letter providing a glimpse into everyday life in antebellum Michigan, including family news, relationships, children, marriages, friends, and the personal trials and concerns of the writer and her family. Converse also conveys greetings from her husband, who recalls his earlier friendship with Martha and her husband and the pleasant times they had shared.

The letter includes several noteworthy historical references, including Converse's mention of William L. Greenly, husband of a family member, who in 1846 was elected Lieutenant Governor of Michigan and subsequently became governor. Near the close of the letter, Converse recalls Martha's former opposition to slavery and asks whether, after having the opportunity to see slavery firsthand in South Carolina, she still considers it "as great an evil as you expected."

Very legible. Four tiny holes at folds else very good. An appealing and unusually personal piece of antebellum Americana.