You Never Know What You Might Find

 This has been an odd and difficult year, which is why I haven't written many blog posts lately.  Hubby and I have been mostly staying home and mostly staying away from other people, but somehow, I haven't had the energy to do much research or writing.  And there have been lots of other things besides genealogy taking my time and attention.

A few weeks ago, we took advantage of a beautiful day and went for a drive around Delaware County, Indiana.  Our "goal" was to drive on roads we'd never been on before and so we just wandered the county roads for several hours.

So we are just driving around looking around and we turn a corner and see this:

Our immediate reaction was "What in the world is that?"  This is a little country cemetery and a small church and that structure really stuck out.  So we pulled in and I got out and took more pictures.

Once home, I decided to do some research to see what I could discover about the fancy monument and the three Neeleys buried there.  Find-A-Grave has a photo of Basil and of Hester.  

Basil Neeley and Sarah Suman Neeley were the parents of Hester A. Neeley.  I found a lot about the building of the "elaborate monument" and a bit about Hester and her parents.  

It looks like Basil Neeley was born in 1810 in Virginia.  On 21 March 1833, he married Sarah Suman in Montgomery Co., Ohio.  Sarah was born in 1795.  They appear in Madison Co., Indiana on the 1840 census.  Daughter, Hester, was born 4 July 1835 in Indiana.  She seems to have been their only child.  The family were farmers in Madison Co.  Sarah died in 1855 and was buried in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery near Daleville, Indiana.  Eventually Hester moved to Anderson, Indiana, where she made some wise real estate investments and became very wealthy.  Her father went to live with her shortly before his death.  He died in 1894 and was buried in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.

In 1901, Hester began the planning and construction of the elaborate monument.  There are many newspaper articles about it - too many to include them all.  The first one I found is dated 17 January 1901 from page 3 of the Elwood Free Press, Elwood, Indiana:

"ELABORATE MONUMENT -- Will Be Erected in a Cemetery in Richland Township.       Hester Ann Neely has let an order with McCarty & Son, of Anderson, monument builders, for a monument to cost $10,000.  The monument is to be erected to the memory of the parents of Miss Neely in the Mt. Pleasant cemetery in Richland township, where they are buried.  The monument will be by far the prettiest and most expensive ever erected in this section of the state.  It is to be fifteen feet high and fifteen feet square and will be of bronze and of canopy shape.  Miss Neely is probably the wealthiest lady in Madison county.  There is no one who seems to know exactly what she is worth."

And here are some others:

From The Indianapolis News of April 20, 1901 (this includes a photo of Hester):  "RICH WOMAN'S TRIBUTE --- BUILDING A $10,000 MONUMENT TO HER PARENTS. -- It will be Erected Over the Graves in Delaware County -- Ordered by Hester A. Neeley.    (Special to the Indianapolis News).    ANDERSON, Ind., April 20 -- Work is progressing in this city on the $10,000 monument, ordered by Miss Hester A. Neely, of this city, to mark the last resting place of her parents in a rural cemetery in Mt.Pleasant township, Delaware county.  McCarthy & Son are the contractors, and they expect to finish their work in two months.  It will be unlike any monument ever erected in the State, and it is on a plan suggested by Miss Neely.  She outlined her views in advance, and sketches and plans were submitted by a number of competitors, and she selected the one designed by Mr. McCarthy.  It was estimated that the cost would be $10,000, but this was a secondary matter to Miss Neely.     The drawings represent a canopy monument of granite, marble and bronze.  It will be fifteen feet square, and fifteen and one-half feet in height.  Inside of the pillars is a space twelve feet square, to be occupied by three white Italian marble vaults.  In two of the vaults the bodies of her parents will lie, while the third is reserved by Miss Neely for herself.     These vaults are under ground.  Around the base of the canopy of the monument will be two ranges of bare granite.  On this rests the bronze work, beginning with twelve pillars, surmounted with Corinthian caps; the pillars joined with the cornice of the canopy.  The roof will be of Gothic style, beautifully carved and frescoed.  At the center top will rest a dome surmounted by a Corinthian cross.  Around the canopy, resting on the granite range, will be the railing and bronze flower and scroll work, and the railing will be carved in original designs. There will be a gate four feet wide leading to the interior and the vaults.  An idea of the mass of material and work required is shown by the fact that two carloads of granite will be used in the base of the monument.     The building of this magnificent monument can not be regarded as representing extravagance or an attempt at public display for Miss Neely is amply able to build many such monuments.  Furthermore, she never loved any one so dearly as she did her parents.  She was the only daughter of Basil and Sarah Suman Neely, and was born July 4, 1835, in Union township, Madison county.  She removed with her father from the old homestead, June 14, 1893, to this city.  Her mother died in 1856, and her father soon after coming here.  Miss Neely built a commodious home on West Sixth street, which she has furnished comfortably but not lavishly.     She has quite a collection of old China, some rare books and many quaint implements in her house.  While she is reputed to be the richest woman in Madison county, she is modest and unselfish.  She has done many acts of charity which never became public.  At one time she assumed a large indebtedness on a young church and gave the congregation a start.  Miss Neely has also aided  the Free Kindergarten Association.  She manages her own business affairs and remains close at home.  Much of the time she is alone, but apparently very happy.  During the last month her health has declined, and she has not been able to leave the house." 

The monument was completed in late August 1901.  An article from the Muncie Star Press includes this information:   "The old Neely homestead two miles northwest of Daleville is just across the line in Madison county.  I presents a desolate appearance.  The house has not been occupied for four years and is going to decay.  The barns and other outbuildings are falling down and the orchards are a wilderness.... Until two years ago Miss Neely owned a piece of property in Daleville but she sold it and except a heavy interest in zinc mines at Joplin, Mo., all her property holdings are in Madison county.  Miss Neely is the only survivor of her father's family.  Her father, Basil Neely, was comparatively a poor man when he died.  He retired from his farm to Anderson where some lucky investments laid the foundation for Miss Neely's great wealth."

Apparently all the attention given to the monument led to Hester being deluged with offers of marriage.  The papers stated that she had been "greatly annoyed" by the many suitors.

An article from the Muncie Star Press dated April 27, 1902 (page 3) gives a detailed description of Hester's home along with a sketch of the farm house where she grew up.  Here is that article:

By 1910, Hester was ill.  One of her cousins sued to have her declared insane in order to take control of her money.  The cousin was not successful.  She continued to manage her own affairs.  She died November 11, 1911 and was buried between her parents under the elaborate monument.  

Letter to Minnie Stilwell from Cora (last name unknown)

 This letter from Cora to Minnie E. Stilwell is addressed: "Miss Minnie E. Stilwell, Ripon, Fond du lac Co., Wis." and postmarked "Lime Springs, Ioa, Jan. 16."  However, the letter is dated Saturday, Aug. 27th, so I wonder if it is stored in the wrong envelope? There is no year, but August 27th fell on a Saturday in 1881 and 1887, so it is likely one of those years.   Here is a transcription of the letter:

                                                 "Saturday Afternoon,   Spring Valley, Aug. 27th

My Darling Friend,

    I have just finished my work for to day, and am feeling rather tired, but thought I would try and write you for it has been sometime since I received your precious letter, but I am afraid that if  I waited until I felt just like it, I would not write many letters, for to tell the truth I have felt miserable all summer.  The heat uses me up.  It is so warm today there is scarcely breath of air stirring.  It seems as if I should smother.  It looks some like rain and I really hope it will.  That is, if it makes it any cooler.  I shall be rather glad when winter comes, but hope it will not be quite as hard as last.  There comes two of the girls here now so I suppose I will have to leave this and go down stairs.  A pretty looking sight I am to (sic).  I sat down to write with my old dress and slippers on thinking what an easy time I would have writing to you but it is just my luck to get caught looking like a fright (always look the most natural there).  I always enjoy having the girls call.  Some of them are here every day and I go to see them quite often.

    Well the girls have gone and I went down town with them and when I returned had to get supper and do up the work and have but just got settled.  Wonder what will happen next.  Mother scolds sometimes and think (sic) I go most too much, but whats the use I have got to have some fun anyway.  There is nothing going on now, but then you know in town there is some place to go or some girl after me to go down town.  And that is the way it goes.  Oh if you girls only lived near me so I could see you once in awhile.  I know I should be perfectly happy.  You don't know how often I think of it.  It seems sometimes as if I would do almost anything to see you.  I do wish you and Edie could come out and make me a visit.  I am almost sure you would like it here and I know we would enjoy ourselves talking at least.  I believe I can beat you girls at that now, for I have had to do so much of it out here.  Have had to do so much begging for the church.  Us girls have made over eighty dollars to help pay the interest.  Don't you think that is pretty good for such young ones.  It is late so I will have to retire and finish this in the morning.  I guess you will think I had better for I have written so poorly, but I am awful nervous, the children act so.  Good night dear, pleasant dreams.

    Sunday morning has dawned clear and bright, not much cooler than yesterday but very pleasant nevertheless.  The second bell for church is just ringing but I guess I will not go this morning.  Father and Grandpa are going.  I suppose I ought to but twice a day is about all I can stand for I never stay out of Sabbath School, if I can help it.

    Yes I to (sic) am glad to live where I can attend church regularly.  I think I appreciate it more fully now for being deprived of it so much when at Wis.  Mother scolds me for not going in the morning instead of evening.  She thinks it is better for girls, but I don't.  I have my reasons, for tonight I am going with a new fellow.  That is, am not very well acquainted with as I have been with him but twice.  He came home with me from church two evenings, but I like him quite well.  Think he is terrible cute.  Since I found out that I have lost Emmett for good, I am perfectly reckless.  Too bad, isn't it?  I guess I shall get over it after awhile.  Well, how is it with you?  Do you feel as badly as ever?  I am sorry for you, but cheer up, Minn.  There are lots of others.  So E.A.K. is going to marry a grass widow twenty six years old.  I think they are both most to (sic) young don't you?  I must not talk so.  Please don't say anything about what I write, for to tell the truth I am glad he has found some one and I hope she will have a good influence over him for he needs some one to watch over him.

    So Willie is out again, is he?  That is too bad.  I do hope he will have better luck next time.  Well I guess this will do on that subject.

    I went out in the country last Thursday to a quilting.  Had a splendid time.  There were seventeen girls.  Three of us stayed all night and did not get home until next afternoon.  We got the quilt nearly off.  It seemed so nice to get out of town and quite natural to me, or would if I could only looked away and seen your pleasant home, as I used to do.  I was looking at that picture of your family the other and you all looked so natural it seemed as if some of you must speak to me.  I must tell Warren what the girls say when they look at it.  Who is that cute fellow?  And then I always tell them that it doesn't look nearly as well as he does.  Don't get discouraged for I will send you my photo one of these days.  When I can get some good ones taken, which I can not here.  Elva is jabbering away.  She can't say words yet, but grows like a weed.  I know she would like to see her auntie.  Etta & Lillie send a kiss to your mother & father.  Send love to all.  They will write to Charlie & Nett before long but the do act so about writing letters.  Seem to think that I can do it all.  I will send you a piece of my new calico dress.  Its not so very handsome but the best I could get here.  It has three ruffles on the underskirt... overskirt and sack shirred at the back of the waist and the same in the front.  I am going to have a new worsted dress.  I want dregs of wine but have not decided yet.  I suppose you are glad that Mati has got home.  I wrote to her last.  Write soon.  With much love and many kisses I remain as ever your loving friend      Cora

Will answer Edie's letter soon."

 There is not enough info here to identify Cora.  She seems to be a friend and possibly a former neighbor of Minnie's.  She mentions Minnie's siblings: Edith, Annette, Warren.  

Also enclosed in the letter are two scraps of fabric that must be from the dress Cora mentions.

 

 

 

 

 

Letter from Ann Eliza (White) Cady to Minnie Stilwell, March 13 unknown year

The following letter has no year on it, though it is dated March 13.  It was written by Ann Eliza (White) Cady, who was the sister of Minnie Stilwell's mother, Mary K. (White) Stilwell.  Ann Cady was also the grandmother of Minnie's friend and correspondent, Fannie A. Ireland.

Ann was born in 1809 in Connecticut.  She married Stephen P. Cady in 1829.  I know of the following children of Ann and Stephen:  Mary E. (1831-1872) who married Alex Ireland and was the mother of Fannie Ireland mentioned above; Edwin R. (1834-1901); William H. (1836-1877) who married Martha O. Anthony; Elza (1841-?); Julia (1842-1864); Willis (1848-1919); Alice (1851-?); and Celia (1855-?).  Several of these children are mentioned in the letter.

Stephen Cady died in 1871 and Ann died in 1889.  From the text of the letter, I believe that Ann was living alone at the time she wrote it, so I suspect it was written after 1871.

It is addressed to Miss Minnie Stilwell, Rippon, (sic) Wisconsin and is postmarked New Berlin, NY, March 15.

Here is a transcription:

                                            "Pittsfield, March 13th

Dear Minnie

     Your good long letter of Feb 11 received and I was so pleased to hear from you all that I thought I would certainly answer it soon but it is the same old story.  Such a task for me to write.  Your mother is sometimes very good and writes if I neglect to answer but I have heard nothing from her in such a long time.  Fortunate for her she has such good girls to take care of her and the family.  My health is very good.  I can take care of myself after a fashion.  I manage to keep out of mischief by finding something to do since I came home.  Have knit one dozen pairs of stockings, five pairs of mittens, made myself a nightdress and underwear, also a bedtick and pillow slips by hand.  I knit edging to trim the pillow slips.  I will send you the piece I learned on.  Nettie said I learned it easy.  I think I succeed better in almost anything than writing letters.  Yesterday finished fitting (?) a bed quilt together.  I fear it will be a little too much of a job to try to quilt it.  I have over twenty house plants.  Some are blossomed, others budded.  The cally and a large white variegated lilly are just opening.  They are some company and require a good lot of care.

    Two weeks ago Nettie and I went down to see Ettie.  She and her family were well.  Burdett's father has been sick all winter so I have not been there to stay any.  He is better now.  Willis and family were well the last we heard from them.  They do not get home often in winter.  Have so much to do and family of little ones.  They have a nice baby boy.  Will be a year old in May.  Celia says in her last letter she hopes Hannah will visit her on her way home.  I wish Celia could make a long visit when she comes home as Hannah has but don't expect it.  She says she shall surely come next summer if all are well as usual.  Does not think Fanny will conclude to come with her.

     The people here had the privilege of enjoying a good deal of sleyriding (sic) this winter.  Sleying (sic) commenced on 5th of Nov. and kept straight through.  We have not had heavy falls of snow but kept coming almost every day or night.  It did not drift much till this month.  Now there is a good lot of drifts in the road.  Edwin and wife got tipped out yesterday right in front of the house.  Such long winters as this I think I should like to go a little farther south and when summer comes, as far north as Wisconsin.  I would love to see you all again.  May not unless you come to see me.  With much love to your father and mother, brothers & sisters, your loving Aunt

                                                                                                 A. E. Cady"

 

 

Letter from Blanche Munn to Minnie Stilwell, no date

The following letter from Blanche (Stilwell) Munn to her younger sister, Mary Elva "Minnie" Stilwell does not have an envelope or date.  However, from the contents, I suspect it was written in late 1870 or early 1871.  Blanche married Frank Munn in 1867, so it was certainly written after that.  Other letters in my possession indicate that Blanche & Minnie's sister, Hannah, was visiting Blanche in late 1870 to early 1871, so I suspect that is a good estimate for this letter.  In addition, Hannah married in 1878, so it must be before that.  And Blanche addresses the letter to "little Minnie," which makes me believe Minnie was a young person.  In 1870, she would have been 9 - old enough to read and write, but still young enough to be called "little Minnie."

Here is the letter:

"Dear little Minnie
        I have just finished a letter to Lucien and now I will answer your nice letter.  I meant to have done so before but have been very busy.  You must forgive me this time and I will do better in future.  Frank and Han are playing Black Gamble like good children amusing themselves while I am writing.  Han is having quite a time with us two (?) don't you think?  Tell Mother I will keep her busy about something.  Is Nettie there yet?  I suppose you go to school all the time.  How do you like Miss Lyon?  Tell me what you study besides spelling and reading.  Frank and I speak often of the nice visit we had when you were here.  Frank thinks a great deal of you.  You must be a good little girl and maybe Mother will let you come out next spring again when your school is closed.  Tell her I wish she would send me the pattern of those little baby shirts made with sleeves cut all together.  I am going to make Clem and Lucy each one for their baby.  Have you seen little Frank Munn.  Tell Mother also to send me the number of stitches she put in my stocking.  Write me soon and answer all my questions.  Tell Warren to write me.  Kiss him and little sister Edy for me.  Give much love to all and don't forget to write to
                                          Your loving sister
                                          Blanche Munn"

Letter from Fannie (probably Hanchett) to Minnie Stilwell, Jan. 6, 1884

Well, it is hard to believe that I have not posted anything here since February!  And it is also pretty incredible about all that has changed in the last couple of months.  I hope everyone is staying as healthy and as safe as they possibly can.  We are doing out best here.  And now, I think I'll post another letter.

The following letter is another from Fannie in Sheboygan, Wisconsin.  This is probably Fannie Hanchett.   It is addressed:  Miss Minnie E. Stilwell, Ripon, Wis. and postmarked Sheyboy... Wis., Jan. 7, 1884.

"Don't let any one read this but Nid (?) for I have written in such a hurry & made so many mistakes.

                                                                                                         Sunday Evening
                                                                                                          Jan. 6th, 1884

My Dear Minnie,
     It is rather late in the evening but I am going to have a visit with you before going to bed if you will not mind sitting up a little while with me.
     We will occupy the large easy chair together here by the cozy coal fire and make out tongues run just as fast as they can for it is a long time since we have had our visit.
     The two weeks that I was gone were such busy ones that I hardly found time to write to Papa and since I have been home the holidays have taken so much of my time that this is the reason my dear for my shameful neglect.
     Now before I go any farther give me a good big kiss so I am sure you are not one bit provoked at me.
     O, I had a lovely time every moment while I was gone only I was obligated to make such short visits on account of the holidays being so near.
     I went to Aunt Nellie's Thursday and staid until the next week Saturday then went to Wanasha and stayed 'till Tuesday then went back to Fond du Lac and came home Thursday so I was gone just two weeks.  I did want to stay in Wanasha another week so much I had such a lovely time while there.
     I was so sorry to hear that Cousin Blanche had been sick and I hope ere this she may have entirely recovered.  Of course I was a little disappointed in not visiting you but sickness is something we can not help and even had I been able to have come I should have been obliged to have stayed such a very short time that there wouldn't have been much satisfaction in the visit, but when I do come I shall stay a good long while.  I am afraid I shall not be able to come to the wedding as much as I should like to, for Papa missed me so much while I was gone that I fear he would hardly consent to my going so soon again, but how I would like to and it is quite a disappointment to me to give it up as I planned going so long ago and have talked and thought so much about it.  When is the great event to take place?  I am so anxious to hear for it must be quite near.  Please let me know right away.  I expect Nid (?) is very happy; kiss her for me.
     Well Xmas & Ne Years have come and gone & how did you good folks pass the holidays:  My Xmas was a very merry one.
     Did I write you that we club girls were to have a tree here Xmas night.  Well we did and it was a splendid success.  All the girls exchanged presents and all were here but Annie Schrage.  The girls came at 7 o'clock & gave their presents and the gentlemen were invited at 8 to come & spend the evening.  The tree was in the alcove at (sic) it was perfectly lovely.  We took great pains in trimming ity.  We had the tree ladened (sic) with little cheap toys for the boys and they caused lots of merriment.  We had refreshments of cake, charlotte russe, and nice candies.  Some of the presents the girls gave were lovely.  I gave each one a very pretty gingham work apron that I made myself with a pretty bordered kerchief in each pocket.  It was something entirely different from what the rest gave.
     I wonder if you would like to hear what my presents were.  Well I imagine that I hear you say yes.
     Papa gave me a beautiful butter dish, a willow rocking chair and some toilet soap.  Cousin Sara, a silver thimble and a bordered kerchief, Aunt Joe a stand scarf, Aunt E. a white silk kerchief, Minnie a card, Cousin H & Uncle C a card, Aunt Nellie a bread boat, Albert a lovely large bottle of perfume with 3 kerchiefs, Rublee (?) a case of three books, Mrs. Clarke a pearl calling card case & a lovely card.  Now for the club presents I received - Agnes, a painted tambourine, Helen, a painted tile, Frankie, a painted tile, Mattie 2 table mats for hot dishes, Nellie G. a black leather hand bag, Lillie a set of wash stand mats, Lucy a collar with a button in shave of H., Charlie a vase, Jennie a pair of pink bed room slippers too sweet for anything and then I had a few cards sent me and O yes, Mrs. Cole gave me a book.  I guess now I have told you everything and wasn't I treated pretty well for a naughty girl?
     You must tell me what you got when you write.  How did your mother and father enjoy their surprise?  New Years Day passed pleasantly but quietly and I guess it isn't too late to wish you all a Happy New Year.  I rc'd the lovely cards sent from Ripon, thank Warren for me many times and here is a kiss for you and Nid thanking you for yours.  I have put it on an easel on the piano and every time I look at it I think of you two.  Warrens I have pined (sic) on the wall and it looks very pretty.
     Why I am talking so fast I hardly know where I am but you will have to endure me a little while longer as I'm not quite through.  How did your entertainment go off.  Jennie, Uncle Cl(?) and I are on committee to get up the library entertainment for next Wednesday evening.  They are little 10 cent entertainments we have every two weeks at library hall.  We are finding it rather hard work to get people to help us.
     O, I must tell you of the great surprise we girls, all but Helen, had this morning at Sunday School.  Agnes and Mr. Stewart were married last evening at 8:30 - think of that and we girls never thought of their being married.  Helen is the only one of the girls that was present except Nellie at the ceremony and aren't we girls mad though to think she didn't write us or even tell us for we have vowed that the girls should see each other married.  We were all surprised as Mr. S. has not been unusually attentive to Agnes lately.
     I don't think they have been engaged long & I don't believe she had here wedding day set more than a week.  She had no time to make a wedding trousseau & I don't think she has a thing new.   They are to board at the hotel.  About two months ago he fitted his rooms up very beautifully but we all thought they were for Alice Vedder but it seems they weren't.  It is all very funny anyway.  I hope Agnes will be happy she is such a nice girl.  I am going to see her to-morrow & scold her hard too.
     I guessed I have not written you that Mrs. Vedder is dead.  She died the first of November very suddenly of brain disease.  It was a terrible blow to the family.  They have all left here now & gone to Indiana.  I think it is very sad.
     Albert started for California last week on a business trip.  He expects to be gone about two months.
     Cousin Sara is still west.  She spent last week at Aunt Eunice's but I expect her back to-morrow.  She starts for home in about two weeks.  I shall miss her so much as she has been such good company.
     I am to have club Saturday.  I shall expect Mr. & Mrs. Stewart - Ahem! - to be here.
     Now Minnie I am sure I have made up for lost time and you write me soon & I will answer ditto.  The clock says quarter of 24 by standard time so I must go to bed if  I expect to sleep any before Monday morning.  How I wish you were here & were going to sleep with me to-night.  Well with many a kiss & love more than I can tell
                                                                                   Your Fannie

Frank Williams is very devoted to Jennie just at present.  I am steady as an old clock Haven't a sign of a fellow, but I'm quite happy.
I forgot to tell you that I had Uncle S. & Aunt Joe here to dinner Christmas.
Oh, I was at Mr. Simmons while I was in Fond du Lac & took dinner & stayed all night with his sister while I was there.  He is ever so pleasant.  Minnie's Mr. Simmons cousin.
This F.D.L. Mr. Simmons has a sister I think a great deal of.  We correspond & I visited with her quite a little while in F.D.L.   Don't say I never wrote you a long letter goodness I don't know as I shall ever be able to stop writing.
My club friend Annie Schrage expects to have an increase in her family in April or May.  She was only married last July, but that is the way the world goes."


From the context of the letter, I believe "Nid" must be Edith May Stilwell, Minnie's sister.   Edith married Judson Kellogg on 16 January 1884, so that is the wedding that Fannie mentions.
Most of the rest of the people mentioned seem to be friends of Fannie's.

  

Letter: Fannie (probably Hanchett) to Minnie Stilwell, Nov. 2, 1883

Letter addressed to:  Miss Minnie Stilwell, Ripon Wisconsin

Postmark:  Sheboygan Wis Nov 2 1883

Sheboygan, Nov. 1^st, 1883

Thursday eve.

My darling Min, -

            I have been sitting here by the cozy coal fire for about an hour all alone trying to do some of my Tehantanquan (word very hard to read) reading, but since here my mind it is elsewhere and the reading is not as interesting as it ought to be so I have just laid it aside and I know I can enjoy a little visit with you.

            Your letter was received about three weeks ago – does it seem possible that it can be that long – time flies so quickly.

            Well Minnie we are all moved and settled and we have changed so and look so nice you would hardly know us.

            Every room, even the kitchen, has new paper and paint and a coat of white wash.  Our parlor is furnished all most entirely new.  Papa got three elegant new chairs – two are crimson brocade plush trimmed with green brocade and the other is a patent rocked of old gold and black raw silk trimmed with scarlet silk plush  I have those with one of my upholstered chairs and the (unreadable) in the parlor and my (unreadable) stand is in one corner of the room.  We finally got carpet for the “alcove” and in there I have my little stand of shells and a rocker and an upholstered chair.  I hung my chart (?) and a bracket in there.  We got three new pictures, two are very handsome and with the picture I gave Papa and the paintings of grandpa and grandma Hawes my walls look very pretty.  The paper in that room is awfully pretty.  I hung all my pictures in there with gilt and so the hangings are invisible.

            Do you remember the old fashioned book shelves in the parlor?  Well I have covered the mantle with heavy green flannel and finished the edge with a silk striped fringe four inches deep and on the shelves below I have my books they look awfully nice.  On the mantle I have Papa’s and Mama’s pictures with my placque and vases.

            I heat that room with my wood stove and I have got it blackened so nicely that you can see your face in it.    For curtains I have buff Holland trimmed with a fringe on the bottom, they look neat and pretty – Papa bronzed the gas chandeliers all over so they look as nice as new and how I wish some evening when we have the gas lit – don’t that sound big – you could step in and see how cozy we look.  I guess you can get a small idea how the parlor looks even if I am dreadful at describing.  Our sitting room is to be our living room this winger as we have the coal stove in this room and it is a very cozy room.  I have my piano here, my music holder, Papa’s easy chair my cane rocker and two, three more chairs and a little work stand in the center of the room.  The fire place mantle has been painted a jet black and I have put a number of little nick nacks on there.  It gives the room a very pretty look.  We can’t use the fire place because it is not safe.

            Do you remember our little group of bird pictures  Well we have those hung in this room with new frames and this makes them look like new

            My dining room is a sweet little room.  The paper is just as pretty as can be.  I have the table, chairs and lounge in there and my fruit pictures and lamberguise (?) bracket on the wall and Dot occupies this room.  Papa’s bedroom opens out of there you remember and is a splendid large room.  The carpet and paper in there is very pretty and there is a nice large closet out of this room.  The kitchen and pantry are very convenient and Mary’s room is off the kitchen.

            My room is the front room up stairs.  I have things fixed about the same as I had them at the other house but they look very different after all.  The back room up stairs we shall furnish I guess in the spring for a spare room but this winter I put a rag carpet in there and that extra bed I had.

            I forgot to tell you that I put the carpet I had in my sitting room at the other house down in the dining room and the one I had in the dining room I put in my room and managed to get enough good out of very old carpet to put in the little hall up stairs.  We have a pretty new stairs carpet.

            Min you would never know us for we look so different.  Papa has let me have my own way in every thing.

            O, I forgot to tell what a nice large cellar we have.  It is a splendid clean cellar with a nice floor.  We have our coal bin down there.

            I am just as happy as I can be but I hardly dare say so for fear something may happen.  I have thought of Mama so much of late and how much she would have enjoyed fixing up.  O, I often think, Why was she taken from us but God knows best and we must be submissive.

            How I wish you could visit me now and see how fine we look.

            Cousin Sara is at the falls this week and I guess I shall go up tomorrow.

            She is going to visit Aunt Nellie the last of this month and the first of next and she and Aunt Nellie both are very anxious I should visit Fond du Lac while she is there so would it make much difference to you folks if I should come and make you a little visit then and not be there at the wedding proper.  I may not go to Fond du Lac at all, I can’t tell so far a head and if I don’t will then come to the wedding but if I do will it make much difference to you.  I can’t stay longer than a week anyway for I want to visit Fond du Lac and Wanasha and don’t feel that I can be longer than two weeks from home.

            I haven’t gotten one new thing for winter yet and don’t know that I shall get either.

            Albert has been here nearly every evening the past week – Isn’t that dreadful?  But I rather enjoy it – don’t tell.  Mr. S. and Minnie drove down and took tea with me night before last.

            Aunt Josie is moved and settled too.  They look very nice in their new quarters.  Do you know Minnie that my thoughts come so much faster than I can make my pen go that I have made dreadful work writing.  Please don’t show it to anyone.  You may read it out loud but goodness don’t show it.

            One of the girls stayed all night we me last night and we never went to sleep till long after midnight so I’m just a little sleepy.  I am crocheting me some red trimming for the bottom of a red petticoat that I am going to make me soon.  Well dear I hope you can read this dreadful crazy scrawl and don’t scold because it is hard to read.

            Papa has just come and as it is late must bid you good night.  I’ve enjoyed my little visit very much as you have let me do all the talking.  I hope I can come again soon.  Lots of love to all, Nettie and Belle included.  Write soon deary.  With a kiss,

                        Yours,

                                                Fannie

Jennie Ulead has been away from home four weeks.  They expect her back next week.  I miss her.

****************************************************

While she doesn't sign her last name, this is most likely Fannie Hanchett.  Her mother, Jennie (Bent) Hanchett died in August 1882.  The "Grandpa and Grandma Hawes" she mentions would be on her side; Jennie Bent's mother was Mary Jane Hawes.  

The wedding she mentions possibly attending was probably that of Edith Stilwell to Judson Kellogg which took place 16 January 1884.  Edith was Mary Elva's sister.

I have not researched all of Fannie's family and so do not know who all the other people are she mentions.

Letter: Sara Hoyt to Minnie Stilwell, August 1883

There is no envelope with this letter.  It is dated Rosendale, August 10, 1883 and signed Sara Hoyt.  From the contents, I believe Sara was a school friend of Minnie's.  I found a Sara A. Hoyt in Rosendale, Fond du Lac Co., Wisconsin, who was born 19 July 1862 in Wisconsin and died 13 February 1924 in Sibley, Osceola Co., Iowa.  I believe this is the correct Sara.  She never married and is buried in Rosendale Cemetery, Rosendale, Wisconsin.

Others mentioned in the letter also seem to be school friends.  Jennie in Baraboo can't really be identified without a surname.  I found a couple of Mary Swifts in Wisconsin about 1880, but can't determine which one is correct based on the information in this letter.

Here is a transcription:

                                                                                             "Rosendale, Aug 10, 1883
Dear Minnie,
     I was so disappointed in not being able to see you commencement time.  I long for a good chat with you once more.
     It seems as though I had hardly had a chance to look at you since you left school and yet we have been such a little way apart all these years.  It is a perfect shame.  It must not be so any longer.  I want you to come and make me a visit without fail sometime while I am home.  I expect now to be at home until next spring.  I would like to have you come before it gets to be cold weather.  Come as soon as harvest is over if you can.
     Jennie has not returned from Baraboo yet but is expected soon.  In a week or two.  If we three could only get together once more wouldn't we have a regular visitation and I hope that time is not far distant.
     The last I heard of Mary Swift she was just able to get around a little on crutches.  I cannot find out what is the matter of her.  She has been sick for over a year.  Doesn't it seem sad & I think that I will write to her although she has owed me a letter so long.  From all I can hear I do not believe she did very well when she married.
     I am very sorry if that is the case for I think that Mary is a very nice girl and deserves a worthy husband if any one ever did.  I hope that Jennie will go to see her while she is so near.  Ironton is not a great ways from Baraboo.
     What exceedingly warm weather we had week before last and how cold and rainy it was last week.  I hop that it has cleared off for a while at least.
     I have not been very well a good share of the time since school closed.  I have been having the rheumatism quite badly but I am a good deal better now though rather week (sic).  I find that I cannot do as big a day & work this summer as I did last.
     Everyone else in the house is in bed and I suppose I ought to be there too but I dread to go.  I do not sleep very well and the nights seem long.  Let me hear from you very soon.  With love.  Sara Hoyt"

Letter: Fannie Ireland to Minnie Stilwell, April 21 1883

More info on Fannie Ireland is HERE.  And also HERE.

The following letter is addressed to Miss Minnie Stilwell, Ripon, Wisconsin.  The postmark on the envelope is partially cut out and reads "Cama........ 10 A  APR 23."  I presume from Fannie's other letters, that the postmark was Camanche, Iowa.  Here is my transcription:

                                                                                      "Saturday Evening
                                                                                        April 21, 1883

My Dear Cousin,
                              A long long time has passed since last I wrote you or any of your family, but do not for a moment think that I am forgetting you.  Many many times I think of you all, but other duties than letter writing have taken up much of my time.  Scarcely can I realize that almost a year has passed since I went among you a stranger, spent two such happy weeks and came away feeling that you all were loving true friends.    Sometimes I feel that time goes all too quickly, here it is Spring again and all Nature is becoming beautiful.  I was up to Clinton three days this week with Auntie, I go up quite often and we enjoy each other very much.  While up there I had the pleasure of reading Aunt Mary's last letter, and also one just received from Cousin Hannah.   She hears from Grandma.  Uncle Ned has been quite sick and is now but little better, not yet able to be up and living only on milk punch and beef tea.
   While in Clinton, Auntie and I went to hear Rev. Joseph Cook lecture on the "Seven Modern Wonders of the World" and it was a grand production.  He is a very eloquent speaker, has travelled the wide world over and it was a genuine pleasure to sit two hours and tell of the wonders he had seen.  There have only been a very few good entertainments in Clinton this winter but few there have been I have attended.
     We are beginning to think of and dread housecleaning which will soon be all the style.  
     Nettie is still boarding and I think will continue to do so throughout the summer.  She is not strong enough to do much work so it is full as well for them to board.  Jennie and her boys are doing nicely.
     Baby Louis is too sweet for anything and improves each day.  They are so nice and I shall miss them so much when I come to leave them.
     And so Cousin Charlie has sold out and is going to take his family and "go West."  How you will miss them.  Why didn't he stop in Iowa instead of Nebraska and then possibly we might meet sometimes on the western wilds.     Minnie I think I never have told any of you of my new hopes of happiness although I see by Aunt Mary's letter that you suspect the truth.
     My heart is mine no longer.  I have given it unreservedly to a Mr. Hart for all time.  Since my return from you house last summer he has given me undivided attention, has proved in numberless ways his love, and in January last he declared his love and offered me all in this world that he had to give.  Months before this however I had decided that I never could be happy without him, so of course I said Yes.
     We are to be married in June, probably the 6th and then I go with him to his farm in Crawford Co., Iowa.
     Of course it will be somewhat hard for me to leave the girls, but after all the both married and left me all alone.
    You ask me what he looks like.  I am not good at pen photography but can give a little idea.  He is medium height, weighs 165, is thirty-three years old, light brown hair and blue eyes.  He is not handsome, but he is good and that is better far than beauty.  He is well educated, a great reader, keeps posted in all things of importance and thinks Fannie is just right.
     He is away now, has been gone about five weeks, was home two weeks ago and spent Sunday with me.  But I hardly think he will come again until he comes for me.  We expect now to be married in the day time and take the afternoon train for the West, and if so I shall just wear my travelling suit.
     I am having me an elegant new black ottoman silk suit made, dress and dolman.  My dolman is finished and truly is very handsome.  I am not going to have many dresses, a summer silk and a white and those with what I have will be plenty, my red silk and plush is just as good as new.     I have my under-clothing and bedding all done so that I shall not be so very much rushed from now on.
    And Minnie is your heart your own yet, or have you too done just as all girls sooner or later do?  Eda and her beaux still flourish I presume.  Who has inside track now Zobed or Kellogg or some entirely new one.  Does Warren still devote his time and attention to Miss Lizzie - or has he turned.  He has not answered my last letter very promptly but of course his reasons are good and sufficient.  We have commenced work a little in the garden but it keeps so cold that we cannot do much.  Two weeks ago I had quite an accident.  Abe had been here spending the evening, and on the following morning I went into the parlor to straighten things up, and while pulling up the chandelier let the whole thing down.  All the globes and chimneys were broken to pieces but only one lamp but the oil from that made a large enough grease spot. 
     One of our neighbors happened to be here and helped me in my trouble.  The carpet being brussels did not soak up the oil quite so fast as an ingrain but it took me several days to get it out so it did not show.
     Minnie tis time I was in bed so must say good night to you.  Give my warmest love to all the good folks.  Letters from any of them are always welcome.
                                                                                           As ever your loving
                                                                                                     Fannie A. I."

People mentioned in the letter:

"Auntie" who lives in Clinton, Iowa - Probably Martha (Anthony) Cady, wife of Fannie's uncle, William Cady.  They lived in Clinton, Iowa and are the only Cadys I find there at this time.

Aunt Mary - Mary K. (White) Stilwell, Minnie's mother, and sister of Fannie's grandmother, Ann Eliza (White) Cady

"Grandma" - Ann Eliza (White) Cady

Cousin Hannah - Hannah (Stilwell) Bent, sister of Minnie

Uncle Ned - Edwin R. Cady, son of Ann Eliza (White) Cady & her husband, Stephen;

Rev. Joseph Cook - philosopher and lecturer

Nettie - Fannie's sister, Marie Antoinette (Ireland) Smith

Jennie & her boys - Fannie's sister, Jennie (Ireland) Heilman and her sons, Roy and Louis

Cousin Charley - probably Charles Osborn, husband of Minnie's sister, Annette (Stilwell) Osborn

Mr. Hart - Abram P. Hart, Fannie's future husband; also referred to in this letter as "Abe"

Eda - Edith Stilwell, Minnie's sister

Eda's beaux - Zobed and Kellogg - don't know Zobed, but Edith eventually married Judson Kellogg

Warren - Warren Stilwell, Minnie's brother

Miss Lizzie - unknown girlfriend of Warren Stilwell