Emma was in New York City with her Eldred-Austin Cousins when Chester wrote her in August 1873. They continued to negotiate over photos. Chester’s mention of Jennie, may refer to his fiancé, who he married in November. The October 1873 … Continue reading
Halfway Brook Becomes Eldred On February 12, 1873 Halfway Brook Village, where Emma Austin’s family lived, was renamed “Eldred,” in honor of Postmaster C.C.P. Eldred or his father James Eldred. —The Mill on Halfway Brook, p. 172. Albany Normal In … Continue reading
Along with describing her disgust at their schoolhouse, Emma’s April 1872 letters to her mother included her love of writing poetry. Mr. Lindsley was one of the school teachers. Rebecca Eldred (age 30 in 1872) was Emma’s cousin. Chester asked … Continue reading
In February 1872 Emma Austin, age 21, began her first year at Albany Normal School. She rented a furnished room for a dollar a week. Emma commented on her health, classes, classmates, and places she visited in the many letters … Continue reading
In the following letter to her father, Emma mentioned that Julia Kyte died (January 15, 1872). Julia, not yet 20, was the wife of William Kyte, son of Felix Kyte, the Congregational Church pastor. Chester asked about Will Kyte and … Continue reading
Chester was teaching in Deposit, New York, when he wrote Emma in 1871, month unknown. Deposit, New York, 12th, 1871 Friend Emma, Not having heard from you in a long time and thinking you could not have rec’d my last … Continue reading
Walton, July 1870 Friend Emma, The shades of night they close around and the heated rays of the sun are seen no more. I am seated not within your Father’s house to spend an hour with you in social chat, … Continue reading
Emma must have been sick when Chester visited Lumberland in early June of 1870. He wrote a poem on his return. Highland Lake was still called Hagan’s Pond. Walton, N.Y. June 19, 1870 Friend Emma, Again at home. The morning … Continue reading
Walton, New York, Apr. 21, 1870 Friend Emma, Your last came in due time which I read with pleasure. Yet with all the pleasure I felt very much grieved to think that you forgot the likeness; but not so much … Continue reading
Walton, New York, February 28, 1870 Friend Emma, Your last came all right which I read with as much pleasure as could have been expected under the circumstances… My school closed the 25th of February and now I feel very … Continue reading
