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
On January 9, 1870 Addie Austin wrote to her cousin Emma. Emma did not get the school she was hoping for and had stated that she would die an old maid. It would be interesting to know if this related … Continue reading
In 1870 Pond Eddy and Barryville and Halfway Brook each had a school. New York State was home to 4,370,846, people. Lumberland: 1,065 townsfolk. Highland township: 958 townsfolk; 260 lived in Barryville. Halfway Brook Village included the post office at … Continue reading
Chester’s December 31, 1869 letter continues I wish you a happy New Year ’Tis New Year’s day my thoughts go back To Lumberland’s unbeaten track. If I could go where doth my mind Or even as the listless rime? At … Continue reading
Did Emma ask for teaching advice? In this next letter Chester answers her last letter with a poem. Who is Billy B.? I wonder if he is a made up person. Walton December 31, 1869 Friend Emma, Your note I … Continue reading
