In February of 1876 Emma, her sister Aida, and their mother were in New York City. Aida, age fifteen, was attending school, like Emma had some years earlier. “I did not go to school this morning because I did not … Continue reading
The year 1876 was a difficult one for the Austin family. Henry lost his New York City business as a result of the 1873 national financial panic and the 1875 depression. He returned to Eldred as a full time farmer. … Continue reading
Chester must have been ill when he last visited Emma, who must also have been ill. In this next letter Chester invites Emma to visit him and his wife in Walton. Walton, N.Y., April 26, 1874 Friend Edith, Yours of … Continue reading
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
