This collection (102 items) contains the incoming and outgoing personal correspondence of the family of Gustavus and Anna Kershner of Clear Spring, Maryland. Brothers Jacob B. and Edward Kershner frequently wrote to their parents about their studies, the family's finances, and other topics. In his earliest letters, Jacob described his education at Pennsylvania College; he later wrote from Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, where he attended a seminary. He also discussed finances. Edward's early letters from New York City pertain to the political climate immediately preceding the Civil War. His incoming correspondence includes a letter from a friend who expressed concern after hearing of the sinking of the Cumberland, on which Edward had served as an assistant surgeon. After the war, Edward described his life in Boston, Massachusetts. The Kershner siblings (Jacob, Edward, and Mary) also corresponded with their parents and each other about their daily lives, including Mary's experiences at Bordentown Female College. The collection contains a receipt for tuition at the college (November 29, 1864).
Gustavus Kershner and his wife, Anne Brewer, lived in Clear Spring, Maryland. They had five children: Jacob B., Edward (1839-August 20, 1916), Joseph Henry (February 22, 1843-August 20, 1881), Mary E., and Elizabeth. They owned a farm, and grew crops, including wheat. Jacob B. Kershner became a minister. Edward Kershner graduated from the University of the City of New York in 1861 and joined the United States Navy. He served as an assistant surgeon on multiple ships and was promoted to surgeon and medical inspector. After leaving the navy, he taught medicine at the New York Post-graduate Medical School (now part of New York University). Joseph Henry Kershner served in the 2nd Maryland Cavalry Regiment during the Civil War and later attended Franklin & Marshall College, from which he graduated in 1867. He taught in Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, from 1869-1880.
