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William B. Turner letters, 1857-1875 (majority within 1857-1859)
7 items
This collection contains 7 letters related to William B. Turner, a native of New York who moved to Northfield, Minnesota, in the late 1850s. Turner wrote 6 letters to his family about life in Wisconsin and Minnesota, and received 1 letter from his mother in 1875.
In 3 undated letters and fragments, Turner discussed the possibility of moving west from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as well as the possibility of his family traveling between Buffalo, New York, and the Midwest. His 3 dated letters, written from 1857-1859, pertain to his life in Northfield, Minnesota, where he worked for a newspaper. He commented on the economy, possible employment opportunities, and his intention to leave Minnesota. Juliza B. Turner wrote the final letter to her son and daughter-in-law in 1875, requesting news of their family. For more information about each letter, see the Detailed Box and Folder Listing.
1857 September 27 . William [B. Turner] ALS to his mother and sister; Northfield Hotel [Northfield, Minnesota].
12 pages
Box 11, Small Collections, Folder 10
He hasn't heard from his family recently and wonders whether or not his letters are reaching them. He has been traveling with Peter Jenkins, a friend, and has not yet found employment in a difficult economic climate. He May attempt to speculate in real property. Description of Northfield and its population, and comments about continuing westward immigration.
1859 January 9 . William [B. Turner] ALS to Juliza B. Turner; Journal Office, Northfield, Minnesota.
6 pages
Box 11, Small Collections, Folder 10
He is still employed at the newspaper office. Further comments on the country's difficult economic situation. He wishes to reunite the family by bringing his mother and sister to Minnesota, and intends to apply for a job with the Minneapolis and Cedar Valley Rail Road. His mother should dispose of her land in Batavia.
1859 June 12 . W[illiam] B. Turner ALS to "Uncle Chipman"; Northfield, Minnesota.
4 pages
Box 11, Small Collections, Folder 10
He believes that accepting a recent job offer is the best course of action, and discusses his financial settlements with a previous employer. Turner has acquired lots in Northfield, but intends to leave Minnesota and work his way home. Local banks are being discredited and the economic situation May worsen.
1875 October 3 . J[uliza] B. Turner ALS to Carrie [Turner]; Bloomington [Ill.].
2 pages
Box 11, Small Collections, Folder 10
She has not received a letter from Carrie since April . Family news. With J[uliza] B. Turner ALS to [William B. Turner], 1 page. Requests that he write more often and asks about his family.
Undated . [William B. Turner] AL to [Juliza B. Turner]; Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
4 pages
Box 11, Small Collections, Folder 10
Turner recounts a visit with friends, and discusses the possibility of his family traveling with them. He is considering moving to Minnesota.
Undated . William [B. Turner] ALS to [Turner family].
4 pages
Box 11, Small Collections, Folder 10
Fragment. Turner is tired of city life and would like to move somewhere quieter. He is considering heading west toward the Mississippi River, and May go to St. Paul. Request for a $100 loan.
Undated . William [B. Turner] ALS to [Juliza B. Turner].
2 pages
Box 11, Small Collections, Folder 10
Fragment. Turner has received his mother's letter, and thanks her for shirts that she has sent him.