Description

Description: This two-page letter from a farmer, John H. Johnson, from Leavenworth City, Kansas to John B. Ward addresses the “The Terrible drought that is prevailing in our country” and the “population [that] are leaving by hundreds . . . some leaving without the intention of returning.” Johnson writes “a new comer like [him who has decided to stay] has to do some sharp financiering to keep afloat.” He is not discouraged even though his first crop in Kansas has failed; he prevails upon his friend, Ward, to help him sell his Iowan property, so he could accompany his wife Nancy to visit him in Ohio. The recipient was a successful Ohio merchant who later (1874) moved to Illinois. The letter is dated August 14th 1860, in the midst of a devastating Kansas drought.

Two handwritten pages on an 8”x10” sheet of white letterhead (company name has been torn off). Includes transmittal envelope. Item #AM00226

Condition: Fold lines, light soil, generally in good condition.