Details
BROWN, JOHN, 1800-1859, Radical Abolitionist. Autograph letter signed ("John Brown") to Henry Thompson at North Elba, N.Y. ("Dear Children"), Rockford, Illinois, 4 June 1855. 1 page, 4to, blue stationery, integral address leaf with black circular postmark, seal hole affecting one word of text, tiny burn hole at intersectional fold catching one letter.
"I HAVE HEARD NOTHING FURTHER FROM THE BOYS AT KANSAS"
A letter, probably to one of the free blacks of the North Elba community where Brown had formerly lived, mentioning his sons in Kansas: "I wish just to say that I have finally sold my cattle without making much sacrifice; & to expect to be on the way home tomorow. Oliver expects to remain behind & go to Kansas. After I get home I expect to set out with the family for North Elba as soon as we can get ready: & we may possibly get off this Week; but hardly think we can. I have heard nothing further as yet from the Boys at Kansas..."
In May, five of Brown's sons had gone to Kansas; they were later joined by their father -- with bloody consequences -- two months after this letter.
"I HAVE HEARD NOTHING FURTHER FROM THE BOYS AT KANSAS"
A letter, probably to one of the free blacks of the North Elba community where Brown had formerly lived, mentioning his sons in Kansas: "I wish just to say that I have finally sold my cattle without making much sacrifice; & to expect to be on the way home tomorow. Oliver expects to remain behind & go to Kansas. After I get home I expect to set out with the family for North Elba as soon as we can get ready: & we may possibly get off this Week; but hardly think we can. I have heard nothing further as yet from the Boys at Kansas..."
In May, five of Brown's sons had gone to Kansas; they were later joined by their father -- with bloody consequences -- two months after this letter.