Edwin L. Barrett Collection 1828-1967 - Walter...

Walter Havighurst Special Collections Miami University Libraries

Edwin L. Barrett Collection 1828-1967

OVERVIEW OF THE COLLECTION Title: Edwin L. Barrett Collection Dates: 1828-1967; bulk 1828-1862 Media: Manuscripts and printed material Quantity: 1 cubic foot Location: Manuscript shelving COLLECTION SUMMARY This collection contains correspondence between members of the Barrett family, handwritten newspapers, journal entries, poetry, compositions, notes, receipts, music, landscape drawings, and printed material, including Oxford Female Institute catalogues from 1856 and 1857, newspaper clippings, and a biography of Edwin Lawrence Barrett. PROVENANCE OF THE COLLECTION The collection was donated by Clara Louise Barrett Coffman, through her son-in-law, John B. Deinhardt, in December 2008. BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION Edwin Lawrence Barrett was born on August 20, 1827 to Samuel and Nancy Lawrence Barrett in Worcester County, Massachusetts. The family also had two daughters, following Edwin. The

Edwin L. Barrett Collection

first, Elvira, died of scarlet fever when she was four years old. Ellen, the second daughter, was four years younger than Edwin. Working as a music and drawing teacher, Ellen married and later divorced Edward Root, a preacher from Williamsburg, Massachusetts. After finishing school at Ashburnham, Massachusetts, he spent several years going to high schools in nearby towns. He finished his schooling in Ashby during the winter of 1843-1844. By the fall of 1844, Edwin was teaching school at Mason, New Hampshire. Upon returning to Ashburnham, Edwin met Sarah B. Petts, a native of New York who was teaching in Ashburnham. The daughter of Dr. John Petts and his wife, Phoebe, Sarah had three siblings: Charles, Quincy, and Maria. Edwin and Sarah were married on January 4, 1848. They had eight children – six sons and two daughters. Edward Lawrence was born September 14, 1850; Nellie in August 1852, who died of brain fever in 1862; Fannie in 1854, who died of scarlet fever during the winter of 1855-1856; Charles, who lived two months; and another Charles on December 13, 1856, who died September 26, 1857 and was buried in Oxford, Ohio; Frederick William, born November 15, 1858; and George Lawrence, born in 1861. Failing health prompted Edwin to move to North Carolina in October 1850. He lived in Franklin, Halifax and Warren Counties, teaching and overseeing a female seminary at White Sulphur Springs and Warrenton, until 1856. Edwin then moved his family to Oxford, Ohio, where he conducted the Oxford Female Institute with the Rev. J.H. Buchanan. An advertisement for the Oxford Female Institute in the October 31, 1857 issue of the Oxford Citizen lists Barrett as an associate principal and professor of instrumental and vocal music. In 1861, Edwin moved to Springfield, Ohio, where he entered the bookbinding and printing business with his brother-in-law, Charles L. Petts, under the firm name of Barrett & Petts. In 1862, he became associated with G.W. Hastings, and the firm was known as Hastings, Barrett & Petts. In failing health, Barrett dissolved the firm and bought a farm outside Springfield in 1865. In 1867, he established E.L. Barrett & Sons, a company specializing in the manufacture of legal, election and other types of blanks and forms. The firm later became known as the Barrett Publishing Company. After Sarah’s death in 1865, Edwin married Clara D. Hulsey, a native of Milledgeville, Georgia and an 1860 graduate of Western Female Seminary, on March 18, 1867. They had two children, Anna Louise, born September 11, 1869; and Frank, born January 29, 1872. Edwin died on August 3, 1898. References: The History of Clark County, Ohio, Containing a History of the County; Its Cities, Towns, etc.; General and Local Statistics; Portraits of Early Settlers and Prominent Men; History of the Northwest Territory; History of Ohio; Map of Clark County; Constitution of the United States, Miscellaneous Matters, etc. Chicago: W. H. Beers and Co., 1881, pages 787-788. A Biographical Record of Clark County, Ohio. New York and Chicago: The S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1902, pages 663-665.


Flower, Olive. The History of Oxford College for Women, 1830-1928. Oxford, Ohio: Miami University Alumni Association, 1949, page 18. SCOPE AND CONTENTS OF THE COLLECTION The collection begins with letters written from 1828 to 1890, mostly between members of the Barrett family. Early letters from Edwin Barrett describe his studies at school, while a draft of a submission for the Sabbath School Journal provides an account of the death of a little girl named Sarah and her exemplary religious nature. Correspondence then turns to Edwin’s taking a school in New Ipswitch and later in Danville, where on October 11, 1846, he reflects on his character and his efforts to be “a better & more faithful son, brother, and Christian.” Meanwhile, Ellen continues her studies in Westminster and Hancock, where she writes of reciting French, and how her “bumps of self-esteem and ambition…have risen astonishingly” since she came there. “I feel now as to’ I could do almost anything and especially do I delight in my music,” she writes on April 1, 1847. The next year, Ellen spends time at Saratoga Spa, New York, where she writes of seeing the “Panorama of Amsterdam” and taking a boat ride. Correspondence from Sarah Barrett on July 13, 1848 provides details of her interest in becoming a teaching assistant in the subjects of mathematics, French, chemistry, and philosophy. By 1850, Edwin has moved to North Carolina for a teaching position; he describes his journey through New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore, as well as the physical appearance of Warrenton, North Carolina, to his wife, parents and sister. After arriving in North Carolina, Edwin often writes of his desire and efforts to bring his family there so they can be reunited. Writing on November 24, 1850, Edwin says, “There is now but little doubt of my staying here for the present at least; and, if I am not eventually successful here, I think I shall still settle in the South at some point. I like so much better than I expected when I came away, as to climate, face of country & society; and especially, I find there is such a demand for teachers, that the more I become acquainted, the more I think I shall stay unless Providence plainly directs otherwise.” Other letters from this period describe Edwin’s teaching activities, his future prospects, and what life is like in North Carolina. By early 1851, Sarah and their child, Eddie, have joined Edwin in North Carolina. Hoping to have Ellen join them in North Carolina for a teaching position, Edwin frequently writes of future prospects for her and suggestions for becoming a successful teacher. Many other letters that year illustrate Edwin’s desire to have his parents join them in North Carolina; they describe Edwin and Sarah’s “want of company & of excitement” and provide suggestions for the journey, what household items would be most advantageous to have there, and what provisions should be made about their house in Ashburnham.


By 1852, circumstances have led Edwin to continue living in North Carolina and Sarah to return to Ashburnham. Letters written between the couple during this year provide insight into household business matters, the growth of their children, and their desire to be reunited, which takes place by early 1853. After that, correspondence continues in Edwin’s advising his mother about business matters in Ashburnham, particularly the rental or sale of their home there. 1854 finds Edwin teaching at two female institutes in the Warrenton area, trying to delay a visit to Ashburnham until he is better settled financially. Letters from this period continue to express his wish that his extended family be reunited. On November 25, 1854, Edwin writes that “the cards & toils of combined poverty, ill health, & a dependent & increasing family” have made things difficult for him. A stern sense of duty and necessity not only has kept him in North Carolina, but also has made him a “more cool, circumspect & cautious person.” By November 6, 1855, Sarah is back in Ashburnham, while Edwin continues teaching in North Carolina, as a result of a “very unsettled state of affairs.” Later letters reveal sickness and death suffered by the Barrett children; the family’s relocation to Oxford and later Springfield, Ohio; and Ellen’s divorce from Edward Root. The collection also includes a number of handwritten publications in the style of illustrated newspapers. Edited by Sarah Petts, “The Budget” covers literary and scientific topics, poetry, the editor’s diary, and letters to the editor. “On the Improvement of the Mind” was featured in the November 19, 1841 issue, as was “Marks of a Bad Scholar” on October 25, 1841. “Diligence” was the topic of the December 17, 1841 issue, as was the definition of politeness and character on March 4, 1842. Unique animals such as the tamarind and the ostrich, as well as the asbestos stone, are also covered in 1842 issues. Charles Petts edited “The Olio,” which features the mottos, “Improvement Must Shine” and “Enterprise,” on its masthead. Poetry and letters to the editor are complemented by short essays on subjects such as geography, the weather, and temperance, including a child’s temperance pledge in the November 9, 1843 issue. A description of Northampton is featured in the January 9, 1844 issue. Both Sarah and Charles Petts edited “The Star.” Published under the motto, “Just as the twig is bent, the tree’s inclined,” “The Star” includes literary and scientific features, as well as poetry and a daily journal. While temperance is covered in several issues, some other features of interest include the Boston Statehouse and the solar system (February 27, 1841), Niagara Falls (March 6, 1841), phrenology and fortune telling (April 10, 1841), the death of General Harrison (April 17, 1841), school libraries (April 24, 1841), a view in a prison (August 28, 1841), and the telegraph (several issues in October 1841 and February-March 1842). The collection also includes some anonymous journal entries, perhaps attributed to Nancy Lawrence Barrett. One series of entries from April 23, 1834 through April 19, 1835 describes the author’s attending a meeting at her church, her renewal of her efforts to become a better Christian, and her happiness in hearing her husband express his determination to read the


Scriptures and take a temperance pledge. She also records sitting by the grave of her daughter, Elvira, who died of scarlet fever. Other journal entries from July and August 1847 and July of 1848 detail attendance at religious services and continued efforts to improve as a Christian. Poetry and compositions on religion and other topics such as friendship are included in the collection. Notes on scientific topics such as electricity, astronomy, physiology and Bright’s disease and pneumonia (including young Eddie Barrett’s symptoms during his illness) can also be found in the collection. Three receipts for dry goods and grocery purchases made by Nancy Barrett in 1852, 1857, and an unknown date are included in the collection. Handwritten music for an untitled composition from 1822 and “Scattered o’er the starry pole” (from Gould’s Social Harmony), dated May 25, 1826, follows. Landscape drawings include views of a raft on Lake Champlain, Ellen Barrett’s drawing of Chimney Rocks in North Carolina, sunrise at Cape Ann, and Phoebe Petts’ drawing of Georgian Springs, Ottawa River, Canada. Printed material in the collection contains a broadside advertising monochromatic drawing lessons taught by Ellen Barrett, a copy of The Springfield Republic from November 18, 1861, and undated newspaper clippings documenting a meeting of the Central Mother’s club, a petition in favor of establishing free Kindergartens in Springfield public schools, a kitchen shower given by Nellie Barrett for Lou Winwood and George Perks, and the marriage of Nelle Barrett (daughter of Edward L. Barrett) and Edgar Mizener. Copies of the catalogues of the Oxford Female Institute from 1855-1856 and 1856-1857, list Edwin Barrett as associate principal and professor of instrumental and vocal music. The collection concludes with Clara Barrett Coffman’s publication, The Book of My Grandfather: A Biography of Edwin Lawrence Barrett. ORGANIZATION OF THE COLLECTION Series I: Manuscripts

Sub-Series I: Correspondence Sub-Series II: Handwritten Newspapers Sub-Subseries I: The Budget Sub-Subseries II: The Learner Sub-Subseries III: The Olio Sub-Subseries IV: The Star Sub-Series III: Journal Entries Sub-Series IV: Poetry Sub-Series V: Compositions Sub-Series VI: Notes Sub-Series VII: Receipts Sub-Series VIII: Music Sub-Series IX: Landscape Drawings


Series II: Printed Material

Sub-Series I: Broadsides Sub-Series II: Newspapers Sub-Series III: Catalogues Sub-Series IV: Booklets

ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Access: This collection is open under the rules and regulations of the Walter

Havighurst Special Collections, Miami University Libraries. Preferred Citation: Researchers are requested to cite the Edwin L. Barrett Collection and The

Walter Havighurst Special Collections, Miami University Libraries in all footnote and bibliographic references.

Provenance: Donated by Clara Louise Barrett Coffman, through John B. Deinhardt, in

December 2008. Processed By: Betsy Butler, February-April 2009 Property Rights: The Walter Havighurst Special Collections, Miami University Libraries,

owns the property rights to this collection. Copyrights: Reproduction of materials in the collection is subject to the

restrictions of copyright law. To use any materials not yet in the public domain, the researcher must obtain permission from the copyright holder.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE COLLECTION Note to Researchers: To request materials, please note both the box and folder numbers shown below. Series I: Manuscripts Sub-Series I: Correspondence

Box Folder Author/Location Recipient/Location Subject Date

1 1 Hannah Barrett Boston, Massachusetts

Samuel Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Description of her mistress; reading and subscribing to the Youth’s Companion; Thanksgiving plans; suffering from a lame foot; attending school

November 27, 1828



1 2 Edwin Barrett Ashby

Samuel and Nancy Barrett

Tuition arrangement for writing school; solving a puzzle that he created

April 1841

1 3 Luther Adams Chester


Financial matters; security on notes

April 12, 1842

1 4 B.E. White Mason

Sister Recent death of her daughter, Sarah

May 1842

1 5 Samuel Barrett

Nancy Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Christian life and death of Sarah, as written for the Sabbath School Journal

December 25, 1842

1 6 George Goodyear Gaines (Orleans Co.), New York


Health and expected death of Mrs. Goodyear

February 22, 1844

1 7 Perrin Simonds Brattleboro


Order for S.R. Stoddard; also includes an essay for the Sabbath School Journal about knowing what will become of a man when he dies, dated February 9, 1845

March 7, 1844

1 8 Unnamed Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Unnamed Fragment of a letter about teaching and previous school at New Ipswich

September 18, 1846

1 9 Edwin L. Barrett Unnamed Fragment of a letter about health, the slowness of his leather business and putting in prints, goods from the West Indies, and a post office in his home office; leaving for New Hampshire soon; hoping to receive a letter from her before he goes; expresses his regard for her

Circa 1846

1 10 Edwin L. Barrett Danville


Thoughts of home and of parents; will strive to be a better Christian and son; expects to return to Ashburnham in two weeks

October 11, 1846

1 11 Ellen Barrett Nancy Barrett Progress in studies; April 1, 1847



Hancock Ashburnham, Massachusetts

thoughts about family and Dr. Miller;

1 12 Ellen Barrett Westminster


Health; Mr. Temple’s sawing accident; finished writing a piece for the Lyceum; weather during recent journey there; request for Edwin to send his “description of a walk by moonlight”

October 23, 1847

1 13 Edwin L. Barrett Adams

Sarah B. Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Scenery; weather; plans to travel to Williamstown & Hancock; wishes for the good health of his wife, sister and mother

June 13, 1848

1 14 Ellen Barrett Saratoga Spa

Nancy Barrett Gloucester, Massachusetts

News of family and friends; seeing the “Panorama of Amsterdam” painting; travel to the Lake; ride on the Circular Rail Road; description of taking the waters at Union Hall

July 12, 1848

1 15 Sarah Barrett New Ipswich


Will not be assisting Mr. Lawrence in teaching during the fall term; inquiries after family

July 13, 1848

1 16 Ellen Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts


Funeral of Mr. Weston; travel home; health; beginning of school; news of family and friends

July [24], 1848

1 17 Ellen Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Nancy Barrett Chelsea, Massachusetts

Catching cold; attending examinations; health of family

July 25, 1849

1 18 Ellen Barrett Townsend

Samuel and Nancy Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Wish to use the horse on Saturday; number of scholars in school; greetings from friends

November 1, 1849

1 19 Edwin and Sarah Barrett Pleasant Grove

Nancy Barrett News of family; request for clothing; request that she pray for his temporal success and spiritual

March 16, 1850



health

1 20 Samuel Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Ellen Barrett Gloucester, Massachusetts

Edwin’s travel to Boston; Edwin and Dr. Potts on committee to distribute funds to “sufferers”

July 1, 1850

1 22 Samuel Barrett Union Hall, Saratoga Springs, New York

Ellen Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Travel to Saratoga Springs by fording rivers because of bridges being out; settling up debts from others; advice to travel to Gloucester to visit family

July 25, 1850

1 23 Edwin Barrett New York City, New York

Sarah Barrett Description of travel from Worcester to Norwich; taking the steamboat “Knickerbocker” to New York, passing through Hell’s Gate and by Blackwell’s Island; comparison between New York and Boston; travel through Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington, D.C. to Warrenton, North Carolina

First week of October 1850

1 24 Edwin Barrett Midway, North Carolina

Sarah Barrett School at Midway and future prospects there; plans to have Sarah and their son move there soon

October 20, 1850



Differences between North Carolina and New England; travel through Virginia

October 22, 1850



Description of Warrenton, North Carolina

October 24, 1850


Sarah Barrett Description and pencil sketch of Mr. Branch’s property, where he is staying; wildlife and crops cultivated there.

October 29, 1850


Sarah Barrett Delight in receiving her letter and those from family; description of

November 9, 1850



bouquet of flowers received from a neighbor; wishes to establish a school; encourages Sarah to work on obtaining other accomplishments like sewing, music and drawing


Sarah Barrett Encloses a letter for Miss Procter; request for words to the “Ode to Science”; request for Sarah to recommit the first principles of algebra and French so she can assist him in teaching

November 14, 1850


Sarah Barrett Request for frequent letters from her, as he wishes to set an example of a good correspondent

November 23, 1850


Sarah Barrett Hopes to bring parents there as well; school prospects; new school to be named “Healthy or Pleasant Grove Male & Female Academies”; difference in “moral atmosphere” there

November 24, 1850

1 26 Edwin Barrett Pleasant Grove

Sarah Barrett Giving daily lessons in music and drawing; will assume responsibility for the male and female academies in June; sister Ellen will be principal of the female department, and Sarah can assist her; request to forward him the words to “O home of my boyhood”

December 11, 1850


Ellen Barrett Advice on several matters; possibility of coming there to teach music, French and drawing

November 5, 1850





Daily routine; future prospects; activities of slaves

November 11, 1850


Samuel, Nancy, Ellen, and Sarah Barrett

Descriptions of weather, crops, birds, buildings, and fire-making practices in the area; recommendations to Ellen to work on music, drawing, French, geometry, algebra, and Latin for her teaching appointment there; tuition and salary plans for the school; future plans to move family there

December 1, 1850


Nancy Barrett School begins on January 6 and is advertised in three Raleigh newspapers; weather; wishes for health and future prosperity

December 15, 1850

1 31 Sarah Barrett Charlestown


Difficulties with another teacher; request for news of family and information regarding Mr. Bancroft’s ungentlemanly treatment of Ellen

December 22, 1850


Samuel and Nancy Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Safe travel and arrival of Sarah and their child; Mr. Branch’s inability to wait until September for Ellen’s arrival

January 9, 1851


Ellen Barrett Boston, Massachusetts

Thanks for enclosing Mr. Parker’s bill; recent inclement weather; forwarding letter from Sarah to her; advice about Ellen’s commencing the summer term in North Carolina; regards to the Russell family for providing her with a place to stay

January 31, 1851

1 34 Samuel Barrett Ellen Barrett Glad to hear she is well February 4, 1851



Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Boston, Massachusetts

and happy; inquires how long it will be necessary for her to stay there and finish her lessons


Ellen Barrett Boston, Massachusetts

Glad to hear she is healthy and getting along well in music; wants her to come home as soon as she gets through with her lessons

February 21, 1851



Weather and health; development of his baby son; whether Mr. Branch will allow Ellen to take the school in September

February 26, 1851


Nancy and Ellen Barrett

Description of weather and things in bloom; advice on various matters before Ellen arrives May 1, including dress, studies, and getting along with students

March 2 and 9, 1851

1 38 Sarah Barrett Pleasant Grove

Nancy Barrett Gratitude for her kindness to her; enclosing flower seeds; thanks Ellen for teething ring; baby’s progress; sends regards to grandmother and others at home

April 4, 1851



How sad and fearful they feel about Ellen’s coming to North Carolina; positive aspects of her impending move

April 10, 1851



Sarah to take charge of the school next session; disappointment in Ellen’s not coming; information about his school and reading in a college course

May 4, 1851


Samuel, Nancy and Ellen Barrett

Health; weather; vacation imminent; has not advertised for next

May 31, 1851



session; their plans to come in October; boarding possibilities; care of and practices of negroes



Request to pray for them to be active, living Christians; climate of the area; number of schools in the area

June 15, 1851



Detailed account of living in the South, including the weather and its effect on health, social classes, size of farms; coming with a horse and carriage; state of roads and countryside; ways to travel there; slaves’ treatment of animals; lack of conveniences

June 19, 1851

1 44 Edwin Barrett Samuel, Nancy and Ellen Barrett

Sarah’s beginning teaching; want of company and excitement; baby Eddie’s progress; Edwin’s trip to Raleigh; looking forward to spending Sabbaths with them

July 22, 1851

1 45 Edwin and Sarah Barrett


Recent weather; encouraging them to start their journey in September; Sabbath activities at a nearby Baptist church; suitability of current winter clothing

August 2, 1851

1 46 Edwin Barrett Nancy Barrett Received picture of the “Bloomer children” from Ellen; advice regarding journey and to avoid travel on the Amboy line; request to purchase items for Sarah, baby Eddie and himself; enclosing flower

August 13, 1851



seeds;

1 47 Edwin Barrett Samuel and Nancy Barrett

Recent weather; details of where to go in their journey; acceptance of position as principal of Presbyterian Female Seminary in Raleigh; bringing clothing, furniture and other conveniences; abundance of sweet potatoes, peaches and other produce; description of buildings in Raleigh; requests for items from home

August 18, 1851


Ellen Barrett Checking whether she received his last four letters; carrying and exchanging money during their journey; description of the place where he is going; requests for her to bring some things from home;

September 4, 1851


Nancy Barrett Events of the past year; health of his father; request for a few items; recommendations regarding the journey and clothes to bring

September 14, 1851



His father’s health; inadvisability of his mother traveling alone; suggesting arrangements for him to accompany them on their journey; resigned position offered to him at Raleigh

September 25, 1851



Made arrangements to leave school long enough to accompany them on their journey; Sarah taking over teaching as a result of

September 30, 1851



Miss Emily’s sudden marriage

1 52 Edwin Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Sarah Barrett Louisburg, North Carolina

Very poor condition of his father; plans for the journey; Ellen’s well-being

October 7, 1851

1 53 R.W. Branch Sarah Barrett

News of family and friends; hopes that they come back

March 8, 1852

1 54 Eliza A. Barrett Baldwinville

Aunt [Sarah Barrett?]

News of family and friends; Ellen’s recent marriage; books and magazines read

May 29, 1852

1 55 Sarah Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Edwin Barrett Glad he is enjoying a pleasant trip; her father returned home from his trip safely; purchases at Worcester; wish to be reunited as a family soon

June 25, 1852


Edwin Barrett Waiting to hear from him; visits from and news of family and friends

July 4, 1852


Edwin Barrett Picking blueberries with Eddie; Ellen’s health and wish to spend time in the South

July 21, 1852


Edwin Barrett Delight in receiving his letter; striving to be a better Christian wife and mother; news of family and friends

August 8, 1852

1 59 Edwin Barrett Littleton, North Carolina

Sarah Barrett Receipt of recent letter; news of family; Miss Kipp wants to return to the South

August 11, 1852


Sarah Barrett Hopes to see her in three months, and to use the time in between to improve themselves; walk in the woods resulted in seed ticks; negro holiday the day before; opening of school

August 15, 1852




Edwin Barrett Both she and Eddie are in good health; visit with Reuben Conn and Miss Harding; also includes a letter from Nancy Barrett that discusses Mr. White’s rent

August 19, 1852


Edwin Barrett Discrepancy between Ellen and her husband regarding purchase of a stove; Europe Fairbank wishes to spend the winter in the South; request to have Miss Crosby help her

September 8, 1852


Edwin Barrett Caring for two children; Ellen home; feelings about going South

September 15, 1852


Sarah Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Thanks for good health; weather and harvest; activities during hunting season

September 21, 1852


Edwin Barrett Mother sick with a sore hand; children are well; mother and Ellen went to Boston to purchase finishing goods for the new parsonage

September 30, 1852

1 65A Edwin Barrett Littleton, Halifax County, North Carolina

Nancy Barrett Letters from friends Rev. Mr. Fisk, Reuben Conn, and Mary Russell

October 10, 1852

1 65B Nancy Barrett Williamsburg

Edwin Barrett Ellen’s health; attending temperance convention; financial affairs; visiting the World’s Fair in New York versus visiting him in North Carolina

December 5, 1852

1 65C Edwin Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Nancy Barrett Only has money enough to go South; settled expenses in getting grain threshed and paying grandmother; enclosing squirrel wristers

December 15, 1852



similar to what she lost

1 65D Edwin Barrett Littleton, Halifax County, North Carolina

Nancy Barrett Safe arrival at Littleton; enclosing $5.00

December 28, 1852

1 66 P[hoebe]M. Petts Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Children and grandchildren

News of family; celebrated New Year’s Day by straightening up their room

January 12, 1853

1 67 Edwin L. Barrett Littleton, North Carolina

Nancy Barrett Continued study of the areas in which he is teaching; health and activities of his family; selling her buffalo; names of newspapers to which he subscribes and reads

February 6, 1853

1 68 Edwin L. Barrett Littleton, North Carolina

Nancy Barrett Advice regarding selling her land; dividing money from Uncle George’s note; putting up carriages at auction

April 29, 1853

1 68-A Edwin L. Barrett Littleton, North Carolina

Nancy Barrett Route to and from school; what happens when he comes home; eating many peaches, plums and berries;

August 13, 1853

1 69 Edwin L. Barrett White Sulphur Springs

Nancy Barrett Selling house; conditions of renting it

March 5, 1854

1 70 Edwin L. Barrett Nancy Barrett Mr. Fish’s plans regarding the house; request to have her see what she can arrange between him and the other new tenants

March 11, 1854

1 71 Edwin L. Barrett Jones Springs, Warrenton, North Carolina

Nancy Barrett Received her letters of March 18 and 22 and the contents are very gratifying; glad he proposed to her to sell or rent their property

March 28, 1854

1 72 Edwin L. Barrett Warrenton,

Nancy Barrett Renewing insurance policy at Worcester Mutual;

April 20, 1854



North Carolina writing to Elisha White


Nancy Barrett Getting a new insurance policy; description of White Sulphur Springs; undecided whether to go North or not

May 19, 1854

1 74 Ellen Root Jones Springs, Warrenton, North Carolina

Edwin Barrett Proposal to sell part of Ashburnham property

June 1, 1854

1 75 Edwin L. Barrett Jones Springs Warrenton North Carolina

Nancy Barrett Advice on accepting proposal from Mr. Winchester to buy house

June 2, 1854


Nancy Barrett Reconsidering visit North this summer; if Mr. Winchester and she can agree on a price for the house, he will come in August; decision to sell the house for $2,150

June 19, 1854

1 77 Edwin L. Barrett Warrenton, North Carolina

Nancy Barrett Has decided to stay there instead of returning North; salary versus expenses of providing for his family; engagement at the Warrenton Female Institute for half of the year; plans to visit the following year

July 15, 1854


Nancy Barrett Thoughts about their relationship; trials of living in the South; is now the chair of mathematics at the Warrenton Female Institute; future plans

November 26, 1854

1 79 Unnamed Warrenton, North Carolina

Mother Fragment of a letter discussing celebration of Edward’s 35th birthday; sale of house

March 14, 1855

1 80 Edwin L. Barrett Warrenton,

Sarah Barrett Length of separation and imminent reunion;

March 24, 1855



North Carolina conditions in Kansas


Nancy Barrett Teaching music lessons; plans to spend Easter in Franklin County; plans to return to New England; plans to all live together

April 4, 1855


Edwin L. Barrett Keeping house, menus, father and brother going west, desire to keep house with him

August 18, 1855


Edwin L. Barrett Father sick with cholera; uncle has 30 tons of hay to cut; brothers learning to swim; wishes to receive directions about going to housekeeping

August 24, 1855


Edwin L. Barrett Grandmother went to Fitchburg with Mrs. Thompson; her father and brothers went to a temperance convention at Ashby; teacher’s institute to be in town the next week; father busy with harvesting

October 10, 1855


Edwin L. Barrett Prospect of a permanent settlement; his mother will wait to make her winter plans until his feelings are more settled

October 15, 1855

1 86 Edwin L. Barrett Littleton, Halifax Co., North Carolina

Nancy Barrett Improved health; plans to give her $100 or $200 a year and make annual trips to New England because of increased salary; plans to stay in the South to save travel and relocation expenses and because of his improved health; engaged to take charge of a female school in White Sulphur Springs the next

November 6, 1855



year; approved of Ellen and Edwin’s deciding not to adopt a child


Nancy Barrett Rev. Fiske leaving Ashburnham; advice for her not to go to housekeeping again; and become a lady of leisure

January 13, 1854


Nancy Barrett Not undertaking housekeeping; pros and cons of staying in the South; having her live with him and his family

January 31, 1854

1 89 Quincy Petts Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Sarah Barrett Mr. Fiske released from his position; political matters, including the Fugitive Slave Law

April 25, 1854

1 89 Phoebe Petts Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Sarah Barrett and children

Return to the north; news of family and friends

April 26, 1854

1 90 Edwin L. Barrett White Sulphur Springs

Nancy Barrett Safe arrival there and good beginning of school; good qualities of pupils; sale of land; contents of toilet box which she gave him

October 25, 1854


Edwin L. Barrett Receipt of letters and money; news of family; wishes for new year in his new situation; writing to her brother Charles

December 11, 1854

1 92 Nancy Barrett Williamsburg, Massachusetts

Edwin L. Barrett Sickness of Edwin’s son, Eddie

March 9, 1858


Nancy Barrett Sickness of Eddie and financial toil taken on his family; advice on arranging for tenants for the year

March 18, 1856

1 94 Edwin L. Barrett Oxford, Butler County, Ohio

Nancy Barrett Coming to live in Oxford; two options for traveling, one with Mr. Samuel R. Brown, an Oxford merchant, and one with

March 4, 1857



Miss Philena McKeen, a teacher at the Western Female Seminary from Vermont; instructions for what to bring and storing furniture in Ashburnham

1 95 Edwin L. Barrett Oxford, Ohio


Living in close proximity to Edward and Ellen; waiting to build until she comes; living in Mr. Fisher’s house in a good neighborhood and with thriving business prospects

April 29, 1857

1 96 Ellen Barrett Root

Edward Root Visits with friends in his absence; plans to teach Grecian painting; other activities at home

July 25, 1857

1 97 Ellen Barrett Root

Nancy Barrett Anticipating her mother’s arrival in four weeks; benefit of climate to her and Edwin, despite missing being near the ocean

July 30, 1857

1 98 Mrs. Lawrence Nancy Barrett Glad to hear of Nancy’s arrival in Oxford; news of friends; good harvest of vegetables from the garden Nancy planted

October 1857

1 99 Edward Root Springfield, Ohio

Mrs. Lawrence Ellen’s sickness; increasing congregation in Springfield

December 13, 1857

1 100 Celestia and Adelia

Nancy Barrett Thanks for sending them seeds; progress in drawing and other lessons; Mrs. Lawrence’s welfare;

June 18, 1858

1 101 Lizzie Nancy Barrett Thanks for sending her seeds; grandmother’s welfare; progress of plants; received guitar recently and wishes to be under Edwin’s instruction; imminent arrival of winter

October 3, 1858

1 102 Adelia Ashburnham,

Nancy Barrett News of friends in Ashburnham;

December 26, 1858



Massachusetts acknowledges the bequest Nancy gave her; news concerning finances and other business matters

1 103 Ellen Root Springfield, Ohio

Nancy Barrett Her precarious health; Edwin and Charles now in business with a bookstore; Edwin plans to move there in spring or early summer; Edwin also has a position as organist for a Cincinnati church

January 5, 1860

1 104 Edwin Barrett Oxford, Ohio

Nancy Barrett Concern for Ellen’s well-being and offer to help her; financial concerns regarding rent

May 12, 1860

1 105 George Lawrence Fitchburg

Nancy Barrett Sending $135 to Boston for Edwin; hoping to see her soon

June 11, 1860

1 106 Edwin Barrett Springfield, Ohio

Nancy Barrett Ellen’s situation; plans for Nancy to come to Urbana and stay with Ellen

June 28, 1860

1 107 Edwin Barrett Celina, Ohio

Nancy Barrett Death of daughter Nellie and of grandmother; guilt in neglecting religious instruction to children; travels through western Ohio; letters owed other family members

March 9, 1862

1 108 Grandma Hartford, Connecticut

Freddie Request for a letter from him sometime; description of scenery

June 17, 1867


Nancy Barrett Greetings on her 70th birthday

December 19, 1872

1 110 Edwin Barrett Millboro, Virginia

Nancy Barrett Travel reminds him of old days in Virginia and North Carolina; improved health but still tires easily

September 10, 1881

1 111 Edwin Barrett Memphis

Nancy Barrett and Ellen Barrett Root

Traveling to Vicksburg, stopping at Chattanooga and Memphis; description of scenery along the way

April 21, 1883



1 112 Nancy Barrett Ellen Barrett Root Thanks for flowers; glad to hear she is well; news of family and friends

July 10, 1883

1 113 Clara Ellen Barrett Root News of family and friends February 23, 1885

1 114 Unknown Nellie [Ellen Barrett Root]

Fragment of letter containing news, such as the birth of Flora’ s daughter, Bertha, and sickness in Springfield, including typhoid fever

December 4, 1888


Ellen Barrett Root Clara’s sickness; Ellen’s coming to Springfield with Mr. Buell

December 18, 1890

1 116 L. & M.J. Chamberlain

Sarah B. Petts Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Declining invitation because of the unpromising state of travelling and other engagements

January 3 [undated]

1 117 George Peck Samuel Barrett Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Residence in Norwich; health of family; interest in acquaintances in Ashburnham

January 8 [undated]

1 118 Unknown Unknown News of family and friends undated

1 119 Unknown Unknown Prospect of a better government; mother’s well-being; other news of family

Undated

1 120 Ellen Barrett Root and Edwin Barrett

Nancy Barrett Request to have Nancy move in with Ellen because of the stigma of her divorce

Undated

1 121 John Petts Nellie Barrett Plans to send her and Eddie some books; hopes to receive a drawing from her

Undated

1 122 E.N. Barrett Oxford, Ohio

[Nancy Barrett] What she is studying in school; looking forward to going to Springfield to see her

Undated

1 123 Edwin L. Barrett Litchfield

Nancy Barrett Arrived in Litchfield after stopping in Townsend; concern for her health;

May 19 [undated]



1 124 Phoebe L. Petts Edwin and Sarah Barrett

Expression of sympathy after death of Nellie and sickness of Eddie

Undated

Series I: Manuscripts Sub-Series II: Handwritten Newspapers Sub-Subseries I: The Budget

Box Folder Title Date

2 1 The Budget, Vol. 1, No. 22 April 22, 1841

2 2 The Budget, Vol. 1, No. 1 October 25, 1841

2 3 The Budget, Vol. 1, No. 3 November 19, 1841

2 4 The Budget, Vol. 1, No. 5 December 17, 1841

2 5 The Budget, Vol. 1, No. 8 January 14, 1842



2 8 The Budget, Vol. 1, No. 12 February 11, 1842

2 9 The Budget, Vol. 1, No. 13 February 18, 1842

2 10 The Budget, Vol. 1, No. 15 March 4, 1842




2 14 The Budget, Vol. 1, No. 20 April 15, 1842

2 15 The Budget, Vol. 1, No. 24 May 1842

2 16 The Budget, Vol. 1, No. 26 June 1842

2 17 The Budget, Vol. 1, No. 27 August 11, 1842



2 20 The Budget Undated

Series I: Manuscripts Sub-Series II: Handwritten Newspapers Sub-Subseries II: The Learner


2 21 The Learner, Vol. 1, No. 2 August 1845


Series I: Manuscripts Sub-Series II: Handwritten Newspapers Sub-Subseries III: The Olio


2 22 The Olio, Vol. II, No. 4 February 15, 1843

2 23 The Olio, Vol. I, No. 14 June 22, 1843

2 24 The Olio, Vol. I, No. 18 July 20, 1843

2 25 The Olio, Vol. I, No. 20 August 3, 1843

2 26 The Olio, Vol. I, No. 23 August 24, 1843

2 27 The Olio, Vol. I, No. 24 September 1, 1843



2 30 The Olio, Vol. I, No. 29 October 5, 1843



2 33 The Olio, Vol. I, No. 33 November 2, 1843




2 37 The Olio, Vol. I, No. 38 December 7, 1843

2 38 The Olio, Vol. I, No. 2 [sic] January 9, 1844

2 39 The Olio, Vol. II, No. 2 January 15, 1844

2 40 The Olio, Vol. I, No. 1 [sic] January 2, 1845





Series I: Manuscripts Sub-Series II: Handwritten Newspapers Sub-Subseries IV: The Star


2 45 The Star, Vol. I, No. 3 February 20, 1841

2 46 The Star, Vol. I, No. 4 February 27, 1841

2 47 The Star, Vol. I, No. 5 March 6, 1841




2 51 The Star, Vol. I, No. 9 April 3, 1841






2 55 The Star, Vol. I, No. 14 May 8, 1841




2 59 The Star, Vol. I, No. 18 June 5, 1841

2 60 The Star, Vol. I, No. 20 June 19, 1841

2 61 The Star, Vol. I, No. 22 July 3, 1841




2 65 The Star, Vol. I, No. 28 August 14, 1841

2 66 The Star, Vol. I, No. 30 August 28, 1841

2 67 The Star, Vol. I, No. 32 September 11, 1841

2 68 The Star, Vol. I, No. 34 September 25, 1841

2 69 The Star, Vol. I, No. 35 October 2, 1841




2 73 The Star, Vol. I, No. 40 November 6, 1841

2 74 The Star, Vol. I, No. 43 November 27, 1841

2 75 The Star, Vol. I, No. 44 December 4, 1841

2 76 The Star, Vol. I, No. 45 December 11, 1841

2 77 The Star, Vol. I, No. 48 January 1, 1842

2 78 The Star, Vol. II, No. 11 January 8, 1842

2 79 The Star, Vol. 2, No. 4 January 22, 1842

2 80 The Star, Vol. II, No. 6 February 5, 1842

2 81 The Star, Vol. 2, No. 7 February 12, 1842



2 84 The Star, Vol. 2, No. 10 March 5, 1842

2 85 The Star, Vol. 2, No. 14 April 2, 1842

2 86 The Star, Vol. II, No. XV April 9, 1842

2 87 The Star, Vol. II, No. XIX May 7, 1842

2 88 The Star, Vol. II, No. XX May 14, 1842

2 89 The Star, Vol. II, No. XXII May 28, 1842

2 90 The Star, Vol. II, No. XXIV June 11, 1842

2 91 The Star, Vol. 2, No. 13 March 26, 1842


Series I: Manuscripts Sub-Series III: Journal Entries


2 92 Journal entries April 23, 1834-April 19, 1835

2 93 Journal entries July 11, 1847-August 29, 1847

2 94 Journal entries July 16 and 23, 1848

Series I: Manuscripts Sub-Series IV: Poetry


2 95 Lines written by my Father 1822

2 96 Forget me not February 22, 1822

2 97 Ode on Solitude by Henry K. White February 22, 1822

2 98 Untitled poem March 30, 1822

2 99 Untitled poem April 18, 1824

2 100 Untitled poem October 25, 1824

2 101 Untitled poem April 10, 1825

2 102 Untitled poem June 29, 1825

2 103 To a Friend December 31, 1825

2 104 Untitled poem December 31, 1825

2 105 Against profain Swearing Undated

2 106 Youth Undated

2 107 “He healeth the broken in heart and bindeth up their wounds”

Undated

2 108 Untitled poems Undated

Series I: Manuscripts Sub-Series V: Compositions


2 109 Untitled composition August 28, 1832

2 110 “Search me O God and know my heart….” April 7, 1837

2 111 Sabbath School Concert composition April 9, 1843

2 112 Kindness Undated

2 113 On Writing My Composition Undated

2 114 A chapter of facts not to be found in the writings of Joe Smith, neither in the ancient Apocryphal books

Undated

2 115 A visit to 1944 Undated

2 116 Miscellaneous untitled compositions Undated


Series I: Manuscripts Sub-Series VI: Notes


2 117 Bright’s Disease & Pneumonia Undated

2 118 Electricity Undated

2 119 Elements Undated

2 120 General Lecture on Science Undated

2 121 History Undated

2 122 Introduction to Science of Astronomy Undated

2 123 Materials of a Lecture on Physiology delivered at Warrenton Female College Institute

1855

2 124 Nat. Theol. Chap. 24 Undated

2 125 Plain Trigonometry Undated

2 126 Skeletons & Exer. Undated

Series I: Manuscripts Sub-Series VII: Receipts


2 127 Receipts of purchases made by Mrs. Samuel Barrett 1852, 1857, undated

Series I: Manuscripts Sub-Series VIII: Music


2 128 Handwritten music for an untitled composition and “Scattered o’er the starry pole”

1822; May 25, 1826

Series I: Manuscripts Sub-Series IX: Landscape Drawings


2 129 Landscape drawings Undated

Series II: Printed Material Sub-Series I: Broadsides


2 130 Broadside advertising Ellen Barrett’s drawing lessons Undated


Series II: Printed Material Sub-Series II: Newspapers


2 131 The Springfield Republic November 18, 1861

2 132 Newspaper clippings Undated

Series II: Printed Material Sub-Series III: Catalogues


2 133 Seventh Annual Catalogue of the Oxford Female Institute at Oxford, Ohio, 1855-6

1856

2 134 Eighth Annual Catalogue of the Oxford Female Institute at Oxford, Ohio, 1856-7

1857

Series II: Printed Material Sub-Series IV: Booklets


2 135 The Book of My Grandfather: A Biography of Edwin Lawrence Barrett, by Clara Barrett Coffman

1967

Edwin L. Barrett Collection 1828-1967 - Walter...

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