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University of Michigan William L. Clements Library

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[1843] April 20 . E[lizabeth] B[ridgham] ALS to Martha [B. Cutting]; New York, [New York].

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Containers:
Box 1
Abstract:
Acknowledges she has been treating people poorly since the death of Abby [Bridgham] (1803-1840) and her husband, [Samuel Willard Bridgham], (1774-1840). “…I feel condemned- I wish I was any thing but a lump of Clay—but I am nothing but a walking automaton of what I once was- my mind is a void.” Went to stay with Eliza and fight “the Battle of our state—I went through the horrors of war- but thank God there was no blood shed” [possibly referencing the Dorr Rebellion]. Remarks on one man joining who had never fired a gun, men leaving their business in Providence, the failure of newspapers to cover the subject, and the return of law and order. Discusses the death of a baby from whooping cough, her own suffering health due to asthma and dysentery, and a failed attempt to treat her illness by going to the mountains. Stayed with her son Sam[uel Willard Bridgham] (1813-1870) in New York to help tend to a new infant, for the mother is feared to be too “unsophisticated.” Has trouble being in her old home, “so identified with those I have loved so dearly…every thing about it is so dear- that to part with it would be like another funeral.” Notes deaths in Martha’s family and wonders if she will adopt her brother’s child.
Extent:
4 pages

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