The collection at the Levi Stewart Private Library Museum includes a large cache of letters, mostly written to Levi Stewart by family, friends, and business associates. The letters and other papers where shipped to Corinna along with his book collection after Levi’s death in 1910.
We are cataloging and scanning these items for analysis, preservation, and accessibility. Carl Smith is examining letters to find connections and relationships. Some letters offer an intimate view of life in the late 1800’s, especially if you know something of the writers and families involved.
Below are links to scans of selected letters. They are listed by the author and the date. Unless otherwise noted the letters were written to Levi. Readers may find family members from the past who wrote to Levi. The letter pages include some context information and place for comments and questions. We welcome comments and questions about the letters.
LEVI’S LETTERS
Simon Young, Pecatonic, IL to Benjamin Winchester, Corinna, July 22, 1840 This is the oldest letter we have. It was not written to Levi but was included in the collection.
As you read through the letters in this section a fascinating story emerges, a glimpse into lives and families in the early 1890’s.
Levi Stewart to Charlotte Elliott – July 7, 1889 One of a few letters we have written by Levi Stewart. Charlotte Elliott is married to Benjamin Elliott, formerly of Corinna, at this time living in Revere, Mass.
Levi Stewart to Charlotte Elliott – November 17, 1889 A second letter from Levi to Charlotte.
Mary Enneking – February 2, 1890 Mary is a sister to Benjamin Elliott. She and Benjamin were the children of John and Elvia Elliott of Corinna.
Mary Enneking – January 14, 1891 Mary is married to a well-known and accomplished landscape artist, John J. Enneking.
Benjamin Elliott – March 25, 1891 to his sister Mary Enneking, Mary forwarded the letter to Levi with comments.
Charlotte Elliott – April 3, 1891 Benjamin is struggling to make a living.
Mary Enneking – April 10, 1891 Mary describes the occupations of the children in Ben’s family and hers.
Charlotte Elliott – April 15, 1891 Some strife between sister-in-laws.
Charlotte Elliott – April 26, 1891 “Sometimes it seems as though the harder we struggle…”
Bertha Elliott – September 6, 1891 Bertha mentions Levi’s “wife”.
Charlotte Elliott – January 5, 1892 Trouble paying the mortgage.
Dress maker shop to Charlotte E. – January 17, 1893 requires a $3.00 deposit.
Charlotte Elliott – January 17, 1893 “We can’t depend upon a dollar from him.”
Godey’s Magazine to Charlotte E. – September 12, 1893 It seems odd that his would be in Levi’s Letters. However, the next letter from Charlotte (Sep. 22, ’93) makes it clear.
Charlotte Elliott – September 22, 1893 Fred graduated from grammar school and went to work because…
John Elliot – November 15, 1893 A long letter asking Levi to help Ben Elliott pay off a mortgage.