An engaging manuscript letter dated July 5 & 8, 1850, written from Halifax, Nova Scotia, offering a candid glimpse into mid-19th century family life and seasonal rhythms in Atlantic Canada. Content Highlights Agricultural life: References the onset of haymaking season, a critical annual event, and daily routines such as milking—valuable insight into rural labor cycles. Family updates: Notes the father’s return from the West, health of the family, and plans (or hesitations) regarding travel—typical of trans-regional family networks of the period. Community activity: Mentions attendance at a local celebration in Marlboro, reflecting social life and gatherings. Personal tone: Written in haste, with an informal and sincere voice, signed “Nancy,” with an additional note by Leavitt Hall Thomas and a brief closing by another hand (“A.M.T.”). Physical Description Folded letter, multiple pages Brown ink manuscript, legible throughout Typical fold lines, light toning, and minor staining Original red wax seal present on address panel Addressed simply to “Mr H. Lesure” Collector Appeal Attractive to collectors of: Nova Scotia / Canadian postal history 19th-century rural and agricultural life Family correspondence and social history Maritime Provinces ephemera A modest yet evocative example of everyday correspondence, capturing the rhythm of farm life, family connections, and community activity in pre-Confederation Nova Scotia.
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Dear Brother and Sister, I now seat myself to let you know about the folks in these parts. Father has got back from the West. We are all well as usual. I got along very well while Father was gone. I said Brothers and Sisters I thought I would by this time want you should come over before haying if you can. I suppose Father will write some in the letter so he may tell about the Western Country. Some are agoing to begin haying next Monday. They had quite a celebration yesterday. Joeb and I went it was in Marlboro. It is got to be most milking time and I must quit. Please excuse bad writing for I am in a hurry but can write better so good by Nancy. Leavitt Hall Thomas July 8th 1850 Father says he don’t want to write for it will take a fortnight to write the hole and it would only make you feaverish to write a part. Mother sends her respects to you. She thought she should go over there this fall but she has about given it up. Father says he thinks he shall go over after haying. Leavitt Hall Thomas Give my respects Montana to all that enquire after me and to her especially. Yours with haste A. M. T.
