Post–Civil War Political & Agricultural Letter – Springfield, May 22, 1866 A substantial autograph letter dated May 22, 1866, written from Springfield, offering a richly detailed snapshot of American life during the early Reconstruction era. The writer discusses a range of topics including estate matters (the “Harrison claim”), agricultural conditions, and—most notably—contemporary national politics in the immediate aftermath of the Civil War. The letter provides candid commentary on President Andrew Johnson (“this President is acting very badly”) and Congress, reflecting the widespread political uncertainty of 1866. It also references Pennsylvania senatorial politics and the divisive atmosphere between Unionists and “Copperheads.” Equally compelling are the firsthand observations of Midwestern farming conditions, including crop failures, frost damage, and poor yields—valuable insight into postwar agricultural challenges. Key features: Dated just one year after the Civil War, during Reconstruction tensions Direct commentary on Andrew Johnson vs. Congress References to Pennsylvania politics and Senate election struggles Detailed observations on crop failures, frost, and farming prospects Mentions estate/legal matters (“Harrison claim”) Condition: Folded letter on lined paper with typical wear, including fold lines, light toning, and minor spotting. Ink remains strong and legible, though a few words and the signature are difficult to decipher. A desirable piece for collectors of Reconstruction-era manuscripts, political history, and 19th-century American life, combining legal, agricultural, and political content in a single cohesive document.
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Springfield, May 22nd, 1866 Sir, Mr. Jones, with the Photographer whom I think of sending me of the last I ever saw. I had a letter from Mr. Hart saying he was making to make all these drawings of 1871 in one that he has as yet received nothing from the Harrison claim. I think something of it as there are some things to be disposed of by a private or public sale as may be deemed most advantageous. I wrote him to know if he has proven to take them, and if not to write or come to see me. I intend, if possible, to go East this summer and will look after matters. I think something ought to be made out of the Harrison matter. Have you made a claim against the estate for your expenses? If not do so. I have thought that you would see that the heirs have written it plainly. I think it would be a proper claim. We are having a very dry and backward spring, not many fine mornings; we had a severe frost this morning, two having a frost more for apples unless they are not much damaged. Except pears, no peaches, very few cherries, but wheat is an entire failure. I do not think this country will make half the corn it last year; most of the prairie corn is what has been plowed up again, but is corn that fails &c. I have now a fine farming prospect. We went to work once and corn is coming up well, but still too cold and dry for any fruit to grow. Politically I am in the fog. I fear things will be troubled always and while I think this President is acting very badly, I think Congress is also to blame. I think both parties have made the worst laws for a long time. I have not much faith in those who act with the voters; the last one I think was perfectly right. I see by the papers you are having trouble to elect a Senator in Pennsylvania. This state, Congressmen this fall I do not think we will have much trouble; we may have one or two Union Members, but most people are not anxious to enter into the quarrel and will not have anything to do with the Copperheads. The lines seem to be pretty drawn. There may be some trouble in making the nominations for Congress but when made the people will sustain them. There will be some opposition to our Congressman Mr. Kelley, but I think he will be nominated. He appears to have made quite a reputation for himself; he has but little personal popularity, he is as cold as an iceberg, but has shown more talent than his previous thought to possess. It is my intention soon to make you a visit sometime this summer but may be disappointed. All in our usual health. Remember me to your family. Truly yours, [Name unclear—appears to read “H. W. Bacon” or similar]
