A historically significant manuscript letter dated January 18, 1846, written from Franklin, New Hampshire, during the formative years of railroad expansion in New England. Historical Importance Primary-source account of early railroad development: The letter discusses a major meeting at Wells River regarding plans to extend a railroad line—likely tied to the expansion of rail infrastructure linking Vermont and New Hampshire. Insight into engineering work: The writer explicitly references continuing in the “Engineering business,” providing a rare firsthand glimpse into the professional life of an early railroad engineer. Named railroad figures: Mentions Mr. Nesmith (President) and Mr. Gillmon (“the great contractor”), adding research value for historians of early American railroads. Transportation context: Travel by sleigh in winter conditions, combined with stage/team logistics, highlights the transitional period between pre-rail and rail travel. Content Highlights Enthusiasm and investment confidence in railroad expansion Detailed travel narrative across Vermont and New Hampshire Workplace accident involving an Irish laborer (reflecting immigrant labor conditions) Commentary on what was described as “the greatest railroad meeting ever held in New England” Personal instructions regarding tools, supplies, and domestic matters Physical Description Four-page folded letter with integral address panel. Clear manuscript in brown ink. Exhibits expected fold lines, light toning, and minor wear. Includes Franklin, N.H. postal marking dated Jan. 19. Collector Appeal Highly desirable for collectors of: Early American railroads and transportation history 19th-century engineering and infrastructure development New England regional history (New Hampshire & Vermont) Manuscript letters with occupational content Pre-Civil War Americana A rich, firsthand narrative from the dawn of railroad expansion—combining technical, social, and personal perspectives into a compelling historical document.
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Father Stewart Dear Sir, After attending the great meeting at Wells River & seeing so much determination manifested on the part of the Bostonians who were present, to push the Rail Road through to Hamstead, I was more convinced than ever that the road would be made, which determined me to return to this place & continue a while longer in the Engineering business. Mr. Nesmith, the President of this road said he thought I could ride to Franklin in the same sleigh with him; he introduced me to Mr. Gillmon (the great contractor) with whom he & several other gentlemen rode to Wells River. Mr. Gillmon said I could ride with them as well as not. As they had got to go by way of Bradford & uncertain what time they would start, I concluded to accept an invitation from Mr. Willey to ride with him to Plymouth, to which place I rode with Willey part of the way & with Mr. May from Barton the balance, & neither of them would take any pay for it. From that place I rode with a stranger to Franklin where I arrived Friday at six o’clock PM. The man taxed me 25 cents only. The next day (yesterday) I went to work with the rest of the company. An accident happened on our division a short distance from this place on Thursday last. An Irishman was thrown instantly by the caving in of the bank while clearing the ground. You no doubt have heard all the particulars concerning the Rail Road meeting — all I will say at present about it is, it has been the greatest meeting of any kind I have attended or it was said by many to be the greatest rail road meeting ever held in New England. You will make such arrangements about the threshing & getting up wood as you think best. May said he would assist in getting up the wood. Perhaps it will be best to get Labente to chop cord wood besides what is drawn up sled length. He will want looking to for he is apt to cheat, not splitting the wood properly. I want my tools & things sent as soon as convenient. I should prefer to have it sent by some team rather than by stage. Be sure and put in all the papers, instruments, Flint’s survey and the box of ointment for my ankle that was taken out of it. I want Nancy to be sure & write immediately on the reception of this & write what Jane says about my not coming home etc. & should like very much to receive a letter from yourself. In haste, A. Hinnan Address (panel): Rufus Stewart Esq Derby Vermont
