The rich history of Goshen’s written word is not confined simply to authors and poets, but also to the residents that communicated through letters, post cards, and notes. Handwritten for the most part, these documents help weave the fabric of our community in both historic and current times. We hope you enjoy this glimpse into the lives of our residents in their own words.
John Williams Gunnison Letters
(Authentic copies of letters written by John Williams Gunnison. Typed by his grand-daughter Genevieve Delany O’Neill. Written in 1832.)
Letter #1
A few words to my respected Mother
With the business of the day, which is pure vexation to the mind, when the evening is far spent with its imperious duties — when these are past and when the busy wheels of time are fast approaching midnight, what, then, at such a time and under such circumstances can you expect from my pen. When, then, the stillness of the night reminds me (click here to continue)
Dorothy Elizabeth G. Bennett
(Christmas 1988 letter from her mother)
On June 3rd, 1940 you were born early in the A.M. on a beautiful sunny day. You were so determined this was to be your birth date that you wouldn’t even wait for the Doctor to arrive. Fortunately we had planned on a home delivery, as your Grandmother Witcomb, my Mother, was an R.N. and Grandpa Whitcomb had assisted at may farm animal births. So all turned out just fine, even though (click here to continue)
Nelson Brothers
(Letters during WWII between the Nelson Brothers)
Dear Art, If you have read Pa’s letter, stop here, because I expect this will be another carbon copy. We have been on the move pretty steady for the past couple of weeks, and I haven’t had much opportunity to keep up with my writing, but am making a desperate try to bring it up to date over the weekend. (more)
Lead Mine Trip – 1982
(Letter to New England Forestry Foundation)
Dear Mr. Hemenway,
Thank you for your recent letter with the Foundation News included. We appreciate your kindness in permitting our Old Home Day pilgrimage to the old “Lead Mine.” This has been a feature of our celebrations every year since our 1969 Bicentennial. (more)