1830: John Hankins to Enoch Hankins

Bellefontaine, Ohio in 1840s

This letter was written by John Hankins (1789-18xx) to his younger brother, Enoch Hankins (1805-1858). John and Enoch were the sons of Elijah Hankins (1763-1822) and Nancy Feree, who were married in 1784. Elijah was from Middlesex County, New Jersey and relocated with his family to Williamsburg, Clermont County, Ohio before his death. Elijah & Nancy’s oldest child was Agnes Hankins (1787-1830) whose death is mentioned in this letter.

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TRANSCRIPTION

Addressed to Enoch Hankins, Williamsburgh, Ohio

Bellefontaine, Ohio
February 4, 1830

Dear brother,

I take this opportunity to inform you that I this day received your letter that gave me the account of the death of Agnes. Remember brother that you and I have to die and give account to that great God that gave you and I our existence for all that die or say in that great day when God shall bring us to judgment.

I have been in a bad state of health since I left you. At this time, I am some better.

Brother, take good care of your sisters. Deal justly one with another. Remember that all will come before God take care to yourself for all shall come in judgment.

I expect to be at Williamsburgh in a short time if health permits. I would be glad if you would see Robert Cristey about my wagon and tell him that I shall want it as soon as possible. He can have it soon if he should want for two or three hundred weight of iron if you will get it for him. I would take it as a favor and will pay you when I come. Try to hurry it as fast as you can and you will oblige your friend and brother. Write to me as soon as you can and let me know again how you all come on. I had a bad time to get home with my cattle — the weather was so bad. So no more at this.

My family is all in good health but myself for which we ought to be thankful to God for it. Brother and sisters, I now recommend you all to God and attend the house of God for safety. – John Hankins