All Items 101

Horatio Southgate letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 September 13

Southgate, Horatio, 1812-1894

H. Southgate letter to Justin Perkins in which Southgate notes that Perkins does not need to feel obligated to write Southgate letters of equal length to his own. He writes about (Jacob) Samuel leaving for Georgia, Samuel's future prospects, Samuel's proposed visit to Ooroomiah (Urmia), and the paper regarding Samuel that has been sent to Captain Todd to go to India. Southgate provides his opinions on a possible school in Tabreez (Tabriz), stipends for pupils of mission schools, and missionaries going abroad for education (natives of another nation, especially Muslims, going to the U.S. for missionary training). He responds to information Perkins provided regarding the improving health of individuals, taxes, and the account of Hoernle and Scheider's adventure. Southgate discusses Taliatine, his hopes to leave for Tehran soon, and updates on other missionaries: Mr. Walters and family, Pfander, and Kreis. In the letter, Southgate writes that he sends Perkins a copy of the paper regarding Samuel, but it no longer accompanies this item.

Horatio Southgate letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 September 13
Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 March 5

Nisbet, Alexander, active 19th century

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins in which Nisbet writes regarding mail that he has received from, is sending to, or is forwarding for Perkins. He says that he sent a copy of Perkins' letter to the (British) Envoy to inform him regarding the ill treatment Perkins received by the "three reprobate Mohammedans" (Muslims). He says he also informed Casam Meerza about them and the proceedings of the Beglerbey and the Mahasab. He relays Meerza's response to the information and the response of the Prince to the question of sending anyone with the prisoners. Nisbet shares news regarding the plague in Constantinople, Sir Charles Vaughan, and Mr. Churchill. He also asks Perkins to pass on a message to Dr. Grant.

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 March 5
Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 July 12

Nisbet, Alexander, active 19th century

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins in which Nisbet notes Captain Sheil's current mission connected with the Ruwandooz affairs. He goes on to discuss the primary topic of his letter, the case of the Caldean (presumably Chaldean) girl who was taken from Urmia and who converted to Islam. Upper level individuals involved including the Ameer, the (British) Ambassador, Ismael Khan, Hajee Seid Hoossain, and Mustakeed Meerza Ahued are mentioned. Nisbet says that he and E. Burgess were assigned to go to the girl and hear her profession, and he describes the event in detail. He then discusses the response of the Caldeans to the girl professing to be a "Mussleman" (Muslim) and deciding not to return to her father and people. He the writes of his conversation with the Ameer and other ministers regarding the Caldeans saying they will leave Persia and go to Russia. Nisbet notes that the Ameer plans to write two firmans regarding their protection at his own suggestion. The Caldean "white beards" are mentioned several times in the letter.

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 July 12
John Theodore Wolters letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 May 27

Wolters, John Theod.

John Theod. Wolters letter to Justin Perkins in which Wolters explains that he delayed responding to Perkins invitation to come to Ooroomiah (Urmia) to work with him until he heard an answer from "our Society" (Basel Evangelical Missionary Society) about his destination. He says that if he had not had doubts that Perkins' Society would employ him as a missionary, he would have gladly joined him. He goes on to share the news that the Church Missionary Society in London has received him under their patronage and he is to go to Syra in Greece to work with Rev. Mr. Hildner. He writes about his plans for when he may leave Persia and notes the departures of other German missionaries.

John Theodore Wolters letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 May 27
James Pringle Riach letter to Justin Perkins, July 22

Riach, J. P. (James Pringle), 1797-1865

J.P. Riach letter to Justin Perkins in which Riach shares the news of the death of his father and the ill-health of his only sister. He says he does not know enough about what is going on in Tehran to be able to give Perkins any facts from which he could judge the state prospects of Persia and "us" (the British) in it. He expresses how much he enjoyed his recent visit in Ooroomiah (Urmia), shares his distress about Samuel based on a letter received from India, and reminds Perkins to keep him informed about Mar Shimon and Dr. Grant. He also writes regarding Mr. Taliatine and his system of teaching. He suggests Perkins ask Taliatine to visit to see his schools. He mentions the Prince, Armenians, Perkins' two sons, multiple members of the Nestorian Mission, Mr. Southgate, and Nazir Aly Khan's "fat son." Riach notes that he delivered Mr. Stocking's cash to Mr. Nisbet.

James Pringle Riach letter to Justin Perkins, July 22
Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 April 1

Nisbet, Alexander, active 19th century

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins in which Nisbet writes that he received Perkins' note and letters and that he now forwards the enclosed five letters addressed to Perkins and his party. He says that he will transmit the balance due to Perkins from his bill by Mr. Merrick, and he asks Perkins to tell Saddock he wishes him to return immediately with something of Syeed Khan's. He writes regarding Stephen whom he fears will not rejoin Perkins in Ormiah (Urmia). Nisbet comments negatively on servants in the country in general and shares updates on Mr. Merrick's health. The enclosed letters he mentions no longer accompany this item.

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 April 1
James Pringle Riach letter to Justin Perkins and Asahel Grant, September 22

Riach, J. P. (James Pringle), 1797-1865

J. P. Riach letter to Justin Perkins and Asahel Grant in which Riach writes that they should on not postpone setting out to meet Mar Shimon on account of Riach's non-arrival as he may not be able to go. He notes the letter with an extract to Mr. Merrick from a letter from their Elchee about the plan for proposing a school at Tehran. He mentions members of the men's family and mission, including Perkins' sons William and Henry. He writes that he sends a letter from Taliatine and writes regarding Taliatine, Malek Kassim Meerza, and their school.

James Pringle Riach letter to Justin Perkins and Asahel Grant, September 22
James Pringle Riach letter to Charlotte Bass and Justin Perkins, November 3

Riach, J. P. (James Pringle), 1797-1865

J.P. Riach letter to Justin and Charlotte Bass Perkins in which Riach writes about two loads of potatoes for Merrick and Perkins. He goes on to address Charlotte alone, responding to a letter received from her. Riach writes regarding the prayer meetings of ladies at the Mission, mentioning Mrs. Holladay, Mrs. Grant, and Mrs. Stocking. He remarks on the information that Woodfall seems impressed with serious thoughts (about Christianity) and expresses his own desire to come and visit the Perkinses again. Riach also writes about Mrs. Nisbet's (childbirth) confinement. He remarks on his own health, the health of Willie, and Mr. Stocking's school.

James Pringle Riach letter to Charlotte Bass and Justin Perkins, November 3
George Alexander Stevens letter to Justin Perkins, 1848 June 18

Stevens, George Alexander (Diplomat)

Geo Alex Stevens letter to Justin Perkins in which Stevens primarily writes regarding an affair in Tabreez (Tabriz) in which some twenty-five Armenian homes were plundered and three Armenian women were violated. He calls the event "a regular flare up here- I mean the threatened murder of all the Armenians." He provides a full account of the incidents leading up to the event involving the Begglerbeggee (Beylerbey) and Russian Consul; the event itself, during which he was the Acting (British) Consul as his brother was away; and the aftermath. Mentioned in the account are Burgess, the Vizier Nizam, a servant of the Russian Consul's secretary, the Mooshtahed (Mujtahid), the Sheik ul-Islam, the Vallyahd, Malek Mansour Meerza, Meerza Hassam Ibrahim Agha, Mehdy Khan Ketkhada, and the Topchees. In closing he also mentions Ferajullah Khan and Hussan Aly.

George Alexander Stevens letter to Justin Perkins, 1848 June 18
Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 January 14

Nisbet, Alexander, active 19th century

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins in which Nisbet writes regarding mail received from Perkins and forwarded on. He goes on to say that Dr. (James Pringle) Riach wrote him to say he was leaving Tehran on the 6th for Tabreez (Tabriz) and from there he will proceed on to Tiflis (Tbilisi) for his health. Nisbet writes that he is enclosing a letter from Riach to Perkins. He also shares that Captain (Elliott D'Arcy) Todd and Dr. (Charles William) Bell have left for Tehran and expresses his sorrow about the suffering of Dr. (Asahel) Grant from ill health. The enclosed letter mentioned no longer accompanies this item.

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 January 14
Copy of James L. Merrick and Emma Taylor marriage certificate, 1839 March 11

Merrick, James Lyman, 1803-1866

An unattributed copy of the marriage certificate for James L. Merrick and Emma Taylor. It is noted that the couple were married at the dwelling of Alexander Nisbet in Tabreez (Tabriz) and signed by Justin Perkins. This item may have been enclosed with a letter from Emma Taylor Merrick to Justin Perkins in Box 1 Folder 11 of the collection in which Taylor references sending Perkins a copy of her marriage certificate.

Copy of James L. Merrick and Emma Taylor marriage certificate, 1839 March 11
George Woodfall letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 November 21

Woodfall, George, 1803-1876

Geo. Woodfall letter to Justin Perkins in which Woodfall writes that he had a pleasant journey to Tabreez (Tabriz), Sergeant Clarendon arrived yesterday, and he delivered the articles Perkins sent to Dr. Riach. He shares that he and Riach arranged to meet twice a week for religious discussion and writes about their friendship. Woodfall says that Major Cameron is expected shortly, he has sent Hajji Baba newspapers for their whole party, Mr. Braham returned there, and Mr. Nesbitt's sister is expected. He hopes Mrs. Perkins and the child are well.

George Woodfall letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 November 21
John Theodore Wolters letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 July 22

Wolters, John Theod.

John Theod. Wolters letter to Justin Perkins in which Wolters mentions that Mrs. W. delivered and remarks on her and their son's health. He thanks Perkins for the particulars about Syra and expresses anxiety about the Greek clergy and a Roman Catholic King perhaps not being favorable to Protestant missionary efforts. He mentions their experiences in Russia and writes about a commission to investigate the political state of Georgia and other provinces. He notes that should their Mission at Shooshee be re-established he would go there rather than Syra. Wolters also provides updates relating to Haas, Hoernle, and Schneider, including the death of Haas' son Eugen. He mentions the trials of the Dwights' family. He requests Perkins' give him remarks on the natural state of Syra.

John Theodore Wolters letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 July 22
James Pringle Riach letter to Justin Perkins, January 30

Riach, J. P. (James Pringle), 1797-1865

J. P. Riach letter to Justin Perkins in which Riach writes that he proceeds towards Tiflis tomorrow or the next day. He says that he encloses some letters from the Persian Minister for Foreign Affairs and from Mr. McNeill. He notes that one of the writers is "perhaps the most respectable man in Persia." Riach also thanks Dr. Grant for his letter. He says that he thinks Malek Kassim Meerza should be asked for the money to purchase the expensive books. He also writes that he hopes to visit Ooroomiah (Urmia) when he returns from Georgia. The enclosures mentioned no longer accompany this letter.

James Pringle Riach letter to Justin Perkins, January 30
George Woodfall letter to Justin Perkins, 1838 February 24 to March 9

Woodfall, George, 1803-1876

Geo. Woodfall letter to Justin Perkins in which Woodfall responds to letters from Perkins to him and Dr. R. (Riach). He writes that he is sending a donation for their Society via Dr. Grant, and he asks Perkins to forward it. He also mentions Mr. Abbott, Mr. Merrick, and Mr. Munger and remarks on "the Life of 'John Newton.'"He shares that he has been suffering weak eyes lately. Woodfall goes on to note no news from the King's Camp and mention the music from Mrs. Grant. At a later date, he writes further about the benefit of Merrick being there, notes the insurrection in Canada, and shares that they have heard from Herat, mentioning the Shah. He says he is returning to Perkins "'Oberlin' - lectures to young men - & Abbott's Family at Home."

George Woodfall letter to Justin Perkins, 1838 February 24 to March 9
James Pringle Riach letter to Justin and Charlotte Bass Perkins, 1837 August 20

Riach, J. P. (James Pringle), 1797-1865

J. P. Riach letter to Charlotte Bass and Justin Perkins in which Riach explains that since his return he has been busy reading and writing letters to Tehran. He mentions Southgate and Merrick and writes regarding Samuel, of whom he has low opinions. Riach goes on to discuss the combination of merchants here (in Tabriz) to prevent the sale of European goods by Europeans, mentioning Mons. Ralli. In relation to this, he says that if the Shah is off in Herat and does not return, some disaster may be the result. Riach also writes that he hears nothing about the Commercial Treaty and he has asked leave of McNeill to go to Joolamerk.

James Pringle Riach letter to Justin and Charlotte Bass Perkins, 1837 August 20
Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 January 3

Nisbet, Alexander, active 19th century

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins in which Nisbet says that the (British) Envoy has addressed a letter to Carasman Meerza requesting him to punish the man who ill treated Perkins and that Nisbet will deliver this letter to him. He also writes that Herneli (presumably Hoernle) and Schneider, who are starting to pay Perkins a visit, will give him all the news.

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 January 3
Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 June 13

Nisbet, Alexander, active 19th century

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins in which Nisbet writes that he received Perkins' note regarding the situation the Nestorians were brought to "by the lawless conduct of their Mohammedan (Muslim) oppressors." He says that their (the British) Ambassador is there and is to give them assistance. He notes that the Ambassador has spoken to the Ameer and someone has been sent to bring "the individual who carried off the girl" to Tabreez (Tabriz). Nisbet writes that the Ambassador will also do what he can on behalf of the Jews and then goes on to share updates on British military officers and diplomats, including Captain Sheil, Sir Henry Bethune, Mr. Ellis, and Mr. McNeill. He also mentions the two hundred Tomans in silver which Perkins should now have.

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 June 13
Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 August 20

Nisbet, Alexander, active 19th century

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins in which Nisbet shares that Mr. Southgate has arrived there. He also says that he would have been delighted to see Mr. Holladay in Tabreez (Tabriz), but Mr. Merrick tells him that Holladay only accompanied Merrick for a couple of days. Nisbet discusses the arrival of Mr. Merrick and notes that should Holladay or any others members of Perkins' party come to Tabreez, they will always have a room or two to spare for them.

Alexander Nisbet letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 August 20
R. W. Stevens letter to Justin Perkins, 1848 May 17

Stevens, R. W. (Diplomat)

R.W. Stevens letter to Justin Perkins in which Stevens assures Perkins that he will not allow Lord Cowley's dispatch or the past behavior of Mar Shimon to influence him in his endeavors to ameliorate the condition of Persian Nestorians and protect them from oppression. As proof he says Aly Khan is to inquire into some cases of injustices committed and the Serteep himself will return to Oroomya (Urmia) when possible. He remarks on ignorance about the Vallyahd's Court and notes his brother's injured leg. He goes on to write about current political events, including revolutions, in Europe.

R. W. Stevens letter to Justin Perkins, 1848 May 17