All Items 51

Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 January 17 and 26

Johnston, Thomas P., 1808-1883

Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins in which Johnston thanks Perkins for his letter and explains his delay in responding. Jackson writes of learning about Perkins' mission suffering from "domestic afflictions" and says it's fortunate that there was a physician. Jackson says that from what Perkins has reported of events at Van that he is encouraged to expect a glorious reformation in the oriental churches and notes that although progress at his mission at Trebizond (Trabzon,) is slow he does not despair. Jackson tells Perkins the Greeks and Armenians were friendly and he believes he could open a school if he had some good teachers and reports that shipments to Perkins had been detained at Erzeroom (Erzurum) and Trebizond and mentions boxes for Dr. Grant have been forwarded. Johnston regrets that the German brethren appear to be leaving Persia and asks if there was news of brother Merrick (James Lyman Merrick). Johnston comments on his impression of Mr. Holladay (Albert Lewis Holladay) with whom he had some acquaintance while a student in Virginia.

Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 January 17 and 26
William C. Jackson letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 May 4

Jackson, William C. (William Chamberlain), 1808-

William C. Jackson letter to Justin Perkins in which Jackson discusses the brethren who had visited in Trebizond (Trabzon) and who will shortly reach Perkins at the Nestorian mission at Oroomiah (Urmia). Jackson recounts the threatening responses to his work from the Greeks and Armenians. He mentions his attempts to learn Turkish and shares his eventual goal of mastering the Armenian language and of his devotion to building "an enlightened christian community" which he feels will be a difficult task.

William C. Jackson letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 May 4
N. Khanykov letter to Justin Perkins, 29 May 1858

Khanykov, N. (Nikolaĭ), 1819-1878

N. Khanikof (Nikolaĭ Khanykov) letter to Justin Perkins in which Khanikof thanks Perkins for his recent letter and notes he had received the valuable work of Prof. Coffin and would soon be able to send the "learned professor some contributions to his rich stock of facts on the direction of winds on the surface of the Old World." In addition, he says he is pleased to hear that Perkins was soon to join his family in America and thanks Perkins for his offer to check with Mr. Allen of Trebizond (Trabzon) about an exchange with the Asiatic Society.

N. Khanykov letter to Justin Perkins, 29 May 1858
Henry Jones letter to Justin Perkins, 1861 March 19

Jones, Henry, active approximately 1856-1882

Henry Jones letter to Justin Perkins in which Jones is seeking confirmation of Perkins' itinerary in England and Scotland in order to arrange both "Drawing room meetings" and a well-deserved break for the Easter holy day. Jones hopes that Perkins' health had improved since he last saw him.

Henry Jones letter to Justin Perkins, 1861 March 19
Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins, 1841 September 15

Johnston, Thomas P., 1808-1883

Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins noting that Perkins had probably already encountered Mrs. Johnston, who was in Constantinople as a guest of Dr. Riach. Johnston reports that a group of Nestorians had just departed Trebizond (Trabzon) and contrary to Perkins' orders he allowed the priest to return to Ooromiah (Urmia) with the bishop's saddle. The servant also wished to take a bridle, which he claimed was his, but this Johnston refused and loaned him money for a new one, which was charged to Perkins. Johnston wishes Perkins a pleasant and steady passage home.

Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins, 1841 September 15
George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins, 1863 August 22

Knapp, George Cushing, 1823-1895

George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins in which Knapp tells Perkins his family arrived in Erzroom (Erzurum) after leaving Bitlis and gives details of their travel noting the children’s comfort and safety. Knapp tells Perkins that Lizzie's health was more favorable than when at home but she had grown thinner every day and notes she is but a skeleton. Knapp discusses a possible diagnosis of worms but says if it is not correct could mean very little hope of her recovery. Knapp also mentions the good health of his wife (Alzina M. C. Knapp) and son Georgie (George Perkins Knapp). Knapp informs Perkins of tentative plans to return home by a route allowing for a visit with the Perkins that will depend on the outcome of Lizzie's illness.

George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins, 1863 August 22
Issac, Eliza Hale, and Caroline Knapp letter to Justin and Charlotte Bass Perkins, 1839 June 26

Knapp, Isaac, 1775-1847

Issac Knapp letter to Justin Perkins. Knapp writes to remind Perkins that he was not forgotten by an old friend and notes the Perkins were also remembered "by the good people in this place" and the church where he had first entered into solemn covenant. Knapp notes the church had prospered, and congregations in the region were in a state of peace and that he and Mrs. Knapp send kind regards and Christian salutations. Also included in the letter is communication from Eliza and Caroline Knapp asking Mrs. Perkins (Charlotte Bass Perkins) to accept the accompanying trifles as tokens of the affection which her friends held for her. Eliza adds on behalf of her father requesting that either Mr. or Mrs. Perkins would send a response, even if only a short one saying that letters from missionaries were highly prized and heard with interest when read in prayer meetings.

Issac, Eliza Hale, and Caroline Knapp letter to Justin and Charlotte Bass Perkins, 1839 June 26
M. Jaffor letter to Justin Perkins

Jaffor, M.

M. Jaffor letter to Justin Perkins in which Jaffor thanks Perkins for the kind favor shown him and explains the disruption of their correspondence. Jaffor briefly recounts an incident concerning an anchored ship, hard winds, high seas, and a return to the city.

M. Jaffor letter to Justin Perkins
George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins, 1863 November 2

Knapp, George Cushing, 1823-1895

George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins concerning the delivery among mission stations of packages, letters, and news. Knapp references an editorial which claimed civilization had advanced in Turkey more in the last fifty years than in the preceding two hundred, however Knapp notes it failed to credit what "pure Christianity" had contributed to that change. Knapp informs Perkins that Lizzie died on October 9 and that Mrs. Knapp (Alzina M. C. Knapp) "had looked forward to such an event with fearful misgivings lest she should fail to endure the separation" and says the care and anxiety has weakened her health but the Lord sustained them both. Knapp thanks Perkins for the consoling letter and for sharing a photograph of his son and says they pray for his progress and continuing solace to the Perkins. Knapp closed his letter with items concerning mission stations, acquaintances and colleagues, and shared news of success and trial.

George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins, 1863 November 2
William C. Jackson letter to Justin Perkins, 1839 January 21

Jackson, William C. (William Chamberlain), 1808-

William C. Jackson letter to Justin Perkins expressing concern for the extent of illness among Perkins' circle and comments on the political atmosphere between England and Persia that might break down into armed conflict, which Jackson notes would then involve Russia and expand into war in Europe. Jackson comments on Mr. Merrick selecting Tabreez (Tabriz) for his mission station and wonders what success Perkins foresees for an Armenian mission in such a "hard field." Jackson says he will soon go to Erzroom (Erzurum) and asks Perkins to reveal what to expect of his neighbours and neighbourhood. Jackson also writes that he called on eight Armenian families, it being their Christmas, and was well received but feels his labors in that mission are long and his self confidence sometimes wavers.

William C. Jackson letter to Justin Perkins, 1839 January 21
George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins, 1863 December 12

Knapp, George Cushing, 1823-1895

George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins expressing strong thanks for Perkins' loving and sympathetic letters. Knapp reports that he forwarded the latest Levant Herald and asks for its return because he had the newspapers bound in order to provide work for a poor Protestant in Mush (Muş). Knapp describes daily life stating the theology class keeps everyone busy, he is able to exercise about three hours per day with his wood saw, and he turned the piazza into a gymnasium for his missionary colleagues. Knapp notes his family eats two meals per day, avoids tea and coffee, refrains from eating meat, keeps a cool and airy parlor and study, and follows other hygienic measures. Knapp says he is able to accomplish twice what he used to do as a college student, reports that everyone is well, and that the Lord still blesses him with a loving wife and a happy healthy child.

George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins, 1863 December 12
Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 December 11

Johnston, Thomas P., 1808-1883

Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins in which Johnston claims to be fulfilling his Christian duty to report on the Christian character of Mr. Fowler. Johnston writes in detail about statements, conversations, and charges regarding activities Mr. Fowler engaged in involving the sale, ownership, and shipment of bales of silk and a claim of unpaid debts between Syeed Khan and the late Dr. Campbell. Johnston also mentions the impact this matter has had on Mr. Fowler's social reputation. Also referenced in the letter are Mr. Nisbet, Rev. Newman, and Mr. McNeill in relation to the charges discussed in the letter. Johnston asks Perkins to share his judgement of the facts he has shared and warns that given the feeling among their English friends respecting Mr. Fowler they as missionaries need to be extremely cautious in what they say and do.

Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 December 11
George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins, 1864 November 18

Knapp, George Cushing, 1823-1895

George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins. Knapp expresses pain at learning of Mrs. Shedd's unexpected illness and notes pleasant recollections of his visit with the Shedds and was exceedingly grateful for Mr. Shedd's escort to Van. Knapp reports that he had been sick which as affected his ability to work. Knapp also mentions a dispatch of articles loaned to the Knapps by members of Perkins' mission to Oroomiah (Urmia), that Mr. Burbank was expecting a visit from Dr. Nutting, and Georgie (George Perkins Knapp) was as happy and healthy as could be and is a great comfort and diversion for Mr. Knapp.

George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins, 1864 November 18
Turkish Missions' Aid Society printed letters

Jones, Henry, active approximately 1856-1882

Two printed letters distributed as a circular by the Turkish Missions Aid Society. The first letter is from Henry Jones, Secretary of to the Society, outlining several missionary operations in the Middle East to which the Society has given funds. Jones also calls attention to a letter he received to encourage further offerings to the society. The second printed letter is the letter received and referenced by Jones and is written by David H. Nutting and dated April 20, 1863. Nutting describes the growth and condition of mission work at Oorfa, Mesopotamia, the ancient city of Ur (Tell el-Muqayyar, Iraq), and points out the large financial needs of the mission and asks Jones to share the letter with "Christian friends in England" to stir their hearts to sponsor God's work among the Armenians and Syrians.

Turkish Missions' Aid Society printed letters
Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 July 7

Johnston, Thomas P., 1808-1883

Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins in which Johnston discusses deliveries of boxes and items to Perkins, Grant, and Merrick and also mentions Mr. Dwight's role in the process. Johnston congratulates Perkins on the birth of his son (William Riach Perkins) and shares news of the birth at Constantinople of a daughter to Mrs. Jackson. Brethren from the mission station at Shoasha visited and were considering re-locating their printing press to Trebizond (Trabzon). Johnston says there is no other news to report from his station and that their prospects are about usual but he would not be discouraged and sends blessings to Mrs. Perkins (Charlotte Bass Perkins), the Grants, and to all the families at Perkins' station.

Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 July 7
Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 June 8

Johnston, Thomas P., 1808-1883

Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins in which Johnston references his return to Trebizond (Trabzon) and mentions he has had no news about Perkins' departure from Erzroom for Oormia and notes his concern for Perkins' safe arrival. Johnston also expresses concern for the critical state of Dr. Grant's family. Johnston references the increase of missionaries and shares an Armenian priest's opinion that "God has now cast his eye upon this part of the world." Johnston reminds Perkins and his colleagues to communicate frequently and mentions Merrick (James Lyman Merrick) and Southgate and predicts a "very refreshing season" for Perkins' missionary station if health and lives are spared and hopes Merrick's courage would be renewed during his stay at Oormiah and mentions Mar Yohanna (Mar Yohannan).

Thomas P. Johnston letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 June 8
William C. Jackson letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 August 25

Jackson, William C. (William Chamberlain), 1808-

William C. Jackson letter to Justin Perkins. Jackson comments about not having received personal correspondence for some time from friends in Persia or Armenia and notes that due to the heat and the plague they had retreated from the city with only the absolute necessities and are living in tents in a nearby village. Jackson writes about the plaque and his ambition to be able to console the people who were suffering from it and notes the death of H. G. O. (Harrison Grey Otis) Dwight's wife (Elizabeth Barker Dwight) and son (John White). Jackson also discusses financial pressure facing the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions.

William C. Jackson letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 August 25
George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins, 1862 November 28

Knapp, George Cushing, 1823-1895

George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins in which Knapp recounts details of postal deliveries and expresses gratitude for the photograph of Perkins and apologizes for calling Perkins "Father." Knapp says he and his wife had been comforted by Perkins' visit and sympathetic conversation during their recent bereavement. The letters from Perkins' associates had been read with "sacred interest." Knapp notes a recent visit to Mush (Muş, Turkey) to meet with a local preacher had not been successful and says the Kaimakam (Kaymakam) had also been at Mush following the liberation by armed "Koords" (Kurds) of over a hundred prisoners. Knapp describes a protestant Thanksgiving celebration and says that they will open their school for young men. Knapp also mentions the Burbanks and that Lizzie (likely Mary Elizabeth Knapp) is improving.

George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins, 1862 November 28
Willard Jones letter to Justin Perkins, 1844 January 18

Jones, Willard, 1806-1861

Willard Jones letter to Justin Perkins regarding an incident at the mission school and the distress it caused Jones. Jones speaks of his self-doubts and of his inability to preach and notes his talks with Mr. Stoddard have been encouraging.

Willard Jones letter to Justin Perkins, 1844 January 18
George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins, 1868 November 7

Knapp, George Cushing, 1823-1895

George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins. Knapp discusses the return to Turkey after their leave in America, unpacking furniture and setting up housekeeping. Knapp wonders if he should have been a mechanic instead of a preacher due to his skills at these tasks. Knapp mentions his feelings about Perkins leaving his missionary work and his regrets that Perkins' health was not good and encourages Perkins to visit Bitlis on his return to America. Knapp mentions his children and shares that the Knapps had become intimately acquainted with Rev. Cornelius Hoyt and plans to send Perkins a pamphlet of the meeting of the Hoyt family.

George C. Knapp letter to Justin Perkins, 1868 November 7