All Items 40

Sidney Brooks letter to Susan Brooks, 1864 July 18

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his wife Susan Brooks in which he writes regarding his current situation as a delegate of the United States Christian Commission in the American Civil War. He discusses bringing stores to places in need such as Gettsyburg and Frederick City and mentions Judge McCreary, Mr. Francis, and Reverend Mr. Kimball. Sidney describes what it was like in Frederick including their eating and sleeping arrangements, their work, and the numbers of Union and Rebel wounded soldiers in the hospital. He writes about the plundering of Frederick stores and a post office eight miles out of the city. Sidney explains that he chose to be one of the delegates detailed for Washington (D.C.) as it was not pleasant for him to stay among the Rebel soldiers when so many of their own needed help. He mentions the Sisters of Charity and describes his journey from Philadelphia to Washington. Sidney remarks on his arrival to Washington and describes his accommodations there in detail. He also writes regarding people of color there, whom he calls "colored people," and he says that they appear to him to be "Uncle Abe's" own children. Sidney discusses the work he has done in Washington thus far and says he has now been assigned to Carver Hospital. He briefly describes the hospitals.

Sidney Brooks letter to Susan Brooks, 1864 July 18
Sidney Brooks letter to his sister

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his sister in which he writes regarding his recent visit to Amherst College for Commencement day exercises. He remarks on his journey to Amherst and his arrival there. He writes about scenes of the College, town, and surrounding area. He notes Commencement day exercises and the alumni meeting he attended. He also mentions Mill Valley, Mr Sandford, Mr. Green, Deacon Gaylord, Starkweather (Frederick Merrick Starkweather), Mr. Aldrich, and places on campus such as recitation rooms, the Cabinet, and other rooms in the Chapel. He describes how it felt to visit the place where he had lived for four years, saying that he "sighed over past follies and days never to return." Brooks begins the letter "Dear Sister." It has not been determined to which of his three sisters he is referring: Sarah Godfrey Brooks, Harriett Newell, or Tamesin Brooks.

Sidney Brooks letter to his sister
Sidney Brooks letter to Susan Brooks, 1864 August 26

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his wife Susan Brooks written while working as a delegate of the United States Christian Commission in the American Civil War. He writes of receiving a letter from Susan and orders that came down yesterday for the delegates to break up and be ready to move with their Corps. He mentions Mr. Miller who advised Sidney to not move with them given his sickness. He says he is well now and writes regarding a discussion with the agent Mr. Williams and Sidney's resulting decision to stay there to give a week's labor as a delegate. Sidney describes his work there, saying that it is very different from what he did at the Front. He goes on to discuss his upcoming travel plans for Washington (D.C.), then Boston, and then to visit with Susan. He also writes that he is no longer in danger of bullets and is no longer within range of shot and shell.

Sidney Brooks letter to Susan Brooks, 1864 August 26
Sidney Brooks letter to Susan Brooks, 1864 August 8 and 10

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his wife Susan Brooks written while working as a delegate of the United States Christian Commission in the American Civil War. In the first portion of the letter Sidney provides descriptions of scenes that are everyday occurrences which show the magnitude of the war. He writes regarding "soldiers, soldiers, everywhere," noting all the types of soldiers that he sees and remarking on the processions of veteran soldiers returning from campaigns and marching on to where they are expected for further duty. He describes one such march of the V Corps who had served with General Banks (Nathaniel P. Banks), and he says that among them was a New York regiment of Zouaves. Sidney describes the men he sees at the rear and says that "from an intelligent man in the rear, it may be a negro - you can, by walking a long distance, learn the history of the march and where they are probably going." He also writes regarding the trains of army wagons, the droves of animals needed for the forces, the hospitals in the area including Carver, and a government blacksmith's shop. In the latter portion of the letter, Sidney writes that he is about ready for the boat to go to City Point and notes that the person who is to be his companion is M.S. Kendig, Reverend of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania.

Sidney Brooks letter to Susan Brooks, 1864 August 8 and 10
Sidney Brooks letter to unidentified recipient, 1864 July 18

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

An unaddressed letter by Sidney Brooks written during his time serving as a delegate of the United States Christian Commission in the American Civil War. Brooks writes about what needs to be done at home in regards to the rye, oats, and cattle. He writes "I address myself to you but I think of all the rest" and says he will write each one of them when he gets settled. Sidney states that he is in good spirits and is glad he is in Washington (D.C.). He writes that it may be hard to get Uncle Asenath to cradle the rye as soon as they want, but says that the recipient must tell him the urgency of the case. Sidney also responds to news of Ebenezer Smalley's death. In a postscript, Sidney discusses sheets he has written that may be published if the recipient thinks it best.

Sidney Brooks letter to unidentified recipient, 1864 July 18
Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, Jr., 1839 April 4

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his brother Obed Brooks, Jr. in which he responds to a March 19 letter from Obed. He remarks on Obed's comment that it is good to reflect on the past and agrees with him. He discusses the past times in their lives to which Obed had referred. Sidney writes that he, Obed, and Roxana (Roxana Brooks Davis) are all grown up and reflects on memories of the past, their departed mother, how he and Obed behaved when they were younger, and his own regrets. In his reflections he references his Christian beliefs mentioning God, Jesus Christ, and redemption. Sidney remarks on their society and the lack of a minister there. He also mentions the work going on in South Dennis that Obed had noted and discusses his own situation and health. He also writes regarding the current religious situation at Amherst College.

Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, Jr., 1839 April 4
Sidney Brooks letter to Sarah Godfrey Brooks, 1864 July 21

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his sister Sarah Godfrey Brooks in which he writes regarding his work as a delegate of the United States Christian Commission in the American Civil War. He writes about gathering the supplies in the storeroom and mentions three delegates who came from Amherst College: one student, Professor Seelye (Julius Hawley Seelye), Professor Hitchcock (Edward Hitchcock, Jr.), and Professor Tyler's (William S. Tyler) son. He discusses his journey to Carver Hospital and his duties there in his twenty assigned wards with twenty-four cots each, most of them occupied. He notes that he has not yet found one wounded man who has not received religious conversation civilly and cordially, and he has not yet found one person who is a decided unbeliever. He also discusses a specific talk he had with a sergeant the day before.

Sidney Brooks letter to Sarah Godfrey Brooks, 1864 July 21
Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, 1838 December 20

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his father Obed Brooks in which he writes regarding his health and related expenses. He states that he trusts his sickness is about done with, and he now begins to consider himself as well as anyone can expect to be after recovering from this type of illness. He elaborates on how he is feeling lately, and then goes on to discuss the expenses relating to his illness. He discusses particular bills including payment to a classmate, Mr. Hutchinson, who attended to him after Mr. Eaton had left and before Harriet came, doctor's bills, several bills to Mr. Sandford who owns the boarding house, the club bill, and the college bill. Presumably Mr. Hutchinson and Mr. Eaton refer to classmates Prosper Kimball Hutchinson and Joseph Eaton and Harriet stands for Harriet Newell (Brooks). The identity of Mr. Sandford has not been determined. There is a typed transcript of this letter in Box 1 Folder 9 of this collection.

Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, 1838 December 20
Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, 1838 June 28

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his father Obed Brooks in which he gives Obed an account of his expenses as he states his father had requested. He explains that the following account covers his expenses from the time he commenced studying to the present (first at Phillips Academy and then at Amherst College). The left side of the account provides details regarding income received and the right lists details regarding expenses. Following the account Sidney writes a few explanatory notes pertaining to particular expenses. He justifies the expenses by writing that he is laboring and in so doing he trusts that he will not want for means of a livelihood hereafter. He also discusses how he is doing in Amherst in general and with his studies in particular. There is a typed transcript of this letter in Box 1 Folder 9 of this collection.

Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, 1838 June 28
Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, Jr., 1838 July 19

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his brother Obed Brooks, Jr. in which he writes that has he has not heard yet whether or not Obed has found a minister. He says that he called Esq. Dickinson, Mrs. White's father, to inquire about the possibility of Mr. White going to Harwich for this purpose. Sidney also writes about how busy he is, the course of study (at Amherst College), and how he spends his days at school. He notes that working late makes him think of their mother who no doubt "injured her health in this way and shortened her days" which serves as a warning to him. Sidney also writes regarding moving to a new dorm room, saying that though he hurt himself rooming alone in Andover and has not been troubled with melancholia since being alone this term. He discusses his somnambulism in relation to the move. Sidney goes on to write regarding swimming and Obed's suggested method of staying healthy. He asks after Obed's affairs, garden, baby Mary, and the interests of their society, presumably their church in Harwich.

Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, Jr., 1838 July 19
Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, Jr., 1837 November 29

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his brother Obed Brooks, Jr. in which he writies regarding Amherst and his experiences at Amherst College. He asks Obed to follow him with his disembodied spirit so that Sidney can give him a sense of the place, the College, and his college experiences. Sidney begins the virtual tour at the hotel Amherst House. He describes the town of Amherst including its location, its buildings, the main street, and town buildings that relate to the College such as President Heman Humphrey’s house. He then discusses the college grounds and buildings including some details about what takes place in certain buildings, such as Professor Hitchcock's (Edward Hitchcock) chemistry lectures in the laboratory. Sidney goes on to describe his room in South College and the view from the building, noting features of the surrounding area including Mount Holyoke and the Connecticut River. He describes the course of study and a typical day for students with activities such as chapel, recitations, and meals. On the last page, Sidney includes other notes to Obed, telling him that he likes the baby's name and asking Obed to remind him on what day their mother died. He also notes that it is Thanksgiving and writes of a memory of their mother. There is a typed transcript of this letter in Box 1 Folder 9 of this collection.

Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, Jr., 1837 November 29
J.M. Manning letter to Sidney Brooks, 1848 February 28

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

J.M. Manning letter to Sidney Brooks in which Manning writes to explain and refute certain charges derogatory to Brooks' character and his own relating to Brooks' school (Pine Grove Seminary). He explains that what he has to say is substantially the same as that already affirmed by Mr. Peck. Manning writes what he remembers saying in regard to Brooks' instruction and school and says that he did not intend to convey a disposition of being unfavorable in respect to Brooks. Manning expands on the circumstances of his statements, how others responded to them, and statements that others have made on the same topic. Manning also comments on the affair of the party, saying that he knew it was all a mistake and was not offended. The identity of J.M. Manning could not be determined.

J.M. Manning letter to Sidney Brooks, 1848 February 28
Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, Jr., 1839 November 18

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his brother Obed Brooks, Jr. in which he writes that he has not written to or heard from Obed or their sisters and he does not know if "H. and T." are there now or at home. He discusses how he is doing, writing about his studies and saying that he rejoices now to have a little season of rest. He asks several questions regarding Obed's business. Sidney also writes regarding Amherst College, remarking on its enrollment numbers, instructors, and regulations. He notes that the sophomore class generally does all the mischief and some barbarous customs continue. Sidney discusses his health including his cataract, the health of the people at College and in the town, the number of students from Cape Cod, and the weather. He writes about Thanksgiving and how he feels about his current way of living. He goes on to ask about Obed, the health of people in Harwich, the society, the sabbath school, Harriet, Tamesin, Henry, and politics. In closing, Sidney remarks on their state of religion. H. and T. presumably stand for Harriet Newell (Brooks) and Tamesin Brooks and Henry presumably refers to Henry Cobb Brooks.

Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, Jr., 1839 November 18
Sidney Brooks letter to Susan Brooks, 1864 August 12

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his wife Susan Brooks written while working as a delegate of the United States Christian Commission in the American Civil War. He writes from the 18th Army Corps Hospital which he notes is a field hospital between Petersburg and City Point, Virginia. Sidney also describes the location of the hospital in relation to the Union and Rebel armies and a nearby fort. He writes of hearing the sounds of battle, music, and shouts along the lines when any advantage is gained. He highlights the location of the 18th Corps and other notable points on a map that he mentions, describes the work he did that day as a delegate, and mentions Mr. Miller. Sidney goes on to describe the place in more detail, noting that the hospital and Commission tents are on the grounds of a plantation homestead previously owned by a family with the last name of Church. He writes about the changes in the landscape due to the war and his first experience at the front, describing the scene in detail.

Sidney Brooks letter to Susan Brooks, 1864 August 12
Sidney Brooks letter to his brother, 1835 September 2

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his brother in which he writes regarding his thoughts on Christianity. He describes how he previously felt that religion was something irksome and prayer was a task, but he now feels differently and thinks that "the yoke is easy and the burden is light" as he states Christ said. He elaborates on this feeling and writes that he never enjoys himself more than when he can draw near to God in prayer. Brooks begins the letter "Dear Brother." It has not been determined to which of his two brothers he is referring: Henry Cobb Brooks or Obed Brooks, Jr. This letter appears to be a draft.

Sidney Brooks letter to his brother, 1835 September 2
John Lancaster 1978 transcript of Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, 1838 December 20

Lancaster, John, 1943-

A typed transcript created in 1978 by John Lancaster of a letter from Sidney Brooks to his father Obed Brooks dated December 20, 1838. Sidney writes regarding his health and related expenses. He states that he trusts his sickness is about done with, and he now begins to consider himself as well as anyone can expect to be after recovering from this type of illness. He elaborates on how he is feeling lately, and then goes on to discuss the expenses relating to his illness. He discusses particular bills including payment to a classmate, Mr. Hutchinson, who attended to him after Mr. Eaton had left and before Harriet came, doctor's bills, several bills to Mr. Sandford who owns the boarding house, the club bill, and the college bill. Presumably Mr. Hutchinson and Mr. Eaton refer to classmates Prosper Kimball Hutchinson and Joseph Eaton and Harriet stands for Harriet Newell (Brooks). The identity of Mr. Sandford has not been determined. This document is a transcript of a letter in Box 1 Folder 3 of this collection.

John Lancaster 1978 transcript of Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, 1838 December 20
Sidney Brooks letter to Susan Brooks, 1864 July 12

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his wife Susan Brooks in which he writes regarding his current situation as a delegate of the United States Christian Commission in the American Civil War. He writes that they (the delegates) have arrived in Philadelphia and he writes of what they have been doing this afternoon. Sidney says that they received orders from Washington (D.C.) that the delegates should go to a part of West Philadelphia to meet and assist wounded soldiers there. He says that he will write her from the point of destination, that he must attend to his equipment, and that there are fourteen delegates, all anxious for the work. In a postscript, he notes that people do not fear the Rebels much there.

Sidney Brooks letter to Susan Brooks, 1864 July 12
John Lancaster 1978 transcript of Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, 1838 June 28

Lancaster, John, 1943-

A typed transcript created in 1978 by John Lancaster of a letter from Sidney Brooks to his father Obed Brooks dated June 28, 1838. Sidney writes in order to give Obed an account of his expenses as he states his father had requested. He explains that the following account covers his expenses from the time he commenced studying to the present (first at Phillips Academy in Andover and then at Amherst College). The left side of the account provides details regarding income received and the right lists details regarding expenses. Following the account Sidney writes a few explanatory notes pertaining to particular expenses. He justifies the expenses by writing that he is laboring and in so doing he trusts that he will not want for means of a livelihood hereafter. He also discusses how he is doing in Amherst in general and with his studies in particular. This document is a transcript of a letter in Box 1 Folder 3 of this collection.

John Lancaster 1978 transcript of Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, 1838 June 28
Sidney Brooks letter to his sister, 1836 June

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his sister in which he apologizes for taking so long to write to her on the subject of the letter, especially since she requested it. He goes on to say that it gives him great satisfaction to think that she is now interested in spiritual things and has an appetite for religious conversation. Brooks writes regarding Christian religion, his hesitations and desires to write to his sister on the topic, the failings and sins of Christians, his personal experiences with Christianity, the Bible, and Christian religious beliefs such as God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, Judgement Day, and Salvation. Brooks begins the letter "Dear Sister." It has not been determined to which of his three sisters he is referring: Sarah Godfrey Brooks, Harriett Newell, or Tamesin Brooks. This letter appears to be a draft.

Sidney Brooks letter to his sister, 1836 June
Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, 1841 June 19

Brooks, Sidney, 1813-1887

Sidney Brooks letter to his brother Obed Brooks, Jr. in which he writes regarding the system of conferring student honors at Amherst College. He writes that he was glad to hear Obed's opinion saying that Obed has hit upon the very things that he believes. Sidney writes that he does not worry on it too much as he sees so much folly and injustice in the management of the system that he feels above it all. He responds to a remark from Obed that Sidney will be the most beloved and respected by the professors, though not honored by them as much as others. Sidney says that he believes he now has sufficient evidence that this is true. In discussing this evidence, he mentions Tyler, Dr. Humphrey, and Prof. Fisk, presumably meaning William S. Tyler, Heman Humphrey, and Nathan W. Fiske. He goes on to briefly mention his classmates and fellow students and to discuss the honors conferred by the societies. Sidney writes regarding his feelings relating to honors, saying that he does not thirst for them but does want to avoid disgrace.

Sidney Brooks letter to Obed Brooks, 1841 June 19