All Items 57

Benjamin Labaree letter to Justin Perkins, 1867 June 28

Labaree, Benjamin, 1834-1906

Benj Labaree letter to Justin Perkins in which Labaree responds to news of Perkins' journey and updates Perkins on business of the mission. He writes regarding the mission meetings over the estimates and the readjustment of their work. He provides details on the locations and responsibilities assigned to Cochran, Coan, Shedd, himself, and the Dr. He notes that he and the Dr. will now be responsible for the Armenian populations in various villages. He goes on to discuss the new English mission in Tabreez (Tabriz) for the "Mussulmans" (Muslims), Armenians, and Jews with missionaries Robert Bruce and John Tyler of the Church Missionary Society. He notes that the information on this mission comes from Deacon Syad. He writes about how many missionaries they should have in Tabreez, mentioning the Bible Society. Labaree also writes of private matters, including the selling of Perkins' house and article at Seir. He notes that they are thinking of opening a bookshop and discusses Miss Dean. Tears on this letter have been stitched together.

Benjamin Labaree letter to Justin Perkins, 1867 June 28
Charlotte Bass Perkins letter to Justin Perkins, 1835 August 28 to 30

Perkins, Charlotte B., 1808-1897

Charlotte B. Perkins letter to her husband Justin Perkins in which Charlotte responds to a letter from Justin with news of his journey. She goes on to write over the course of several days, discussing a variety of topics including her loneliness, her faith in God, her teeth ache and its remedies, the servants, her and Stephen's situations, the horse, the dog, little tabby, and her interactions with Mr. Hoernle, Mr. Bookner, Mr. and Mrs. Haas, and Mr. and Mrs. Nisbet. She mentions the bowel complaint of the Nisbet's little boy which the nurse said was caused by giving him both her milk and Mrs. Nisbet's. She refers to Mr. and Mrs. Haas as the count and the countess and notes Mrs. Haas' low spirits because Mr. Haas is going to Teherran (Tehran). Charlotte remarks on the health of Dr. Riach and herself. She also writes several times regarding the suggestion of Mr. Hoernle staying with her.

Charlotte Bass Perkins letter to Justin Perkins, 1835 August 28 to 30
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
Henry Nitchie Cobb letter to Justin Perkins, 1863 May 21

Cobb, Henry Nitchie, 1834-1910

Henry N. Cobb letter to Justin Perkins in which Cobb responds to a letter from Perkins, remarking on his solitary situation and the changes Perkins' noted since he returned to Persia. He writes regarding Perkins' book, Missionary Life in Persia, and of his own address at a Baptist Sabbath School where he spoke about the Nestorians. He also writes about the little black box of which Perkins' spoke and mentions Brother Coan and Dr. Wright (George Whitefield Coan and Austin H. Wright).

Henry Nitchie Cobb letter to Justin Perkins, 1863 May 21
James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 December 10

Merrick, James Lyman, 1803-1866

James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins in which Merrick reports that the prince (Malik Qāsim Mīrzā) was very kind to him noting the staff at the confused palace at Sheshawan ( Shīshavān) acted much differently. Merrick states that "neither the present nor the future looks encouraging" and reflects on the perfect acquiescence in the divine will and says whether joy or sorrow fell to his duty and privilege, he intends to stay as long as he felt called to do so. Merrick expresses sorrow that Mrs. Perkins (Charlotte Bass Perkins) still suffers from sore eyes and sends his kindest regards to her and Willy (William Perkins) and to Mr. and Mrs. Holladay.

James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 December 10
James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins, 1839 April 30

Merrick, James Lyman, 1803-1866

James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins in which Merrick shares concern over disturbances which interrupted Perkins' plans to create a summer retreat and outlines the intervention on behalf of the missionaries by the Russian Consul General and some of the political considerations that informed that course of action. Merrick says he retained for future use a copy of the firman from Kāhrāmān Meerza, its translation, and a copy of the Governor's letter. Merrick wrote once again of the difficulties in shipping possessions from place to place in Persia and hopes that what he finally arranged was safe and timely. Merrick assures Perkins that his ability to be of some service to Perkins' mission or any of its members would promote his own missionary happiness and he entreated the colleagues at Ooroomiah (Urmia) to visit him and his wife at Tabreez (Tabrīz). Merrick mentions an accompanying letter that is no longer with this letter.

James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins, 1839 April 30
Emma Taylor Merrick partial letter to Justin Perkins

Merrick, Emma Taylor, 1812-1858

Emma Merrick partial letter to Justin Perkins in which Merrick mentions her husband's departure from Oroomiah (Urmia) and the warm feelings both of them had for the place, the people and the work and expresses her faith in providence of their experiences. She mentions an enclosed copy of her marriage certificate and requests it be duplicated and include the attestation of Mr. Stocking, who was present at the ceremony. Merrick mentions a number of people with whom she had recently corresponded or met with, including the Woddfalls, Nisbets, Riachs, the Glens. She sends her blessings and regards to Justin and Charlotte, their children, and their circle. A copy of the marriage certificate for James L. Merrick and Emma Taylor is in Box 2 Folder 7 of this collection.

Emma Taylor Merrick partial letter to Justin Perkins
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
Christian Gottlieb Hoernle letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 February

Hoernle, Gottlieb

G. Hoernle letter to Justin Perkins in which Hoernle writes regarding a map he has drawn and is sending to Mrs. Grant, as she is a skilled member of their maps committee. He also discusses his decline of Perkins' proposal that he join Perkins' mission and his decision instead to go to Agra. He mentions Mrs. Perkins' offer to delay the letter to the young lady of her acquaintance and says that given the decision no remark on his account is needed. Hoernle also writes regarding the governor's punishment "of those wicked assailants," his faith in protection from God, items Mr. Haas sent, and a music box and watch for Perkins' Mirza. In closing he remarks on Dr. Riach going to Tifflis and the weather in Tabriz.

Christian Gottlieb Hoernle letter to Justin Perkins, 1837 February
James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins, 1839 December 12

Merrick, James Lyman, 1803-1866

James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins in which Merrick writes about mail service and of the many problems involved in arranging and paying for the delivery of packages, especially in winter. Merrick transcribes a portion of a letter dated November 2, 1839 from Mr. Nisbet who was offended to learn that a private and distressing incident involving his daughter, Maria, had been made public in a published copy of Perkins' sermon preached without his consent or knowledge and notes that if additional information, which had been shared in confidence with Merrick, was also made public Nisbet would suffer more severe pain. However Merrick, upon reflection, feels the allusion in Perkins' sermon was justly excusable and no one would question his motive. Merrick references a man he supposes had hoped might find employment in Tabreez (Tabrīz) in the spring was now working instead at Ooroomiah (Urmia ) and there was no need to pursue the matter further if the arrangement was satisfactory.

James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins, 1839 December 12
Letter from unidentified correspondent to Justin Perkins, 1842 October 17

Perkins, Justin, 1805-1869

A letter from an unidentified correspondent to Justin Perkins in which the sender responds to a letter from Perkins, remarks on Perkins' current time in the United States, and updates Perkins on the current status of other missionaries in Persia. Dr. Grant (Asahel Grant), Mr. Stocking (William Redfield Stocking), Mr. Hinsdale (Abel Knapp Hinsdale), Mr. and Mrs. Laurie (Thomas and Martha Fletcher Osgood Laurie), and Mr. and Mrs. Badger (George Percy and Maria Wilcox Badger), Buck, and Dana are all mentioned.

Letter from unidentified correspondent to Justin Perkins, 1842 October 17
James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 January 10

Merrick, James Lyman, 1803-1866

James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins in which Merrick responds to Perkins' inquiry about "a box of newspaper etc. from America" noting the article had not yet arrived but a caravan was expected soon. Merrick relays news of the political conflict between France and the United States and the likelihood of war. He comments on the Persian King's desire for a European school at Teheran (Tehran) and endorses Perkins' opinion that this was the time for evangelical action in Persia. Merrick says he is glad that Perkins has a good home and is no longer subject to the cares and troubles of a pilgrim. Merrick also conveys greetings from Mr. Twig and from Mr. Buchner, who hopes Perkins is blessed with many children.

James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 January 10
Friedrich Haas letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 October 28

Haas, Christoph Friedrich, 1801-1882

Friedrich Haas letter to Justin Perkins in which Haas comments on both his and Perkins' health and mentions goods he is sending to Perkins. Haas discusses the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Wolters, Sir Henry Bethune, Captian Todd, and two sergeants, and that he knows not of Mr. (Christian Gottlieb) Hoernle's travels as he has not heard any news from their Committee (Basel Evangelical Missionary Society). Haas also mentions attending Kariman Mirsa's wedding.

Friedrich Haas letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 October 28
James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 May 22 and 23

Merrick, James Lyman, 1803-1866

James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins in which Merrick recalls with fondness the recent visit he and Mr. Hoernle had made to Oormia (Urmia) and thanks Perkins for his "fraternal sympathy" as Merrick worked out his mission assignments. In preparation for his upcoming journey to Isfahan, Merrick says he is sending boxes of his possessions to Perkins along with Perkins' money from Mr. Nisbet and other articles belonging to the circle at Oormia. Another box which had not yet arrived at Tabreez (Tabrīz) would be forwarded later. Merrick says sending his goods and chattels to Perkins was a pledge that he would visit again some day and sends his love and blessings to Mrs. Perkins and little William (Perkins).

James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 May 22 and 23
James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins, 1842 October 9

Merrick, James Lyman, 1803-1866

James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins. Merrick thanks Perkins for his too short visit to the Merrick family during his visit to the United States. Merrick says he and his wife were still settling in at Oroomiah (Urmia), as nothing has been prepared for their arrival and reflects on all that had taken place in the years since his arrival in Persia and on the uncertain future that awaited him. He notes that he and his wife had been ill and that several members of the mission were recovering from ophthalmia. Merrick thanks Perkins for his recommendation of the Pilgrim's Harp and hopes Perkins will act as editor. Merrick expects the manuscript, forwarded to Constantinople the previous month, would reach America by December and asks Perkins to check on the whereabouts of an article he sent to the Biblical Repository. Merrick closes with news from Persia, acknowledgement of Mrs. Perkins' letter to Mrs. Merrick, and with loving regards from himself and colleagues.

James Lyman Merrick letter to Justin Perkins, 1842 October 9
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
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
Friedrich Haas letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 April 12

Haas, Christoph Friedrich, 1801-1882

Friedrich Haas letter to Justin Perkins in which Haas responds to Perkins' inquiry about letters and parcels that had not yet reached Perkins. Haas notes the man who was to deliver them, a "Raïat" of Hussein Khan Beg named Ibrahim Kerbatai Mahmed Ogli, may have made a stop which could account for the delay and Haas notes the items that were sent and that he is sending new items with this letter. Haas goes on to inform Perkins of the carpets and cloths at the Bazaar, noting the cost of the carpets and requesting Perkins let him know if he wishes Haas to get them. Haas informs Perkins that he has enclosed a letter from Constantinople (Istanbul) with news that Dr. McNeill (Sir John McNeill) has been appointed as first secretary to the Embassy. Haas mentions Mr. Hoernle, Victor, Captain Johnston, Dr. Grittour, Mr. Merrick (James Lyman Merrick), and Mrs. Perkins (Charlotte Bass Perkins) in the letter.

Friedrich Haas letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 April 12
Friedrich Haas letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 May 20

Haas, Christoph Friedrich, 1801-1882

Friedrich Haas letter to Justin Perkins in which Haas discusses Mr. (Christian Gottlieb) Hoernle and Mr. (Friedrich Eduard) Schneider leaving for Isfahan and notes Perkins' better ability to keep Hoernle's spirits up and hopes Perkins will excuse Schneider's haste. Haas discusses his son Victor's health and education and that he and Mrs. Haas are happy to know Victor is happy and safe but implore that he return once Dr. Grant feels Urmia is of no advantage to his health. Haas mentions letters he is enclosing from Constantinople and notes that Mr. Ellis and Sir Henry Bethune are expected in Tabriz. Haas tells Perkins of a conversation he had with Chief Mushtahid (Mujtahid) about their religious beliefs, of the Gospel and Mohammed, and other topics of peace and friendship, and tells Perkins that if he had time to tell of everything that he had seen and heard, that Perkins would "laugh and weep." In closing, Haas mentions the improved health of Mrs. Perkins (Charlotte Bass Perkins) and the Perkins' new little boy and that Nicolas is to go to Wan with books.

Friedrich Haas letter to Justin Perkins, 1836 May 20
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