The collection consists almost entirely of family correspondence, 1812-1924, and undated. The correspondence discusses news of family and friends, and social conditions in England. Later letters, 1902-1924, are to Fannie Newton from her parents, William and Emily J. Newton of Henrietta (New York), discussing the death of William’s son-in-law, Frank Hinds and other family news. A letter from G. Ambrose, a member of Company B, 85th Indiana Infantry discusses the hardships of being a Civil War Soldier, January 19, 1863. The last Will and Testament of William Newton, February 18, 1924 of Henrietta (N.Y.), miscellaneous, and an undated essay on New York religious settlements complete the collection. The will mentions William’s dead daughter, Martha N. Short, and living relatives, son-in-law, Richard B. Short, son, Harold C. Short, and daughters Carrie D. Hindis, Ella N. Mellers, and Alice N. Dewitt.
Biography:
The Newton Family was from Yorkshire County, England. Thomas Newton (died 1873) emigrated to the U.S. in 1822. His brother, William, soon followed. The brothers lived in Henrietta (Monroe County, New York) near Rochester. Eventually they both became wealthy men.
Friends of the Newtons documented in the collection include: Charles, Joseph, Carrie and Henry Danby, and Sarah and George Anyan, all of whom settled in Cincinatti (Ohio), Thomas Danby moved to Peach Orchard (Kentucky) and John Newton moved to Iowa. (This information is from the collection.)
