The 36 Julia Adelaide Cook letters form a 32-page narrative account of Cook's life in Wiscasset, Maine, and travels to other towns from December 1816-October 27, 1818. She frequently discussed her opinions of marriage and courtship. The letters, addressed to a friend, often concern her opinions on topics such as courtship and married life. On May 27, 1818, she commented on recent difficulties in her cousin John's marriage as a result of his intemperance. Cook voiced her desire to earn an independent living, particularly while her parents were contemplating a move to Missouri or another faraway location. She also provided news of her family and acquaintances throughout Maine, which she obtained during several trips to Saco and Biddeford.
Julia Adelaide Cook was born on July 7, 1797, and lived in Wiscasset, Maine. She married Lauriston ("Asa") Ward (1786-1851) of Saco, Maine, on October 13, 1824. She died on September 23, 1825, less than a month after giving birth to a son, Lauriston Cook Ward (b. September 8, 1825).
