I initially endeavored to transcribe this letter in hopes of identifying its anonymous author, yet, regrettably, there are insufficient clues to arrive at a conclusive determination. My initial impression suggested a male author; however, the content, along with the handwriting and penmanship, compels me to surmise that it was a female addressing her sister. It is my assertion that she was the mother of the young boy referred to as “Willie” in this correspondence, who had the distinguished opportunity to shake President Buchanan’s hand during what was likely one of his final White House receptions prior to his departure from office, the last of which took place on 12 February 1861.
The author asserts that “Mr. Deming” was also present at the White House reception, and I am inclined to believe that he may have been her husband. During the mid-19th century, it was common for wives to refer to their spouses in such formal terms in correspondence. In my research for residents of Washington City in 1860 with the surname Deming, I identified a government clerk named Chester Deming (1814-1862), who had a son named William born in 1850; however, the extended family tree was not sufficiently detailed to establish a definitive connection.
I’ve published the letter on Spared & Shared regardless because I find the content interesting and hope you will too.
T R A N S C R I P T I O N
Washington City
[Friday] February 15, 1861
Many, many thinks to you my dear sister for your kind letter. Truly it has been a long time in coming “not after it got started, however.” This difficulty seemed to be in getting it written. I hope that it will not take you quite so long next time. You ought to write to me every week. I should be so happy to hear from home and it would also be a benefit to you. I have been intending to write home for a number of days past in answer to Mother’s very acceptable letter, and the only reason why I have not done so is, that I do not stay at home long enough to accomplish anything. you would really think that I was getting to be guide dissipated if I should tell you that the greater part of my time this winter had been spent at “the Capitol.”
We are all enjoying good health. Indeed, I have not been so well for the last five years as now. I think if you were to see me you would say, “that sister looked just like old times.” Little Willie too is very well and enjoying himself very much. I told him what Aunt Lizzie said—that he must be a big boy by this time. “Well,” he said, stretching himself up in his chair, “Mama, so I am pretty big.” He and Coszy have fine times together playing soldier, flying kite, &c. He is very much interested in the military and now as the City is full of regiments and artillery companies, he is also full of excitement. He has just been down the Arsenal to see a company of “flying artillery” that arrived here a few days ago from West Point.
Two weeks ago Tuesday evening [February 1, 1861], Mr. Deming, William, and the two Willies attended one of the President’s receptions. When we were introduced to Mr. Buchanan, I told him that Willie “was a great Buchanan boy.” He then took him very heartily by the hand and said that he was “glad to know it.” This little incident in Willie’s early life will be something that he will always remember. He has also formed a deep seated attachment for his country. You would be greatly amused to hear him talk about the Union—the whole Union & with his little flag of 34 stars and 13 stripes, show forth his patriotism.
This winter you know has been one of unusual interest & excitement in our Country’s history—calling upon every Union-loving heart to yield if needs be & make sacrifices of party & platforms as good old Mr. Crittenden said, “to save our Country.” At times the threatening storm has really seemed to be almost upon us, but htus far our Heavenly Father has kept us from spilling one another’s blood. Our trust and hope is still in Him. He alone can save us and prosper us in the future as in the past—a united and happy people.
Well, my dear sister, how are you getting along with your studies? You do not say anything about them in your letter. I hope that I. am not to infer from this fact that you have no interest in them. No. I cannot believe this. But in your next letter will you not tell me all about your school studies &c. As I have often told you, dear Lizzie, and I repeat again, be faithful, be diligent, and persevering. You will certainly regret it to your hearts sorrow by and by if you. are [ ] in the time to fill your mind.
P. S. Please give much love to Uncle George & family. Also to dear Aunt Fannie for William and me.
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