Papers, 1801-1904.

ArchivalResource

Abbot, Ephraim, 1779-1870. Papers, 1801-1904.

Papers, 1801-1904.

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/207107970

The collection is divided into record types: an autobiography covering the period 1779 to 1827; two diaries recording Abbot's movements for the periods 5 January to 23 September 1812, and 18 February 1814 to 8 May 1815; eight sermons written from 1813 to 1851; and numerous pieces of correspondence. In the autobiography Abbot discussed his education and religious calling, as well as his movements. Later entries for the 1820s are written more as a travelogue, recording places in New England Abbot visited to try to improve his poor health. The diaries trace Abbot's daily activities, visits to friends and relatives, preaching duties, and letter writing. The sermons deal with various scriptural subjects and each contains a listing on the outside leaf of when and where it was delivered. The majority of letters were written by Abbot, his first fiancée, and her family. His relationship with Mary Pearson came about through Abbot's connection with her father, Rev. Eliphalet Pearson (1752-1826), who was one of his teachers at the Seminary. Rev. Pearson's advice, usually channeled through his daughter to Abbot, is a common characteristic of many letters. All correspondence from May 1808 to June 1811 was between Abbot and Mary Pearson. He was devoted to her in these letters and declared his ardent love for her, but refused to force her into a permanent relationship due to his financial insecurity. Abbot also wrote about his activities as a missionary in Robbinstown and Denneysville in eastern Maine, describing in many letters the sinful state of the congregation and his discouragement because of the lack of moral character he encountered in the region. In one letter, dated 10 and 11 July 1811, Abbot described the Indian settlement at Pleasant Point. Other letters recount his activities in Greenland, N.H., including a letter dated 27 October 1813, which detailed his ordination ceremony. Later correspondence is widely scattered and reveals Abbot's role as head of the Abbot family. Several younger family members wrote to him for advice, or simply to register their activities with him. There is also evidence in these later letters of his business and agricultural interests: bank and investment statements, student boarding fees, and letters asking advice on planting and harvesting. Abbot's last letter, dated 27 March 1868, is unique in that he commented on a national issue: the impeachment of President Andrew Johnson. Letters after this date were written by family members, most often by Abbot's daughter, Lucy (1832- ) or her friends.

10 v. ; octavo.2 boxes.

American Antiquarian Society