Akron, Ohio, Sept. 24, 1852.
Dear Children, — We
received Ruth's letter of the 31st August a few days before our State fair at
Cleveland, which came off on the 15th, 16th, and 17th instant. John and myself
expected to go from there to Boston, and John came on to Cleveland for that
purpose; but just then we learned that our trial would not come on until
November next. I may leave to go on to Boston before November, but cannot say
now. We got four premiums on cattle and sheep at the fair, — two of ten dollars
each, one of fifteen dollars, and one of twenty-five dollars. The Perkinses
were much pleased with the show of stock we had to make, but felt, as many
others did, that great injustice was done in not giving us but one first premium,
and that on our poorest buck exhibited. The premiums were paid in silver cups,
goblets, etc., and are of little use, except for mere show. All the friends
were well at the time of the fair, and a large portion of them on the
show-ground, — father among the rest. It was supposed to be the greatest
exhibition ever had in the Western States, far exceeding those of the State of
New York; but a vast majority of those who were at much pains and cost to
exhibit their stock and other things went away disappointed of any premiums. This
is a mortifying reflection.
We are busy taking
care of our potatoes and apples, and preparing to sow our grain. I have had no
shake of ague for some time, but am not strong. The family are in usual health.
Write again.
Your affectionate father,
John Brown.
SOURCE: Franklin B. Sanborn, The Life and Letters of
John Brown, p. 153
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