Researching Harriet's Letters

Harriet Deuel (affectionately known as Hat) was born Dryden, Tompkins County, New York, 1839. She was the daughter of Morgan Deuel and Lydia Robison/Robinson. Harriet was the only child still living at home during the Civil War. Letters were address Etna, (Tompkins County) NY.

Two brothers, Thadius and James both served with NY Regiments, the latter did not return. One sister, Sally Ann, died at 20 years old.

Two older sisters, Mary and Aldula were married. Mary Evens had three sons who served, Earl Evens, Clark Evans and Luke Evans. Luke was captured and a prisoner in both Libby and Andersonville Prisons. Nathaniel Sutfin, husband of Aldula served. He died on his way home from a Philadelphia hospital. Her son, George Sutfin, also served. Harriet's parents were both from large families. Numerous cousins served in New York and Pennsylvania Regiments.

As for the letters, most of them were written to Harriet. A few to her parents. One to her sister, Sally Ann. The letter writers were Harriet's brothers, sisters, nephews, and one uncle. There were numerous letters from cousins both soldiers and civilian, male and female. We have not been able to determine the family connection of the cousins. It appears that Harriet was the link to all family members. There were also letters from friends who lived in Tompkins County, New York. Most of the letters refer to the same people when read in sequence.

The letters range from to 1862-1878. One letter to her sister, Sally Ann, was dated 1850. Harriet must have received hundreds of letters during this time period. Why these survived and others didn't is not known. Perhaps another descendant of Harriet has them stored in a box. Harriet died in 1916 and the letters were passed to her daughter, Addie, who died in 1971. She gave them to her granddaughter, Roberta, prior to her death.

The letters were reviewed from time to time but for the most part they were stored in a box. It was felt that the letters should be donated to a museum instead of sitting in a box for another 50 years or so. If the letters were to be of value to researchers they had to be transcribed as many of them are difficult to read. It was also felt that families should be identified. This began our genealogy search and the purpose for this web site. We have connected with many of the descendants of the letter writers and provided them with information regarding their families.

Antoinette Nowlan Elmira, Chemung Co. NY & Pony Hollow	Hosea Breese Several letters mention his name.
Martha Clark, Martha Thomas, Eve Osmun, Emma Trapp Pony Hollow, Newfield, NY	Thaddeous Deuel Mentions Hosea and other Tompkins Co.solders
James Madison Deuel Pony Hollow letters mention a Madison. Could also be James Madison Clark.	Van Order Troy PA Maryetta Van Pelt married John Van Order both born NY, probably Tompkins County.
Addie Webster, Mary Northrop, Celia McLean, Groton, NY There is also a letter from Celia, Andover, Allegany County.	Orra Dusenberry Dryden soldier His death in letter from George Sutfin. Letters from Pony Hollow & Chatham 4 Corners also mention an Orra. Possibly someone else.

Updated: October 23, 2004
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harrietsletters at yahoo.com

Roberta Kieliger
1020 Suffolk Drive
LaPlata, MD 20646