These are the letters of Henry Sherman to his son William from November 14, 1892 to February 27, 1901. Included is also a short diary Henry wrote from February 1893 to June of 1893. After the war Henry worked for the railroad for many years and had gotten married in Iowa where Billy and his sister were born. The family eventually made it to Colorado. There they split up. As the story goes, Henry's wife wanted to go to California, but Henry wanted to go to Alaska to strike it rich in gold. The gold rush was going on at this time. Henry had a brother in the state of Washington. He thought they could stay near his brother for a while and then eventually head north, but when they got to Washington they stayed. Henry's wife Fanny took their daughter and went to California and Henry took Billy, who was about 14 years old and left for the state of Washington. They went by train and walked part of the way since track was not laid in all parts of the country at that time. Henry's job was working with a crew laying down track for various railroad companies throughout the United States. Since railroad track was being laid down everywhere he could go almost anywhere and get work. So when they made it to Tacoma he was able to secure employment right away.
Notes to letter 1: The Frank that he mentions may have been his brother, I can't confirm that. It sounds like William was living near a friend of Henry's who had also fought in the Civil War and had also come to the state of Washington with. His last name was Streater. Henry's son William lived in many places after coming to Washington. It sounds like Henry was living in a boarding house while he was working for this guy Ellis. William probably wasn't allowed to live there so other places had to be arranged.
Garfield House - November 14, 1892
My Dear Boy,
I thought I would write you a note and tell you we went to work for Ellis this morning. He had his gang increased by 12 men last night. I had a terrible chill at 5 o'clock. From that to 7 o'clock, then I took fever. I asked the doctor if it was ague, he said "no" and to get Warmer's Safe Cure and I would soon be all ok. I hope you have commenced school and will study like a beaver. Ellis won't have Frank anymore. I won't either. Take care of yourself good. Don't get your feet wet without giving them a good drying. I got me a new suit. It cost me $12.00 and a pair of shoes, $2.95. Please write in a few days and direct your letter in care of Garfield House.
This from your Papa. My repect to Mrs. Streator's folks. Henry Sherman to William Sherman , his boy. When you write tell me if any mail was sent me.
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Notes to letter 2: The Rosa that he mentions is his daughter, Billie's sister. Her full name was Rochelle. His friend Streater has already staked a claim in Queets and is now living there. It sounds like Henry is becoming interested in getting one for himself.
Orting, Washington - December 1892
Dear Billie,
Your letter of a few days ago I was much pleased to recieve and learn you were well and getting along nicely at school and that you recieved the money order all ok. I am well as usual. I do not expect to remain here but a few days. Don't know whether the gang will them be put off or still be kept on. Haven't seen Ellis since he went back to Tacoma. There isn't but 25 men in the gang at present. Haven't recieved a letter from Rosa for a long time. Don't know if she has recieved the money I sent or not. I feel that something is wrong. She is old enough to understand better. I have told her that I was not making but little money but would do the best I could. I sent her $35. I don't know that she has recieved but $10.
You only spoke about going out there where Streater is the first of June, but you don't say whether Hudson says there is a claim for me or not. It was nice of Mommy to offer to send you a ring for Christmas. She has not forgotten you, but you are best off with me. I may be able to come over for a few days the latter part of this week. The gun I will get in Seattle if I do come. If my mail is sent to Tacoma in-care-of Garfield House I will be able to get it but I must say good bye.
This from your Father to his Boy. Give my respects to our friends. Be a good boy.
Henry Sherman to William Sherman
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Notes to letter 3:
Orting, Washington - December 23, 1892
Dear Billie,
I am still at this place and I will be here for about a week longer so I will send you a money order for $15 and you can go to Seattle and buy a gun yourself, but it will be a Christmas gift from your father just the same. Get a good one and don't get cheated. AND I DON'T WANT YOU TO ALLOW THE CHILDREN TO HAVE THEIR HANDS ON IT. BETTER NOT TO HAVE IT LOADED AROUND THE HOUSE AT ALL, REMEMBER? I think probably a good shot gun is the best for you. I hope your are doing nicely in school. I am well and hope you are the same. My respects to friends. So good bye.
This is from your Pa to his boy,
H.M. Sherman
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Notes to letter 4: He loses his job because he doesn't want to listen to the insults McCann is giving him. Now he's going to Buckley possibly to get another job in the same line of work. He mentions Uncle Bill for the first time. This is one of his younger brothers who is possibly living in Buckley.
Orting, Washington - January 8, 1893
Dear Billie,
I am let out by old McCann because I wouldn't have his insults and am going up to Buckley for a while til payday. Anyhow I might hit something up there. If you write within ten days, direct your letters to Buckley, but let Mr. White send my mail to Garfield House. It's alright with him. I will go up in the A.M. to see Uncle Bill. Today is awful nice and pretty, but I must say good bye.
This is from your Pap, to his boy. Study hard. Give my respects to friends.
Henry Sherman
The following is a short diary of some events that took place between February and March 1893. I found it in a little green book among Henry's things in Uncle Wilbur Sherman's attic.
Notes on this little diary: When reading this and other things that Henry wrote you must read inbetween the lines. He does not add alot of detail so the reader has to fill in the blanks with other things that he has written. It looks like Henry, his son Billie and their friend Frederick Streater left Seattle on that February day. He does not tell how they left, but I would assume that it was by some sea going vessel. The only way to get to the peninsula in those days would be by crossing the Puget Sound by boat. They arrived in Port Townsend that same day and stayed over night then left the next morning at 8am. They seem to be going at a fast rate. Going through many towns on the peninsula they arrive at the site where Henry secures a place to start building his house. He spends his time clearing the land and chopping down trees and preparing the logs to make his house with. He does a little surveying. He gives very little detail, just a few lines every day. I get the idea that he is living with Streater until he gets his house built. Then Streaters cabin burns down and Henry is left with no place to stay. After this Henry enters in his journal that he sleeps overnight at different people's houses each night. Then he talks about getting potatoes and other supplies probably to pay for his board, and then suddenly he is on his way to Seattle. He does not tell how he is going, but I would guess by horse and buggy or maybe by horse. He goes through many towns and then reaches Olympia, then goes to Tacoma and secures a job working for Ellis again, and then the journal ends just as quickly as it begins. It gives a little bit of a glimpse on what he is doing at that time, even if it is very sparse.
February and March 1893
Henry Sherman, William Sherman, Frederick Streater
Left Seattle February 23, 9pm
Left Port Townsend 8:30 am the 24th
Arrived at Clallam Bay the 24th about 7pm
Left Clallam Bay the 25th, 10 o'clock am
Stayed ast the foot of Burnt Mountain over night
Sunday the 26th - went over Burnt Mountain to Beaver
Monday the 27th - Left Beaver at 8am and arrived at Folk's Prairie about 5pm
Tuesday the 28th - Left Prairie for Bogachiel 8am. Arrived at 5pm
Wednesday March 1st, Stayed in Bogachiel all day
Thursday March 2nd - left at 8am for the Hoh River, arrived at (Strom's Place) 5pm
Friday March 3rd - left Strom's Place at 8am, arrived at the mouth of Hoh 5pm
Saturday March 4th - Left chief Indian William's place at 8:35am. Tide Checked us at 10 o'clock am on our way to the Queets River.
Sunday - 11:30am arrived at the mouth of the Queets River. Paid Indian 25cents a piece to take us over. Will try the trail up the river after dinner. Arrived at
Mr. Mckimmons 7 miles from the ocean.
Monday - stayed in on account of rain the 6th.
Tuesday the 7th - stayed in on account of rain.
Wednesday the 8th - weather clear and bright in a.m. One half inch snow fell during the night. Balance of the day..fine.
Thursday the 9th - will go up the river to the kid's ranch. Dave Bartman.
Friday the 10th - went up the trail again from Mckimmon's with tools to Mrs. Bartman and kids.
Saturday the 11th - moved up as far as Dave Bartmans's to stay until we can get our house ready and cut a trail.
Sunday the 12th - cut some trail.
Monday the 13th - worked on trail one half day.
Tuesday the 14th - worked on trail all day.
Wednesday the 15th - worked on trail all day.
Thursday the 16th - worked on trail one half day. Streater came 5 o'clock pm.
Friday the 17th - moved on our claim.
Saturday the 18th - worked on house and Billie went for flour.
Sunday 19th - went after vegatables.
Monday 20th - clearing some.
Tuesday 21st - clearing some. Billie started for Quinalt.
Wednesday 22nd - clearing some. Billie returned without going. Backed out.
Thursday 23rd - Billie went fishing, did not get any. I spent 8 hours clearing.
Friday 24th - clearing and fixing shack.
Saturday 25th - rainy. Billie went down to store. Streater found our tools.
Sunday 26th - helped Bartman on new house one half day.
Monday 27th - helped Glover to build house all day.
Tuesday 28th - clearing and cutting timber at home.
Wednesday 29th - rainy, clearing some.
Thursday 30th - forenoon rainy, but cleared all day.
Friday 31st - morning rainy. Rainy all day. Went after vegatables.
Saturday April 1st - rain and snow all day. No work.
Sunday April 2nd - rainy part of the day. Surveyed a little on my east line.
Monday April 3rd - Jack and Holenback came up. Rain and snow showers. Surveyed some for my southeast corner.
Tuesday April 4th - six hours pleasant weather, some rain. Worked on material for new house about one half day.
Wednesday April 5th - no rain. Billie and Streater went to store. Glover called this one.
Thursday April 6th - Eight hours fair weather. Worked clearing at new house.
Friday April 7th - clear weather. Clearing ground for garden.
Saturday April 8th - partly fair. Went down to the river to colony meeting.
Sunday April 9th - clearing and fair. Cleared some ground.
Monday April 10th - one half day clear. Spading in garden.
Tuesday April 11th - Rainy nearly all day. Went down to Bartans. The fellows came in.
Wednesday April 12th - Showery. Set out strawberries. 200 plants.
Thursday 13th - rained all day. Fell some trees. That's all.
Friday 14th - rained one half day. Worked in garden.
Saturday 15th - showery. Went over river to McPheeny with Dave Bartman.
Sunday 16th - rained one half day. I worked clearing where new house will stand. Billie planted in the garden.
Monday 17th - showery, cleared some. Billie planted garden. Jack Beard called. Billie went to store the a.m.
Tuesday 18th - rained hard all day. I was clearing some at new place. Billie came back from the store.
Wednesday 19th - showery. Clearing at new place. Called Newman.
Thursday 20th - rained hard all day. Streater's cabin burned down and everything he had in it.
Friday 21st - showery. Worked getting logs ready for new house. Billie was down to Mel Cinonks.
Saturday 22nd - rained part of the day. Got out logs for new house. Went down the trail far as Knacks. Eat dinner there. Got potatoes off Mr. Lyman.
Sunday 23rd - no rain. Streater and Billie started for Bogashiel.
Monday 24th - no rain. Dave Bartman was here. Hung four salmon up to dry in cabin. Went down to Mr. Lyman's. Got 65lbs potatoes.
Tuesday 25th - fair weather during forenoon. Worked at home. Afternoon went down to Jack's and stayed over night.
Wednesday 26th - fair and beautiful. Went from Jack's to store. Returned with flour and beans; 45 lbs. Then to Jack's to stay over night.
Thursday 27th - weather good. Came up trail, arrived home. Went up to Chas. Glover's. Stayed over night.
Friday 28th - weather good. Worked one half day clearing at new place. Went down to Dave Bartman's. Stayed over night.
Saturday 29th - weather fine. Clearing at new house.
Sunday 30th - weather good. Did not work.
Monday May 1st - forenoon cleared off brush on new place. Billie and Streater returned from Bogachiel all ok.
Tuesday 2nd - rainy all day. Cut down tree and cut up logs.
Wednesday 3rd - rainy all day. Worked only one half day at new place.
Thursday 4th - rainy all day. Worked at logs for new house.
Friday 5th - not but little rain. Worked at new house.
Saturday 6th - no rain. Worked on material for new house.
Sunday 7th - rain all the forenoon. Fair in the afternoon. No work.
Monday 8th - nice weather all day. Raised the body of our house.
Tuesday 9th - rain all day. Raised the body of Streater's house.
Wednesday 10th - went out for Seattle. Got as far as Raft River. Camped on beach by fire.
Thursday - one half day rainy. Continue trip at 5pm. Reached a point 6 miles south of Quimates. Stopped in Hiwash Barn. Terrible storm.
Friday 12th - continue at 6pm for Grigson. Arrive at noon to stay over night. One half day rainy.
Saturday 13th - fair weather. Went on to Ouhut and then by water and plank road to Cosmopolis to Charlie Glover's.
Sunday 14th - fair weather. Stopped at Charlie Glover's.
Monday 15th - fair weather. Left Cosmopolis 10am. Arrived at Montesona around 7pm. Stayed over night. Arrived at Porter at 10 o'clock. 7pm Elma.
Tuesday 16th - rain all day. Arrived from Elma and stopped at Gate City, Will O'tool's
Wednesday 17th - rained one hour. Left City Gate at 7am. Arrived at Olympia 5pm.
Thursday 18th - rain two hours. Left Olympia 7am. Arrived in Shurlock at 11am. Rain all day.
Friday 19th - no rain. Left Shurlock at 7am for Tacoma. Arrived 4pm.
Saturday 20th - Left Tacoma at 10am for Seattle. Arrive at 12:30pm.
Sunday 21st - went to church. Eat two meals at Streater's.
Monday 22nd - stayed over night at Mr. White's. Fair weather.
Tuesday 23rd - stayed over night at Mr. Miller's. Fair weather.
Wednesday 24th - stayed over night at Mr. White's. Fair weather.
Thursday 25th - Last night at Mr. Batschi's.
Friday 26th - Last night at Mr. Batschi's. Fair weather.
Saturday 27th - still at Batschi's.
Sunday 28th - Batschi's. Went to memorial services.
Monday 29th - fair weather. Batschi's. Went to work for Luther Ellis on the Northern Pacific at $1.75 per day.
Tuesday 30th - fair weather.
From Friday June 9, 1893 to Thursday June 8, 1893 Henry Sherman worked for Luther Ellis and there was fair weather.
From Friday June 9th 1893 it was rainy and he was sick til Sunday the 11th. Henry Sherman worked in the railroad yard for Ellis from Monday June 12th 1893 to Wednesday June 28th 1893 when he was out of work, and here this journal dwindles to an end. He is boarding with Batschi and pays him $20 on June 25th from May 25th to June 25th.
Notes on letter 5: He may have stayed with Henry before going to live with his uncle Bill.
2346 Yakima Avenue, Tacoma, Washington October 9, 1894
Dear Billie,
Thought I would write you a few lines tonight and say I am well both in soul and body, and hope that you and your Uncle Bill are the same. I was down to Central Church for the two past nights. I must take a rest tonight, Sunday. I had a hard days work. There was a car of bridge iron or steel left the track and tipped over. It was on a scale track. We had to transfer it and then repair the track.
The Germans had their day at the fair Sunday. They came from Seattle in large numbers with bands of music. I thought how those hands wouldn't be as much like the music of heaven as a jew's harp is like their music. There is sunshine in my soul. Praise the Lord forever.
Ellis has another boarder named Smith. I guess you didn't see him. He sleeps in the front room upstairs.
Big fire today about 3 o'clock at the St. Paul Mill right in sight of the yard. Burnt the dry house and I guess all the lumber in it. There was a great deal of smoke. I got your photographs, they are splendid. I gave Mrs. Ellis one and I have the others. Will keep them til I can get stamps and paste board to send them by mail, and be sure they won't get harmed any. Perhaps will all three of us get some taken together bye and bye.
The Eleventh Street Bridge is to cost $300,000, so Ellis says you ought to see the dredger at work. It's a tremendous affair. It's ponderous jaws when they go down into the earth is wonderful.
Ellis had 16 men now for a while. Pay don't come in quite so fast as when you were here.
The Argonine will sail in a day or so. Four large English sailing ships arrived for wheat. They are wonders. I saw Mr. Van Allstine and Frank Wickerman the same day, I believe Monday morning.
From your father Henry Sherman, to his son Billie. Keep true. Did you go fishing Saturday?
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Notes on letter 6: Henry mentions something about Grandpa. It think he is talking about his ex-wife's father who lives in Missouri. Henry and Billie are corresponding with him. Fred is one of his relations. Henry mentions that he sent his three brothers, Samuel, Frank and Joseph each a picture of Billie. Henry was the first born in his family. When Henry talks about Billie's Grandmother, he may be talking about his mother's mother.
Remember 2125 Yakima Avenue, Tacoma, Washington
Dear Billie,
Your letter of August 30th instead of October 30th I will answer this evening. I am about as usual, going everyday. Glad you are getting along nicely. About that package; if they have sent it COD and you have sent the money on to Buffalo the Erie Medical Company will have to release it in the hands of the express company before you will be able to get it. So have patience until you hear from them.
We have moved four blocks north on Yakima Avenue to 2125, so don't direct anything more to 2346. I will send you Streater's letter and the postal card. Lay them away please. Grampa says they would all like to see us. He says that after the doctors failed he took Fred and cured him. Grampa says he will write you a letter. You'd better send them a picture. Get some past board and cut it the same size as the picture, then tie with strong twine so it can't slip. Then direct plainly on the outside. I sent one a piece to Samuel, Frank, and Joseph, your uncles.
Billie, I wish you would send my best overcoat by express. Direct to H.M. Sherman #2125 Yakima Avenue, Tacoma, Washington and pay the express. I am short of change now until pay day.
Your Grandma has to lay down everyday. Her leg is getting worse. I must close for this time, so good bye. Be true to the Lord. Read your Bible as often as you can. Every day one chapter. Anyhow turn to the 119th Psalm and the 89th verse and read to the 120th verse. Praise the Lord forever. Let us walk with the Lord and live close to the cross.
Tell brother Peter Huddle he owes me a letter. Well, good night, study hard so as to be sure to graduate. Tell your Uncle Bill that fresh eggs are 22 and 1/2 cents per dozen. Good night.
This from your father, write again soon. Henry Sherman to William Sherman
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Notes on Letter 7:
2125 Yakima Avenue, Tacoma, Washington November 22, 1894
Dear Billie,
How's your Uncle Bill? I recieved the pension check tonight. I had already got a Northern Pacific Express money order for eight dollars to send you. I got a letter from Streater. They are well and had recieved the $10 I sent about three weeks ago. That makes $60 I have sent him all together. I'm going to try to send him $10 more in a day or so. Mrs. Streater wants one of your pictures soon, and your Grandpa wants one soon. Why don't you write him and grandma. He don't know how he is going to pull through the winter. His apples were a failure, but I am getting sleepy.
I shall pay Ellis for board up to the first of December - $30.
Then I bought two pair of drawers, $1.25 per pair,
$2.50 for valise,
$3.25 for a pair of gloves, $1.25 for a razor
$3.00 for a strap
$$1.09 for a shaving cup,
75 cents for a looking glass,
$1.00 toward a stove that costs $2.00 to heat up our room
So out of my checks I haven't but about $4.00 left after I sent $10 to Streater, but my board will be settled to December 11th - $1.35.
Ellis' folks are well and Mrs. Ellis sends her respects for all of them.
Well, good bye. Did you get your package from Erie Co? Give my regards to Uncle Bill and the brethern. Write soon.
This letter is from your father. Good bye. God Bless,
Henry Sherman
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Notes to letter 8: First time he mentions that Billie is in Buckley, Washington where he went to school. What is a flyer? Is it an airplane? Were there some kind of primitive airplanes around in Tacoma, Washington in the year of 1894? The Wright Brothers had something called a flyer in 1902. www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wright_flyer
2125 Yakima Avenue, Tacoma, Washington December 15, 1894
My Dear Boy,
Your welcome letter came to me last evening. It found me well as usual and working everyday. The weather has been rainy especially last Sunday. It was a bad day. Thanksgiving morning developed a wonderful land slide at the steamship warf. The warehouse that was there with the stockpen at the the south end all went, and all that ground where the pump house stood, and over toward the overhead bridge was where the boat house stood where the man had considerable geese, ducks, and chickens. All of it went off into the sound. The place where the flyer used to land is no longer there. And the landing where all the rocks were, and the place where they put in piling all went. The watchman in the pumphouse and a 15 year old girl in the boathouse were drowned and their bodies have never been seen since they were alive. The wave house roof is still visible. A good deal of frieght was lost. The companies safe with money was lost that was in the wave house. One man had $700 in it and nobody but the company knows how much they lost.
Mr. Ellis' folks are all well. Mrs. Ellis thought she would like to have you come and spend Christmas with us but I am afraid money is going to be hard to get. If I send you the money and then something for you for Christmas, that would bring it to as much as $5, but I'll try and send it pay day. That's next week. I can't borrow no such amount from Ellis' folks. They don't have any to loan. They pretend to be busted all the time.
Have you sent your mother and grandma a picture? I sent them some pictures and they arrived in good condition. They are going to have them framed.
Give my respects to everyone in Buckley.
This from your father, write again soon.
Henry Sherman
Notes to letter 9:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma,Washington December 25, 1894
My Dear Boy,
I thought it best to write a line and tell you the reason I did not come in. I did not apply soon enough for a pass and then Mr. Ellis wanted me to stay and take care of the lights. I am well in both body and soul. Hope you and your uncle Bill are the same.
Mr. Ellis' folks are all well. Had a nice dinner today. Do you get any letters from the east? How are you getting along? Well good bye.
From your father,
Henry Sherman
P.S. Did you get the money all ok? Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
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Notes on letter 10:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington January 12, 1895
My Dear Boy,
Yours of December 28th I will try and answer. This evening was glad to hear from you and learn it was well with you both body and soul. It is the same with me. Mr. Ellis'folks are all well. I haven't heard from the Herald, or from the publisher who were going to send me some books. It might be that they sent them all to Buckley, either by mail or express. Please ascertain this coming week and let me know before you write. Will you really have to have more then six dollars this month?
I thought some of getting me a suit of good clothes. My G.A.R. clothes are getting pretty well worn, but will do for everyday use. My everyday coat is pretty much played out. I think that seventy dollars is all I have paid Streator. Your saw seems to be a good one.
I heard the frogs on the night of the ninth. It was quite warm and no snow. How's your uncle Bill getting along? How's his chickens? Eggs have been thirty cents per dozen, retail for fresh ranch eggs. You might send the picture of Rosa's baby. I wonder how my daughter looks? But I suppose I must have patience. If those books came alright I will send them to you as soon as I can so you can read them.
Ellis' folks would like to hear from you. Good night. Write soon.
From your father,
Henry Sherman
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Notes on letter 11:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington Janurary 21, 1895
My Dear Boy,
Yours of the 16th I recieved and was glad to hear from you and uncle Bill and learn that you were well both bodily and spiritually.
We got paid the 19th.
I paid $15 for board.
I sent you and uncle Bill $14.
That makes $29.
It takes about $1.75 per month for street car fare and
$1.50 for laundry and
$2 per month for clothing. It won't fill the bill.
And $1.50 to get my shoes half soled and ribs sewed and patches put on, and medicine for the dispepsia, at least $5 for a month or so that I haven't much left and nothing to send Streater, but I must have patience.
I got the books alright and will send the book of songs to you bye and bye. I sent $6 and they paid the publishing house $2.50. That left $3.85 for the four books and I will be getting the Herald for one year. That was wonderfully cheap but the money order was for your uncle Bill. The agent misunderstood me and put a 'B' instead of a 'V', but Bill can sign it that way and it will be alright. Ellis has about 18 or 19 men now. I think Prowell will soon be superintendent again. I don't know how but Ellis is well pleased. I presume he will get division bye and bye. Well, I must close now. If I was you I would tell that Erie outfit that you are not made of money, that you could have got cured for $30 in Seattle, but here is good bye. Mr. Ellis' folks are all well. They inquire after you.
Write soon, from your father,
Henry Sherman
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Notes for letter 12:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington February 20, 1895
My Dear Boy,
Well, I'll write you a few lines this evening. I am well as could be expected. The weather has been just beautiful for the last three days, but it's raining tonight. Rosie's letter says she took cold a good while back and it settled on her throat and lungs, and her health is so poor that she has to have hired help to do her house work and Walter loses two or three trips a month on her account. What do you think of that? She says Walter bought her a piano of Mr. Finney last summer. It cost $550. It has an oak finish and is the finest of that place. She says her boy is very sweet. She sends her love to you and uncle Bill and says maybe Walter and her might come out this way some time.
About work; I have the promise from three directions for you, and I believe the first of the month will be a show for you. Maybe I shall telegraph you. If I do, you will know what that means; Come prepared to work and stay and do the best you possibly can. It might be a short or long job, but it's best to take any kind of work now-a-days that has cash in it.
Well, if that company doesn't settle with you right away it may be best to put it in the hands of somebody to collect, but I must tell you, here is $9.
Good night from your father,
Henry Sherman
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Notes for letter 13:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington February 22, 1895
My Dear Boy,
I am quite well and hope you are the same. I recieved your letter some days ago with Streater's letter. So there is to be another little one of Streater's soon. Seems as if there will be plenty bye and bye or little ones. If he should happen to pass away wouldn't they have a hard struggle to make a living?
Well Billie, you would be surprised to see me now. The medicine I have been taking has helped my stomach wonderful. I was weighed about three weeks ago in the railroad warehouse and it was only 165 lbs. How's that?
As I promised your uncle Sam in old Massachusetts my photograph several times in the last two or three years. I will have some taken in the A.M. I got me a suit of clothes for $18. I will send Streater $15. This time $7 to you. $6 of it for uncle Bill. I got a letter from brother White. They send their regards and would like to see us all. Old man Hudson is in southern Oregon. He thinks he has found the best place he has ever seen so I suppose they will all move down there. Well goodbye.
Your father,
Henry Sherman
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Notes to letter 14:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington March 19, 1895
Dear Son,
Your letter of the 18th I recieved this P.M. Glad to hear from you and learn you were well both spiritually and physically. Well Billie, I guess when your school is out there will be a chance for you. I spoke to Mr. Ellis and he wanted to know when the school would be out. I told him I guessed it was in June if all is ok at that time. Probably it will be alright.
When I sent photographs I intended one for uncle Bill and one to be sent to Rosa, and the last one for you. So if you can get some paste board, about four pieces about one fourth inch longer and wider then the photograph. Tie it secure and firm after you put some soft white paper around the picture before you put it inbetween the paste board. Direct it as plain as you can and if you hear any word about it let me know what they say.
Has Grandpa written to you lately? He seems to have forgotten me, I guess. Billie, I don't suppose you have any use for that medicine you got from the Erie Medical Company. Send it to me if you can by express with something so it cannot be discovered and pay the express. Direct it to the number and street the same as you do letters. About the medicine from Frisco; I truely hope it will make you alright.
I am glad you are getting along so nicely with your books. Jerome says to tell you he is eating apples. He would like to see you and so would I. I will try to send you $11; $6 for uncle Bill and $5 for you. I would like to send Streater some this time perhaps $10. A China steamer arrived yesterday, THE VICTORIA.
Be true to God and yourself,
From your father,
Henry Sherman
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Notes to letter 15: The dangers of masterbation.
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington March 26, 1895
My Dear Boy,
You letter came to hand that said you had recieved the money. Glad you are well and doing well. I heard today of a young man that cut his throat about six weeks ago. You know him when you see him. He is a victim of self abuse. He practised it so much that it made him partly insane.
The name of the medicine I have been taking is cordial aniseptine and pangrobillin. I don't think it is intended for any person except if their constitution wants building up. There isn't a hint written on the bottle that it's for the building up of wasted energies. I will send Streater $10 tomorrow. That will make $90. Don't you need some better clothes for school? Streater says that old claim of yours on the Queets is school land. I will send Streater's letters to you and reciept by registered letter. Your grandpa says (his kids are all spread around the country). Gene has bought a farm and paid for it, every penny.
If you know who that young man is that cut his throat, don't say anything for I presume his mother lives there in Buckley. Ellis has 21 men but will be cut down to 14 after the 27th. I recieved the photograph alright and sent one back to Joe's children. So I will bid you a good night.
This from your father. Write again
Henry Sherman
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Notes to letter 16:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington
My Dear Boy,
I am well in both body and spirit. Today is rainy and chilly. Mr. Ellis' folks are well as usual, but I expect to have to hunt another place to board soon. Mr. Ellis won't help in cooking or doing much of anything, and I am getting tired of cooking under such circumstances. McCabe, the superintendent will be let out soon and Mr. Dickenson will be general superintendent according to the papers this A.M. I sent Streater $10 the other day, making $100. If McCabe goes, the new superintendent will put in a new roadmaster, and they will in turn put in a new foreman. So it's hard to tell what to expect.
I will try and send your uncle Bill $8 next time. Why don't he write and say weather he got the medicine or not? I suppose his chickens are doing nicely. I suppose his garden is doing fine. The eleventh street bridge is nearly done. They swung the draw yesterday last but I must close for this time.
Your father,
Hope you are doing nicely in school. Did you hear from Rosa? I get $1.40 per day since the first of April.
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Notes for letter 17:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington May 21, 1895
My Dear Boy,
Your letter with Earl's picture I recieved this P.M. It found me suffering with a toothache. I expect I shall have to go to the dentist tomorrow. Well Rosa finally concluded to write her father a letter. It is about time. She got ashamed of herself and wrote us a few lines, but I forgive her. Ellis' folks are well as usual. I didn't tell him you were idle, for it is no use. Too many men that have worked for him are waiting around for a job. Something may turn up in the course of a month to give you a chance. Study when you have a chance. I must try and send you some books by Empress one of these times. I will send you $10, give uncle Bill $8 and keep $2 for yourself. I must try to send S
treater $20. The Eleventh Street Bridge is about done. It is a pretty fair bridge. They will have a formal opening the fourth of July.
Good night from your father,
Henry Sherman
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Notes for letter 18;
May 31st 1895
Dear Boy,
I am well as usual. Hope you are the same, and your uncle Bill too. I sent Streater's letter to you. No chance for work now. Good bye. Will write again in a few days.
This from your father with love.
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Notes for letter 19: I don't know if I would talk to my son like he does to his.
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington
My Dear Boy,
Your letter came to hand the other night. It found me well as usual and glad to hear it was well with you as it is. I truely hope that you may obtain employment. If you would have remained here you could have gone to work the following Friday. Little Charley got very mad at Ellis and quit. He has about 14 men now but I don't think Ellis cared much for you from the way he spoke when I talked about you coming to work again. He thought you were crazy to work in an old saw mill, and it was best to let you go ahead til you get crippled. But I don't want you to know anything about the old uncertain railroad. Billie, did you buy that book about Egypt? Well, I saw brother Farmer and Floyd last Saturday evening at the corner of 11th and Pacific Avenue. They are doing a considerable amount of work for the railroad now. The boys inquire about you every day or so. They have to work terribly hard. Well, I must say good bye.
Your father
Write.
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Notes to letter 20:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington August 24, 1895
My Dear Boy,
I recieved a letter from Mrs. Streater. I will send it to you. I hope you will obtain employment. I sent $20 more to Streater. That makes $150 and $57 more due. Well, good bye.
Your father, good night
Henry Sherman
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Notes for letter 21:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington September 19, 1895
My Dear Boy,
Your last letter requesting an answer soon has been neglected, but I will have to give as an excuse of my being tired. I was at the convention last night and had a very fair meeting with Jim Giddis and Larson. They're still in the gang with Jerome. Only six besides me are allowed in now. Joe Erving of Trinidad wants to trade his place for Charley Handson's in Seattle. He wrote me for information. I haven't answered yet but must as soon as I hear from brother White in Seattle.
Well, have you got work yet? I hope you have. Mr. Ellis' folks are all well. Gracie has a piano now and practices music now. Ellis is some better now then when Payne had charge of the yard. Finnel has all of the three yards. The new warehouse is going along very well. I suppose your uncle Bill is getting along nicely. I suppose his chickens are doing nicely, but I must say good night. I think you pay too much on the papers you sent me. Notice how little I paid on those heavy packages I sent you? Better let them weigh it first, then they can tell you what to put on.
From your father, to his son Billie,
H. Sherman
Write
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Notes to letter 22:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington September 21, 1895
My Dear Boy,
It is after 10 but will write a few lines. I am well as could be expected. I hope you and uncle Bill are the same. I sent you $10. I hope you have obtained employment. I haven't recieved any papers this week. I suppose you were busy. Please send me some as soon as you can. Mr. Ellis' folks are all well as usual and his children are all going to school. If you should fail to get work I think you had better go to school.
So, good night from your father,
Henry Sherman
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Notes for letter 23:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington September 28, 1895
My Dear Boy,
I have just done up the razor to send by mail, but if anything should happen that they don't take it, why, the express company will. It is the one you shaved with last summer. I have given it a sparpening on a regular German razor stone. I bought one, it's very fine. Now if your strap has knitches cut in it, you shouldn't use this razor on the knitched side at all. When you shave let the razor lay as flat to your face as possible, and never shave until you have rubbed the lather on thoroughly with your brush. and then with your fingers, and then wipe that lather entirely off, and apply a fresh coat. Then shave being sure to carry your hand very lightly so that you barely touch your face and cut the beard. I think if you do this you will find the razor a fine one. Please send the old one to me done up the same as I have this one and maybe I can make something of it.
Mr. Ellis' folks are well as usual. The boys inquire after you occasionally, but I must say good night.
Your father,
Henry Sherman
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Notes to letter 24:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington October 14, 1895
My Dear Boy,
Well, how are you getting along? I am quite merry tonight. I had a bad cold and some fever. Mr. Ellis' folks are well as usual and he is still cranky as ever. Worse in fact. I think sometimes Jerome is alright, but I must close by saying good night.
This from your father,
Henry Sherman
P.S. Write me a letter.
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Notes for letter 25:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington October 24, 1895
My Dear Boy,
I am about as usual in health, but my spiritual growth is good. The folks are well here. I am glad you and uncle Bill are getting along alright. I send you $8. I have bought a razor. I think I will keep it and send you mine for I have the privelege of returning it in 60 days. That is, the new one and if it isn't all ok I can exchange it, and mine I know is good.
It is just 23 years ago today since my mother died. Oh how time flys, but I must say good night.
Your father,
Henry Sherman
Write.
Notes to letter 26: The Rosa Flesher he writes about here is most-likely the sister of his ex-wife, Billie's mother.
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington November 19, 1895
I recieved the pension all ok this evening. I also got paid from the W.P. I will send you $10. I hope you will get along with that instead of $8. I can't say that my health is anything extra. My stomach bothers me a good deal. I don't know what day may be my last one with Ellis. He is close to being crazy. Some days all the men dispise him except me, and if I was like I was three years ago I would have left long ago. He is constantly finding fault and cursing all the time. Well, you know a little about him. Jerome is still here. Larson, Jim, Gus, Charley, Frank and Jerome besides myself constitutes the force. They would like to see you first rate. Times are getting tight here in Tacoma, with large numbers out of work. I must try to send $30 to Streater this time, and then I owe him $27. I wanted to get my teeth this month but Streater must be paid first if I have to do without all together.
Well, Billie I must tell you that death has called upon Rosa, or what used to be Rosa Flesher. It isn't quite six months since her marriage. She now lies covered over with the clods of the valley. The cause of her death was an ulcer that formed in her, and the doctors performed an operation and found it when they opened her up. She sustained the operation very well and lived about two months afterwards. Then her lungs and stomach gave out and at last her tongue was paralyzed. She couldn't eat or drink and finally passed away. She was a member of the Baptist church.
I must say good night. Together let us live, together let us die. We are seeking a country where there isn't any night. Tell uncle Bill I got his letter. I recieved the papers today.
This is from your father. Write again.
Henry Sherman
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Notes to letter 27:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington December 18, 1895
My Dear Boy,
I recieved your letter the other night. It found me well as usual and pleased to know that it was as well with you as it is with me. I was out at Edison today and was at Mr. Lanny's house, and there I learned that Miss Lilly Lanny had been dead three weeks. Poor girl died of congestion of the lungs. I knew her, and your uncle Bill knew her too. She was only 26 years of age, in the prime of her life. She was a calm, quiet, good dispositioned woman. Oh, may we be ready when the Master calls.
I send you $9. This is hoping that you will eat something good at Christmas and remember your father, that he would love to be with you. Billie, you must send the perscription number on the bottle before I can send you the medicine. And let me know just how you are so I can tell the man and he will know better how to prepare the dosage tomorrow night.
Don't forget the perscription number and to describe how you feel. We have about one inch of snow. It is quite sloppy. I bought me a raincoat and a pair of rubber boots, but I must say good night.
This is from your father. Write right away, quick.
My regards to Uncle Bill.
Henry Sherman
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Notes to letter 28:
2125 Yaki8ma Avenue Tacoma, Washington December 25, 1895
My Dear Boy,
Merry Christmas to you and your uncle Bill. I am well as usual. I was at the Christmas Tree entertainment last night at the Centra Church. It was quite good. I sent you by express more medicine. I am sorry that I could not send you a present, but I will try at some other time.
Well Billie, I have been thinking of the times gone by, and the good times we thought we had, but they are gone by. I sent you $9. I presume you recieved it several days ago.
This is from your father,
Hentry Sherman
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Notes to letter 29:
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington January 10, 1896
I thought I would just write a few lines this eve after such a beautiful day. I am well as usual and my stomach is 90% better then one week ago.
An old man of 75 years past told me that he had a daughter that was worse then I was, and someone told her to use cayenne pepper freely at every meal, and it cured her. So I tried it and it has worked wonders so far.
Well Billie I am thinking of buying an electric belt for us as soon as I can spare the money. They are very highly spoken of out here.
Well good bye,
This from your father,
Henry Sherman
P.S. Mr. Ellis's folks are all well as common.
Notes to letter 30
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington January 20, 1896
My Dear Boy,
I am well both bodily and spiritually. I got a money order for you tonight for $9. I will try to see the druggest tomorrow night. Ellis did not say one word to me about your letter. Look for something to do in Buckley. If you don't find anything, study your school books. Tell uncle Bill I wrote brother White and he had better wait too, but don't write to Ellis anymore. I will do what I can to help you. Don't be discouraged.
From your father,
Henry Sherman
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Notes to letter 31: This is the last of the letters from Henry to Billie in the 19th century that anyone knows of. The next time we hear from Henry, he is living in Everett, Washington which is about 30 miles north of Seattle. Back then it was a little city that had streets that were made of planks. As the family story goes; Billie eventually gets a job in a saw mill somewhere in Washington. He works there for awhile and then eventually meets his father in Everett where there was supposed to be a saw mill where he can get a job. When Billie made it up to Everett the Mill where he was to seek employment burnt down. They didn't know what to do. They were sitting infront of a store wondering what they were going to do when a captain of a ship overheard them and told them that there was work over in the little town of Coupeville on an island called Whidby on the other side of the Puget Sound opposite of Everett. They decided to go on that tip and went to Coupeville where Billie first got a job digging potatoes, then later worked at a saw mill that was in that little city. He met his wife, the former Lottie Black. They were married sometime in 1900, and they produced 10 children and he lived there til he died in the early 1960's.
2125 Yakima Avenue Tacoma, Washington January 24, 1896
My Dear Boy,
Will try to send you the box tomorrow eve by express. The druggist says you must not expect to be cured in a few days in what has been years in bringing it onto yourself, but you must have patience. This medicine will certainly cure you so be very careful about in any way exciting yourself in a neighborhood of trouble.
So, good night,
Your father,
Henry Sherman
Notes to letter 32: It seems evident that Henry did live over on the island for awhile with his son, and now he has moved back to Everett where he is living with his brother who has probably now has gotten a job with the city of Everett.
Everett, Washington November 8, 1900
Dear Billie and Lottie,
After going to the warf a number of times, and with your uncle Bill once, still my things have not arrived and I am needing them so much. Have you shipped them? I do not like wearing my best clothes every day. If you haven't forwarded them I wish you would write me at once so that if they have been shipped I may take steps to determine where they are.
I bought some springs for my bed here in town and they are just like yours, brand new from Furniture Establishment priced $2.50. Things are very lively here in the city. How are you getting along? Nicely I hope. I saw Mr. Hedge that used to live in Buckley today. He is in the locating business putting men into homesteads and timber lands. He is going west of the Olympic Mountains pretty soon. Your uncle Bill is well as usual. I am the same old stick. So hoping this finds you both well.
I am with love and best wishes,
Your father,
Henry Sherman
Notes to letter 33:
Everett, Washington November 10, 1900
Dear Billie,
Please send them Barred Plymouth Rock Cockerals. I think there is six of them. I mean the largest and best ones. Get a box, something like eighteen inches high and as wide and 2 and a half feet in length will be alright. I have engaged one already at $2, and your uncle Bill wants one. I will sell the others alright I think. Write me a note the day you ship. This is hoping you are all well and doing well and that I shall recieve word today that you have shipped my things.
I remain as ever your father,
Henry Sherman
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Notes to letter 34: When I lived in Everett I went in search of this address on Everett Avenue. It's a little old house next to a corner store. It could possibly be the house that Bill and Henry Sherman lived in. It looks like it is pretty old.
3003 Everett Avenue Everett, Washington February 27, 1901
Dear Billie and Lottie,
I thought I would write you a few lines. I am feeling pretty delicate these days but I think I will be better perhaps when the weather gets warmer. Uncle Bill is quite well. I wrote Captain Clapp to put all second class mail addressed to me into your box hereafter so you can open it, and if you should find anything you think would be worth keeping you can save it for me and sometime I may happen around and get it. I recieved a letter from your grandpa and he says Al Carter has sold out and I suppose ere this is in this state, and a number of others of his neighborhood have come to this state.
Ell quit his job running on the Wabash at Stanbury, Missouri and has gone to Oklahoma and is running some road there. Gene is still at Atchison running on the Rock Island Railroad. Coon and Tom are still at Stanbury running on Wabash. Your grandpa and grandma are feeling fairly well for old folks. Abb is still out of a job and I guess always will be. He is too old.
I recieved a letter from Rosie. They are quite well. Walter met with an accident last August in the coal mine while running an electric motor. His right leg was so seriously injured that he was laid up for four months. Rosie is teaching music and has six scholars. She also plays the piano on other occasions. There is lots of building going on there.
Bishop Canton will deliver a lecture on conditions in China during the two years time he was there, also while the war was going on. At the opera house Friday night the admission fee was 25 cents. The money recieved will go towards building or completing the new Methodist-Episcopal Church that there hasn't been a nail drove in since the 10th of January. And it is already predicted that it will never be completed by the society as it is now. But that society will be divided into two parts, perhaps three. Of course it may not occur.
Your grandpa says to send them your pictures, especially Lottie's. He wants to see what she looks like. Well, I guess I must close hoping this finds you all ok. So give my respects to friends and write.
This from your father,
Henry Sherman
P.S. Not an egg from the Plymouths yet.
Notes for letter 35: His tone changes a little when he is writing to his daughter-in-law.
3003 Everett Avenue Everett, Washington July 13, 1901
Dear Lottie,
As Billie spoke about being away for a month in his last letter I will address this letter to you. Inclosed you will find a picture of a clock that I have procured from Chicago and have it set up and running nicely, and have it nearly regulated to keep correct time. It weighs 16 pounds including the box that it was shipped in. It is pronounced 'real pretty' by several and I think it would not only be an ornament to any house but it will be useful as well. It has a cathedral gong, and it has a nice tone, and it is an eight day time piece and it is my present to you and Billie.
I have been thinking that perhaps I better keep it here til I can either send it over in care of some reliable person or better perhaps bring it over myself when I come in September. That is if nothing interfers.
Our weather is simply delightful. I took a big walk yesterday around by the Rice Lumber Company's mill and rode home on the street car from near the smelter. William is again working on the sewers. Today is the seventh day he gets twenty five cents per dozen for eggs and I think they will soon be thirty cents. How is your chickens doing? but I must close for this time hoping these times find you doing well. So with many respects to you both and all my friends.
I am most repectfully yours,
Henry Sherman
My conclusion to the letters of Henry Sherman to his son:
Neccesity dictates that Henry must have a job to earn some money to keep himself going and to provide for his son who he brought to the state of Washington from Colorado. The money he gets from working suppliments the pension he gets from the government when he became partially disabled from a blast from a cannon ball that landed near him that ruined his liver while he was engaged in a battle in the Civil War. His son Billie has to go to school so he lives with his uncle Bill who possibly has permanent employment in the town of Buckley. Henry lives in boarding houses which are not permenant places to live. Just places to live as long as you are able to keep your job. Henry gets an itchy foot while working at a railroad yard in Tacoma. He hears of land given by the government to anyone who can settle it, so he wants to give it a try. He has done this before in Iowa but he got a job with the roalroad and that keeps him on the constant move. Perhaps friends persuaded him to pursue this claim, and the opportunity comes, and he's tired of his job anyway so he goes with Streater and his son over to Queets on the Olympic Peninsula and starts developing some land. He works on it a short time. From the diary it looks like he is living with Streater while working on his land getting his own house built. Then Streater's house burns down. Streater loses everything. Henry leaves his claim. He first starts out for Seattle, but then ends up in Tacoma. The letters end and then it is four years before another letter appears in the year 1900. It was Billie who saved these letters all through the years. Uncle Wilbur, one of his son's, found them along with a lot of other things in the barn at his father's place. He took all the stuff that was there including all of Henry's things when they tore the barn down. Nobody else wanted them or was interested in them. Years ago when I was looking into family history Wilbur let me borrow Henry's diaries and letters long enough to copy then down. Since I had taken part in a war I was interested in some of my grandfaters who had also fought in wars. Come to find out I know of 6 grandfathers of mine that fought in the civil war. But there is more information and writing from Henry Sherman then any of them.
This is a picture of William Sherman when he was about 80 years old.
The state of Henry Sherman's health just before he died:
In the end he had heart disease.
Walking up stairs or any incline caused shortness of breath.
Serious palpitations of the heart with much distress at times nearly every day.
He had cold feet and hands.
He could not lay on his left side on account of a smothering feeling in the region of his heart, and an extremely exhausted feeling.
Frequently his stomach was in great distress.
He was unfit to be out of doors except when the weather was mild, sunshiny and pleasant.
He was totally unfit to perform manual labor and it was not safe to leave him by himself for too long of a time.
He had lived at his brother's house for 14 months up to January 1st 1902, and had lived there altogether for three years.
Henry died and went to be with the Lord on May 16, 1902
I remember my great grandfather, William Sherman to be a man of gusto. I remember his personality took over the whole room when he was telling stories. I was so young I don't remember what he was talking about, but I felt his lust for life and enthusiasm, his laughter, his humor and magnetic presence. It made a lasting impression on me.
posted by THE REAL MIKE BAILEY at 12:28 AM
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