April 16, 1865

April 16, 1865

Letter from Sarah E. Andrews to James A. Andrews, April 16, 1865
Hudson, Wis. April 16th, [1865]

No. 71

Dear Brother Jimmie,

A week ago today I wrote you that it was a day of rejoicing over victories achieved. Today that joy is turned to sorrow. Last night the news reached us that Lincoln had been assasinated.

Today in church while they were singing the second time someone handed Mr. K[e]eley a paper announcing the death of Lincoln and Seward. It was the first the congregation had heard of their death. All had hoped they might live. I don't think there was a dry eye in the church when he read it. His feelings so overcame him he asked to be excused from preaching this morning. After a short prayer the congregation were dismissed. It has cast a gloom over the entire north. All have felt the shock. I had hoped our difficulties were about to be settled, but now hope has almost died. When, yes, when will this war cease? God only knows. I hope our Vice President [Andrew Johnson] will be competent to fill the vacancy. He will be in favor of hanging the traitors. I have thought it would be hardly right to do so; but I think I have changed my mind somewhat within the last twenty four hours.
[p. 55]

For once in a life time we were ready for church in the morning long before it was time. I got ready and sat down and commenced a letter to Charlie while waiting for the minute hand of the clock to point at half past ten. Emory has just been in. He came over after Ada. She has been over since Thursday.

She and Lib went to Catholic church today. It is Easter Sunday. Nellie [Chambers] is going to commence attending school tomorrow. She is very much pleased. She will probably be quite an accomplished young lady when you come home. She is going to that Mrs. Watson that lives up near Mr. [H. L.] Humphreys. She sends her love to you.

I am not in a writing mood today, so I hope you will excuse a partly-filled sheet. Write soon and often to your much attached sister,

Sarah E. Andrews

Mother thinks if you have not got your socks and wrapper you had better send to Nashville and if they are there have them sent to you.