Gilpin, Sarah Lydia, 1802-1894 [Diaries and journals of Sarah Lydia Gilpin] [word processed inventory available]

Diary of a woman who was a close friend of Sophie Du Pont. Writings span with gaps, 1820-21, 1863-72, 1874-75, 1879. Diaries are written from Wilmington, Delaware and New York City. The author of the later diaries corresponded with Admiral S.F. Du Pont, among other people. Usual topics include household events, weather, her reading, church meetings, family, financial and parties. Noteworthy topics include the Battle of Gettysburg, Lincoln Assassination, aid for free blacks. Abolition sentiment is evident in a 21 January 1865 entry "brought an appeal for aid for the poor negroes liberated by Sherman who are suffering in great need of everything. It is a gigantic undertaking but the North ought to do it or giving them freedom is a farce." There is a brief but moving description of national shock and mourning after learning of Lincoln's assassination which fills several pages. (Believed by previous owner to be members of the famous Delaware Du Pont family)

GLC#
GLC06846
Type
Header Record
Date
1820-1879
Author/Creator
Gilpin, Sarah Lydia, 1802-1894
Title
[Diaries and journals of Sarah Lydia Gilpin] [word processed inventory available]
Place Written
Various Places
Pagination
13 diaries
Primary time period
National Expansion and Reform, 1815-1860
Sub-Era
The First Age of Reform