Elmer, Ebenezer (1752-1843) to Hannah Seeley.
High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.
Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01450.165.02 Author/Creator: Elmer, Ebenezer (1752-1843) Place Written: New Jersey Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 12 May 1783 Pagination: 2 p. ; 20.5 x 16.5 cm. Order a Copy
Speaks of his desire to return to a peaceful life now that the war is over. "As we have now happily terminated a war which has raged for eight full years with every species of Horror, I contemplate the speedy return to the peaceful paths of domestic life with the greatet pleasure. To change the fatigues difficulties& dangers of a military life for the comfort & conveniences of peace must tast truly sweet to a [] susceptible of true satisfaction. Shall I be so fortunate as to exchange the wild banner of Mars for the mild bands of Hymen I may be blessed indeed." Speaks of his love for her. Mars was the Roman god of war, and Hymen the god of marriage. Written from "Camp Jersey." Address has been lost, but letter is almost certainly to his soon to be wife Hannah Seeley.
Citation Guidelines for Online Resources
The copyright law of the United States (title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specific conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research.” If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use,” that user may be liable for copyright infringement. This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if, in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of copyright law.