Box 3

After the death of their mother, Rebecca was sent to live in Byberry with Hannah Thornton and Ruth Cadwallader, and Mordecai was in East Bradford with his uncle. The letter includes family information about brother Israel (born 1792), notes that infant Benjamin (born 1794) is cutting a molar. The children were living in different family households.

The earliest letter was written from Westtown to his step-brother, James Thornton. Other letters were to sisters Rebecca and Hannah. His letters to his little sister, Hannah Yarnall (1797-1876), gave advice on books. In the letter written 3 month 10, 1798, to Rebecca soon after the death of their father, Mordecai asked for details about the final days.

Letters to her step-mother and brother, written from Westtown

Mordecai informed his sister that arrangements have been accomplished for her to live with the Wrights. William and Deborah Wright, residents of Columbia, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, who were active in the Underground Railroad.

Correspondence largely with his sister, Rebecca, and Martha Houston. Mordecai Yarnall visited Lancaster County and became acquainted with Martha Houston with whom he engaged in an active correspondence until her marriage in 1806, much on literary topics. She was the daughter of Dr. John Houston and Susanna Wright Houston of Columbia, Lancaster County. She married Joseph Mifflin under the care of Sadsbury Monthly Meeting in 1806. Another close friend was Lloyd Mifflin.

Correspondence sent and received, most from Martha Houston.

Correspondence sent and received, most with Martha Houston.

Correspondence sent and received, most from Mordecai with Martha Houston and sister Rebecca. Also Rebecca writing from Laurentum to her mother in Philadelphia.

Correspondence sent and received, most with Martha Houston. Also his friend Lloyd Mifflin.

Correspondence sent and received, most with Martha Houston