Box 11

Two letters from John Wilbur (1774-1856) of Hopkinton, Rhode Island. He was a Quaker minister who objected to the evangelical focus promoted by John Joseph Gurney and other London Friends which led to a separation in New England Yearly Meeting in 1845. Wilbur acknowledged the Howlands' support for him and the new yearly meeting. The 1847 letter mentioned that Noah Winslow had written to him with an account of his disownment.

Business concerns and he also remarked on the Ohio Yearly Meeting which William Hills had attended. He mentioned the Gurneyite influence and Thomas B. Gould, John Wilbur. Swansea Meeting (Wilburite), Fall River, Massachusetts. (1806-1871)

The letters focus on business concerns, then remarks on Quaker Wilburites and Gurneyites as reported in London and Philadelphia Friend. The second letter gave lengthy description of New England Yearly Meeting (Wilburite) which was well attended and approved an Epistle concerning the Separation to be printed.

Two letters that discuss business and mention Quaker concerns

The correspondence concerned their investment to build a merchant vessel, Abeona. In letters of 9 month 1847, Hill expressed his desire to invest and in October assigned Howland to serve as his attorney

Most of the correspondence concerned their partnership in the barque Abeona. They hired Captain Read and negotiated with insurance company in New York. Also insurance claim regarding leather in Boston and damage to ship when it arrived in New York in September. Occasional family and remarks about Quaker meetings, especially the Separation in Ohio.

Insurance claims and comments on the document prepared on the Separation in the New England Yearly Meeting; they maintained that the larger Gurneyite group had separated from the conservative members.

Family update from his mother including progress on the new house. Addendum by his sister Susanna

Letter to his sister and brother-in-law regarding dividends to be paid

Condolences on the death of her husband, David P. Howland