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Hannah Hurnard family letters

 Collection — othertype: SC-062
Identifier: SFHL-SC-062

Abstract

This collection includes the correspondence of Hannah Hurnard and her family, written between Essex, England, and Wilmington, Delaware. The letters document the family's emigration to America, their struggles adapting to life there, and finally their return to England. Letters between Hannah and her sister, Elizabeth Clark, share family and local news. Letters from Mary Thresher relate the activities of Quaker ministers, including Stephen Grellet, Jesse Kersey, and Nathan Hunt. The letters reflect opinions on contemporary events in English politics. Letters from American friends relate the growing division in the Society sparked by the teachings of Elias Hicks. Deborah Bringhurst, a Wilmington Hicksite, gives a detailed account of events surrounding the Separation. Robert Hurnard condemns her position. Letters from George Fennell to his family in England, relate details of his emigration to North Carolina, and his observations on the American south.

Dates

  • Creation: 1804-1836

Creator

Restrictions on Access

This collection is available for research use.

Biographical / Historical

Hannah Hurnard was an English Quaker. Born around 1778, she was the daughter of John and Hannah Clark. She was married to Robert Hurnard at Coggeshall Monthly Meeting in 1800. They emigrated to Wilmington, De., with their children, but eventually returned to England. Hannah Hurnard died in Essex, England, in 1835.

Extent

.1 linear ft. (.1 linear feet (17 folders.))

Language of Materials

English

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Source of acquisition--the Friends Historical Association. Method of acquisition--Gift of; Date of acquisition--1948.

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Source of acquisition--the Rendells,Inc. Method of acquisition--Purchased from; Date of acquisition--1980.

Description rules
Archives, Personal Papers, And Manuscripts (Appm)
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin

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