Correspondence

File — Box: 4, Folder: 4

Identifier: II

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

1869; Thatcher, Luna Young, to George W. Thatcher
This folder is a continuation of Luna Young Thatcher's letters written to her husband George, who is still working at the "Head of Echo." They contain daily family news and information. Again she tells of moving and yearns for a home of their own. Hopes his work at Echo will soon be completed and looks for that day as she says, "I miss you more every time you leave home." She pleads with him not to criticize her letters constantly for she realizes her letters have faults, as the writer does, "but it bares you as true and tender a love as a wife ever gave to her husband." He is informed of the death of her sister Alice's baby and of her efforts to help Alice in her time of sorrow. Longs for the time when he can return home and stay, noting that it will be like the days gone by, except that now he will have to divide his time, but that will be better than seeing him only once a month.
Later letters are written to George in Logan where his parents are located. He is evidently preparing a place for them to live. She feels more secure in his love for her, as he has reassured her that his tenderness and love are as great as hers. Explaining her finances to him she prays he will not think her too extravagent when a heavy silk sacque is purchased for $15.00. On May 10, 1869, she notes a holiday in Salt Lake City, as the flags are hung and the cannons fired--a day of rejoicing. She lives by her mother Mary Ann Angell Young and tells of being out of wood to burn and having to borrow from her mother. When he had been gone a week and she had not received a letter she was worried because "there are so many rough, wicked characters on the way to Logan." The greatest portion of her letters is devoted to telling him of her great love for him and the longing she has to be with him as a family again. July 10, 1869, finds Luna in Logan writing to George, who is probably in Salt Lake, inviting him to visit her and bring Fanny, as she would enjoy the trip. She also asks him to purchase a dress, paper and envelopes, cocaine, and preserves for her in the city. May 10, 1870, she writes to him in New York where he has traveled with his parents, again expressing her love and her misery at his absence. The children are often ill. At one time she mentions being invited to her father's (Brigham Young) birthday party at the Lion House. All his wives and his oldest children were invited and she felt rather honored to be included. She is concerned about George's poor health and wonders if he will be gone longer than two months. There are little jealousies that creep into her writing concerning Fanny, as she wants to be assured she is first in his affections. At one time she notes she had not received a letter, but Fanny did.

Dates

1836-1968

Conditions Governing Access

Twenty-four hour advanced notice encouraged. Materials must be used on-site. Access to parts of this collection may be restricted under provisions of state or federal law.