Peggy Bradfute to Sarah Tate Steptoe Massie, August 1820

[Peggy Bradfute [probably at or near New London, Virginia], to Sarah Tate Steptoe Massie at Pharsalia, [Nelson County, Virginia,] undated, but by contents, August 1820. Conveyed "by Robin." Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.]

Dear Sarah

I have made the best choice for you I could they are not exactly like yours though I think handsomer & the best glass I could get except the cut glass which was 3d & a half per dozen.

[Y]ou will receive by Robin 4 dollars; we arrived safe & in good time & found all well.

I am sorry to inform you that Sally Harris is no more she took the fever[?] at[?] Major Read's & survived but a few days; her Mother is expected to die was there ever such affliction; let us all prepare to meet our judge for we know not when the summons may come.

N.B. your Brother James & Lady have gown [gone] to the springs for the health of their Child.

in haste ten o'clock farewell Peggy Bradfute 

[Sarah = Sarah “Sally” Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828), who married William Massie (1795-1862) in 1814.

Peggy Bradfute = Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute (circa 1788-1833), a daughter of Robert Bradfute (1749-1816). Grace Bradfute (circa 1792-1855) was one of her sisters. Davidson Bradfute (1781-1831), one of Peggy's brothers, married Maria Byrd (1786-1854) in 1809, and served as Cashier for Farmer's Bank of Lynchburg. Alexander Tompkins (1784-1864) acquired Davidson Bradfute's house, in the vicinity of New London, Virginia, after the latter's death, and was Head Cashier at the same bank. Among these folks would have been possible candidates for portraits by Harvey Mitchell (1799-1866).

Because the Bradfutes keep showing up in letters from this period, here is an additional overview. All years approximate.

Robert Bradfute (1749-1816) from Scotland, married Sarah Irvine (1757-1807).

Their children included: 

Elizabeth Bradfute (1779-1861)
Davidson Bradfute (1781-1831)
Lillias Bradfute (1781-1849)
Archibald Bradfute (1786-1865)
Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute (1788-1833)
Grace Bradfute (1792-1855)
Robert "Bob" Bradfute (1794-1861)
James Hamilton Bradfure (1803-1865).

Major Read's = related to Major John Reid (1784-January 18, 1816), aide-de-camp to Andrew Jackson, born in or near New London, Virginia, then based in Tennessee; and Maria Frances Thompson Reid (died January 1816?). They apparently had a daughter named Sophia Reid. Jack Reid was directly related to Nathan Reid (1753-1830), who had married Sophia Thorpe in 1784. Other Reid family members lived around New London and Lynchburg, Virginia. Jack Reid was working on a biography of Andrew Jackson at the time of his death.

Sally Harris = died on or just before August 15, 1820. Not sure who this is exactly, though.

Your Brother James & Lady = James Callaway Steptoe (1781-1827) and Catherine "Kitty" Mitchell Steptoe (1780-1858). married since 1808. Two known children: Frances Callaway Steptoe (1810-1880) and Edward Dillon Steptoe (1811-1854). 

Robin = courier, mentioned in other letters.]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration

Mary Morris Johnston to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, September 8, 1820

[Mary Morris Johnston at Botetourt [Springs], Virginia, to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia, Rose Mills,] Nelson, Virginia, September 8, 1820. Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.]

                                                        Botetourt Sep. 8th 1820

My Dear Aunt

I received your letter two weeks ago but have not been able to answer it sooner. Papa has got a lady to come and stay with him Miss Nancy Butler his cousin in Petersburg she is an aged woman.

We expected Mrs. Mead but Mr. Mead has been up and they have not come to any terms. I have not heard from Aunt Frances or Aunt Lucy since we came up.

I expect it will be a long time before we go to New London again.

I suppose Thomas can talk very plain now.

Aunt Kitty has been up once and she staid a week and went to the sulphur spring every day, we have had a good deal of company there.

You must write sometimes to let us know how all do down your way.

Give my love to Mr. M and Tom.

We are all well.

I remain yours affectionately
                          
                                                              Mary M. Johnston

[Mary Morris Johnston (February 23, 1810-August 18, 1884). She was ten years old when she wrote this letter. Daughter of Charles Johnston and Elizabeth Prentiss Steptoe Johnston (who died earlier in the year) listed below.

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of James Steptoe (1750-1826). Their son Thomas "Tommo" James Massie (1817-1877) was born on March 23, 1817.There is a massive Massie collection at the University of Texas here.

Papa = because of the Panic of 1819, Charles Johnston (1769-1833) had to sell Sandusky in Lynchburg; the Johnstons relocated from Lynchburg to Botetourt Springs in late 1819, early 1820. Elizabeth Prentiss Steptoe Johnston (1783-March 28, 1820): the Panic of 1819 and abrupt relocation away from Sandusky seem to have broken her spirit and led to an early death.

Miss Nancy Butler = not sure who this is, but Charles Johnston's mother was a Butler = Martha Butler (1732-1799), widow of Thomas Rogers, daughter of John Butler. John Butler may have had a son, who in turn became Nancy Butler's father. 

Mrs. Mead and Mr. Mead = not sure who they are.

Aunt Frances = Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry "Harry" Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816.

Aunt Lucy =  Lucinda "Lucy" Steptoe Penn (1795-1878), married to Robert "Bob" Cowan Penn (1789-1856).

Aunt Kitty = possibly Catherine Mitchell Steptoe (1780-1858), spouse of James Callaway Steptoe (1781-1827). 

Sulphur Spring = one of two springs at Botetourt Springs. The main tract was originally named Sulphur Spring.]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]   

Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, August 20, 1820

Federal Hill, near New London, Virginia. Virginia Department of Historic Resources

[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne at Federal Hill, Virginia, to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia, Rose Mills,] Nelson, Virginia, August 20, 1820. Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.]

                                                               Federal Hill August 20th 1820
Dear Sally

I locked your things in a trunk with my keys and I have no one, who I could trust to get them. I am in hopes Mr. Langhorne will be home in a few days and I will send them by the first chance.

I wish you would come up and stay with us whilst they are painting your house, and I will try and do down with you, Papa seems to be very anxious [about?] you. I think it would be much the best plan for you to come up and stay with us.

Lucy and little Bob are quite well. Miss Peggy is chock full of Nelson and what she saw. Mrs. Byrd was quite charmed with her visit. 

Tom has gotten home and is very much mended. Papa is much weaker than Tom, Papa and myself were very busy fixing to go over after Tom  we were to set off to day, but he took us quite by surprise and came down with sister Kitty Thursday, he says Mr. Johnston us the stingiest man on earth; what do you think of his having a large company[?]

The Miss Marx [?] and I can't tell you who and having nothing but pancakes for a des[s]ert.

It seems confirmed that Polly Irvine and Mr. Montgomery are to be married he goes to the Captain's and stays two or three days at a time, I sent to her last week to come to Papa, she has not been yet; if Papa did not intend going to Liberty to day in our gigg I would go over and see Betsy and them all and try and find it out.

Every body seems to be anxious to know who will buy the grove [The Grove] it is thought Boden of Williamsburg will try and get it.

Hannah is now bringing in breakfast; and I must bid a farewell tho not without tel[l]ing you we shall look for you up very soon do c[ome] up and stay until your house is dry.

                                           your affectionate Sister
                                                  F. Langhorne

PS They are all getting better at Major Reid's Cate is riding out but they boys can't sit up the old man was taken day before yesterday.  F. L.


[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry "Harry" Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816. Their son John "Jack" Scarsbrook Langhorne (1817-1896) was born on June 1, 1817 (in later years, sometimes changed to 1818 or 1819). Their son William Maurice “Wee” aka "Billy" Langhorne (1818-1900) was born on June 30, 1818.

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of James Steptoe (1750-1826). Their son Thomas "Tommo" James Massie (1817-1877) was born on March 23, 1817.There is a massive Massie collection at the University of Texas here.

Papa = James Steptoe (1750-1826).

Lucy = Lucinda "Lucy" Steptoe Penn (1795-1878), married to Robert "Bob" Cowan Penn (1789-1856). Lafayette ("little Bob") Penn was born on August 6, 1820 (and died in 1840).

Miss Peggy = Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute (circa 1788-1833), a daughter of Robert Bradfute (1749-1816). Grace Bradfute (circa 1792-1855) was one of her sisters. Davidson Bradfute (1781-1831), one of Peggy's brothers, married Maria Byrd (1786-1854) in 1809, and served as Cashier for Farmer's Bank of Lynchburg. Alexander Tompkins (1784-1864) acquired Davidson Bradfute's house, in the vicinity of New London, Virginia, after the latter's death, and was Head Cashier at the same bank. Among these folks would have been possible candidates for portraits by Harvey Mitchell (1799-1866).

Mrs. Byrd = mentioned in other letters around this time, but not sure who she is. 

Tom = Thomas Eskridge Steptoe (1799-1880).

Sister Kitty = there had been a Kitty Steptoe (1789-1790), but unless she was a traveling ghost at the time of this letter, this is more likely a reference to Catherine Callaway Langhorne (1792-1871), spouse of William Callaway Langhorne (1783-1853), or Catherine Mitchell Steptoe (1780-1858), spouse of James Callaway Steptoe (1781-1827). 

Mr. Johnston = because of the Panic of 1819, Charles Johnston (1769-1833) had to sell Sandusky in Lynchburg; the Johnstons relocated from Lynchburg to Botetourt Springs in late 1819, early 1820. Elizabeth Prentiss Steptoe Johnston (1783-March 28, 1820): the Panic of 1819 and abrupt relocation away from Sandusky seem to have broken her spirit and led to an early death.

Miss Marx = not sure who this is. 

Polly Irvine = possibly Mary B. Irvine, who married Dr. Paul C. Cabell in 1823.

Mr. Montgomery = not sure who this is.

The Captain's = either William Manning Mitchell (1774-June 12, 1824) or, perhaps, an Irvine. 

Betsy = possibly Elizabeth "Betsy" Cowan Irvine (1790-1862), who married John Watts Scott (1790-1850) in 1816 or 1819. Apparently a sister of Polly Irvine's.

The Grove = close to New London, Virginia.

Mr. Boden of Williamsburg = not sure who this is. 

Hannah = probably an enslaved servant. 

Major Reid's = related to Major John Reid (1784-January 18, 1816), aide-de-camp to Andrew Jackson, born in or near New London, Virginia, then based in Tennessee; and Maria Frances Thompson Reid (died January 1816?). They apparently had a daughter named Sophia Reid. Jack Reid was directly related to Nathan Reid (1753-1830), who had married Sophia Thorpe in 1784. Other Reid family members lived around New London and Lynchburg, Virginia. Jack Reid was working on a biography of Andrew Jackson at the time of his death.

Cate = mentioned in other letters around this time. Not sure who she is, though.]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]   

Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, August 16, 1820

[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne at Cottage, Lynchburg, Virginia, to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia,] Rose Mills, Nelson, Virginia, August 16 [or 17], 1820. Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.]

                                                                            Cottage August 16th 1820
My dear Sally

Ben has just gotten down from Mr. Johnston's with a letter from brother Billy Tom is much better and walks to breakfast and dinner.

Papa will go up next week, Tom wishes to go to the Sweet springs.

Lucy is going on very well but craves some of your whiskey too much.

I hope you will come up as soon as Tom and Papa return; Papa wishes me to go over with him but I don't know how it will be I had concluded to go until Tom desired to go on to the springs but I believe I shall now decline it.

It was at Major Read's the day before yesterday they were mending very fast except Nathan, who I fear never will mend, we hea[r]d last night of the death of Sally Harris, she nursed Cate like a child and no doubt fatiegued [fatigued] herself to death.

                                           Your ever affectionate Sister
                                                  F. Langhorne

[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry "Harry" Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816. Their son John "Jack" Scarsbrook Langhorne (1817-1896) was born on June 1, 1817 (in later years, sometimes changed to 1818 or 1819). Their son William Maurice “Wee” aka "Billy" Langhorne (1818-1900) was born on June 30, 1818.

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of James Steptoe (1750-1826). Their son Thomas "Tommo" James Massie (1817-1877) was born on March 23, 1817.There is a massive Massie collection at the University of Texas here.

Ben = not sure who this is. 

Mr. Johnston = because of the Panic of 1819, Charles Johnston (1769-1833) had to sell Sandusky in Lynchburg; the Johnstons relocated from Lynchburg to Botetourt Springs in late 1819, early 1820. Elizabeth Prentiss Steptoe Johnston (1783-March 28, 1820): the Panic of 1819 and abrupt relocation away from Sandusky seem to have broken her spirits and led to an early death.

Papa = James Steptoe (1750-1826).

Brother Billy = William Callaway Langhorne (1783-1858), who was married to Catherine Callaway Langhorne (1792-1871).

Tom = Thomas Eskridge Steptoe (1799-1880).

Lucy = Lucinda "Lucy" Steptoe Penn (1795-1878), married to Robert "Bob" Cowan Penn (1789-1856). Lafayette Penn was born on August 6, 1820 (and died in 1840).

Major Read's = related to Major John Reid (1784-January 18, 1816), aide-de-camp to Andrew Jackson, born in or near New London, Virginia, then based in Tennessee; and Maria Frances Thompson Reid (died January 1816?). They apparently had a daughter named Sophia Reid. Jack Reid was directly related to Nathan Reid (1753-1830), who had married Sophia Thorpe in 1784. Other Reid family members lived around New London and Lynchburg, Virginia. Jack Reid was working on a biography of Andrew Jackson at the time of his death.

Sally Harris (died 1820) = not sure who this is. 

Cate = mentioned in other letters around this time. Not sure who she is, though.]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]   

Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, August 6, 1820

[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne at Oakly, Lynchburg, Virginia, to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia,] Rose Mills, Nelson, Virginia, August 6, 1820. Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.]

                                                                            Oakly August 6th 1820
My dear Sally

Papa came down yesterday and left Tom excessively ill, he says he came to get brother Billy to go over immediately; but I fear Sally that is only an excuse, could my dear old Father witness the dying groans of his son, for such I fear will be the case from all accounts, in my letter to papa I mentioned to him I would go over with Mr. Langhorne but on Lucy's account, poor Tom saw my letter and write me a little scroll to be sure and come, for I knew not how much he wanted me, he then gave it to Billy and made him promise him; not to let any one see it he said he was suffering for a great many things, no female in the house the children never going near him and Mr. Johnston rarely seeing him, Papa's leaving him, all combined must make him feel dreadfully.

Charlotte Mitchell came down with Papa, she went over to Lucy's last night and this morning she had to get up by times and run over to Papa's. Lucy was in labour and sent her word to go, distress of mind has produced it sooner than it otherwise would have been Charlotte said.

Papa was very much distressed and said if Tom died he did not know what he should do.

Papa says he is going back in two or three weeks unless Tom gets better he will hardly do so I expect, [t]hey are all getting better at Major Reid's Doctor Reid was their [there] yesterday.

There was a fight in town last evening between Capt. Mitchell and Mr. Dudley; Dudley taking up the cudgels for Friend Davis the Capt. got very much worsted broke one of his fingers and cut his head most dreadfully that Capt had nothing to defend himself with and Dudley had; they say Dudl[e]y was not much worsted. 

Mr. Langhorne has gone to town. I can't decide upon going until he returns. Billy says Papa don't want me to go over but he knew nothing of Tom's letter if he had seen that he would be anxious for me to go, Mr. L goes to the Springs tomorrow week.


Tell Mrs. Byrd I saw Mrs. Bradfute yesterday they were all well.

                                           Your affectionate sister
                                                  F. Langhorne

[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry "Harry" Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816. Their son John "Jack" Scarsbrook Langhorne (1817-1896) was born on June 1, 1817 (in later years, sometimes changed to 1818 or 1819). Their son William Maurice “Wee” aka "Billy" Langhorne (1818-1900) was born on June 30, 1818.

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of James Steptoe (1750-1826). Their son Thomas "Tommo" James Massie (1817-1877) was born on March 23, 1817.There is a massive Massie collection at the University of Texas here.

Mr. Johnston = because of the Panic of 1819, Charles Johnston (1769-1833) had to sell Sandusky in Lynchburg; the Johnstons relocated from Lynchburg to Botetourt Springs in late 1819, early 1820. Elizabeth Prentiss Steptoe Johnston (1783-March 28, 1820): the Panic of 1819 and abrupt relocation away from Sandusky seem to have broken her spirits and led to an early death.

Papa = James Steptoe (1750-1826).

Brother Billy = William Callaway Langhorne (1783-1858), who was married to Catherine Callaway Langhorne (1792-1871).

Lucy = Lucinda "Lucy" Steptoe Penn (1795-1878), married to Robert "Bob" Cowan Penn (1789-1856). Lafayette Penn was born on August 6, 1820 (and died in 1840).

Tom = Thomas Eskridge Steptoe (1799-1880).

Charlotte Mitchell = probably Charlotte Claytor Mitchell (1803-1888), daughter of Samuel Mitchell (1759-1835) and Margaret "Peggy" Claytor Mitchell (1773-1835). 

Major Reid, Dr. Reid = Probably related to Major John Reid (1784-January 18, 1816), aide-de-camp to Andrew Jackson, born in or near New London, Virginia, then based in Tennessee; and Maria Frances Thompson Reid (died January 1816?). They apparently had a daughter named Sophia Reid. Jack Reid was directly related to Nathan Reid (1753-1830), who had married Sophia Thorpe in 1784. Other Reid family members lived around New London and Lynchburg, Virginia. Jack Reid was working on a biography of Andrew Jackson at the time of his death.  

Captain Mitchell = probably William Manning Mitchell (1774-June 12, 1824).

Mr. Dudley  and Friend Davis = there is a reference to a later duel in Lynchburg featuring William M. Davis with John W. Dudley, his second, against William M. Lambert. Another duel pitted Henry Langhorne against Samuel Wiatt. See W. Asbury Christian, LYNCHBURG and ITS PEOPLE (Lynchburg: J. P . Bell Company, Printers, 1900), pages 116-117. 


James Callaway Steptoe (1781-1827) was married to Catherine Mitchell (1780-1858).

Mrs. Byrd = probably related to  Nancy Anne Byrd (1784-), who would marry James T. Wright on January 27, 1821. 

Bradfutes. Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute (circa 1788-1833), a daughter of Robert Bradfute (1749-1816); Grace Bradfute (circa 1792-1855) was one of her sisters. Davidson Bradfute (1781-1831), one of Peggy's brothers, married Maria Byrd (1786-1854) in 1809, and served as Cashier for Farmer's Bank of Lynchburg. Alexander Tompkins (1784-1864) acquired Davidson Bradfute's house, in the vicinity of New London, Virginia, after the latter's death, and was Head Cashier at the same bank. Among these folks would have been possible candidates for portraits by Harvey Mitchell (1799-1866).]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]   

Lucinda “Lucy” Steptoe Penn to Sarah “Sally” Tate Steptoe Massie, May 17, 1820

[Lucinda “Lucy” Steptoe Penn [near Lynchburg, Virginia], to Sarah “Sally” Tate Steptoe Massie at Pharsalia, Nelson County, Virginia, May 17, 1820, conveyed “by Uncle George.” Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.]

                                                                       May 17, 1820

Dear Sally,

I received the capes by Uncle George for the little girls & shall send them up by Mr. Johnston who is now attending the chancery Court.

Papa is much the same as he was when Tom wrote you perhaps a little better as he thinks he could eat some muffins and has been talking a great deal of old lady's mutton chops. I think his wishing to eat is a proof that he is mending, though very slowly -- he has sit up for the last four or five days and walks about the room occasionally.

    [F]arewell & believe me your affectionate Sister - L. Penn

P.S. I was in Lynchburg about a week ago & could not see any Canton Crape that was nice enough for the children's frocks & their spring goods had not then arrived & I have not heard from Fanny whether she has gotten them or not, but have written her, by Uncle George to send Martha's to you if she has.  L. Penn

[L. Penn = Lucinda “Lucy” Steptoe Penn (1795-1878), who married Robert Cowan Penn (1789-1854) in 1814.

Sally = Sarah “Sally” Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828), who married William Massie (1795-1862) in 1814.

Mr. Johnston = Charles Johnston (1769-1833).

Papa = James Steptoe (1750-1826), residing at Federal Hill.

Tom = Thomas Eskridge Steptoe (1799-1880).

Uncle George = also mentioned in other letters, most possibly George Callaway (1785-1822), a son of James Callaway (1736-1809) by his second wife, Elizabeth Early Callaway (1759-1796). However, "Papa" James Steptoe (1750-1826), Lucy and Sally's father, also had a brother George Steptoe, born in 1748 but, according to vague family trees on Ancestry.com, died in 1802 -- a doctor, apparently.

Old lady = not sure who this is.

Fanny = Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816.

Martha = probably Martha Butler Johnston (1814-1836).]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]   

Lucy Hopkins Johnston Ambler to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, May 16, 1820

[Lucy Hopkins Johnston Ambler at Botetourt [Springs], Virginia, to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia,] "Care of Mr. William Massie Roses Mills Nelson Va.," May 16, 1820. Postmarked Big Lick Va., May 17th, 1820. Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.] 

My dear Sally

Mr. Ambler was unable to get Mr. Meade to come over and

papa has desired me to write and let you know of it as he promised

you he would.

I have been here nearly three weeks. I came with brother Edward as Mr. Ambler was too much engaged to come himself. He has just arrived and we are to set off home the day after to morrow.

O my dear Sally what a shock it was to hear of my dear mother’s death for my friends in Richmond would not let me know how ill she was before the birth of my child and after that they hated to shock me so much.

When brother Edward arrived I had that day received a letter from Frances mentioning mama's danger and it was my intention to have gone over with him as I expected him daily at that time, to see mama as I had no idea but she would live three or four weeks longer.

Whenever I look at her dear children the tears come into my eyes to think of their dreadful loss for what a mother she was to them and us. I am sorry that papa is so unwilling to part with his children as it would be so much to their advantage.

For poor little Martha I feel more uneasiness than the rest. You know what a temper she has and being left to the servants they will alternately indulge and cross her in her wishes and that is enough to ruin the sweetest temper in the world.

Papa talks of get[t]ing a housekeeper and if he should succeed in get[t]ing one the children will be very apt not to let her govern them. I have tried to prevail on papa to let Martha go home with me, but he thinks it too far off.

I wish you Lucy and Frances would try and get him to let her stay with you as much as possible as then he could see her often.

I am very anxious to return by Lynchburg and your house but that will be entirely out of my power as the distance is much greater and besides we have plough horses in the carriage.

I hope the next time I come over that I will be able to spend some time with you all as I shall ever feel attached to all my dear mother’s relations as they have ever given me the greatest proof of attachment.

You were talking a few summers ago of visiting Fauquier and as you generally go some where in the summer I am sure that nothing would give us more pleasure than to see you and Mr. Massie.

Do my dear Sally try and come over at it is only four days ride indeed you could get to our house the fourth day to dinner.

I hope you will write to me soon and direct to Farmville and I shall be punctual in answering your letter.

Remember me to Mr. Massie his Fathers' and brother Toms' family and believe me to be yours affectionately

                                                         LHA

[Checked against a transcript as rendered in Virginia Magazine of History and Biography, Vol. XXIII, No. 2 (April 1915), pages 186-187. 

Lucy Ambler = Lucy Hopkins Johnston (1800-1888) married Thomas Marshall Ambler (1791-1875) on April 14, 1819. Their main abode was "Morven," Fauquier County, Virginia, from about 1820 on. For a link, see here. 

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of James Steptoe (1750-1826). Their son Thomas "Tommo" James Massie (1817-1877) was born on March 23, 1817.There is a massive Massie collection at the University of Texas here.

Mr. Meade = not sure who this is.

Papa = Charles Johnston (1769-1833).

Mother (stepmother) = Elizabeth "Eliza" Prentiss "Betsy" Steptoe Johnston (1783-March 28, 1820). The Panic of 1819 and abrupt relocation away from Sandusky, Lynchburg, to Botetourt Springs seem to have broken her spirits and led to an early death.

Brother Edward = Edward Pickett Johnston (1798-1893).

Frances = Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816. Their son John "Jack" Scarsbrook Langhorne (1817-1896) was born on June 1, 1817 (in later years, sometimes changed to 1818 or 1819). Their son William Maurice “Wee” aka "Billy" Langhorne (1818-1900) was born on June 30, 1818.

My child = Lucy Letitia Ambler (January 29, 1820-1853), 

Poor little Martha = Martha Butler Johnston (1814-1836).

Lucy = Lucy = Lucinda "Lucy" Steptoe Penn (1795-1878), married to Robert "Bob" Cowan Penn (1789-1856).

His father = Thomas Massie I (1747-1834), married to Sarah Cocke Massie (1760-1838).

His brother Tom = Thomas Massie II (1782-1864), married to Lucy Waller Massie (1791-1822).]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]    

Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie, February 23, 1820

[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne at Oakly, Lynchburg, Virginia, to Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie at [Pharsalia,] Nelson, Virginia, February 23, 1817. Massie Family Papers, Virginia Historical Society. This is my rough, annotated transcription from a copy graciously provided by William Myers. Extra paragraph breaks inserted for easier reading.]

                                                                            Oakly February 23 1820
My Dear Sally

I am very sorry you should have been so uneasy about sister Betsy I know the state of your mind must be very disagreeable between doubt and anxiety. I hear from her she has mended considerably Lucy says since she came down; she never has been to see any one yet not ever.

Lucy when Bob and Betsy dined there and Papa sets with her constantly they ride every day 6 or 8 miles.

W Langhorne is here and says he went to Papa's [F]riday to ask them to the forest Saturday and when he got there Papa was out shooting partridges for her, if her cough can ever be removed.

I think she may get over it, she may get better and live a good many years and yet have a cough.

Mr. L has accused me of having the histericks [hysterics] to night Lucy Cousin Betsy Callaway Ann and Betsy left me this evening and I never felt so gloomy in my life we were quite merry yesterday and today we had a sally to town and you never saw people enjoy themself as much in your life Cousin Betsy the topic of laughter Tom William Leftwich Tom Miller and Charles Johnston. 

Papa ordered to wait on her she came down in her gigg and none of them waited on her and when she got there Tom let her get a prodigious fall; she got tired of her gigg and took a seat in Lucy's carriage and sent a great many messages to Papa Mr. Langhorne but Tom and Ann in the gigg Ann has had some pleasant dreams about Tom who knows how that may turn out.

Sally, Bob's wife is butiful [beautiful] and seems to be devoted to him; it looks quite strange to see as handsome a creature love such an ugly fellow; your letter last night created considerable myrth [mirth] Wm Langhorne says you need not try to fool us for it was you who wished to know how Bob liked the fun instead of Mr. Massie to satisfy your curiosity they rise about ten; this morning Mr. Langhorne had the breakfast carried up stairs to them.

Tell Mr. Massie old Cate had her kissing match again. 

Do come up any how if you stay longer than a week, Bob talks of going down in a short time if you do not come up; and I wish to go down with them if you come up perhaps we will go down at any rate Bob will, let us know directly how it is with you; I am quite anxious you should come.

I wish you could have been here yesterday; and indeed all along for we have but one Brother now to marry and I hope we will never see Bob married again.

I suppose you knew Lucy was quite burly again and pleased as punch.

Captain Mitchell's affairs keep Brother James constantly on the pad he is down now. old Ned our old friend N.T. Johnston and Charles are going to keep Bachelor's Hall in a large Brick house of Mr. Johnston's which he got from L. Reeves I shall go down occasional]l]y to drink cyder [cider].

I suppose you heard Lucy had a daughter. Mr. Bradfute is very much reduced. Mrs. Bradfute says he has troubles enough to bring him down to a frame he was so sure of being turned out of office he would not fill his ice house. Miss Peggy and Grace are rolling stones they are in town now, but will not remain there long.

Archy Roberson and his wife dined here yesterday; Betsey is seeking I expect her here in a few days to spend a week: I hope you will not slander her any more Miss Peggy says you fired a pistol at her once; it is now half past ten o'clock Mr. L and his brothers are hurrying me to finish my letter. 

I will male a bargain with you I will write every week to you if you will allow me to write any fashion.

                                           I am your affectionate sister
                                                  F. Langhorne

[Frances "Fanny" Callaway Steptoe Langhorne (1798-1832) married Henry Scarsbrook Langhorne (1790-1854) on March 13, 1816. Their son John "Jack" Scarsbrook Langhorne (1817-1896) was born on June 1, 1817 (in later years, sometimes changed to 1818 or 1819). Their son William Maurice “Wee” aka "Billy" Langhorne (1818-1900) was born on June 30, 1818.

Sarah "Sally" Tate Steptoe Massie (1796-1828) was married to William Massie (1795-1862) and was the daughter of James Steptoe (1750-1826). Their son Thomas "Tommo" James Massie (1817-1877) was born on March 23, 1817.There is a massive Massie collection at the University of Texas here.

Because of the Panic of 1819, Charles Johnston (1769-1833) had to sell Sandusky; the Johnstons relocated from Lynchburg to Botetourt Springs in late 1819, early 1820.

Betsy (also Betsey) = Elizabeth Prentiss Steptoe Johnston (1783-March 28, 1820). The Panic of 1819 and abrupt relocation away from Sandusky seem to have broken her spirits and led to an early death.

Bob and Betsy = Robert "Bob" Callaway Steptoe (1791-1870) and Elizabeth "Betsy" Leftwich Steptoe (1800-1840), who married on February 15, 1820. 

Papa = James Steptoe (1750-1826).

W Langhorne = William Callaway Langhorne (1783-1858), who was married to Catherine Callaway Langhorne (1792-1871).

Lucy = Lucinda "Lucy" Steptoe Penn (1795-1878), married to Robert "Bob" Cowan Penn (1789-1856).

Cousin Betsy Callaway = one of the numerous Callaways.

"Old Cate" and Ann = not sure who they are, but they were bridesmaids at Bob and Betsy's wedding (see previous letter). <Update: Ann probably = Ann Bowker Leftwich (1803-1829), a sister of Elizabeth "Betsy" Leftwich Steptoe's>.

Tom = Thomas Eskridge Steptoe (1799-1880).

William Leftwich = William Callaway Leftwich (1788-1854).

Tom Miller = not sure who this is.

But one Brother now to marry = Tom Eskridge Steptoe (above).

Captain Mitchell = probably William Manning Mitchell (1774-<June 12, 1824>).

Brother James = James Callaway Steptoe (1781-1827), married to Catherine Mitchell (1780-1858), the above Mitchell's sister.

<Bachelor's Hall = Charles = possibly Charles Pickett Johnston (1802-1852), died in Mississippi -- details sketchy. L. Reeves/Rives = probably related in some way to William Cabell Rives (1793-1868); note also that Dr. James Turner Saunders (1791-1864) married Ann Marie Rives (1805-1887); they are buried together in Lynchburg, Virginia.>

Peggy and Grace are rolling stones = Margaret "Peggy" Bradfute (circa 1788-1833), a daughter of Robert Bradfute (1749-1816); Grace Bradfute (circa 1792-1855) was one of her sisters. Davidson Bradfute (1781-1831), one of Peggy's brothers, married Maria Byrd (1786-1854) in 1809, and served as Cashier for Farmer's Bank of Lynchburg. Alexander Tompkins (1784-1864) acquired Davidson Bradfute's house, in the vicinity of New London, Virginia, after the latter's death, and was Head Cashier at the same bank. Among these folks would have been possible candidates for portraits by Harvey Mitchell (1799-1866). 

Archy Roberson = Archibald Roberston, a Lynchburg merchant who corresponded with Thomas Jefferson. Some of his papers are held by the Library of Virginia, link here; and the College of William & Mary, link here.]

[Many thanks to Sue Davis, William Myers, Mary Davy and Sally Young for their ongoing research collaboration.]