September 7, 1896

Dear Children:

I thout to write to you all to let you know we are alive.  Mother is not up yet it is now cuming daylight now then take good care of those children I think of you all every day now be good.  We are having a very rainy time the streams are full and flowing over it rains a lot every other day or night.  My health is fair your mother complains a good deal Newton and Luther's children are going to school every day Luther is doing well now I guess Roland is alive we have not seen him for as much as a month so good by for this time.

Yours Samuel Hartt

There were Hartts who came here in the Loyalist migration of 1783, and there were Hartts here before the Revolution. The latter were anything but loyal in sentiment during that war, and one of them, Jonathan Hartt, in 1775, most vehemently denounced the British ruler and was tried for treason at Maugerville in Sunbury County, N.B.  Thomas Hartt, who came to New Brunswick from Essex County, Mass in 1762 was the male progenitor of the preloyalist Hartts of this province, and I presume the disloyal Jonathan was a son or brother of his.  A Loyalist soldier named Joseph Hartt settled in York County near Fredericton, and two other Loyalists named John and Samuel settled at Burton near Oromocto in Sunbury County.  I cannot be sure whence these Loyalists came from, but I think that Joseph came from St. John in 1813 at the age of sixty, but I do not know whether he was a Loyalist or not; he was born in Scotland.  About a century ago there was a Baptist clergyman named Rev. Samuel Hartt who resided in Carlton County, in this province, (St. John, N.B.) after who it is thought Hartland was named.  I note that your grandfather and great-grandfather were named Samuel.  I do not know who were the ancestors and descendants of the Hartland cleric.

Mr. R. T. Hartt, 1253 McGill College Ave., Montreal, vice president of Zellers, has written me that he is the son of Julius, who died a few months ago, (1942) and a grandson of the Rev. Aaron Hartt.  The latter’s brother, Guy, is living in Brockton and brother Bert in North Dakota.  Julius’s sister, Florence, died young, and sister Minnie married a Norris and lives in Boston, and sister Helen married a Gleason and lives in London, Ontario.

(Unsigned)

From Mrs. R. S. Duclos

10229-121St

Edmonton, Alberta

March 28, 1942

Dear Carrie:

I have just written Florence (Hazen). I had such a nice letter from her asking me to the reunion and Aubrey wants me to go.  However, it is a long way off yet and anything may happen, but I would dearly love to go.  She asked for Lillian’s address and also about Uncle Frank’s family. You knew Uncle Frank’s two daughters live in Hanna, didn't you?  Both are married and very fine people.

I'd be so very grateful if you could tell me what you know of the Hartt family.  I seem to know such a little bit of my ancestors and I long to know more.

Have you definitely decided not to go east?  It would be wise if we could go down together.  Aubrey is so busy he says he will be unable to go.

I was looking though Canada's "Who's Who" the other day and I found Julius Hartt’s son Robert Tillotson Hartt, B.Sc., Vice-president and assistant-general-manager of the Zeller Stores throughout Canada.  I sent Florence his address. It is 1253 McGill College Street. Montreal, Quebec.

I know it is hard getting into the U.S.A. but I have my passport and used already. Aubrey arranges that every year.  It's hard to take money over but I happen to know where I can get money over there.  So that would be taken care of.

Do wish I could see you and have a good old talk.  Did you know Lorraine’s son Billy Burns enlisted two weeks ago. He is up here in the air force. He is just 18 and such a child and stand over six feet tall.

Well I must go to bed.  I'll be so glad if you will send me what you can of the Hartts.

Lovingly,

Mamie

Jacksontown, N.B.

Dec 11, 1915

Dear Daughter Carrie:

I write to you and Mackley on account of your Sad experience as we have lost or has gone before us 4 of our children of different ages or stages we may readily understand something of your Sorrow.  But lo they are gone to fairer pastures that a wondrous Saviour doth prepare we may go to them they cannot come to us.  We tarry here in the vale so varied with sunshine and shadows until the Great Master of assembles bids us over the crossing to the waiting glorified.  We are reminded of the Admonition "Let not your affections upon earth or things of the earth which do fade as a leaf.

Bed is hurrying us about our letters so must say fare well and see that ye fall not out by the way.

Yours in Hope and Trust,

From Father (Henry Hartt)

Jacksontown, N.B.

March 2, 1916

Dear daughter Carrie:

As our children grow less, I want to think the more of those remaining, more although separated by cruel distances how sad that Pearl must leave us in so untimely a way as it naturally appears to us.  But she has gone to greener pastures which the Lord the Saviour doth prepare although she may not come to us, yet we may though God's bountiful grace go to her someday.

I do not know what in particular more to write.  But I should like exceedingly well to visit you in your far off retreat.

May the blessing of Him of the burning bush attend you and yours.

Kiss the little one tenderly for me.  Love to Mackley and Thurston.

Your loving father,

Henry Hartt

Woodstock. New Brunswick

Jan 14, 1920

Dear Carrie and Mackley:

Your of January 2nd is at hand, was glad to hear from you. You can imagine me sitting by the stove dressed in a kimono. I am having quite a sick or rather weak spell. Took the bed the Sunday before New Years and have been there most of the time since. Nettie came Monday afternoon and was very welcome as aunt Olive was nearly played out. I have good care; don't know when ever I had such a sick spell.

Will tell you the episode I had Sunday. Was taking a bath, thinking how much stronger I was...when lo I toppled over struck the bridge of my nose on the back of my chair and lay with chair, wash bowl and all in a helpless heap and blood pouring from my nose. Olive came to my rescue and soon landed me into bed. The outcome was two black eyes, which rather disfigured my looks. Marion has been in to see me oftener than any of my neighbours.

Bedford has no man just now, but will thresh, perhaps tomorrow and would like 4 men to go to work in the woods, Monday to get lumber for his barn. We got $1080 for his hay but it cost him a lot. Potatoes are bringing $5.50 per bushel. Bedford is too busy to bother with his.

We are having cold weather but very nice, no storms. Have no word from Thurston, of course, if I was around it would be different. I will close write.

Much Love

PA. Hartt

R.R. # 6

Woodstock, N.B.

April 15, 1945

Dear Carrie:

    I have been thinking a lot about you and intended to have a letter off before this.  Ruby said you were not at all well.  I am so sorry.  There is so much sickness and trouble everywhere.  There is only one way to look for comfort.  My brother Ward as you may know is very very poorly has been for over a year.  Heart trouble and cancer.  He was getting around a little and Sadie took down with her heart.  He waited on her and she got around but not all strong.  Ward took down again.  He was just able to be around up again when he took a very bad spell and she got him to bed, She just called it a "bad spell" but I heard through others it was a slight shock.  I don't mention it to her what I heard for I don't think she knows it.  It would be something more to add to her trouble...but she tells me his mind isn't clear, he forgets, don't remember things he should, asks her over and over the same things.  Then I got word my sister-in-law Frank's wife is very low.  Her blood turned to water.  She was very frail for sometime but all of a sudden she went down hill.  Dr. has no hope of her.  So it is trouble, trouble everywhere...but God still lives and He doth not afflict--willingly but for our profit.  He is all-wise and we can safely trust Him.  What would we do without Him? 

 I was just reading your last letter over.  Yes, I believe God heals in different ways, through remedies sometimes, sometimes otherwise.  He knows best.  I have been reading a book on Faith.  A missionary who travelled all over, China, Japan and different parts of the world and how God did supply every need.  How she claimed His promises and never once did He fail her.  Oh we have a wonderful Saviour and Deliverer.  I do believe we just claim a promise as we would an earthly parent and just rest on it for He never fails.  He will do His part...So many times He said to Ask and Receive.  Make your requests known, with thanksgiving but ask in His name.  Oh I believe the more we dig in His great Gold Mine, the richer it becomes.  We just live around the edges.  Mother use to sing, "Since my eyes are fixed on Jesus, I've lost sight of all beside & "c".  Oh Carrie, I believe we live far beneath our privileges don't you?

I wrote to Flora and sent her a Birthday Card a while ago. I thot then now I must write to Carrie...but oh so much to take our attention I put it off but I have been thinking of you and praying that God will restore but anyway we are safe in His keeping.  I read a short time ago of a man telling of his wife's sickness and death.  They were missionaries.  He said he went to the hospital and the Dr. said, "She is in a coma and won't be able to speak to you again".  The man said, he went into another room and prayed that God would let her speak to him once more.  And when he went back to see her he took her by the hand and said "Nellie" she opened her eyes and looked at him and he said "Nellie you came very near leaving me." She said, " I knew it" and he said "How near?"  She said, "Oh I saw Jesus, the most wonderful Being I ever saw.  There is a stream and He is making a crossing for me. Then she sang "The toils of the road will seem nothing when I get to the end of the way". The husband sang a verse of the "Eastern Gate"  I forget the words now but he would meet her there.  Do you know that hymn?  Wish I could remember it.  Then she slipped away.  How BEAUTIFUL!

Well we had a very hot spell last week.  70 degrees in the shade for two days then yesterday it came around so cold with a big gale...the temperature dropped 40 degrees. Today we are glad to have a good fire.  I expect we will hear of many sick with colds.  Mae is still nursing in town.  Maria and I are holding forth house cleaning and Dave does chores.  Had his 80th birthday last month.  Our baby Vernon is growing fine, will be a year old next month.  Winston goes to school and is getting along fine.  Dibblee Smiths have sold out and gave to Lakeville.  Red Cross is still going strong and Ladies Aid has revived since Mr. & Mrs. Allaly came in the field.  They are well liked.  I haven't seen Ruby lately but I talk to her quite often over the phone.  I don't think she is extra strong. 

Well I think I have told you that neighbourhood news.  Dave owes Mack a letter but don't expect it for he never writes to anyone.  He has been having dizzy spells this spring. 

Well now Carrie, hope to hear you are improving wonderfully.  Would love to see you, hope you can come in again sometime you and "Dick".

Regards to him.  Tell him to come on and we will have some more salmon.

    Well now I will leave you.  Excuse my awful scribble.  How is Florence and all the rest?

With Love from

Louise A.

Woodstock, N.B.

Feb 4, 1945

My dear Florence:

Congratulations on the birth of your dear baby girl!  I expect you and Don are justly proud of her.  We all sincerely hope you are both fine, No doubt you are home and we hope are steadily gaining in strength and Carole dear is growing.

This is Sunday evening and as usual the three boys are home.

We have had a very cold January and so far also February.  The snow is very deep and traffic isn't very good today.  Roads were plowed out yesterday, but only wide enough for 1 car to go at once. We had a nice rain the first of January but none since.

The radio is on and the war news etc. is on.  It will be fine if this war will end soon.

We had 2 letters from Flora and I must write her soon.  I must write your mother a few lines in this too, so I will close.

Your loving,

Aunt Ruby   P.S.  Don't get too smart, It doesn't pay.

Woodstock, N.B.

June 3, 1945

My dear Sister:

We are sure glad you are now with Carrie and can see her, talk to her and help minister to her.  It is grand you could get out there to her.  We too would love to see her but I cannot.

This is Sunday evening and the others have gone to bed except Bedford and I.

Today has been fine but very cold. We have had a lot of rain and some snow.  Bedford has a lot of his crop in, but still some to do.  He is writing you so perhaps he will tell you.  My brother has cut about 100 bushels of potatoes.  He has finished cutting here now.

The District meetings start tomorrow evening to continue all day Tuesday.  The Young People have tomorrow evening.  Paul was appointed by Mr. Allabey to read the Scripture.  They were practicing singing at the church tonight, but Paul had a little cold so did not go.  Guess he'll be all right tomorrow evening.

Bedford saw Bessie and Dibble Smith.  Bessie told him her mother is failing and also Mrs. Steve Sherwood  (Dora Rockwell's mother is not very well)

We are all quite well.  Wish we lived handier to Carrie but it is no good to wish. I know you'll write us as soon as you can and tell us how Carrie is.  Give her my love.

Will try and write again soon to Florence too.

Your loving sister.

Ruby

Woodstock, N.B.

May 31, 1947

My dear Flo, Don, Toot Toot:

Whenever I look at the snaps, I get homesick to see Toot Toot.  Tonite two beautiful children brought a note and Hymn book from their mother, asking me to play tomorrow, but I had to decline.  I cut my finger today while cutting potatoes, but said D.V. I would play next Sunday.

I shall give them a musical.

All the young people call me Uncle Dick, the young married ones also.  I feel quite tickled over it.  I haven't had much time for painting, so much to do that I can help in.  Such a lot of potatoes to cut yet.  I have over 200 bus. of potatoes.  The trees are looking most beautiful, the plum trees are in full bloom, the apple trees are loaded with blossom buds.  Looks as if they will have a big crop of fruit.

Glad to hear the chicks are going ahead.  How is Grandma Clark making out?

I sent the Maple Syrup on the 29th.

Have decided to go to Boston, the 10 or 11th.  Aunt Flora wants me to go on a picnic.

Is Don's grandfather and grandmother dead?  His Father's people I mean.  You would like a visit there, nice country.  You might send me the address of the other girl, Jean's sister.  I might call on them when I return.  It’s in the peace country.

I have the funny chin yet; it sure is a strange chin.  I don't know how to describe it.  The boys have gone to town.  I went to town the other day in the bus and returned cost me 80 cents.  That would be 16 miles.

What about our road, any signs in sight that they going to finish it?  How are Thur, Dorothy and Ken?  Any new buildings in town?  Has Thur plenty of work in town?

We are having lots of rain and cold weather.

Your Dad

R.R. # 6

Woodstock, New Brunswick

June 4, 1947

Dear Flo, Don and toot toot:

Yes, I have the snaps where I can see them all the time. I love to look at Carole, she looks so cute. 

Am sorry about the frost, there was a frost here last nite,  I don't think it did any damage.

I am very sorry about Jess not being ?  I had told Jen to be on the look out for Joe.  Did Joe say anything about Uncle Bill and Miss Hall?

Yes, Willie lives here.  John Mallory takes me to Church next Sunday morning.  Am very pleased about the inspectors report. 

Now I want you to take $5.00 out of my pension and put it into toot toot's account, be sure and do it.  Glad to hear that Thur and Ed have so much work.  I know I should be home and doing work.  How is the seeding?  Are the sloughs full?  Am playing at the Baptist Church next Sunday nite. 

We have had a lot of rain again.  I may be going to Fredericton shortly.  We are pealing poles, quite a job.  I'm still in the choir.

Isn't the year going fast,? Soon be the 21st of June.  Yes, Dorothy has her work cut out.

The apple trees are beginning to look nice.  I suppose the frost killed the plum blossom.  Did that Crab tree near the chicken house have any blossoms?  Also the crab tree at the north end where the big crab trees are?  Do you think the crab trees missed the frost?

We have a lot of spuds to put in yet.  And more seed to sow. 

Flora sent me word not to go on date that was settled, a family is making a holiday of it there, she says the cook grumbles when there are extras, so really I don't care whether I go or not.  I don't believe I shall as they are coming here early in July so that I shall see them then.

Ruby is worked to death.  So Much to do.  Bedford hurt his side today, fell on a snag in the woods.  Do you think you will get electricity?  Paul goes to High school now.

I've never gotten a letter from Thur.

Well so Long,

Dad

The Methodist Church

Northern District, Dakota Conference

Albert Hartt, Pastor

Gary and Clear Lake, S. Dakota

Dear Flora & William (The Hazens were missionaries to India from 1900 to 1942)

It does interest me to know through your communication that the Estey family has a New England background. It came to me as a sort of legend that the Hartt’s left N.E. in the days of the War for Independence of the colonies, because of Loyalist adherence; but no mention has been made in my hearing of such origins concerning the Estey side of the family.

While with my father on two evangelistic trips in New Brunswick, one when I was a boy of fourteen, and the other when a youth of nineteen, I learned, as I could have done in another way or time … learned through conversations with him, and in hearing many people at that time speak of my grandfather and his ministry --- a great deal concerning his ministry and personality, and, very especially, concerning his gift as a singer of the Gospel, and the influence of his sons in effecting the conversion of large numbers of people. But from with source, either from father or the persons met in those times, I learned nothing of my grandfather’s background, excepting (shall we say?) his miraculous rescue from drowning in the St. John River and his immediate conversion while crossing the river on flowing ice to care for his father’s stock on the island now known as Hartt’s Island. So, limited as is my information regarding the origin of either side of my father’s family, yet having strong desire to possess whatever of definite information is available, I shall be very grateful for even the scantest knowledge concerning the backgrounds of the Hartt’s ministry.

In the provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia as one of the leaders in the Free Baptist movement of early years, I hold him in reverence. Though the years I have thanked God for Samuel and Aaron and revere their memory somewhat as Jacob thanked God for Abraham and Isaac and revered their memory, and have prayed that through my son and grandson the glorious Gospel of Christ may be effectively lived and proclaimed as through my father and grandfather.

And now, may I inquire of my cousin Florence (Flora) as to whether she remembers the boy of seven years, named Bertie, who, with Nellie Hartt, visited Laura Hartt and Uncle James Loomer during the winter of 1881-3? How well I remember Uncle Henry and Aunt Phoebe, your brother Harry and sister Pearl. And your house with its doors with brass knobs and the trundle-bed in which I slept while there.! My dislike even of the taste of tobacco derives from a tiny piece of tobacco, which a hired man of Uncle Henry’s forced into my mouth, which made me sick at my stomach. Was it not Cousin Phoebe who was taken ill and died while teaching school in New Brunswick, funeral services for whom I attended in Jacksontown while pastor in Houlton, Me.? It was during that service that Uncle Henry, standing beside the casket of his daughter, gave a ringing testimony to the power of Christ to save and keep. I had never before, nor have I since, heard such a testimony given at such a time, nor, under any circumstances a more soul-moving witnesses for the Saviour.

About the Hartt reunion in Boston, Mass. Some of you must have deeply sensed the presence of Samuel, Henry, Aaron, Samuel the 2^nd, John, Phoebe, Helen, Mary and many others who are with God and are yet, more deeply than ever, interested in all that concerns their descendants and successors.

I am grateful for the "form" and letter, which made possible this renewing of memories, and the continuing, I hope of contact with one another. May God richly bless you both, and ever more richly their precious memories which are yours. !

Sincerely, your cousin,

Albert Hartt (also called Bertrand)

Dear Mrs. Hazen:

You probably will not know me, but I remember your father, when I was a boy near Jacksonville and have known Mrs. Schurman and Helen Good intimately. I also married your sister Carrie in Calgary ( this is Caroline and Richard Syson m. 1907) I was very sorry to hear of her passing.

When in Montreal last. R. T. Hartt, vice-president of Zeller's Limited was asking me about you. He had heard you were arranging a gathering of the Hartts. R.T. Hartt is a grandson of Aaron Hartt and a son of Julius Hartt. I fancy he would be a second cousin of yours. He is a very fine type, an Anglican I think.

If such a gathering is in propect. I should appreciate it if you will let me know. I should like to know also the Mission field in which you worked and the Board under which you worked.

With Best Wishes

Yours sincerely

Rev. F.W. Petterson

138 Hancock St.,

Auburndale, Mass.

4th April 1942

Dear cousin Alice,

Will you forgive me for addressing you? Your father knew me, though not for very long. I can remember his coming to the old home farm in Jacksontown, N.B. and where my brother Bedford and his family are still living.

The greater part of my life has been spent in the Marathe Mission in India, but now my husband and I have reached the age where missionaries are expected to retire, so we have settled down in a missionary house at the above address. We are trying to promote a project here which is no less than to get as many as possible of our Hartt kith and kin to come together in Nonna Bega Park, next door to this place on the 20th of next June for a picnic dinner. We should love to meet and greet as many as possible of your father's descendants as can manage the journey.

Maimie Duclos sent me your address. This note please consider for the both of you. I understand you have 4 young charmers and she has one, is that right? I am sorry never to have had the privilege of meeting your mother. We shall appreciate it so much if you would send me the names and addresses of your brothers. Am I right in thinking Carl and Kenneth to be their names?

Hoping to hear from you soon,

I remain your coz,

Florence Hartt Hazen

June 26, 1944

Mr. Wm. Hazen,

139 Hancock St.

Auburndale, 66, Mass.

Dear Cousin:

I am sorry indeed not to have acknowledged your letter of May 29^th more promptly. Unfortunately, I have been away from my office for some little time on a trip to the West Coast. Incidentally, I visited with cousin Helen Duclos at Edmonton, Alberta.

Unfortunately, my memory is not altogether clear with respect to the marriage dates of my sisters, the birth dates of their children, etc., ad hence I think it might be best if you contacted them direct. My younger sister Harriet has one child, Gretchen, and my older sister, Pauline, has two adopted children.

I am sure that my Aunt Helen Gleason at London, Ontario will be only too glad to give all the data in connection with her family.

With best regards and looking forward to meeting you one of these days.

Sincerely yours,

Robert Hartt

Dear Robert:

I trust this letter finds you in the best of health with ? quite recovered from her hospital experience and the children well.

I am the same happy state owing to the patient care which Mrs. Beardsley gives me of which I fear I am not worthy.

NOW AS TO HISTORY:

You are quite right in surmise as regards that Camp Meeting, since your grandfather did have a very fine voice and used it to good advantage as you say in bringing the stray sheep back into the fold. And I myself was the young man who played the organ. The other young man, Tillotson Pettigill, was our dearly beloved friend, after whom you were named.

Your original ancestors were Hungarian, but for generations they had resided in England and became known as Englishmen. Your great grandfathers were merchants and clergyman. They settled in Salem, Mass. U.S.A. One of your ancestors was a witch and she was tried and condemned. Her name was Estey. Your great grandfather ‘s name was Samuel. This is a traditional name. He was a clergyman and he had a very strong voice, and they do say that his voice could be heard for a mile. He was something of a tyrant for he did horsewhip his sons when they were bad. This gentleman settled near Fredericton in New Brunswick. This branch of the family kept the double "T" and were Loyalists.

The early settlers were quite given to Scriptural names such as John, Samuel, Judah and Thomas. One brother’s name was Richard. He settled in St. John N.B. This ancestor Richard was blind. Fred Hartt, son of Richard was a great geologist. He had a son Rollin and a daughter Mary. They were and are writers. Richard had a daughter

Mary who was a very fine singer.

One brother’s name was Samuel. He had a son who married an Estey. Judah was a bachelor. He settled in Butte Montana. Dell had three daughters, Nettie, Nellie (Wannie) and Laura. He had one son who died in infancy.

One branch of the family dropped the double "T". They were merchants in Boston, Mass. John Hart signed the Declaration of Independence. One of his descendants was a distinguished Mayor of Boston in my time. 

The Rev. Samuel Hartt was one of the Founders of the Free Christian Baptist denomination in New Brunswick. The Rev. Aaron Hartt, your grandfather, founded the Reformed Baptist denomination in N.B. These sects, as you know believed in baptism by immersion. I well remember witnessing this ceremony performed in the cold, cold water of the St. John river in the dead of winter.

Rev. John Hartt had a remarkable memory. They do say that he could recite portions of the New Testament by heart.

Dell Hartt had also a wonderful memory and I very much remember hearing him recite poetry.

Rev. Henry Hartt had a daughter Flora who married a Hazen who was and for all I know a missionary in India.

Caroline Hartt married a Good. Her children were Clara, George, and Helen.

The children of Clarissa were Carrie, Nettie, Samuel and Alice

Samuel Hartt married Mary Ann Hayes who had children, Rowland, Adelia, Newton, Luther, Bertha, Lillian and Frank.

John Hartt, my father’s brother was a famous physician and surgeon in Elmira, New York. He attended President Garfield after his assassination. He was a friend of Mark Twain.

Mary Hartt has written a history of the Hartt Family. Harriett has her address.

Dictated by Julius Hartt

138 Hancock St.

Auburnadale 66, Mass

July 9, 1947

Dear Relatives one and all:

We were grieved that the 14^th of June turned out to be so threatening for our Hartt Reunion. Of those who were brave enough to come, five were not here the year before. They were John and Florence Farrar with their sons Richard and Robert of Uncle Aaron’s line and John Hartt Gordon Jr. of Uncle Samuels tribe. Clifton has not been present on either occasion. We are glad to learn that after a season of military service he is going to be a "soldier in the Army of the Lord."

Florence and Don Clark, children of my sister Carrie and Richard Syson from Alberta sent a congratulatory telegram for the occasion of the 14^th, and they are hoping that they may be able to come with their small daughter (Carole) for the next meeting in 1948.

On the two occasions in 1946 & 1947, fifty in all of the descendants of our grandparents Rev. Samuel and Mary Hartt have been present. Uncle Samuel’s family with 26, Aunt Clara’s with 12, Uncle Aaron’s with 8 and my father Henry’s with 4.

As you all know, it has been my good fortune to have lived my life in one of the "hot spots" of the world, in a land where the "family has ranked very high in the life of the people, where progeny has been just about worshiped. Katherine Mayo, whose book "Mother India" some of you may have read, put her finger on a very sore spot, one that the rabid nationalists were anxious to keep concealed from the outside world. At any rate, my life there has made me conscious of my need to get better acquainted with members of my own family. All this has made me wonder whether we are as aware of each other as our grandparents of sainted memory would have us to be.

This is what has driven me, and my friend Husban to nobly co-operate in this effort, to make us know each other better. We have fallen upon troublous times in this poor distraught world…where we all hear much about "One World". Why should not the Hartt clan follow the example set by many families, and plan a get together at least once a year, and take counsel as to how we may justify our existence.

One of the firm convictions that I took to India in 1900 was that the best way to spend one’s life was to teach little children. I think I can truly say that my great interest in life is in the art of human living. We all need a "guru" TEACHER.

I have studied and searched with care all religions to find a "guru" that surpasses our Lord Jesus Christ. So far, I have found no one that excels HIM. In doing this, I am convinced that it was the faith of our grandparents, and so I think that their descendants should agree that in Christ lies the hope of the world.

Faithfully yours,

Florence Hartt Hazen

D. R. Hartt

PO Box 340

Three Hills, AB TOM 2AO

Sept. 10th, 1991

Dear Jeffrey:

"I will bless the Lord, at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth". Ps. 34:1.

Thank you for your very interesting letter, and the good Pictures of the various folk at Steve and Liz's wedding, which were very nice.

You asked a number of questions, and I shall try to answer as well as I can: I am enclosing an abbreviated copy of the large family tree which Estella Hartt gave me many years ago and which I gave to Allan Hartt, who made up this abbreviated copy. In it I fail to find any mention of an Edmund Hartt, and you are the first one to mention his name to me. Where did you get his name? I am also enclosing a copy of a bit of family history which my father gave me; which he wrote up when he was in his late 70s or early 8Os. You will note that his handwriting was still excellent. He was a bookkeeper and accountant by trade. His family record quite agrees with what we get in the family tree, which I doubt that he ever saw, although he and Estella were well acquainted with each other, having met once or twice. Estella lived at Arrow Park, B.C., while father lived at Tacoma, Wash.

You can contact Allan and Olive Hartt at 308 E. Alderwood Street, Coupeville, Wa. 98239; 206-678-6345; and he would be glad to help you.

You are certainly free to give any of this information to the curator of the USS Constitution, as you see fit.  I am not sure that any of this is new to them.  For your information I will mention that in 1764 Jonathan Hartt moved from Lynn, Mass. to Maugerville, N.B., which is part of Fredericton, N.B., I believe.  He along with many others formed what were called "Loyalists" and moved to Canada, rather that to take up arms against England. They gave up all their property in the U.S.  My father told me that one of the Hartts had owned Statton Island, but gave it up as a loyalist and went to Canada.

I was really interested in the picture of you and Johanna and I trust that if you two should consider marriage that you will seek the Lord's guidance in this most crucial step in life. I am very thankful that the Lord led your grandmother and me together, and that the Lord gave us 71 years and 9 months of happy life together, and I praise the Lord for it.

Now concerning my father's background; you will note that his father was a schoolteacher, who suffered much from Asthma, and my father had to go to work at an early age, and served as bookkeeper and accountant, serving the logging companies of N.B. The Lord saved him at 25 years of age, after which he had a great hunger for the Word of God, and studied his bible a great deal. He married at 34 years of age Letitia Ann Wilson daughter of William Wilson and Eliza Davidson. Their first two children Eliza and Harold Bruce were born at Blackville N.B. Eliza 1886, and Bruce 1887. In 1888 they moved to Minnesota where Fred and Frank were born 1889 and 1890 respectively, they moved in 1891 to White Birch, Wis., where were born Katherine 1891, Paul 1892 and Roy 1894 just two days after my sister Eliza died of brain fever, or consumption of the brain, (but I suspect that it was a brain tumor), for at that time little was known about these things. Father's work took him from lumber camp to lumber camp in all kinds of weather from 40° below zero or rain or shine, and in the winter he had to carry his snow shoes, skates, bedding, books etc., together with his rifle for he often met bears and other animals. Two of his three sisters whom he had financed through normal school had moved out to Washington and had reported what a nice mild climate they had found, together with the growing lumber industry there and they urged him to try to effect a transfer out to the Pacific Coast: so he applied for a transfer ( the firm he worked for in Wisconsin was a subsidiary of the largest lumbering company on the pacific coast) and he was encouraged that it would come through, so in Feb. 1898 he sent Mother and us six children together with my mother's sister to help her on the journey from St. Paul, Minn. to Tacoma, Wa. by Northern Pacific train. Father waited nearly 2 years and found that he could not gee a transfer, he quit is job and came to Tacoma in June 1900 during a severe recession and no work available. In 1901 father was able to get work at the N.P. Rly. shops sorting scrap metals in So. Tacoma and later got some clerical work, and later became clerk of the boiler shop, which he retained until they retired him at 73 years of age.

My Father and Mother were devout Christians, and I thank God for their Godly influence on all of us children; for we had bible reading and prayer at the breakfast table in the morning and also after supper i~ the evening, and at each time we sang one or two hymns, which have stayed with me to this day, and I love to sing them over today. This was a wonderful heritage which they left me, and I thank God for it today.

At work my father would organize a bible study group w ho would meet during one noon hour per week, and study the Word of God, as well as preach on the streets where there was an opportunity, and in halls and churches when given the opportunity.

He died at 88 years of age (nearly 89), but happy in our wonderful Lord and Saviour.

Jeff! I wish that I could quietly talk with you, and explain to you the blessedness of having all your sins forgiven and having true peace with God, and knowing for sure just where you will spend eternity; it is truly wonderful.

Again thanking you for writing me, and trusting that this will find you well, and also Johanna, and with much love,

Grandpa Hartt

Sept. 5th, 1991

Dear Children, Grandchildren and relatives:

"O give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy endureth forever". Ps. 107:1.

I have held off writing until I had more to write: I am feeling very well, sleep very well, eat well, and am holding my weight at about 135 to 137, which I consider quite satisfactory.

I had a nice visit from Dave a while back, which I enjoyed very much; and Brad and Ruth came August 20th and have been here until this morning when they left at 8:45 a.m. We had many lovely times together, among which was a trip out west to the Raven Rearing Station, where they rear many of the Rainbow trout which they plant in the many dams and ponds which the government stocks in Alberta. I first saw this facility about 1950~ when at our "bush-camp" where P.B.I. logged and cut their own lumber. It was then possible to view the many sizes of fingerlings as they were being raised, but to day this is all done under cover and quarantine, so that you do not see that, but we were able to see the two or more large ponds where they have the large brooding trout from 18" to 24" long from which they take the spawn each year for hatching. One pool had from 15 to 20 of these large trout swimming around in it; the other had not so many.

The topography of the area is very much like at Banff; with a large stream about two feet wide and six inches deep flowing right out of the hilside, which is the water they use throughout the facility. The area is beautiful, and Brad and Ruth enjoyed it very much.

I enjoyed two trips out to the Red Deer river, one with Brad and Ruth to the Morin Bridge, and one to the Toleman Bridge where we had lunch with Brad and Ruth, Bob and Eleanor Spaulding (Ruth's oldest sister) and Paul and Barbara (Ruth's youngest Brother and his wife). We had a very lovely time.

Yesterday we went to Linden for our noon meal together, and then went west to the "Midway Centennial Dam" where Mother and I used to go fishing quite often; here we fished (i did) but did not get a bite. We saw a couple who caught three. Then last evening Brad, Ruth and I went to the pool and had a lovely swim, which climaxed our visit. I enjoyed it all to the hilt.

While they were here I purchased a new Cassette recorder and also a new radio; which replaced worn out equipment.

As mentioned in my previous letter, I have put all travel plans on "hold" for the present, and if anything shall develop I will let you know.

I am praising the Lord for His many, many mercies to me day by day, and trust that this will find you all quite well and rejoicing in our wonderful Lord and Saviour. With

much love,

Daddy, Grandpa Hartt

Perth, N. B.

Mar. 25/29

My Dear Sister Lettie,

You will excuse my writing on this paper I know, as I wish to send you this report just out by our sister Jessie Baker daughter of my old friends Mr. & Mrs. Chas. Baker of Boston. You may have met Mr. Zimmerman of Cal. And any way will be interested in the report.

Your nice letter written first of this year was duly read and it gave me much cheer & comfort concerning you & family. Only poor Sylvia & hers are again homeless it seems.

This P.M. is four years since I arrived at Carries’ home, and as I told Carrie this morning the longest time I was ever in one house, but one, in my life except in the old – Ferry house from 13 to 18 yrs. of age, and Carrie said "You have not had these four years unbroken". At the burning of her house I was away in Haverhill & at the old teaching places here in N.B. over six months. When one thinks of Carrie in our house, ________? In one room all the years since they bought this house. The comparison is great. Carrie read your letter with interest too. She remembers Fred & Sherwood in school in Douglas though they were younger than she. Carrie says she hears from you thru me so yields to her laziness & does not write to you. She has had three of her family away most of the time and writes to them as often as she can, & she writes to very few outside.

Now I stopped her from dinner, Carrie & I just cleared away. Jessie comes home to dinner in time to set the table and do quite a number of things then takes the mail to P. O. on her way back to school at 1:30 & stops & gets mail on return. I am so glad to know you have all been spared in usual health. You did not mention Frank & Paul, but suppose they are still getting out wood and living at (Jrungloo?). Had to count up on the 18^th & 23^rd & 15^th Mar. to tell ages of Frank & Roy, but remembered you said last year it was 30yrs. since your arrival in Tacoma. Yes indeed, many changes even in ourselves & all we see & know around us. Thank our God & Father for all his many mercies & his loving care of us! "How good is the God we adore".

Having written to Charlie so lately there seems not much new here to write of. You will have his letter here this leaves me I think.

Today Carrie & Gertrude are hunting up & packing off to Mary in Charlotte town a lot of preserves, pickles, silver, sheets, blankets, table cloths & napkins and a few pretty cups and saucers etc.

Mary is assistant to a young lady (chairman?) of first Acadia College & then of Macdonald. Miss Sherwood finished two yrs. at Arcadia but Mary only one & her first