Monmouth Historic Inn

"You are my polar star and my heart ever points to you."

April 2 2014 | News

Good morning!  Below is the first letter I’m posting and is from General Quitman to his wife, Eliza.  This is the letter we discuss during tours at Monmouth, and offer copies to our guests.  Monmouth has always been a place of romance and deep, abiding love, which is no more evidenced than by General Quitman’s words to his bride, Eliza, in this letter:  “You are my polar star and my heart ever points to you.”  The spelling and punctuation is that which was in the original letter.  Next week I’ll blog historical questions regarding this letter and can’t wait to read your responses - What fun!  Until next time – Happy Springtime!

Brassos St. Dago

Near Houston

August 18. 1846[1]

My Dearest Eliza,

          I have just arrived here in The New York from New Orleans.  From the latter point I wrote you a long letter.  I have little to add now – I am here in a tent on the beach of the sea shore, will leave this evening for the mouth of The Rio Grande & proceed immediately to General Taylor’s head quarters at Comargo.  Harry[2]is with me.  The last day I was in New Orleans I had a daguerry type likeness taken & handed it to Mr. McMurran for you.  I will obey your commands my dearest wife.  You are my polar star and my heart ever points to you.  Remember me always affectionately.  My warmest love to all the children.  I have not time to write to Louisa or Henry.[3]  I shall not feel settled until I reach my camp.  I keep a journal for you which will portray all my feelings.

Your ever affectionate husband.

 

J. A. Quitman



[1] General Quitman was 47 years old at the time of the writing of this letter.

[2]Harry McMurran was General Quitman’s best friend.

[3] Louisa and Henry were 2 of General Quitman’s children.