In a poignant letter penned in April 1784 from Bushfield, Westmoreland County, Virginia, John Augustine Washington shares deeply personal news with his brother. This letter offers a glimpse into the life of John Augustine Washington, revealing not only the social customs of the time but also the profound personal tragedies and familial bonds that shaped his world. Written with heartfelt emotion, the correspondence details the recent death of his son, Augustine, and the profound impact it had on his family, particularly his wife.
The Untimely Demise of Augustine Washington
The letter begins with John Augustine Washington expressing his delayed plans to visit his brother at Mount Vernon, citing various impediments, most notably “the untimely death of my Son Augustine.” He reveals the deep sorrow he experienced, stating that he “had entertain’d very high expectations from him.” Augustine, on the cusp of completing his education, was described as possessing “abilities, to quallify him for any of the Learned Professions” and a “sweet disposicion.” John Augustine Washington had envisioned a bright future for his son, planning to send him to Edinburgh to study “Phisick” (Medicine) in the fall or the following spring. This detail underscores the aspirations John Augustine Washington held for Augustine and the significant loss his death represented for the family’s future hopes.
Mrs. Washington’s Profound Grief and Family Support
The emotional weight of the letter intensifies as John Augustine Washington describes the devastating impact of Augustine’s death on his wife, Mrs. Washington. He poignantly writes, “I wish to God Mrs Washington could have borne this loss as well as myself—but the shock was too great for her infirm frame to bear.” Upon receiving the news, she suffered a “Strong Convulsion” followed by a prolonged period of “insencibility.” Even after regaining consciousness, her grief persisted, accompanied by recurring fits. John Augustine Washington conveys deep concern for his wife’s fragile state, noting she was in a “very low state both of Boddy and mind.” In an attempt to comfort her, he arranged for their children, Corbin and Bushrod, to come home, highlighting the importance of family support during times of intense grief. He details his efforts to bring Bushrod back from Baltimore, illustrating the logistical challenges of travel at the time and his unwavering commitment to his wife’s well-being.
Travel Disruptions and Anticipated Reunion
Beyond the immediate family tragedy, the letter also touches upon the practicalities of travel and communication in 1784. John Augustine Washington mentions the late frost and weather conditions as initial obstacles to his planned visit. The detailed account of sending messengers and horses to retrieve Bushrod from Baltimore offers a glimpse into the reliance on personal messengers and the uncertainties of travel schedules. His mention of waiting for “Potomack opened” suggests river travel was a significant mode of transportation, influenced by seasonal conditions. Despite his gout, which made walking difficult, John Augustine Washington expresses his intention to visit his brother with Corbin and Bushrod as soon as possible, demonstrating his desire for family connection and support during this difficult period. He also inquires about his brother’s potential trip to Philadelphia, indicating a need to coordinate their meeting based on his brother’s travel plans, and showing the importance of staying informed about family movements.
Congratulations and Warm Regards
Despite the somber context, the letter concludes with a note of congratulations and warm wishes. John Augustine Washington sincerely congratulates his brother “on the suckcess that has attended your unw[e]aryed diligence for 8 Years past, and on yr retirement to domestic happiness.” This acknowledgment of his brother’s achievements and retirement provides a contrasting element to the letter’s overall tone of grief, suggesting a broader family context that includes both sorrow and celebration. He expresses his and Mrs. Washington’s “most ardent wish” for his brother’s continued “good health and every blessing this world can afford,” ending the letter with sentiments of “true Affection.” The closing reinforces the strong familial bond between John Augustine Washington and his brother, even amidst personal tragedy.
This letter from John Augustine Washington serves as a poignant historical document, offering insights into 18th-century family life, the impact of personal loss, and the importance of familial relationships. It reveals the deep emotions and social customs of the time, centered around the personal experiences of John Augustine Washington and his family.
