1884

Dennis Chapin Jr., now living in Arkansas with his wife Margaret and their children, wrote back to Illinois to provide the happy news of the birth of his and Margaret’s fourth child. Although addressed to “Mother, Brother, and Sister,” given the aging Lucinda’s declining health, the letter seems to be mostly written to Dennis’ siblings with the idea that they will relay the enclosed information to their mother. 

Dennis’ newborn girl is named Lucinda after her esteemed grandmother, and a lock of her hair is enclosed in the letter. Although Dennis states that his child and wife are doing well after the birth, both of them would pass away by the end of the year, and it is possible to glean a note of concern despite Dennis’ attestations of their health.

This is the final letter addressed to Lucinda Dorcas Chapin. On January 8, 1885 Lucinda would pass away in Danville, Illinois, shortly following the granddaughter named after her.