ABSTRACT
The Charles Johnston letter of 1833 is valuable for its descriptions of Johnston’s one-month voyage (during which he was terribly sick) but also the fact that he gained immediate work upon his arrival in the clay banks for $1 a day. Like many other immigrants in wet areas, Johnston suffered from ague, which was a form of malaria and a scourge to pioneers during this time. Details on his situation and the nature of provisions are included and reveal both the challenges and opportunities that British immigrants faced in this period. Interestingly, Johnston asks his family to circulate his letter in England – a good indication of how great an impact a single letter could have in encouraging others to follow.
