Yacht "Eleanor"
in 1895 on the yacht "Eleanor" as told by his letters home, pictures,
and souveniers. The letters are all in their original format and spelling.
The Slater Museum has an exhibit of the trip.
C.T. Bright
Yacht "Eleanor"
Nov. 9, 1891 Jun. 23, 1894 Aug. 4, 1894 Sep. 29, 1894 Oct. 4, 1894 Oct. 5, 1894 Oct. 8, 1894 Oct. 13, 1894 Oct. 23, 1894 Oct. 28, 1894 Nov. 7, 1894 Nov. 15, 1894 Nov. 25, 1894 Dec. 2, 1894 Dec. 10, 1894 Dec. 13, 1894 Dec. 15, 1894 Dec. 20, 1894 Dec. 24, 1894 Dec. 25, 1894 Dec. 29, 1894 Jan. 2, 1895 Jan. 4, 1895 Jan. 8, 1895 Jan. 17, 1895 Jan. 28, 1895 Jan. 31, 1895 Feb. 13, 1895 Feb. 19, 1895 Feb. 24, 1895 Mar. 5, 1895 Mar. 20, 1895 Mar. 25, 1895 Apr. 9, 1895 Apr. 14, 1895 Apr. 30, 1895 May. 9, 1895 May. 13, 1895 May. 23, 1895 May. 24, 1895 Jun. 1, 1895 Jun. 30, 1895 Jul. 22, 1895 Jul. 27, 1895 Jul. 31, 1895 Aug. 5, 1895 Aug. 12, 1895 Aug. 13, 1895 Aug. 27, 1895 Oct. 16, 1895 Oct. 17, 1895 Oct. 26, 1895 Dec. 15, 1895 Feb. 29, 1896 Jun. 1, 1896
Nov. 9, 1891
Mr Chas T. Bright. Plattsville Conn --------------------- THE MOCK HOUSE Headquarters For Hunters And Commercial Men Thomasville, N. C. Nov 9th 1891 Friend Charlie Pardon me for not answering your letter before but I have been very busy. we have had a lot of sick dogs to doctor and it has taken up lots of time. our best derby ppup is very sick and I am afraid it will die. I have been working at it all the morning. I have worn out 1 pair of shoes traveling to the Drug store. Saturday there was a Wild West Show in town. Montana Charlie done some trick rifle shooting but it was a very tame thing. yesterday he came over to the Hotel and I had quite a talk with him, and I nearly got him mad. I told him it was the poorest shooting I ever saw. he asked me what I thought of it. and I told him. he is coming back again in about 3 weeks, and he gave me an invitation to spend a night with him in camp. if I do I will have a picnic. Ive had lots of company yesterday. Lorrilload and one of his friends paid us a visit, he is one of the folkist fellows you ever saw. he is a regular clown. A Troupe of Ballet Girls have just gone up on the Train. They were, Lou!! Lous!! I went out and got on the train and had a chat with them They were the worst I ever saw. Well, I suppose you think its about time I sent you some money. but I am afraid you will have too wait untill after the trials. They commence Thur's and will end about the 23rd. Then I will get some money. I have not taken in one cent, since I have been here If you are not afraid to trust me any further I would like to have you send me another Box of Tobacco. The last you sent is a- bout gone. I have only 5 papers left Well as it is about dinner Time. I will close. Excuse bad writing and mistakes for this was written in a hurry. Hoping to hear from you soon. I remain as ever, Your friend Will HawkingJun. 23, 1894
Mr. Charles Bright Jr. Plattsville Conn. ------------------------------ Bridgeport Conn June 23 / 94 Friend Charlie I saw Miss Nittit this morning and she will be pleased to go Thursday evening, if you can make it commiserat with your friend. I think it will be best to call for us bouth at my home, as Minnie is not acquianted with your friend and it might be awkward for them, just a first. How don't speed thoes horses to much befor you get here for you know how much I love to go fast and we won't have Charlie Fechter with us this time to make us walk the horses. Please excuse this dreadful writing but I wrote it in the store and I had to hurry so. Elsie was in this morning but I forgot to tell her we could go Must close now hopping to see you Thursday. Remember me to your mother. Your friend Eunn a.Aug. 4, 1894
Mr Chas T Bright Bridgeport Conn c/o E. C. + B. ------------------------------- Giles Ferry Conn Aug 4th 94 Mr. Chas T Bright Dear Sir Your letter of Aug 7th read yesterday. You will get a call about the middle of September I cant tell exactly but not far from that time You will be rated coalpasser and your pay will be $30.00 per month and your clothes besides. The ship will furnish two outfits of clothing a year including shoes and caps Your accommodations for living are better than I have ever seen in any other vessels You will have plenty of hard work and see plenty rough weather. We will have to man in the fireroom three firemen and three coalpassers 1 fireman and 1 coalpassers on watch at a time. that makes 4 hours on and 8 off for everybody. except you might be called for extra duty at times. We are all liable to that. You will have good food and good treatment. and I have no doubt you will do your duty in return. The diciplin of the ship will not be hard to live up to for any one who is inclined to do the best they can I shall keep your address and send for you when the time comes Very Truly Yours Frank E Hurlbutt I shall return to Bath next week ----------------------------------- Bath Maine Aug 21st 94 My Dear Sir Yours of Aug 20th just received I am glad to know you feel as you do about working and so forth. If you wish to advance and work for it you surely will sooner or later if not here on some other ship when we return from the long cruise In regard to what you will bring get a big valiese and bring under clothing and any thing you will need and overalls to last till we go in commission which will be probably a month after you come on board You will have from the ship. One suite of clothes two blue shirts, two suits of overalls and shoes and cap The same outfit twice a year. So you can judge for yourself what to bring I will write you when to come. not far from Sep 15th Yours Truly Frank E Hurlbutt ------------------------------- Bath Maine Sep 19th 1894 Friend Bright You will please report here for duty on board the Eleanor on Oct 1st We are sending for all hands and will look after you on your arrival Write me if you understand Truly Yours Frank E HurlbuttSep. 29, 1894
Mrs Chas Bright Plattsville Conn ------------------ Bath Sep 29 Dear Mother I arrived safe this morning and have been on the Yacht she is a beauty going on the trial trip Monday. I have a nice room ashore for a while and take our meals at a restaurant will write you more tomorrow Address letter here in care of the Eleanor Your son CharlieOct. 4, 1894
Mrs Chas. Bright Plattsville. Conn. Fairfield Co. ----------------------- Bath Oct 4 94 Dear Mother I have just received this half sheet from you and shall return it. I enjoyed the letter very. Expect to go to work Friday noon. I have been on board the new naval ram Tartar the first ever built she goes on her trial trip next month I am glad to know that Papa is coming along so nicely. And just give Ralph a kiss for me. How is the cider and shop Address my letters after Monday to New London Tell Uncle John I am ver much pleased with the knife. Well must close as the boys are uneasy for to take a walk nothing else to do you know. With love to all I remain your loving Son CharlieOct. 5, 1894
Bath Me Oct 5 95 Dear Mother I suppose you think I am writeing a good for me but have nothing else to do but read write and tramp around. O how I would like a class of swell cider they dont have it here it is a strict temperance state and milk 10 cts a glass things are pretty dear down here but I am enjoying my self. There is twelve of us stoping here and we have thing our own way. They have taken the photo of yacht and will send one to you when we get to N.L. It is storming here today which will put us back from sailing till Sat night or Sunday morning. When we are expecting to ride the deep blue sea. One of the fireman was on the war ship Chicago when they burried one of there men in Bport two or three years ago he went on her around the world. All of them are nice fellows Well must pull the string for this time with love to all I remain your loving Son CharlieOct. 8, 1894
My Address is the Yacht New London New London Oct Monday 94 Dear Mother I suppose you are waiting to see how I made out on my first trip. We left Bath Sat 4 P.M. and my watch is from 12 to 4 I was on watch Sunday morning and was terrible sea sick but came out of it all right We struck Marthers vernyard and laid there two hours to ajust the cumbast arrived here 7 P.M. They are having a bit time here to day Mr Slater and all hands. Loaded 75 cases of Champagne to day. Expect to sail for Marseiles France on the 24 of this month. We was measured for uniforms this P.M. Might be home next week for two days. And will tell you all about it then I and writeing in the forecastle and it is not very handy Your loving Son CharlieOct. 13, 1894
Mrs Chas Bright Plattsville, Conn. Fairfield Co. New London Oct 13 94 Dear Mother Are you supprised to see a letter from me in ink every thing is going fine here. I was ashore for the first time last night till ten oclock at that time every night the launch comes ashore to bring the men aboard. Am glad to here Papa is getting along so nicely Expect to be home next Saturday night but am not sure We have two day for visitors before we sail and hope all hand cane come and go on board for I know you would enjoy it. I am writing on the mess table tonight about all the boy have gone ashore tonight. Yesderday they brough on board three Galting guns and the supplies the are bring on board you would think would last ten years They do not intend to buy a thing in the other countries but coal and provisions so you see they will have to have a large supply of every thing. We expect to be two weeks crossing the pond. I think a great deal to here from home so write often as in a short time they will be few and far between Every thing is working finely here but wont be sea sick no more we was living to high in Bath and doing nothing With love to all I remain your loving Son Charlie Yacht Corsair and Emeline came in here today but the dont come up to EleanorOct. 23, 1894
New London Dear Mother I think you will be supprised to see such a dirty looking letter. We all had to turn out at 4:20 am to get up steam as the Yacht was graging anchor it is a bad storm. My locker I have not been able to open till last night. This yacht all the boy says feed nicer than any other they ever been in our bill of fare this noon was Clam chowder Chicken Clauflower Potatoes + Pie so you seee we do not starve it is very unhandy to write here Your Son CharlieOct. 28, 1894
On board Yacht Eleanor. New London Oct 28, 94. My Dear Mother Your welcome telegram and letter received today and am very much releived. This morning I signed articles for three years or 36 calender months to sail on any part of the World between Latertude 60 North and 60 South. We went out in the Sound at 9 a.m. and cruised around till 11:30 am when we went into commision and returned at anchor at noon they had a big time then Flags flying whistles blowing and a big time for the geists. Well tomorrow we leave at 4 P.M. for the Atlantic to bid our native land good bye and I think it will be a pleasant voyage for all hands. When you are reading this I will be about 400 miles at sea. I have our bill of fare on the other side. must close as it is late and I go on watch at 12 midnight So must bid you all good bye and remember me to all my Friends. Your dutiful Son Charlie ---------------------------------------------- The Land of my birth I bid farewell C.T.B. Bill of fare on Yacht Eleanor Monday Breakfast Oat Meal Steak Potatoes Dinner Soup Beef steak vegetables Potatoes Pudding Supper Cold Meats pickels Sweets Tuesday Breakfast Homony chop potatoes Dinner Soup Mutton vegetables potatoes pie Supper Cold meats potatoes vegetables sweets Wednesday Breakfast Oat meal irish stew Dinner Soup corned beef and cabbage potatoes pudding Supper Cold meats potatoes pickles sweets Thursday Breakfast Homony steak potatoes Dinner Soup Roast beef vegetable potatoes plumb pudding Supper Hash cheese pickles sweets Friday Breakfast Oat meal fish potatoes Dinner Soup fish pot pie vegetables potatoes pie Supper Canned meat pickles sweets Saterday Breakfast Homony chops potatoes Dinner Soup Roast veal vegetables potatoes pudding Supper Stew pickles cheese sweets Sunday Breakfast Oat meal baked beans irish stew Dinner Soup chicken stew vegetables potatoes plum pudding Supper Cold meats potatoes sweets Coffee bread + Butter + hard tack at 11:45 P.M. and 5 A.M. for the watches Farewell my native land farewellNov. 7, 1894
Mrs Chas. A. H. Bright Plattsville. Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S. America. ----------------------- On Board Yacht Eleanor Horta Nov 7 94 Dear Mother You will be supprised to hear from this out of the way place but we run out of coal it was the finest sight I ever saw it was 8 o'clock the morning when we came in here and it was the most beautiful sight I ever the mountains dotted with white houses the men work here for from ten to forty cents a day. The finest wines eight cents a quart and every thing in proporsion We can not go ashore in this port this Island in one of the Western group. Our trip here was made in twelve days we went along the coast to Cap charles and Sunday noon started for Marseilles and seen the last sail Monday morning till yesterday when we passed a Anchor line ship it was fine weather all the way every thing is working fine two of the firemen was sea sick and put more work on us. I had a chance for a promote but did not take it as it would make hard feeling with the rest of the boys My partner was sea sick three day and I had to do his work and mine to so the engineer offered me his job I hope you all have been enjoying you selfes as much as I have but have worried a good about Papa write often and if thing donot go right send for me as I can leave any time if nessary we started on time from New London but went back on account of the storm and was kept on board till Saturday. Friday night Mr Hurlbutt gave us the address so we could write home so sent one to Aunty Alice and one to Miss Lamd I thought they would see you Sat evening before you wrote my address is My Name J P Morgan + Co London England c/o W. A. Slater And they forward it to any part we are in so the is no trouble I will have my picture take in uniform when we reach Marseilles. I think you will hear from me there before you receive this but wrote here for the novelty of the thing write often as I am Home sick Your Loving Son Charlie Tell me just how Papa isNov. 15, 1894
Marseilles F Nov 15 94 Mrs Chas. A. H. Bright Plattsville. Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S.America. ---------------------------- Marseilles Nov 15 94 Dear Mother I suppose you think I ought to have written in N London but did not get a chance we left there Saterday and went dpown the coast to North Carolina and started across from there it was Sunday noon then. We had a fine passage we went into Fayal on of the Western group of Islands. The town of Horta a Porshegese town of about 8 thousand and loaded 150 tons of coal and staid over night and I got ashore on a coal lighter and it was a quere town Men get 30 cents a day and every thing very cheap we arrived on the eleventh and sailed on the eighth It was the finest sight I ever saw entering the harbor it was eight o'clock in the morning and clear as could be to see the mountains and land the way it was laid out was fine the fences are brush and houses stond and all white. I mailed a letter from there but do not beleive you will receive it as it is a half civilized place. We left on the eight and the next land was Gerreldata but was 7 o'clock in evening and coul;d not see the port as I should like to but could see the out lines of it. We arrived here this morning 11.45 and it is a very pretty place a very fine brake water and all white stone docks and the thing look so funny to what I have been accustum to all the trucks are two wheels and they have from one to five horses or mules tantam Will tell about the city in next letter for have not been ashore yet. so will tell about the trip. Was not sea sick at all but two of the firement was and I had and chance to go but would not take for the rest of them would be down on me for taking his job so I stand the first chance of a promote. One of the seamen was over board but was got out all right five minutes later nearly drwon. I wrote to aunty Alice I thought she would get it Saterday and might see you before Sunday but received letter tonight and was very glad to hear Papa is geting along so nicely and hope the next will be more so I would like to look at my home to night but am miles away but I think of youall every day. We gained twenty minutes every day crossing so our time does not corruspond very well. I don not know where we go from here so are address is J.S.Morgen & Co London England CTBright c/o W.A.Slater When you receive this we will be in dry dock I suppose as we go in about the 25th and we stay in the port six weeks and will have my picture taken in uniforn How do you like the picture of yacht did it arrive in good shape. I wish you could see some of the sight I have the coast of Affrica + Spain + France deos not look any think like th U.S. very mountounous but fine senery. I wrote this in a hurry as the mails is going ashore. Will do the best I can for Allie. In Fayal I bought 3 boxes of figs for 75 cents and the ship got orange so I lived of fruit this week the fruit was fine as it groes there. Must Close with to all Your loving son Charlie Kiss Ralph for meNov. 25, 1894
Mrs. Chas. A. H. Bright Plattsville, Fairfield Co. Conn. Marseilles Nov 25, 94Dear Mother, I have received four letters and papers and appreciated them very much and hope you have received mine all right. Will send a shawl and paid $4 00 for U. and see if I paid to much and let me know if I got stuck these handchifes I paid 25 cts for. I have visited the prison where Monto Cristo escaped it is on an island out side of the harbor. I like this place better all the time. We are still at a first class hotel and of course have a good time. The Captain is very sick and has gone into the country away from cares and we cant tell when shall get away from here we have only received $4 but that goes a good ways here. There is a convent here up on a high hill where you can see as far as your eyes can see. it is a fine sight. And there is a building which the city built for the Emporer it is grandure itself There is a church build 1700 years ago. Every body is very proud of the city as it is very old and some of the sights are like pictures I have seen of Olden times. all stone buildings and its so warm that the buildings are very well preserved. Next Sunday we are to visit the superbs. Word has just came aboard that the Captain is not any better so our stay in port is a long one I expect. Cant complain as we are only working about 6 or 7 hours a day we have all the dirty work done so the stay will be a pleasent one. I have not been on dry dock yet. If Ralph is inclined to go steam shiping I hope he wont have to PaseC as long as I. Have written to Mr Chase but that all so you see you have received all I have written here. I see by the items you sent that Papa is coming along all right and hope there is plenty of water to grind with. How are the dances coming along. I have not wore a coat after leaving the states. You are about right on the distance in miles from Hayal here cant describe very well by letter but have left the log up to date so can describe them when I return. The party is in Paris ever since we have been here. The storms you have read about did not strike us that is the reason we went so far south to avoid them. You are the only one I have heard from so have not had any to many. Excuse writeing and paper for it is on mess table and in forecastle. I suppose you have read Monte Cristo well I have visited the prison a very historic place. have two guides to show and distribe the place the dungeons are terrible cant stand up strait in them and very small giving one the shivers to look at them. I hope every thing will arrive safe. Must close as it is late and I have done a good deal of walking With love to all and pleasant dreams I remain Your loving Son Charlie
Dec. 2, 1894
Mrs Chas A. H. Bright Plattsville. Fairfield Co. U.S.America. Conn. ---------------------- Yacht Eleanor Dec 2 Marseilles France My Dear Mother There has been a number of changes since arriveing here. The Captain sick and 1st Mate has thing his own way and has got thing all mixed up. The 2nd Cook Butcher and Baker and Messman skiped out but was arrested and are in jail till we leave here. And my Friend I think is going. He is pretty light to stand the work. But I am getting fat I weigh 162 lbs so you see I cant complain. I have not sent those thing yet as I have not been ashore last week. Thanksgiving I received a letter from Emma and answered it that night so you see I do my duty in port I have read all of the letter 3 or 4 times a week so do not be backward about writeing We have received only $4 so far but expect more tomorrow. This has been a fine day just like summer. We were in dry dock two day it cost $125 a day for the use of the dock alone. I have had one Suit of under clothing and one shirt stollen by the workmen aboard which I had just ook the pains to wash out. I think we have one or two week more in this port. And think we will go to Cannes aabout sixty miles and stop a week. It is a great watering place. I like this place better every day. There is a large English Yacht in here now It is a great shiping place hundred of ships in at a time. Tell Fred when we get paid of will write this takes the last nickel I had but thought it was a good envestment. I have small change but that is no good here. We had a fine spread thanksgiving but had to work its was a fine day. And wondered how you all were spending the day as its my first away from home but it does not seem I am so far as the surrounding are the same as in New London. How is Papa getting along you did not say in your last letter. And I suppose the date is set for Alice the stocking I do not I can do very well with. I not much to write about as all hands stay aboard I suppose Jane and William is liveing happy. Can get a heavy Dyemond ring here for about $8 watches very cheap. How is the grinding this winter. Thanksgiving dinner we had Sour turkey roast beef plumb pudding oranges grapes apples and as good a supper I will send some postage stamp and keep the diffent kind that arrive on letters. I suppose P-ville is dead this winter. Well things here is pretty lively here. If I do not write soon you will know we got underway. And must stop now as it is late. With a Merry Christment and Happy New Year to one and all. I Remain Your Loving Son CDec. 10, 1894
Marseille France Monday Dec 10 94 Dear Mother Nellie letter of the 26th received this P.M. The Holliday are open now and the stores are all fixed up the same as home I mailed a shawl and hope you will like it. We expect to leave here Wednsday for Cannes and take on the Party and start for Alexander. But the Captain is very sick again and do not know wether that will alter the arrangements so if you do not hear for some tiime do not be anxious but I will write as soon as I arrive Yesterday I visited a Cathedral that was building thirty six years and just compleated last summer. It is grand you can imagine that long a time on one building. And in the afternoon I visited Palace Longschamp this was built for the Emporer and is very fine zooligizal garden Art gallery Musium. Central Park is no where with this place there is two very Old Cathedral one on each side of the Old harbor and a tunnel connects them this was in olden times long before Christ if there was an attack on Church the could go into the other. I am enjoying my self very much working seven hours a day and go ashore as much as I please I weight 163 lbs so you see we are well taken care of. I was going to get my Photo taken but they cost to much here. We have only received six dollar so far so have not had a chance to get all I wanted to. I found my undercloths in one of the furnaces the was up drying in the fireroom and some of the French workmen put the in. I was very much pleased as I have the finest in the forecastle. It is very fine weather just like spring and suppose it is very cold there at home how. Am very sorry to hear about Nicle Geo but hope he will come along all right. Last night I went to a English church. The sailors home it is a reading room. church and home for seamen. I am writeing on the mess table there is two games of cards three reading two write and six talking so excuse all mistakes. Will write to Freddie tonight. I would like to go to a dance once more but that is all up now. When you write let me know all about them. Have you received my letter from Fayal yet. You did not say anything about Ralph today. And I suppose Papa is getting along nicely at least I hope so You do not say any thing about him. Is he under the Doctors care yet. I think your Son will spend his christmas and New Year in Egypt. I will think of home those day and expect a good to to have a good time that is a good time away so far from home I suppose Jane and her husband is living happy you have not said wether they were married or not. I wrote to Grand mother I suppose received it all right I am looking for a answer to my letter every day now. Today letter went to London then to Paris where the Party has been. from there to Cannes where the Party is now and the to the Yacht. So you see it traveled a good many miles before I received it I think this is my last letter you will receive before Christmass so must wish you all a Merry Christmass and Happy New Year. Must close for this time. With of Love to All I remain Your Loveing Son Charlie write oftenDec. 13, 1894
Marseilles France Dec 13.94 Mrs Chas. A. H. Bright Plattsville Fairfield Co. Conn U.S.America. ------------------------ Marseilles Dec 13 My Dear Mother You will be supprised to know that I am in this place yet. But the French workmen are very slow. Yesterday the American Yacht Marguerite came in here and sailed tonight. And expect the man of war Chicago will come in tomorrow. So you see it does seem so far from home. The American boats are as fine as any there is. They loaded the suppleys today and expect to load coal tomorrow. I think we will sail Monday for Alexander. We have ventilerators for all the port holes the form the same purpuse as those that go into the fireroom so I do not expect it will be very hot in the forecastle with six ventilators in it. It seems more like home all the time. If we stay in port as long as we stayed in here I will have time to see the places pretty well. The Party is still in Cannes. I have not received an answer from any of mine yet I have written six I think so do not be backward in writeing. The Captain sat up today for the first time so expect he will recover very soon. Things goes very nicely when he is on board. I write so much I have nothing to write about but will keep you informed the best I can. We have only received six dollars so cant buy much here to carry home. The boys went and visited the crew on board the Marguerite last night. she cant hold a candle to this Yacht the forecastle is very poor one she is cruiseing in the Mederasman this winter she blongs to a Philadelphia man. The Chicago has been in here three times within two years. so we are not very lonesome here the longer we stay the more English we here spoken and enjoying our self better all the time nothing to do but hang around we have been here so long have every thing done up. Write soon and often and send a paper once and a while. Tell me all the news. Merry Christmass and Happy New Year. Pleasant dreams Your Loving Son Charlie If you can send me a small callender I would like it. and a small map so I can tell about where we are going. Dec 14 Am going ashore tonight and will mail this we coaled up todayDec. 15, 1894
Mrs Chas. A. H. Bright Plattsville. Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S.America. ----------------------------- There has been two men fell overboard since we arrived here one last night. They have the guns out and in working order and expect we will have to drill when we leave here she look like a dispatch boat with her guns on. And each man has two revolvers and one sabre and all are now in readiness to drill with Marseille Dec 15. 94 My Dear Mother, You will be supprised to receive this but felt just in the right mood to write. I received your and Allie letter and papers today and was very glad. And hope you have received several by this time. Am supprised to hear Aunty Nell is going to move. My pen is out of order and bought one ashore which is very poor. The Chicago arrived here today she stoped outside harbor and sulated and then the forts here returned fire and then the Chicago procudo in port. Expect to go on board tomorrow. The lst Sunday in here as expect to leave here Monday morning. It in just one month the noon that we arrived here and think this is our longest stay in port and made the best use of my time. We are all ready coaled provisianed and waterd to her fullest capacity. Am glad to hear that Elsie is going in the store and am sure she will do well. Papa need not worry win the least as I will write often as possible. Am getting along fine and think we have seen the worst of the trip. When you see Charlie Bennett tell him I wish he was with me and am sure we could have a good time together. The man that was over board was washed off the bowsprit. The alarm sound right after one mess was through and the was eating and if you could see the look on the old seamen faces. for they know it is very seldon one is saved. It was to much sea running to lower a boat. She is a good sea boat. She made fine weather most every day. Am glad I am not on a liner for I should dread to sail tonight for it is blowing a gale but in stead am in a snug harbor. I will send a envelopes that I received to day so you see where one goes before I get it. I suppose you will receive this just before New Years. I have written so much I have nothing to say. That I can explain in letter. It is ten o'clock and expect electric lights to go out every moment so must cloce with love to all and pleasent dreams Your Loving Son Charlie Have got out of bed and by the light of a lamp will write a few lines. The pen scratches so much am afraid it will wake up the sleepers and then there would be shoes flying through the air. It deos not seem as if I ever had a room to my self but am enjoying this very much Well Ralph is full as ever how does he like the snow My Chum received a letter dated Dec 2 say it was snowing very hard will have not seen cold weather yet Not as cold as when we left the States. The boys are all jellous of me I receive more than any of them so do the best you can I suppose Grandmama received her letter all right. I guess if all signs do not fail Allie is in for a gay winter. I hope you will all enjoy it as well as she and myself Must close With the best of wishes Charlie Suppose Papa is coming along all right as you do not say any thing about itDec. 20, 1894
Dec 20 94 Cannes Mrs Chas. A. H. Bright Plattsville. Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S.America. --------------------------------- Cannes France. Dec 20 My Dear Mother We sailed from Marseille Dec 18 at 5 P.M. and arrived here yesterday morning at 9 A.M. we came very slow so not to arrive to early in the morning. Early that morning off this harbor we met a fleet of French man of war comprising 13 battle ship and 5 torpedo boats manuvering and it was a nice sight to see them going through the drills This is a very fine place. The party has been here for some time. It is a great watering place I think we will be here a week and then go to Neace if so I am going to visit Monte Carlo. It is only about one hour ride I believe. Well I cant tell how. or where I will spend my Christmass and New Year. The first one I did not know about where I was going to be. But here we do not know when or where we are going only rumers. There were a good eal of mail came on board but none for me. Last Sunday I bought to Mirchum pipes very cheap so will have to keep them with me till I return for if the other thing went through all right these would not. I have been sick for three day but am all right the Engineer says I am to fat but all that will go when I get in hot weather Every thing looks fine all repainted and fitted up. The decks are as white as sknow so you see we have to be very careful. I hope you all had a very pleasent Christmass and New Year for I will think of home then. I may be at sea or in harbor but it all the same am glad to see sailing day and glad to arrive in port. The seanery was very nice for it was a cloudy morning. The snow covered Mountains in the distance and along shore the green trees and grass made a very fine sight. I have not been ashore yet but was my fault as this department can go ashre as much as they like so will tell about it later. How is the shop and every thing going along at home. By the time you receive this I think Elsie will be a clerk for I know she will give sattesfaction. Ralph is a dandy I suppose what does he think of the snow. I think by this time you have had a great deal is the winter very severe I have not wore a coat but once since I left the States so you see I cant tell very much about this winter. Do not forget to tell me all the news and the dances. Every thing here is all a glow for the Holidays all things seam to be very cheap. We expect a sell affair here on board to morrow night. On those occasions the crew comes in for ice cream and cake. They are loading 175 cases of wines aboard as it is very cheap I think that accounts for it. Mrs Slater is very bossy and at times but has had nothjing to say in this department. The Captain came on board just before we left for this place but is not able to be about yet. France is a great place for chimes every half hour they ring there is very few steam wistle. I write so much am all wrote out and do not know hardly what I have told you and what I have not. Last Sunday I went through a Cathederal which took 38 years to build and it was grand every bit of it was stone and marble as fine a building as I ever saw and emence size. Must close hoping to have more to write about next time. With the best of wishes Your Loving Son Charlie Bathing houses open here yet a fine place having a fine time aft tonight. Sails tomorrow PM for Neace I think If so I am going to Monte CarloDec. 24, 1894
Leghorn Italy Dec 14, +25 94 Mrs Chas. A. H. Bright Plattsville. Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S.America. ------------------------------------ Leghorn Italy Dec 24 My Dear Mother We arrived this morning and expect to sail this evening. We left Cannis yesterday morning. I received the Crhistmass Cards and your letter of the 9th on the 22th. The price of the Fayal stamp is 5 cts and the French stamps 5. This one is a French 10 cts due stamp which came on the last letter. This trip one cant tell when or where we are going next. On the run here it was very rough and after laying in port so long the most of the crew was sea sick but I was not came very near it though. If nothing happens we will spend our Christmass at sea for I know you will wonder where and what I am doing. Last Christmass we was chaseing deer. this one in Italy and the next I suppose will be thousands miles away. Does Aunty Alice expect to make her home in Buffalo. What has Papa done about the shop. The Captain is not himself yet but gets on deck once in a while to sun himself. What is Uncle Frank doing in B-port. Are you grinding by water or ssteam. is there much doing in the mill. Those Cards you sent was very nice and it makes me think of Ralph every time I look at it. I wish some of you was with me enjoying the sights of those foreign Countrys. But would like to be home these Holiday. Ig must be very cold there but I cant realizici it it being so warm and pleasant since we left the States. About the news papers there is no American papers here and if it is not to much truble I would like a New York paper now and then but donot omit a B-port paper. C Courant. I donot care so much for as some others. I have not been ashore yet so cant tell you yet what kind of a place it is but it look from our anchorage to be a very old cityu and the seen is one of ancient times which I have seen in pictures with it old building and very narrow streets. The coast along the Mederannian is very Mountainous and the tops of them are covered with snow the air being very clear it makes a fine sight. It is uncertain whether this gets mailed here or not as I have not a cent. but a few coins I am saving for a small collection and the is over a months pay coming to us. have you received the shawl and the knife I made a mistake I have one with Marseilles on it which I ment to send you may have thought it strange I sent it but you understand it now. There is lots of bon boats along side with ornments very cheap but we cant get any for we have to long a journey to travel and they would get broke. If we were homeward bound I would have some. How are the horses. I amagine it is very much of a load of your shoulders to think there is so little live stock to take care of. And the house work must be much less with two less room to take care of Uncle Frank and myself. I am getting getting right onto mending and washing cloths as we have had three months of it now None of us complain as we have it very easy. And more liberty in this department than any other. How are all the young people and the dances. Every thing here is as clean as can be the forcastle is scrubed with soap and water twice a day and we have to wash our slippers before going on deck from the fireroom. If I thought Grandmather was going to save that letter I should have taken more time and waited till it was quiet. Will describe this place latter as it is dinner time and have not been ashore to see the place. With love to All I remain Your duttiful Son CharlieDec. 25, 1894
Yacht Eleanor at Sea Christmass day 5 P.M. 1894 My Dear Mother I know you are wondering where and what I am doing. It is about 11 A.M. home as there is about 6 hours difference in the time have just come off watch and every thing is the same as any week except a fine layout. We sailed from Leghorn this morning and it was a shame to sail and Mrs Slater got condemnation of all hands. I cant tell when I can send this but will try to from Naples. It is a shame not to receive any money the letter I wrote at Leghorn did not have the price to mail it so will have to send this with it. I was ashore in Leghorn the north of Italy. There are very few people here that are in even ordinary circumstances. The Italians you see in America are a fair speciam of the most people here. There is not a thrifty look as in France or the States. The streets are nice large flat stones and are kept very clean. There is lots of marble used here. Those are the only thing I admired at all. The houses are stone but very dirty looking. Dec 26 did not finish last night so will write more this morning We passed a volcanno in eruption the mountain Caibo. We passed it at 2 o'clock this morning and as the night was very dirk we had a fine sight of it. There is lots of Islands all along the coast but very few inhabited. This is a great place for blowes at sea and it kicks up quite a sea to enought to make some of the boys sea sick. We are going from here to Malta a Island which belongs to the English. The Volcaino Vacuvious that over flowed once and destroyed the city of Pompay so I suppose we will be in port very soon. Will tell about this place later as we are going to be here only a short time. There is lots to tell you about when I get home which I cant explain on paper. This Volcaino has quite a history so if you ever look it up you can say I have seen it. Must close for this time. With lots of love to all. Charlie If you can spear two dollar I would like to get some as we do not get paid for 6 months. over That why I have not sent this before I do not like to borrow. It seems very funny that the should hold it back so do you receive yoursDec. 29, 1894
The Eleanor at Massina Massina Sicily Dec 29 94 We arrived here from Naples last night and had a rough passage. It is a very pretty place with its mountains scenery. The climate is fine just like summer at home with all the tropical fruit. There is a number of vessels loading with fruit for New York Lots of bomboats along side. Mount Etne is in sight and other snow covered peaks. The vallies are very nice with the orang groves and figs The harbor is bottomless as there is supposed to be a volcaino in the middle. But along the sides one can see bottom thirty feet the water is so clear The custome hous officers have been along side ever since we arrived seeing there is nothing smugled ashore Every Port we have been in there has been English missionery who came on board and leaft reading matter. This is a great Earth quake country. as there is a great number of rumbling every weekJan. 2, 1895
The Eleanor at Port Said Port Said. Egypt Jan 2 95 Dear Mother We arrived here last night at 10 o'clock. And coaled up this morning. This is a very nice sight the land is very low. The building low. We are 6000 miles air line from home and have traveled nearly twice that distance. There is a American Cruiser here the Machias. And men of war from all nations. The Canal company agent was on hand to day and measured the ship. They have to pay so much a ton for going through here. We have not had mail since the 22th. But think we will get some at the next port. The next long stop will be Bombay where we expect to stop three weeks you cant imagine the sights one see on a trip of this kind. They use canels here a great deal. There is lots of coal dust all over the city so it makes a very dirty place. Ther is a few Peoples here that can talk Yankee. We expect to leave here to morrow morning for Esmeralda about 40 miles in the Canal.Jan. 4, 1895
Hessina Sicily Dec 29 Port Said Egypt Jan 2 Ismalia " Jan 3 " " " 4 ---------------------- Ismalia Egypt Jan 4.95 I have a few moments before leaveing here for Suez and will write a few lines. I think it will be some time before you receive this as I do not think the mail service is very good here. W. have had a fine trip so far it be cool here which was unexpected for all of us. We are laying at anchor in Bitter lake some low lands that was flowded when the canal went through. There was two Russian warships went through here on there way to China. We have all had a promise of a hunt in India. The Party is going for three week on a tiger hunt But do not think we will be quite as anxious for that kind of sport. Do not send any money as we have been promised all money due us when we arrive at Bombay But would like a few old stamps to trade off with the bomboat men that is how I got these. We are having a very easy time of it short runs and about six hours work a day. If you can find out what that navigators name is on the Baltimore from Dr Gibbs I would like it as we expect to be around where she is stationed next Summer. I would like very much to have some of you with me to enjoy the sights for I know you would not help enjoying it for they are fine. The Captain is around again and things goes much better. There is a great number of vessels going through here all the time. How is all the folk getting along. And the parties. It is now 3 P.M. and we are about to start. It must be very early at home as we are 6000 miles air line from there. I do not think we will make any stops after the next till we arrive in Bombay. I hope it has not been a very hard winter. How does Ralph like to stay in the house when it is cold and snowingJan. 8, 1895
The Yacht in Egypt Esmeralda Jan 8.1895 Ismalia We arrived here at 8.30 P.M. We left Port Said this morning. And came here through the Canel about forty miles. The canel is built through a desert and there was a sand storm. It is a very big peace of work We could only run five miles a hour so not to make a swell as the sides are sand and would fill up very fast with so many vessels going through. We seen a carrivan with two camels and one mule and four men traveling through the desert. This place is forty miles from Port Said and thirty miles from the city of Suez so we are a little over half way through. The Party has just gone ashore to take the train for Cairo so I expect we will have to wait some time at Suez. It is very nice weather here. If nothing hapens we will be in Bombay about two weeks from now when we get paid and have a few days to ourself The crew has made a big kickj so they have promised us money when we want it. Cant explain on paper all there is to be seen I have just written to Miss Lamb to night and will mail it with this one. We are living on fruit and vegetable and they are fine rippens on the threes. This place looks very much like Colon where C. Bennett runs to so the Captain said to day he was mate on one of the steamers that runs there. This is the fifth attempt at this letter so you see we are very much interupted. There is forteen men talking all at one time and have to think all the time what I have said. The ship mails all the letters now and charge it to our account. We expect the mail tomorrow. I expect about four or five letters for we have not received any mail since leaving Cannes. I suppose the winter is very severe. Write often and tell me all the news. I am very well contented with my job as there is not much work and can see the sight along the route. I must close as it is late and lights are going out in ten minutes. With love to All I remain your Son CharlieJan. 17, 1895
Suez Egypt Jan 7 - 95 Perim Arabia Jan 16 - 95 Aden " " 17 - 95 Mrs. C.A.H. Bright ------------------------------- Suez Egypt Jan 7 95 I was ashore yesterday and had a great time. When the natives saw us comming in the naptha launch, about twenty five came down to the shore with mules and wanted 20 cts to ride to the city + back 8 miles each way. You ride and the mule boy runs in back with a whip and every time the donkey slacks he of course gets the whip so you see the natives are pretty good runners When we arrived in the City it was a very old place mostly stone houses and it is a happy family that lives in them for there is the family with there donkeys camels, chickens, pigeons and goats. All under one roof, they are very dirty as you can see. They have very fine oranges and fruits not many bananas this time a year but I have seen them all growing. So you can judge yourself how warm it is Oranges 3 cts a doz. I went into a Church and was put out because we wore our shoes in. But it did not hurt my feeling in the least. Next we visited the Postoffice and its look very much like the B-port office only it had small stones cemented together and ground floor and rafters over head, about three lights out of every window. Then we went and got some sea shells. Then when we went to go to the landing place the donkey boy wanted 50 cts and we would not pay it. So three of we had to draw our revolvers and they made quick work getting away. Then we called on the Council and spent the evening till nine o'clock when all hands went aboard, They are loading a great deal of fruit aboard so the crew will live on that mostly. This a the place where they get a great many sponges. I picked some up along the shore but they was not much good laying there so long. All they boys are in fine condition to go through the hotest body of water on the Earth, we are now in the north of the Red Sea About fifty miles South of here is where the Sea open and the Army went through, You will know for I am not posted in the Bible. And there is another place that they call Macha where mohamid was born. We are to stop there for a day. Then on to Aden the hottest City in the World there to load coal. And then on to Bombay. This place alive with sharks so the Captain forbid swimming last night they set there hooks and caught a big one. The Sailors said it was the largest one they ever saw a genuine man eater. so there was not any trouble keeping the men on board. The Party is comming aboard tonight and we sail tomorrow if nothing happens. So will mail this at the next stop. The Mackias sailed for the China station this morning. And the Detroit arrived from Naples this afternoon bound for China. I have not done five hours work a day since we left Marseilles. So am feeling fine We have not received mail since the 22th so must have quite a few letters But we are in hopes the Party will bring it aboard tonight. Supper time Prim Arabia Jan 16 We arrived this morning four day overdue and expect to sail tonight. When we was in Suez I did not tell you all. They drive a cow around to the customers and milk just what they want. We left Suez Tuesday and passed the Machias and Detroit Sunday. But the yacht carried away her figure head and smashed one hatch way in but she came through in good shape considering the bad weather. This is a great place the natives wear nothing but a shawl and throw money in the water and they dive for it and get it every time. I suppose you see the arrival and sailing in the N.Y. Herald We arrived in Aden Arabia this PM Jan 17 have not time to write any more if I mail it in this Port it is a very pretty one of the hottest citys in the World Wishing you all pleasant dreams. With lots of love, Your Son CharlieJan. 28, 1895
Mr Charles Bright Plattsville Fairfield Co Conn ----------------------- Yacht Eleanor at Bombay India. Bombay Jan 28 95 Dear Mother We arrived here this noon. Coming through the Red sea we lost our black cat over board and the Sailors said then we would have bad luck. the next mornint we had to lay to for twenty four hour under an Island. that was Saterday night. and Sunday we went ashore, it was a desolate place lots of Volcainoes on all the land here, and we are all sun burnt. It is very fine weather except a blow now and then. We stayed in Aden twenty four hours and left there a week ago today. and made a very quick time. The second day out we had a fire in the coal bunker and all hand had to turn two and it took four hours to put it out. I received the Christmass card the twenty second of last month. the next letter at Suez. and one to night. so we do not receive them very regular as we travel most as fast as the mail but expect quite a lot when we arrive at Columbo As the most of the mail that went to Egypt was sent back to London. The letter I received to day telling about the shawl I am very glad you are so deleighted with it. As I did not know whether I paid to much or not. it cost four dollars and I made a mistake about sending the knofe. I had a little knife with Marseilles on it I ment to send but was dark and sent the wrong one but it is all right as the ship furnishes knives. You do not tell how Papa eyes are getting along. But hope they are all right. If all are getting along as fine as I hope you all are. You must haveng very cold weather there but it is just fine here coming off a hot watch and sitting around under the awnings It is just like a Summer night at home. we are at sea at the full of the moon. And talk about moon light excursions at home the night here beats them all out. The only thing lacking is a nice young Lady to chat with. But the boys gett to gether and sing and play till about eleven o'clock. We will not travel so fast after this as Mr Slater brother in law lives here and he has been with us ever sence we arrived in Leghorn. and he was very anxous to get home. and that accounts for us arriving here so soon. I have traveled eleven thousand miles since leaving New London. it is about eight thousand air line so you can see we are about one third around the World. We are due in New London Oct 15.1896. So have a long time before us. Mrs Slater wants to go back to England and Norway she likes to put on a lot of style with the English navel officers every English and American man of war ship in the harbors. They give Suppers to So you see they are putting lots of style But we are going around allright as Mr Slater says he is going if he goes alone. The Summer of 97 He think about taking the yacht to Norway and spend the summer there. Captain Scott say he would like to keep all hands in the Engine department with him when we get back as he has no fault to find with any one. I did not tell you about loosing the figure head in the blow in the Red sea so you see we had quite a time. The U.S.S. Machias and Detroit left Suez the day before us and the made very much worse weather than we did as we arrived in Aden long before they did. I weight 165 lbs so I think fruit and salt water agrees with me very well. We expect all our back money to morrow. So will be very well healed for some time to come Tell me if you receive the money every month for one of the Oilers Wife do not receive hers so I would like to know so to tell the Sectairy. This is a English port so there is a great many men of war. We are going to be here one month and are going to have two day liberty. I am very much plaused to think every time mail comes on board there is some for me. that the other boy do not like for there was only three letter from U.S. arrived here yet. but expect the mail boat Sunday I will tell you about the place in my next letter. You may think it funny I do not write more but traveling this way we cant but write every chance I get. The engine made the five millions revulation this morning. They pay seven dollars a ton for coal and they burn twenty tons a day so the expence is very great. The time here is nine hours earlyer than home. So we cant tell much how the time is. If I can get my photo taken here I will and send it soon as possible. the mail leaves here every week so do not think it will take long for thing to go home I have not much to write about but lots to tell when we arrive I suppose Elsie is doing nicely in B-port and Ralph I know is all right. How is the Masonic Temple getting along. All the Crew is to have new hat for hot weather regular navel hats which are very cool. The Captain does all he can for our comfort He is a fine man. And I believe we are to have write suits I donot know where we will keep so much clothing. I have been dream about home of lately I do not know whether I get to much sleep or not. I am glad you rent the hall but do not understand my name being on the invitation. You can tell I have not much to write the way this is written The mail leaves to morrow so must mail this in the m orning. will write again next week. Also to some others as we will have our evening off. With pleasant dreams Your Loving Son CharlieJan. 31, 1895
Mrs Chas. A. H. Bright Plattsville. Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S.America. ----------------------- C.T.B. In India Bombay Jan 31.95. Dear Mother I have received two letters. The World Atlas and two bundle of papers this week. And have written to Mr Chase. C Bennett. and Miss L so have done a good deal of writeing this week. And we expect a deal of mail Monday this will leave here Sat. one week after the last letter. Our mail which we was to get in Egypt did not reach us in time and went back to London so we have some very old mail on the road. I am very glad to hear that Papa is comeing along all right but am sorry he has to go to the Doctors so often. I appriciate what you send me very much. And hope I will be able to return it some day. I have had a suit made which cost five dollars made to order which would cost twenty at home and every thing about the same proposion. We are to have three dress white suits. hats and shoes for this hot countries. Tell Miss Lamb I will have to come to it mow wearing white pants. We get all our money up to date Monday so will not be bothered for money for a long time. The Party in now in the interor. and the boys expects to see some tiger skins come on board when they return Most of the boy are ashore tonight they was invited to an entichmlt at the sailors home. The Masons are to have a big time tomorrow night. and I think I will go. There is a number of Masons aboard here and they are expecting all to go. The Yacht Club here is to have a regerata and our gig and cat boat in entered and expect to win but then there is some fine crafts here and our men have not had the practice they have here. I am glad Uncle John is doing so well in the shop and hope Papa wont return to soon. The barber has just come to cut hair so if I get hair cuts in this letter donot be supprised. There is a nother American Yacht due here in a few days. I do not know her name. We met a Japanese man of war in Aden and she is watching us as they thing we are going as transport to China as she know we are bound for that place. And as we carry arms it looks suspicious to then the Captain expect her to accumpany us for a ways. The Captain heard that from good authority that why they are following us. We expect to have our pictures taken next week and if so will mail it to you as soon as we receive them. They are to have a big time aboard when the other Yacht comes in. I was ashore last Sunday and seen cocoanut oranges bananoes and all topical fruit growing. All the business is done by the English people you can tell one as far as one can see him as they wear different hats from other people. Naptha costs dollar and a half a gallon here so it costs a great deal to run the launch here. But labor is very cheap here twelve cts a day for man. what do you think of that. We had another fire Sateday night. So had a gang of men to over haul the whole pill. We are useing goats milk here which is very good. Cigars which cost ten cts in the States we get for fifty cts a hundred. if we was only homeward bound instead of outward bound I would lay in a stock of things here. But I think things will be cheap nearer home Must pull the string as it is very late. With lots of love to all Your loving Son CharlieFeb. 13, 1895
Mrs Chas. A. H. Bright Plattsville. Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S.A. ----------------------- The "Eleanor" in India Bombay Feb 13 My Dear Mother I received your letter dated the forth and eleventh one with two dollars in which I was very glad to receive. And received one from Mr Chase with the same mail last Monday. And will mail one from Columbo to him. The Yacht Wadena is here homeward bound and will reach New York in June They think. They are loaded down with silk and cigars from Japan and China. The crew has had a fine time. but very hot. We leave here next Friday for Columbo. So we are traveling further away all the time and expect to reach the seat of war in July. The Wadena left the States last June and went direct to China and met the Owner there He went across the Pacific and is going around the World that way. So if you see of here arrival you will know where she has been. I received a letter from Freddie and say he and Miss C has had a fawling out. But dont say anything to him about it. I mail every thing to you. but receive a number from those Sisters of mine which I enjoy very much. So dont let them feel dispointed. And Ralph is a regular machinst with hsi belts and pullies I think he is growing very fast. If you ever has his picture taken send one to me as I have told my chum of him and he think he must be a very smart little kid. Mr Chase says Papa is looking very well which I am very glad of. But am sorry he has had so much trouble with the Doctors but they are bring him out all right so dont think about expence. The Doctors is going vactonate all the crew Friday before going in hotter weather. I cant beleive this is winter here as it is the first time I have ate watermellon, sweet potatoes, and very thing out of the garden just the same as summer at home The morning are just like a June morning at home. And we have not had rain since the last part of Nov so have had the best of every thing in that line. The boys on deck are playing accordions which the bought in Naples. As the was a number of instruments bought on board in there. The Captain sold the Cat boat Willie this morning as every body was a fraid to sail against her he has tried to get her in eight races and after they saw her sail she was barred out. As it is a clumsy thing to handle on board here. So they dicided to sell her. I have not seen electric cars in any city but Marseilles and only one line there. There is a great number of thing brought the States to here all kind of oils. Engine oil from the vacum oil so in Rochester New York can be bough here cheap than in the States. It seens strange they can bring it here and sell it fifteen cts cheap than there. We have had a mess man leave here so am one man short. but expect one when we arrive in Calcutta. The Party come on board Tuesday morning so thing are very strick every evening that we go on deck it is dress in white. The women here wear ear ring in the top of there ear very heavy they are. And rings in one side of the nostril. And bracelets on there ankels. All of which are silver. Am all our of news so must draw the line. With the best of wishes. And lots of love to All. Your loving Son, Charlie.Feb. 19, 1895
Mrs Chas. A. H. Bright Plattsville. Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S.America. ------------------------ The yacht at the Island of Ceylon Colombo Feb 19. 1895. My Dear Mother We arrived here this morning. Our address is Yokohama Japan c/o U.S. Councel. So they will come the othey way and we will get out mail sooner. I am not in the right humer to write much so will let you give my address to Mr Chase and C. Bennett and other who think they would like to write me. I will answer all letters. Mother I think I will leave this ship when she reaches California as I am very much dissatisfied with Mr Hurlbutt there will be a great clearing out in the engine department as none are satisfied with the job. some are going to get through here and going home but think my Chum. Partner two oilers and my self are going to leave at San Franchio. You can tell Mr Chase that Mr Hurlbutt served the men a very bad trick to day and that one oiler is leaving and the other two want to but the wont let them and Joe Hirst says he is very much supprised at a great many things he does. And you can say none of this crew will ever ship with Mr H- again I was going to write him from here but am mot in there right humer so you can tell him I received his letter all right and will answer soon. This is this richest Island in the world. Bananoes six cts a bunch all fruit in proporsion Tigers clas twenty cts a pair. Ships are here from all parts of the World. Monday we run out of coal and had to set sail and made very good time with that. Must close as all of us are ugly tonight and am affraid will say tomuch. With the best of wishes. And love to all Your loving Son Charlie Address Yokohama Japan. c/o U.S. Councel Will write from Madras or CalcuttaFeb. 24, 1895
Mrs Chas A. H. Bright Plattsville. Conn. U.S.A. ------------------------------- C.T.B. For Ceylon Colombo Feb 24.95 Dear Mother. I think you must of thought the last letter I wrote was rather strong but we was all rattled and they all wrote about this same as I did. But we are doing fine now. We had a big time Washington birth day. ship decorated in fine shape. And the crew had a big time that night fire works, dancing and every thing for amusement. I was ashore in the after noon and brought on board one bunch bananoes, two cocoanuts, two green cocoanut, seven pineapple, four mangles and one opmepelo, all very fine fruit Which cost my Chum and I thirty cts. And hid them in the shaft alley. But yesterday the oilers went in there to work and found them. But we manged to get them out of sight again. So you see we have lots of fruit in the countries. Today a munsoon struck struck this port and blew terrible, and rained fearful the first since we struck Marseilles so you know we have had regular yachting weather. To morrow evening the crew have a swiming race thirty rupee first prize twenty second and ten third and twelve hour to spend it in. A rupee is worh 26 cts so its very good. Tuesday night the engine department and stewards race in two gig seven men in a boat the prize is a thousand cigars And Saterday evening we have a tub race for all that wants to enter. The prize is not named yet. But Captain Scott offers enouigh to make it worth raceing for. The work in our depart was done in Bombay so all we have to do is to keep things polished. The Party is in Candy. and when they return it will be full up and start for Madras from ther to Rangoon We was going to Calcutta but there is to much Small pox. We are being doctored up to keep us from getting the fever. As we are about on the line it is very hot in the sun doing the day and close nights. There is a great many English people here. very few American There is Missionary all throught the port and they gennerly come on board they need them in the interior as it is unsivilized back in the country. They have two wheeled carryages drawn by natives. they are fitted up very nice. and they will draw you two hours for eight cts and run most all the time so they are very good runners There is a great many sunstrokes here in the city but it is coller in the harbor. It is a big harbor and lots of shipping and coaling up steamers call here on there run from all Europe to Australia, China, Japan, and most all the ports East of here and lots of fine ships run on those lines. There was two Brothers from Norwich dinned on board last night. They are on there way around the World. It seemed strange to meet thn here. The name is Johnson. I have not received mail for two week. It was sent to Calcutta as we expected to go there so have to wait till it comes here which will be the last of this week. I think every thing is going along nicely at home and in the shop. Every one well and happy Must draw the curtain now as it is very late. With lots of love to one and all. Your loving Son Charlie --------------- address c/o American Council Yokohama Japan.Mar. 5, 1895
Mrs. Chas A. H. Bright Plattsville, Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S. America On board Yacht Eleanor Columbo March 5 1895 Dear Mother, We are still in Columbo and expect to sail Sat. They are having lots of sports on board swimming races, tug of war, football in the water, climbing greasy pole. The party is still away so the boys are having lots of sport. We have not received mail for over three weeks as it was sent to Calcutta and I believe we are not going there as there is too much smallpox. My vaxination did not take but some of the crew have very sore arms. You can tell Mr Chase that Mr Hurlbutt has been very sick I think it is the fever and one of the Pilers has been laid up. We have not received but two months pay so far. And the captain refused to issue money in this place so it will be another month before we receive any more. But the work is very done up and all we have to do is keep things polished up so have got rested up. And a swim every night I have entered in a long distance race tomorrow night for five dollars and am in hope of winning it as I need the money very much. My next letter will be from Singapore and it may go to China and across country as Singapore is half way around the world after leaving there we are homeward bound. That is we are getting nearer home all the time. The take is now that we will be in San Farrchisco next August and the Party go home overland And the yacht lay there untill the Party return in Dec and then go around Cape of Good Hope to Norway and spent the Summer there. If so I think a great many will go home from there. I will unless I get a oilers job and if every thing is going all right at home will stay with her. Oilers get forty five dollars a month and dine with the officers. so it's a good job. We are very near the line and are going nearer before we arrive in China. The Geography you sent is fine You could not have done better if there was one bought for this hemisphere. Tea and Coffee grows here and it's a nice sight to see it growing. The have a two wheeled carriage very light drawn by natives called brichshaws and it's suppriseing to see how they run in the hot sun. We have seen very strange sights since leaving home wiche I cant describe very well on paper wich I can tell when I arrive again. There is a great many vessels arrive and sail every day as its a very large coaling place. I expect a very large mail when it comes on board. It is to hot to write mucht or think of any thing to write. If we go this week we will be very short- handed with two men laid up. There is four classes of People Singalle, Monhammed, Indoes, and Moores and the all wear difident clothing. I think I have done very well tonight. How is all the folks getting along. Give my best wishes to them all. With lots of love to one and all I remain your dutiful Son Charlie c/o American Council Yokohama Japan Mar 15 I did not have a chance to mail this today so will add this. I received two letters dated Jan 20 + 24 And the two Unions. And will mail in paciance for Ralph picture and I know it will be good. And I hope Freddie M.K. will be in California when we arrive this fall give him my address so we can meet when I arrive It will seem good to meet one of the folks again. While I think of it how is the creamery fell through with. I received three dollars so far which comes in very nice. I am very glad to hear Papa is getting along so nicely and hope he will continue. The money you speak of coming from Egypt is a beatle wich the natives worshiped in olden times and they are now found in rouines there is very few left and are called quite a curiou. My chum bought one for fifty cents. But as I was broke of course went without one. When you and Nellie wrote those two letters we were bound from Aden to Bombay. I am very glad to hear they are talking so strong about pushing the holly this Spring. And think it will be morning in first class. hope when I return this was the largest mail day we have seen so the all the boy are feeling fine. We had the long distance race tonight and I came in forth so done very well as the other boy have practiced more than I. I must close this scene as I am tired. With love to all, Your loving Son CharlieMar. 20, 1895
Mrs Chas A.H. Bright. Plattsville Conn. U.S. America ---------------------- Penang Mar 20 95. My Dear Mother We arrived on the 18th from Trincomaley left there the 11th And had a very good weather except one day which was rather rought. There is nearly twelve hours diffident between here and home. We left Colombo for Trincomaley on the same Island which is a English Navel Station It a small place but very nice with a fine harbor we stayed there two day and sailed for Penang on the Island of the same name near Sumatra It is a fine place an English port. Every port we enter there is different style of boats. Colombo the boats were houghed out of a log and to sticks stuck out on each side with a small log attached on the end of them which floated and kept them up right some the style of this [sketch] The boats at Trincomaley were log houghed out and built up with a frame work. The boats here they call sandlugers which are very light and got up in good shape they are something like this [sketch] they are very odd. The hats here are some thing like this [sketch] the same as you have seen in pictures of scenes in china. This is a great spice Island. But it is devilish hot here. That is the only way I can express it. The sea water is 87 degree so yuou can see what the air is. The party is up in the mountains now and when they return we go to Malacca from there to Sinappore where the noon there is midnight home so we will be just half way around the globe. We did not go up in the Bay of Bengal on account of the Cityies haveing Smallpox and we would be quarteened at other ports and that would be rather bad for a Yacht. I have only received two letters for over a month that came on one steamer that is the only mail received on board but expect the mail will catch us at Singappore after leaveing Bombay the mail was sent to Calcutta and we did not call there so it will catch us at Singappore. Tell Mr Chase that Mr Hurlbutt has given out with the heat but is getting better now. We expect to go in dry dock the first part of next month. We have received two month pay since leaveing home and the say we wont get any more till we arrive in Yokohama unless all signs fail there will be a big change in this department when we strike the U.S. My address is Yokohama Japan c/o American Concil Your loving Son Charlie With love to all.Mar. 25, 1895
Mrs Chas A.H. Bright Plattsville. Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S. American. ---------------------- Yacht "Eleanor" in the far east Singapore Mar 25 95 My Dear Mother We arrived here this morning and are going in dry dock tomorrow. received yours Elsie and Ralph of the Feb 2+3 this evening also Allie photo all in good shape. which was fine. and stamp came. I am very glad Papa has the boy with him. We are now half way around the globe. noon here is midnight in New York so there is twelve hours different in the time It is the rainy season here so it is little cooler now than usual. We are very near the line now so you can judge how hot it is. There is a great many English People do business here. And it seems to be a very nice city. There is four American ships in here it is a great shipping port. I would like some of the boys around home to do my work for a week in this hot weather We made twelve and a half knots a hour which is very fast time in these countries. We came here from Penang faster than the mail. steamers. Our next port is Hong Kong China. Our address is "American Council. Honolulu. Sangwich Island". I have written from every port so far and hope you have received them all. These port most all belong to England So are subjuct to the English rule That is why England is so rich owning such rich port as all these. I expect we will be meeting a great many men of war after leaving here. I am supprised to here Conrad was so careless with the trolly cars. I think by the time you receive this it wont feel like snowing but will be very warm weather. I was much pleased with Elsie + Ralph letter and hope they wont forget there brother thought I am so far away but expect to be in Old Connecticut next winter for the "Mistress or Madam" is very tired of the crouse. We are underway every Sunday. That will be all right after they get home and go to Church a few times. Howland Clerk must have had a good time time with J. Clark If he is any thing like he was. I have sent several letters to different ones but have not received only from T.L.McK and Mr Chase so will send no more. There is a big noise here tonight so cant so much in the way of letter writeing. Expect I will be on shore tomorrow night as we will be in drydock. And am going to brace the Captain for money tomorrow cant tell weather I will get it or not. Must close with pleasent dreams and lots of love Charlie Honolulu c/o American Sangwich Islands Council Yacht "Eleanor"Apr. 9, 1895
Mrs Chas A. H. Bright Plattsville. Conn. U.S.America. ------------------------ Manilla Apr 9 1895 My Dear Mother, I arrived here this evening. After a fine trip. We left Singapore Mar 30 for Johore a Island about thirty miles from there. Where the Party visited the Sultan and we returned that night to Singapore the next day he came the and returned the visit. We all suluted him as he came up the ganway. He was taken sick on board. We think from American whiskey and had to be carried ashore. He has two hundred and four wives and keeps then in a large building called Heeram. I with send his picture from Hong Kong where we expect to arrive Saterday. It is getting cooler every day as every run we get a little further north. After leaving Singapore Apr 2th we arrived at Sarawak Borneo Apr 4th it is eighteen miles up the Sarawak rivier and terrible hot the King of the Island did not come on board as was expected he being sick was the cause We left there on the 5th for this Port. Most of the boy are ashore tonight and I go tomorrow. I have been standing six hour on and six off on the last run and am very tired. and expect to on the next run as one of the men are laid up. We are standing the work fine in these hot countries. The Yacht goes out of commision in Yokohama for six week and then we expect to get caught up with our work. I hope when this arrives it find all hand in the best of health and happy Grandma I hope is getting along nicely I will send one to here from China. We received money last month so feel juite rich. How is the Masonic Temple getting along I am quite they did not do much on it last winter as it must have been a terrible winter. It has been to me a great deal hotter than our summer at home. I enjoy the letters and papers very much I have not received Ralph picture yet. Charlie Bennett must have a terrible time on the coast last winter. Tell Mr Chase that my chum and I receive fine treatment from Mr Hurlbutt now. The other that used to suck aroung him has went back on him. We be the same as first and doing what was right. He is soory so to speak the way he used us. With lots of love to all I am Your loveing Son Charlie my address american concil Honolulu Sandwich IApr. 14, 1895
Mrs Chas Bright Plattsville Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S. America ----------------------- My address is still Honolulu care Council Hong Kong. Apr 14. 95. Dear Mother arrived here on the 12th from Manila after a rough voyage. I have been in the steam launch all day so am rather tired it is now 10:30 o'clock. This letter I think will leave for San Francisco Wednesday as there is a Pacific Mail Steamer "City of Pekin" leaves then. This is a English Port and lots of war vessels of all nations. There is a Russian man of war here that hung a man to the yard arm last week. Part of the crew had liberty ashore and some had to much liquor down and one struck a officer. The vessel then went out side three miles off shore in the open sea and hung him to the yard arm and buried him at sea and they was in port again two hours and sent two petty officers home which was there when the afair took place. I think it is a very poor ships for the men as that is the scond man hung that I know of in a month. We expect to go up the river to Canton and stay there two days and return here. There is a great many torpeto set a long the river so we will have to go very slow it is eighty miles. We are still standing 6 hour watches so dont have very much time off. We go next to Shanski I think. We will meet a great many men of war as that is near where all the trouble is the Russian are all going up there with double crew and are going to try and get some possions. The mail I dont we will get till Yokohama as we stop there six weeks and expect to live ashore there as the Yacht is to be over hauled there. Things are so cheap here I would like to have fifty dollars to invest in things that are very nice to keep as currious and silk is very cheap. fifty cts a yard for fine silk. The Chine woman here do all the work sailing boats and all labour some with babies tied on there back rowing hard and they live on the small boats a hole family the woman and children rowing or sailing it the old man as the boys call him sitting around and enjoys himself so that is the way they mak a live of it. There is a great many lomboats. and sampans any number of them. They are what we go ashore in with five cents to go ashore. We expect to be in San Francisco next August from there the yacht goes to Australia. and around those Island then to Chila and around home. send you a Photo of the Sultan of Jrhore who was on board in Singapore have it mounted if you can and save untill I return and will tell all about him. Is everything all right at home. It must be quite warm there now. Tell a lad all the new and more to as I have been away some time now and enjoy letter very much. Must close as it is very late. With lots of love to one and all. I hope Grandma is in good health again Your dutiful Son CharlieApr. 30, 1895
Mrs chas A. H. Bright Plattsville, Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S.A. ------------------------------ Shanghai China Apr 30 My Dear Mother. We arrived here Yesterday P.M. After a long voyage from Hong Kong. We left Hong Kong Apr 22th and arrived in Amoy the 23th left the 24th and anchored every night and one day under the Islands along the way. As the typhones here are terrible we would have no business with one as some of the big liners come in all stove in. It is worse than a cyclone at sea but we are out of that distrist now. We leave here for Nagasaki Japan. The last of this week. a short stop and then on to Yokohama. This is a very fine place a great many Americans here. There is a large party aft Officers off the U.S.S. Yorktown and Petrel which are in here. The mail leaves here the 5th of May so I expect it will arrive in time to get a answer from Honolulu but after a week or two send the mail to San Francisco care Yacht "Eleanor" I have not received mail for over a month nor do not expect any for over two week yet so do not know what is going on around Conn. I think Alice is getting ready for a knot to tie before long. Well I think it will be quite a time in the village more aspecialy my Home I call it so and will continue as this trip wont last for ever and then for home I fait. And if I not mistaken it will be a short time aft the yacht leaves San Francisco as I donot like the way thing are going here It is every man for himself here. It is the opinion of the Americans here that this war will end in Europe as they are out here in full force England and Russia especialy They are here to grab all the ports possible. I do not know what kind of a place China must have been before she opened her ports to foreign nations as all the officers and authority are English and Americans. We coaled up to day and it is very dirty aboard here when we coal. And the styles the people have and the custom is something strange I cant explain in letter about them very well. The women in all the countries that we have visited have been more or less slaves Chiness more especialy as they do all the boats work that is loading coal in ash boats and thing like that is mostly done by women some of the the women that tend on the ship that is take people back and forth passinger boats realy have baboos one there back that is have a shawl over there showlders and arainged so that a babies is fassened to there back when at work. There they are hard at work with maby a year old child on theire back hard at work. I cant write much longer as it is May 1th now nearly 1 o'clock and want to get some rest as I had rathe a hard pull of it coming here 12 hours a day. But am in good health hopeing you all are the same. I wish some other of the family was along to enjoy the sights with me Hopeing to here from you soon I remain As ever Your loving Son Charlie write oftenMay. 9, 1895
Mrs Chas. A.H.Bright. Plattsville. Fairfield Co. U.S.A. Conn. ------------------------ Kobe Japan May 9.95. Dear Mother Your letters dated Feb 19 + 28 received yesterday and was very glad to hear from home again as this is the first mail since Singapore. We left Shangahi. May 2 for Nagasaki arrived there May 3 it is a fine town all surrounded with fields. The people are very much different than they are in China. Tea gardens with their dancing girls is the princible amusement in Japan. There is a book written on Nagasaki. Called. "Madame Chrysamtheme" Pierre Loti, author". Ponahue + Henneberry and Co 407 Dearborn St Chicago. Publisher I believe it describes Japan and Nagasaki fine. Japan has order the Russians to leave port and gave France three days to leave port. It seems that the Russian have went up the coast to have a meeting and see wether they stand a show with Japan. I think they would have a hard tussel Japanese are very smart. We left there May 5 for Kobe we came throught the inland Sea which is famous all over the world for it's fine scenery. We anchored nights and sailed day times so to see the scenery mountains on both sides and cultivated to the tops. I will send a few leaves of Japan tea so can see how it grows. We arrived here May 7. Two more ports and then Frisco I hope Freddie will be there as I think there will be five to leave this department there. Even to the Chief down are tired of her. There is a great many thing could be bough very cheap if he only had the money I bought one doz handchiefs for seventy five cent this on one of them and every thing about the same China ware very cheap. Seen a fine dinner and tea set and lunch for 35$ hand decorated it was fine the is a great many fine large vases they are grand. I received a letter from Miss L. yesterday saying C Bennett is on the nut meg State will think he has made a bad move. did the rough weather knock him out. I think if he got in a China sea tyhone he would wish was on some land not far from home where he would be sure of liveing from one momeant to another. I suppose he has a very good job there or he would not leave the other line. I am very glad to hear that Papa is so nicely. So Ralph does not talk yet. but by the time I return he will be ably to tell me all the news I suppose. Japan I just tell you more about as I am stuck on it and only wish we were to stay here all summer. I donot think I will be satisfied. must come out this way some time or antoher. If all the family could only see it and the customs of the people there houses and ways of liveing it is very strange. Must close as it is very late with love to one and all I remain Your loveing Son Charlie address Steam Yacht Eleanor San FranciscoMay. 13, 1895
Mrs C.A.H. Bright Plattsville Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S.A. ------------------------------- "Eleanor" in the Far East May 13. 1895 My Dear Mother Nellies letter of Mar 13th received today. and am very glad to receive the new it brought to me. About the store and mill being stocked and Alice getting more pupils. And news from Erving. I do not care for any nor stamps at present as in this Countries we cant trade them off. It has been raining all day and is rather gloomy tonight. This is the finest Country we have been at. It is a great deal nicer than China. One could tell in a minute that they could whip China. And Russia would have all she wanted if they come together. There is a great many Russian men of war out here and there is a chance of them coming together as Japan wont yeild to demand of the Russians Japanese have very few horses they do all the hauling on a two wheeled truck drawn by men. Streets are very nice. There is a great deal of mail going to the U.S. as ships are leaving most every other day and think these must reach you in due time. I have not received any by way of Yokohama yet. The party has bought four Japanse dog to day they are very pretty. The party has been up country ever since we came in here. and returned last night So I think we will start for Yokohama Sunday. There we stop three week. And then across the Pacific a long run I assure you about twenty five day for us. I think this will reach you about the time we start across. I am in hipes of seeing Fred in California. I am to go in the Gig in the next port as the Captain spoke to me yesterday if I would race in the gig against the English men of war gigs it is out of my department but think I will take it the boat has not been beaten yet And I do not think we will be left very far behind with the new crew in her. I would like Papa to remember me to Mr chase. I do not seem ot get a chance to write him. Thing has chanced very much in this department lately. Mr Hurlbutt and Mr Hirst and two others expect to leave at Frisco. Mr Johnson is treating my chum and myself fine. Cant find a bit of fault now. This handchief has picture of the war on border so you can see what the Japs have been doing with the Chinamen handchiefes are very cheap here as all the women that work them only get three cents a day. Must close with pleasent slumber And love to All Charlie B. S Steam Yacht "Eleanor" San Francisco CalMay. 23, 1895
Mrs Chas Bright Plattsville Fairfield Co. Conn U.S. American ---------------- Yacht Eleanor in the Oriental Yokohama May 28.95. Dear Mother I received yours and Allie letters dated Mar 18 and 19 and Apr 1 received the 20th the day we arrived. The last letter I wrote was from Kobe. I forgot to head it I think. We left there May 19th and arrived here the 20th it was a very fine trip through a beautiful Country. Near hear is the Mt Fuji where the Japs go every year to show there dovotion there is a number of temples at the top. It is a Volcaino but extinct now it is snow clad. And makes a very pretty sight from our anchorage whic is very near a Grand Hotel where the bands plays every night. They play the American peaces mostly they are playing now. It is fine to sit around on deck and listen every evening to a fine band of music The Native City is call Kanagawa It the American place called Yokohama I have not been ashore here as I intend going to Tokio next Sunday and spend the day there it is ten miles distance costs forty cts to go and return. All the Party has gone ashore for two week. Only the Slaters cross with us the rest go by the mail Steamers. As the trip will take a long time as we will have to travel slow on account of saveing coal. It would take sixteen day at full speed to reach Honolulu and she only carry enough for fifteen not counting overdue or accidents. So we will be a long time at Sea. I think they will load coal on deck as it would not do to figure to close. June tenth is the day for sail I think. So when you receive this I will be ploding accross the Pacific. We haul fires tonight for the first time since Bombay am glad of it as it gives us siz more men to get her ready for sea. All the crew is in fine health as it is fine weather here Just like home in Spring time. There is a great many Americans here they have a large boating Club and some very fine sail boats. and racers of all kinds. Our crew races with a English gig and a shore crew. all to use the one gig and race against They would not let our gig race as she is to fine a built boat to fast all to gether they are all afraid of her when they see her move. I will write next week again as the mail leaves very often. there is not many men of war in these Ports they are in the Chee Foo where the mostly of the trouble is. Russia is not going to force here demand upon Japan as I think they would not make out very well. France expect to back them up on her demand against these people. I wrote to Mr Chase am very sorry I delayed it so long. Must close with lots of love to all. Your loveing Son Charlie c/o Steam Yacht Eleanor San Francisco Cal ----------------------------- I think I know what this is for, dont I write enought in one. Well I take it in good part and do better here after. I am glad Papa is staying home and think that thing will be better spend the monthly returns any way you like as I consider it your more than mine and only wish it was double. I am in the best of health and sperts. My Chum and I am as firm friend as ever. We are right in with the Engineers they treat us fine. Am glad Allie is getting along so fine I wish C. Bennett could get on the Interpid it is much better than liners. Charlie Write soon and often same address till further noticeMay. 24, 1895
Yokohama May 24.95 Dear Mother The mail wont leave here till next week so will write a few lines more. We have had a great deal of sport today. Dressed ship a sight this A.M. in honor of the Queen Birthday. And races tonight. We won. They race with a English crew tomorrow for $500.00 So expect a big time. It is regular. Yacht now races and sports. I have been laying on the forcastle head all evening listening to the band. Among some of the peaces was Washing Post. And a number of others I reconized but cant mane them. The mail arrived from U.S. today and hope there is some aboard for me. We have on board eleven Japanese Spanel dogs and two dogs we brought from hone. Two cats. One rabbit. fourteen birds so have quite a managerie on board. They had a gang of men aboard today and all they get is twenty five cts aday of this money that is evual to twelve and a half cts of our money. Two of there dollars is equal to one of ours. There has been a ship taken of the china coast by Pirates last week. That is the second since we was in Colombo. Must close with pleasant dream an happy smiles [ideographs] CharlieJun. 1, 1895
Mrs Chas Bright. Plattsville Fairfield Co. Conn. U.S.A. ------------------------ Eleanor out of commission Yokohama June 1 My Dear Father, Mother, Sisters + Bro We are out of commission now so to get fitted out for our long accross the Pacific. Expect to go in again on the tenth and sail the fifeteenth by what I hear. I received by last mail two letters and the Photo which I was delighted with all in good condition. There was a mail came in today from U.S. and hope I will not be dissipointed tomorrow when mail comes on board. We are all to have our pictures taken in a group on board tomorrow. When you are reading this I will be about three day out from Honolulu. On about the first of July we will be there. I have not very much to write about not receiveing money I was dissipointed about going to Tokio. cant tell weather I can get there or not now there is a large size growl among the crew you can bet. there is not five dollars in the crew all to gether I dont beleive. I am going to get what I want and have it charged to the ship. Fourteen of us have rented a sampan or boat as we call it home to attend the ship. There is a man and boy in it and stays alongside all day till 9.P.M. And stops from that time till 1 A.M. on shore so when we go ashore and want to come on board before 9 P.M. we tell him what time and he comes for us and all we pay him is 38 cts a day himsilf boy and boat so you see wages are not very high here I dont think you have any reason to worry about me as I am in the best of health. And as for making you sick I cant account for it as all I have had of any account or kept me from work was a boil on my foot in Hong Kong that only lasted four days. Dont worry what ever you do. If I dont return better than I left I lose my guss. There is a great many nice thing here I would like to send you but a thing are here I cant very well. Five of the Party sailed this morning on one of the Canadian Pacific shpis for the States. And am very glad. I cant write much tonight it is eleven thirty now A bountiful amount of love to all Your loveing Son C address C.T.B. San Francisco Calf P.S. These are the men I have wridden with. If you see Mr or Mrs Knowlton tell them Capt Scott wish to be rembered to them and says he is feeling fine in the best of health and that is all I think Good night, Pleasent dreamsJun. 30, 1895
Mrs Chas. A. H. Bright Plattsville Fairfield Co Conn U.S.A. ------------------------ Please number your letters Yacht "Eleanor" Honolulu, June 30, 95 My Dear Mother I received yours + Antie Alices letters this morning and was very glad to hear from home once more. And Carries letter also You wanted to know in the last letter about the dissafaction in this department. All seem to cut each others throats. and when we start around the horn I think will be a number go over land. I am very glad to here there is a colt and presume Papa is delighted. The Yacht logs on the run from the land of the Rising Sun to the land of Setting Sun is as below. Sailed Sunday June 16 1.30 P.M. And had head wind and sea all the way. Sighted land yesterday June 29. 6. a.m. Arrived off harbor 10 P.M. anchored till this morning We did not see a sail or any thing else but a few sea gulls all the way. Monday night June 24 we passed the longitude 1.80 So had two Monday and two 24 of June. So have seen eight days in one week. We were fourteen day four hours on the run. Six hours different in time. Burnt 3.40 tons on the run. The U.S.S. Bemmington is in here. And expect a big time the fourth of July. There is a great many Americans here It seems good not to be with so many English People. You need to answer this right away for we stay here one week and eight days from here to San F- there one week and then to Sitka, Alaska. And return to San F- Fix up for our run home arriveing some time in Afu I have a case to send home find out wich is the best way to send it I dont want to send it to the Isthmas and up on account of duty. It will measure about 4 ft long 2 wide 2 1/2 hight about 100 lbs These Photo I got in Tokio I have more larger ones which I will send from the U.S. when we arrive. This must be my last letter till we get some money for I havent the materal to wright on I received Ralph picture picture and am pleased with it. Ond of the Oilers received word to day that his wife died the first of this month it is the saddest thing happened on board since we left I mailed my Photo from Yokohama. I have more I will send from U.S. Taken in Japanese costume. I will answer Antie Alice better later on. I am in the best of health and hope all you are likewise. It is very hot here And its the bluest water in the world around here. There is a great deal of fruit on shore. And the scenery is very nice from the ship. The natives are not very dark not much darker than the Japanese. Dress like at home. The men are gathering there bed clothing and going on deck to sleep just at present. Did C. Bennett. get that job on the Intrepid. I expect to leave when we get back from Alaska before leaveing San F for around the horn I think by that time I will have a big meal of sea life on this ship I had to stand six hour watches on this run again. I have stood more hour at sea than any other man in this department. Answer right away so I can wills know how to send my thing Your loving Son. C
Jul. 22, 1895
San Francisco July 22 95 Dear Mother, Just received and read seven letters from home with all kinds of good news in. We had a big time the 4th in Honolulu raceing in day time and ship decorated with flags and in the evening with Chinese lanterns. We sailed from there on the 8th and arrived at the burning Mts 10th Mt Heilo sailed the 12th for here arrived 7 P.M. this evening had head winds and sea ll the way the last two blowing a gale we sighted the light last night 10 P.M. blowing and too big a sea running so had to put to sea again till this evening. I expect Fred aboard tomorrow if he is here. The Yacht only stops here 5 days then to Alaska begone about a month. I dont think he will like it here I have got enough now these last runs has pulled the flesh of me. One fireman hirt his foot so cant do any thing yet I will send a number of things by mail there is three men going to leave here out of this department and very likely myself You can till Mr Chase that Joe Hirst leaves this week. And Mr Hurlbutt has turned gray and is broken down a considerable. And Paul Satterlee is leaving my chum. I think you have seen by the papers that we arrived here I have written over half that diary. so havent done very bad will send more photos tomorrow. And some papers [switches from pen to pencil here] My pen does not write very good so will finish with pencil. The scenery here is very fine coming in the bay it is very hylly by what I see from ship. I expect a day off here and will look around all I can for it is such a short stop dont write again for a month, and then the address is the same as now. Capt Scott says he was a school mate of Charles Mann or Man he is a lawyer I think in Warners building he thinks you must know him. He wanted me to write about it and enguire If so let me know. I have seven suits of cloths two my own and five shirts so am pretty well crowded in my bunk. and when she was rolling around it was all I could do to stay in. The revenue officers was aboard to night but did not tutch any thing It is now midnight here and think it must be about 4 a.m. home I am glad to hear about Grandma inproveing And hope she will be herself again by the time I arrive. There is lots of boarding house runners here fo ur has been aboard to night. Must close as the lights will soon be out. I was deleighted to receive so many letters tonight. hopeing this will find youall in as happy a mode as when you wrote those other letters Pleasent dreams Good Night CharlieJul. 27, 1895
Mrs Chas Bright Plattsville, Fairfield Co. Conn. ------------------- San Francisco July 27 95 My Dear Mother I sent a package by Joseph Hirst as far as New York and he was to send it from there by express so call at the offices and get them. Yacht leaves tomorrow for Alaska and expect a pleasant trip donot write for three weeks as we will be away. this is a fine town & havent seen Freddie yet byt expect he will be here before we return Paul and myself are having a fine time. A great many cable lines here trollies and horse cars. They have very fine horses here no broken down horses as I have seen yet. Ther is more murders and susides here than there is in any city in the world I believe. Every day the papers are full of it. Your True Son CharlieJul. 31, 1895
Mrs Chas A. H. Bright. Plattsville. Fairfield Co. Conn. San Francisco July 31 My Dear Mother and Farther, I received your two special letters in due time. And have a supprise below. I have left the Yacht. So many leaving this department and they were filling there places with all nationalties The position I held was lowenoght when there was all Americans in there. But to be in the same position with the class they are putting in there I with drew. My Chum and I have rented a room will try and make a go of it some way or other till We can strike something I expect to make a trip back to China on the China of the Pacific Mail line. I have the chance of Oiler if there is a vacency when she arrives. Due Aug 3. There is forty five ($45) in it. It is fine here you will be surprised to know it is winter here coldest time of the year. I have every thing ashore and cased up. I will ship soon as I find out what I am going to do. In the mean time address all mail to #40 Market st. I hope you have received the silk send by express all right. Mr Johnson and Mr Hurlbutt begged and done every thing most to have me stay. but I told them I was above working with all kindds of foreigners and I done right I shipped with Americans and left with Americans. don't think I will have to wait long for there is good chances on this coast. I have visited the Cliff house + Golden Gate Park. both are famous the world over. The Ladies are beautiful here I never seen so many before I am stuck on this city and expect when I get home once more it will be for a visit. dont think I will be contented in the East again. I think Fred Burr done first class the first week and hope he will continue. Times are very hard with me just at present but think they will be over in a few day as I am on the right track for good job. I havent seen any thing or heard of Fred since arriveing here. Fruit here is very cheap peaches 16 for 5 cts. wholesale 15 cts a basket fine pears 20 cts a basket and that is what all fruits average. I have just ten dollars here so cant stay on the beach two long or I will be stranded. I am pretty certen to return to China and Japan if so will send case by way of Isthmas as the ship chandler advise me to send by that rout. Fresco is no slow town by any means. People are right up to date. You know I am enjoying myself after leveing in other countries so long We all ought be proud of our country I have seen a good many but this one set one free Your dutiful Son CharlieAug. 5, 1895
Mrs Chas. A. H. Bright Plattsville. Fairfield Co. Conn. --------------------------- San Francisco Aug 5 Dear Mother, I know you are anxous to hear from me aspecialy since I wrote you I had left the yacht. I think I can do very well out here We went out to the Union iron works to day and they said there would very likely be something to do in a short time. and also the P.M.S.H. Co speaks very well. There is two vacencies on the China and it may be I will get one of them. She leaves on the 13th for China + Japan Paul and myself are as happy as if we were on a pleasure trip here. I got my curious all packed in a case ready to ship as soon as I get a little stuff to pay the freight with did you receive the silk I sent by express I hope it arrived all right and in time if it is good enought. I not a judge on that kind of ware. Write often as a lad likes to receive news when he is on the beach like this. There seams to be a considerable work to be had here and very good pay. Oiling $45 + $50 a month. Will send you a paper with a chinese lock and key and a pen knife. also account of china town a Illumination across the bay. I have visited all the places of interest Cliff house and Seal rock. Golden gate park Telegraph hill and Knob hill China town. I havent heard from Freddie since we arrived must close as I am talked out. will write soon. Your loveing Son Charlie $40 Market st Where ever I am they will forward my mailAug. 12, 1895
Mrs Chas A. H. Bright. Plattsville. Fairfield Co. Conn. ----------------------------- On Board "China" San Francisco Aug 12 Dear Mother I know you will be supprised to hear I sail tomorrow for China + Japan as oiler. $45 a month. I think it is only for one trip as one of the boys are sick. A chum of mine will send the case by freight C.O.D. There is a ostrich egg, china in a basket, one hammer and rench belongs to Joe Hirst New London please send to him and nitifye him also tell him of the job as we sail tomorrow and wont have the time. This is the finest ship on the line. Three of us have a fine large room. I am in the best of health and spirits I wonder what the Eleanor boys will say when they hear of me in such a good job jumps ahead of those who have followed the sea all there lifes. Tell Mr Chase I am deleighted with the move I made. Do as you like with the thing I sent. some you may not know about but I will explain when I return. With love to one and all Your loveing Son Charlie c/o P.M. S.S. China San Francisco Call
S.S. China
Aug. 13, 1895
San Francisco Aug 13 My Dear Mother I received your letter a few momets ago and am sorry to say we go out shortly. If it had came a day sooner could have came home at once but am in it for 2 months more will have $100.00 then and return. dont let Papa give up like that. It is strange not writeing before that he was so down harted. Tell him I am not one of the lowest men on the ship. but am now one of the officers quite a promote must close for to send this before leaveing. Get a letter here before Sep 3 and it will go to Yokohama and meet us comeing home. Dont fail to write We'll return as soon as possible. Hopeing this find thing in a much better condition than when the other letter left. Will say goodby for this time. Your loveing Son Charlie c/o P.M. S.S.dock. foot of Brannan at SS China With that address it will come to Yokohama for one. Please keep this card as I think a great deal of itAug. 27, 1895
Mrs Chas A.H. Bright Plattsville Fairfield Co. Conn U.S.A. --------------------------- P.S. near Yokohama. We did not have a Wednesday or 21th this trip so we made the run in 13 days. At Sea Aug 27 95 Dear Mother We sighted land at day break this morning and it is now 9 AM. and expect to arrive at 1 P.M. We had a very smooth passage except one night. Well I spent my birthday at sea this year I would like to have been home but then must make the best of it. Will have about $95 comeing to me when we return. If I dont draw any out here. That is some what different than $60 on the Yacht. beside a very much better job Chinese do all the labor Tell Mr Chase if any of you see him that We have 7 Engineers 3 Water tenders and 9 Oilers I am one of them and am getting 45 dollars a month with every thing found. We have a fine room three of us together and good boys they are better than those on Yacht. Tell me just how Papa is have a letter there when I return you can see by the schuell when we are due. And I will return over land soon as I get straighen out. Dont let Papa give up Hopeing to be with You all soon. Your loveing Son Charlie P.M. S.S. "China"Oct. 16, 1895
Mr Chas T Bright San Francisco ----------------- Plattsville Conn Oct 16.1895 My dear Brother, - Mama thinks if you have not decided to come home, you had better come and spend the winter with us as Papa is so helpless and is feling quite blue. He is counting on your coming so much and thinks you may be here next Sunday if you are not going on the next trip. This is only a few lines but is as all we can send this morning as it as after seven o'clock and we have to drive to the Office so will have to close. from Your loving sister NellieOct. 17, 1895
Mrs F. Burr Plattsville Fairfield Conn Lock Box 391 ----------------- San Francisco Oct 17 1895 Dear Sister I received yours and the letters from home in due time and received telegraph yesterday so will be there Thanksgiving sure. We arrived Sunday Oct 13 and had to go in quarenteen so delaid one writeing. I had a fine trip. I was on board the Eleanor yesterday. I would not ship on her again for sixty dollars a month. We that is Paul and myself are together again. Has been up to Seattle while I was away. But was down here to see me when the China arrived and stopped a board that night. We are as good chums as ever. I am writeing in the office where his is book keeper. The young man I left that case in charge of did not send it so will bring along as baggage. Tell the truth I am gone on a nice little girl there is here. I cant write much now but will do better when arrive talk every one to death I amagine now. The boys on the Yacht feel sick to think I had such a good job and them doing the same dirty work. Well Thanks giving you will hear all dont write Your True Brother CharlieOct. 26, 1895
Mrs Chas Bright Plattsville Conn Fairfield Co ----------------------- New L 3 PM Oct 24 Dear Mother We are all ready to sail and expect to get away on time. So do not worry you will hear from me as soon as we arrive. Fare The Well Charlie --------------------- --------------------- Mrs F Lycett 165 Fairfield Ave Bridgeport Conn --------------------- On Board Yacht Eleanor New London Oct 26 Dear Aunt I know you will be supprised to receive this, but have not much time so much did this short if you see the folks tell them my address is C T Bright Messrs J P Morgan + Co London England care W.A.C Later and they fordward them to all parts of the worldDec. 15, 1895
New London Dec 15th 95 Friend Bright I thought I would drop a line to you and let you know that I am well and enjoying life if I am not on the Eleanor I left the ship the Satuerday before Thanks- giving stopped with my Cousin in Frisco awhile and left there the 5th and arrived home the following Wed- nesday. They did not use me right and I got my back up and left Satterlee tole me that he thought you had gone home and when I saw Joe he told me that you were I hope written a letter to Heger today and sent some hopess last night Scotty did not like it very well and was sulky did not say goodby of course I cried my eyes out and felt very much broken hearted over it. I would liketo have staid in San Francisco very much I did not want to leave there at all but my folks were worryig a great deal about me and I had to come home my cousin wanted me to stay with and felt very bad when I came away. I had a very pleasant trip across country but it was very tiresome Hewitt was down to see me one day last week and was very glad to see me. The Sucker is there yet and is a big man now he is first fireman now I suppose he is very Important and bosses the boys around as if he was Chief I will now close with regards hoping to hear from you soon I remain as ever your old shipmate G L Winlsow 33 Howard St New London Conn If you ever happen around this way give me a call I would be glad to see youFeb. 29, 1896
Mr Charles Bright Plattsville Fairfield Co Conn ---------------------- February 28th / 96 New Bedford Friend Bright I received your welcome letter a few days ago and was glad to hear from you. those steamers that you spole about had gone to Newport News for an overhauling before I received your letter. the last time I heard from the yacht she was in Montevideo and by this time must be near the West Indes. I met Annie one day at the depot in New London but did not stop and talk with her very long Joe I have not seen for a long time. I have been looking for a letter from Weaver Paul I have never heard from yet I do not see why he did not answer my letter. Was he look- ing for a job in the Australion line of steamers I do not get home very often in this bussiness I have had another chance go go in one of the Fall River tow boats but shall not take it I am going to try and get out of the fire room if it is a possible thing I will now close with regards to you from your old shipmate I L Winslow Tug Hries Jersey City NJ care Brown dry dock coJun. 1, 1896
Mr. Charlie Bright 20 Hazelwood Ave. Bridgeport Conn. --------------------- Berkely Av. New London bom June 1 . 96 Friend Bright - Yours of the 27th received, and in reply wolla give you all the information I can in regards to getting a license. The remaining cousins here in this city, is Nate Lawerences but he is some were on Long Island at present. There is E. Kline, I anst of the City of Worcester, and Clarence Edwards, chief of the Munnahawkes Gunis between here and Fisher's Island. I think it would be best to come and see them I shall be very glad to see you then there is Joseph Thomas. President of the Association in New Haven I think his address is Sea St- and I believe he is running the oyster Steamer Joshua Bidell if you to to New Haven hunt him up. and he will give you all the information you want. I am well aquainted with him. tell him that I have referred you to him, and he will use you all right glad to hear that you hand is improving. I suppose you and Paul have some good old times together kindly remember me to him, and tell him I will answer his letter before long! I should think the pair of you might take a mus over this way, what is the new power company? write and tell me all about it, for I am very much interested in any thing that is new. I had a call from Weaver the other day, he tells me the Eleanor is charted for 4 months, but he is sick of the job and would like to get some thing else, I am still working every day; but business is not very good just now. I cant think of any more news at present hoping to hear from you soon I remain Ever Your Friend Joe Hersi