Letter from Grace Greenwood to John Greenleaf Whittier, April 15, 1870

Letter from Grace Greenwood to John Greenleaf Whittier, April 15, 1870

Journalist, author, abolitionist and women’s rights activist Grace Greenwood (1823-1904), given name Sara Jane Lippincott, writes to John Greenleaf Whittier asking if he can arrange a lecture for her in Amesbury, as she is short on money. Greenwood garnered attention as both an activist and journalist, becoming, at age 30, the first woman on the New York Times’ payroll. Greenwood also makes reference to her work at the New York Tribune, which evidently wasn’t paying the bills.

Grace Greenwood

April 15, 1870

South Manchester Conn, April 15. 1870.

Dear friend —

I am expecting to be in Norton Mass on Thursday the 21^st to read my lecture called “Indoors” for the young ladies of the Seminary and I do not like to go so near to you without seeing you.

It has occurred to me that I might give a lecture in Amesbury that would at least pay my expenses — and I am desperately poor this spring. My “Tribune” engagement has been a losing concern. That is — the pay was poor and the work too absorbing to allow of my dying much else. — If you know of any young men who will undertake to put up a lecture for me — attend to the bitter business details — I will come for the 22^nd — Friday — but if it is thought not practicable — I will come to see you, anyhow — if you can receive me

This lecture was a great success in Washington. I send a notice of it from a Windham Co Conn. Paper.

Don’t let this proposition give you any trouble —It is proposed in the first place, by the wish to make me money (only a little) and in the next by the desire to do good.

Please drop me a line care of Miss Mary B. Briggs Norton Mass.

Ever truly and affectionately

Grace G

P.S. — In case I lecture the tickets better be got at 25 cts.