1860 Anti-Love Manuscript Letter, Rejecting the Romantic Advances of a New York Woman

On offer is a direct, likely humiliating, letter rejecting the romantic advances of woman in mid-19th century America

Dated in May 1860, the letter was written in Mechanicstown, a small village north of New York City.

The letter is a clear dismissal of the attention and interest of a woman. The tone is polite but firm. An excerpt of the letter follows:

... Shortly after my return home on my last visit I wrote you as I thought explicit enough. I then saw we could never be more friends. Since then I received a number of letters from you asking me to repeat “that visit” as you say I promised to do…You say promised you I would. I admit I did but under what circumstances. Why you forced me to say it. You would not let me off without saying so. I became disgusted at your conduct & said I would but had no idea at the time of doing it soon. But should you ever cross my path I will give you the hand of friendship…

For a social historian, this letter is a glimpse into the personal world of relationships in the mid-19th century. It is not common to see such sentiments expressed so directly in correspondence and as such adds to the tapestry of social life in mid-19th century America.

This letter measures 8.0 inches by 5.0 inches. The letter is in good condition and the handwriting is very legible. Unfortunately, neither the addressee’s name nor the author’s signatures can be made out.