Ahoy San Fransisco

April 3rd, 1849

My Dearest Family,

My long sea journey has finally ended! After several months aboard a very crowded ship I have landed in the foreign town of San Francisco. As many weeks as it has taken me to gain my sea legs it seems it will take me twice as long for my land legs to return. I stumble and trip on the cobbled streets of this strange town. There are new buildings being built here on a daily basis.

At first I felt quite overwhelmed by the sight of this town. People are everywhere trying to sell you gold mining tools and forcing me to eat bear meat! Can you imagine bear meat! They say it is a California delicacy, but I have yet to find out. There are people here from far away countries that I have never even heard about. I have purchased my pick and shovel and will wait for the next river boat to Sacramento. For now I am staying at the Parker house, I guess its okay but they want to charge me 10 dollars for a bath! Guess water is in short supply out here in California. Don’t worry mother I will find a way to wash behind my ears. I took on a roommate to help with the cost of the room. His name is Thomas and guess what he comes from New Orleans! I think we may because gold mining partners. It’s important that someone has your back in these parts. It’s hard to tell who you can trust.

But that is enough about me, how is the farm at home? I hope the winter has not been too harsh on you or the animals. Is grandpa still in good spirits? I do hope that you make sure my youngest sister keeps her school work up, remind her there is a part of my gold fortune in it for her if her grades remain high.

The next time you hear from me I hope to be in the gold mines of California searching for our families fortune. Please know I think of you often and hope that all is well in Boston.

Sincerely,
Your son John