Gray Letters 1891 08 12

The image depicts a handwritten letter from Samuel Gray to his mother-in-law, dated August 12, '91, from Woodstock Valley. In the letter, Gray describes his visit to the residence of Mr. Henry Allen, whose property spans Eastford and Woodstock Valley. The house, originally belonging to the recipient’s ancestor, Jonathan Hayward, was built by Hiram Howard's father. Gray mentions the proximity of the residence to a post office and Kenyonville, noting a functioning mill at the latter. He details his journey from Brooklyn, passing through New Haven, where they explored the town by carriage to admire the colleges, green, churches, and residences, noting the contrast between the old college buildings and newer structures in the area.