Mrs. J. J. Swanwick to Richard Yates

Sparta Randolph Co Illinois

August 13th 1864

To his Excellency Govenor Yates

Dear Sir

I have been instructed, by a meeting of delegates of the different Union aid Societies and Ladies Loyal Leagues of this and adjoining counties, which met here a few days since to take into consideration the propriety of holding a Sanitary Fair, to inform you that they have decided to hold one and have elected you President. It is to be hoped you will accept and be with us on the occasion and deliver the opening address. We need all the encouragement we can get, and their is nothing

we can do which would give us such prestige, and arouse our people to action as the announcement that you will be here. We feel that this is rather an out of the way place, and that your time is wholely occupied and that it is rather imposing on you to urge the matter too strongly, but we are proud to know that our Govenors heart is in the cause, and fondly cherish the hope that you will be here if possible

The Fair will be held in the fair grounds belonging to the agricultural society of this county commencing on Oct 6th 1864. The agricultural fair will be held at the same time

Very respectfully yours

Mrs J. J. Swanwick Sect

by Hugh R Guthrie

Assistant Sect

Thanks -

Cannot answer positively now---will let you know soon

Swanwick Mrs J. J.

Sparta Ills.

Aug 13th 1864

She says the aid societies and Ladies Loyal Leagues are going to hold a fair on the 6th of October, and invites the Governor to be present and deliver opening address. He has been elected President.

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