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Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Wife and Family, October 31, 1868

In this letter from October 31, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his never-ending work and the arrival of a snow storm while he was camping outside without a tent. Reed complains about the inefficiency of the Division Superintendents, whose incompetency causes him a great deal of extra work.

I have been busy as usual since you left here and shall not have a leisure hour while I remain on the road. All this week I have been on horseback and only returned here in the middle of last night. We have had quite a snow storm; six inches fell on me three nights since while camped out without a tent. My poor horse Jimmie suffered more than I did. As soon as it was daylight I started and rode twelve miles in the storm to Bear River. It is clear and pleasant now. I have not seen the Doctor since you left but from telegrams received, think he is in good spirits. The Doctor was right when said I had too much to do, but I think he should have given me under my control efficient division superintendents and, then, with the general management, I would not be as much hurried as I am now.

About this Document

  • Source: Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Wife and Family
  • Citation: Nebraska State Historical Society, Samuel Reed Papers (Union Pacific Railroad Collection), MS 3761, Unit 1, Subgroup 14, Series 1, Box 2, Letters to Wife and Family
  • Date: October 31, 1868