1848 Wesleyan Univ Middletown CT 5¢ Stampless Letter Rev J.D. Torry #1392

1848 Wesleyan University Stampless Folded Letter – Middletown, Connecticut to Vernon, New York Original September 1848 stampless folded letter written from Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut and addressed to Rev. J. D. Torry of Vernon, Oneida County, New York, believed to be Methodist Episcopal minister Rev. John D. Torry. The letter is dated September 21, 1848 and bears a clear MIDDLETOWN, CON. SEP 22 circular postmark with a bold 5-cent rate handstamp. The lengthy handwritten contents discuss Wesleyan student life, studies, religion, Middletown and Cazenovia, New York, as well as transportation of a missing package by steamboat, railroad and stage. Of particular interest is the writer’s description of a very tall Wesleyan “Dr.,” stating that he measured approximately 6 feet 6 inches and praising both his physical stature and intellect. This may refer to Wesleyan president Dr. Stephen Olin, although the individual is not specifically named in the letter. An appealing early Wesleyan University, Methodist and American postal-history piece with substantial original content. Condition: Original folds, toning, staining, edge wear and several areas of paper loss/holes as shown. Handwriting and postal markings remain substantially legible. Please examine all photographs carefully for exact condition and content. A desirable pre-Civil War 1848 stampless letter with strong Wesleyan University, Connecticut, New York and Methodist historical associations.