260

203. J. W. Wartmann to William H. Herndon.

Rockport Indiana June 19th 1866.

My Dear Sir:

I handed your letter making inquiry as to trees, fruits flowers &c &c, in this co. to Gen'l Veatch — , an old friend and political friend of Mr Lincoln's, with a request that he would answer it at once, and give You the desired information.

I am reminded this morning that he has mislaid the letter and also, that he had never answered it. I am sorry for this, but will endeavor to answer some of your questions as best I can. I hope you will pardon the neglect in me, and trust the little information herein contained may be of some benefit to you.

Very truly
Your friend
J. W. Wartmann

Spring flowers

Blood Root —
Wild Rose Do not Know the
Spring Beauty Botanical Names.
Dog Wood
Anemone or wind flower

Spring fruits —

Wild Straw berries
May Apples — (a wild fruit)
Mulberries —

Summer fruits —

Black berries
Wild Plums

Fall & Winter "

Persimmons
Fox, or wild, Grapes
Acorns
Hickory Nuts
Walnuts
Hazel Nuts
Paw-paws
Red Haws
black "

261

There were but few orchards in this Co' in Mr Lincoln's day here. The leading timber & forest trees, are Hickory, Beech, Yellow & White poplar, Gum, Maple, Sugar tree, Black Walnut, White Walnut, Elm, Sycamores, (in the low lands & near creeks. Dog Wood. Hack-berry (grows only on the richest soil). Oak (Black & White), used mainly in making Rails.

Library of Congress: Herndon-Weik Collection. Manuscript Division. Library of Congress. Washington, D.C. 2581; Huntington Library: LN2408, 1:164 — 66