by James O Southworth. 37p

John Bennett Southworth and his wife Anna Elizabeth Southworth relocated to Montana in the early 1900s to homestead, enduring hardships in the arid climate. Their correspondence from the early 1900s sheds light on their daily struggles and simple way of life. Anna Elizabeth Southworth, a strong-willed matriarch, managed the household while caring for her elderly mother and tending to farm duties.

The Southworth family faced challenges such as job scarcity, health issues, and the impact of historical events like troop trains passing through Park City. Despite these difficulties, they maintained a sense of resilience and hope for better times. The letters also reveal family dynamics, with mentions of relatives like Alvin E. Southworth and interactions with neighbors and friends in the community.

Tragedy struck the Southworth family in the late 1920s with the passing of John Bennett Southworth and Anna Elizabeth Southworth. Their legacy lives on through the letters exchanged among family members, providing a glimpse into the lives of early 20th-century homesteaders in Montana and the enduring bonds of family ties during challenging times.