James Williamson, North Fork Hill, California, to brother, John Williamson, Manchester, England, 2 October 18(53)
Description
James has been engaged in some kind of construction work, perhaps blacksmithing, associated with the gold mines, although he says that he may return to mining itself. He has been knocking about recently, with no fixed abode or occupation. Tradesmen are currently experiencing high unemployment and low wages. His brother, William and his wife are currently in Deadwood, California. Notes that Auburn was nearly all burned down in the previous July, and that 300 people died of cholera on a steamship bound for San Francisco. [He directs his mail to Auburn, Placer Co.].