The Winter Looks Dark and Gloomy

In 1894, when he was about 50, my great-great-grandfather, Henry Henderson was committed to an asylum in Colorado. According to friends and neighbors, who provided affidavits in his pension file, Henry's physical and mental health had been deteriorating for many years, to the point where he required the "constant watchful care of his family." His wife Abbie was made his conservator, and Henry remained in the asylum until his death in 1897. Abbie wrote the following letter to the pension review board a few months before Henry was committed.

Monte Vista

Colo.

Sep 11, 1893

Mr. W. G. Coffin

Dear Sir,

I received these papers but as my husband has lost his mind and is in sein it is impossable to get any further evidents. The Dr. that Doctored in the hospital is dead but his evidence is there. Henry got it when or reit before he drew the pension he is entitled to, and that being the small sum of $4.00 per month. He is as help less as an inphint has to have tow attendents. My health is all broke down and have a fimly of 7 the oldest 15 years of age. We are what you call poverty strickened want and must have aid for I am not able to take care of so larger faimly and him an involid. The board of 3 dr. examined him in April their testimonies is also in Washington.

We can get the neighbors evidence for 18 years if that will be of any good, can get plenty of them. Please attend to this matter promply for the winter loocks dark and gloomy.

And obliged

Yours truly

Mrs. Henry G. Henderson

Ironically, after Henry was committed, and after more exchanges back and forth between Abbie and the review board, a pension of $12 a month was granted. 

The children of Henry and Abbie Henderson, Monte Vista, Colorado, about 1891

Back row: Sarah Mandana, John Grove

Front row, L to R: Charles W., William Chester, Henry Alonzo