WAR’S ROLLER-COASTER EMOTIONS

Mrs. Lydia E. Hollingsworth of Maryland corresponded with her cousin, Ruth Tobin, throughout the war. Her words provide insight into people’s emotional reactions. As British troops approached Baltimore, her brother advised the women to flee and the men to drive their stock to security.

In a letter she wrote on September 15, 1814, Lydia described her feelings during the battle in Baltimore.

Nearly half past four in the morning; our alarm guns were fired at twenty minutes past twelve; since then the bells ring, drums beating, the Houses generally lighted. . . .

Some moments I feel very resolute, the next quite the reverse; God only know[s] what the event will be, I put my trust in Him; and I fervently trust He will protect us all. . . . we all thought it impossible that the Fort could hold out.

American forces killed the British commander and drove the British fleet away, much to the relief of Maryland’s citizens. Lydia noted: “I dressed soon after day broke. We with great pleasure observed our flags at each fort still flying.”

On February 8, 1815, Mrs. Hollingsworth referred to the small loss of lives in Baltimore as she wrote of hope about the events surrounding New Orleans from the news she heard.

Well my dear cousin what do you think of the resistance made by our brave citizens of New Orleans? It has diffused much sunshine on our citizens here, and I do hope although the British may be rein- forced (which I calculate on being largely done) that our troops may continue brave, united, and successful. The battle seems to have been bold and bloody and dreadfully fatal to the British, our own loss astonishingly small; and it would have been incredible, if we did not know, that in the Battles nearer home, the number was much less than had been generally calculated on. General Jackson appears able to lead them, and quite the gallant star from various letters.

News of war brings emotional reactions with fear or joy, depending on the outcome or the feelings of security.

Prayer: Lord, help me to have inner peace when I receive distressing news, and help me share the good news of Your love.