05/26/2026
Calvin J. Cowles frequently traveled long distances as a merchant selling herbs, furs, fruits, and household goods in towns along the Yadkin River. On July 4, 1850, his wife wrote him a letter telling him about the situation at home. She told him that their two sons Arthur (age 5) and Calvin Jr (age 2) were trying to launch a balloon in the yard as she watched from the window. She reported that the balloon reached a height of 300 feet!
Martha and her two sons had spent the prior day in Wilkesboro, staying at the Calloway home. This home stood diagonally across the street from where the museum is today, at the corner of Main Street and Bridge Street. The familyl had arrived back at their home in Hamptonville in the afternoon. This was in Surry County at the time, but today it is in Yadkin.
Below is a transcription of Martha's letter. The photo is of Calvin J. Cowles, perhaps a couple decades later. As we begin planning our Fourth of July events, take a moment to imagine the two young boys trying to launch a balloon, perhaps handmade of tissue paper. Hopefully, they had adult supervision in lighting a small candle for heat to generate lift!
"Hamptonville, July 4, 1850
My Very dear husband,
I am now sitting at the window in my same old room looking at the boys trying to start a balloon. How they will succeed, I will let you know.
8 o'clock pm. I have just put Arthur and Calvin to bed. They are both well and enjoy themselves very well. I asked Arthur what I should say to pa for him. He said tell pa to write to us and that he wanted to see him. I stook my trip tolerable well. Feel a little nervous this morning.
We got to Wilkesboro about 6 o'clock. Had no accident. Staid at Calloway's and was waited on in find style. Left at 7 in the morning. Got to H(amptonville) 1/2 past 3. The horses done very well. It was quite warm. I wish you could be with us and see what ___ is made over your wife and little boys. The neighborhood ___ delightful ____
The balloon has just made a ___ up about 300 ft. It looked splendid.
William Landford is here. Come the same day I did. Was glad to see us. Says he wouldn't have known Arthur. He is going to Jonesville today. I am going to send word to Eliza to come down. She was well a few days ago. Abel is here now. Mrs. Hough is as well as usual. She has gained in flesh a good deal since I saw her. I think she must be swelled some. I spent the evening with Mrs. Darnall. Found her quite agreeable."
