Letter Writing - Templates for Social Life

In the 18th century, letter writing was a significant form of communication. Letter writing required instruction, told of rank in society, and today might even be considered an emerging art form of sorts. The following activities and information take you through the instruction, forms, and art of letter writing as provided through letters in the APS collections.

This page is for those curious about the practice of letter writing in the 18th century. Of course, for modern readers, this practice extends to texts, emails, and still the occasional “snail mail.”  Each of the sections below contains information on portions of these practices, along with activities, and opportunities to make connections to current practices in the art of social communication. 


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