Hello all - I listed my ancestor's migration a few days ago. My great grandfather, Asa Matti(e)son traveled to Dakota Territory, Elk Point, SD, across the river from Ponca, Dixon County, NE. He died in 1865 and is buried in the Ponca cemetery. I have a copy of a letter he wrote to his son Fay who lived in WI (and who eventually migrated to Ponca), which I thought might be of interest. It tells a little of the way things were in 1863 Dakota/Nebraska Territory. I have not edited his spelling or grammar. If any of you think it is too much to read please forgive me. November 26, 1863 Decota Territory Dear son I take this opportunity to let you no that we are all well at this time & hope these few lines will find you the same & to let you know I received a letter from you dated November 22, 1863 we was glad to hear you was well. I am sorry to hear you dont get my letters from me or the rest of your folks for I have rote often to you.(.) I rite this in a hurry & take it along with me to Elk Point post office as I have to go to Yancton the Capitol of Decota Territory 57 miles. I hardly no how to go but I must as I am Elected a member of the house of representatives. Fay I want you should come out here this winter if you can without fail if not come early in the spring(.) wages are $1.75 cts for a day here & probably will be next year or higher(.) your Brother has made 200 hundred dollars since he came here & now he is trapping on elkhorn river in Nebraska(.) George & me cetched four foxes last week(.) I want you should see Martha & see whether she wants to come here or not if she dos I can send her some money. I want you should let me no as soon as you can & if George will come or not(.) The sooner you or you all can come the better this time nomore. >From your Father & Mother to Fay Mattison