Death of Emily Norcross Dickinson
Categories: "Life... a thrilling premise to supremer things"
1881
Mabel Loomis Todd and David Todd move to Amherst. Mabel Loomis Todd later becomes co-editor of the first volumes of Dickinson’s published poetry.
Late 1870s
Emily Dickinson’s romance with Judge Otis Phillips Lord begins. Dickinson’s relationship with Lord is one among many which continue to intrigue scholars. Dickinson and Lord continue to exchange letters until his death in March 1884.
1875, August 1
Birth of Gilbert (“Gib”) Dickinson, Emily Dickinson’s nephew
“Emily and all that she has are at Sue’s service, if of any comfort to Baby – Will send Maggie, if you will accept her.” (Dickinson, in a message to Susan)
1875, 15 June
Emily Norcross Dickinson suffers a stroke that produces “a partial, lateral paralysis.” The next summer she falls and breaks her hip, becoming permanently bedridden, and requiring further care. For the next seven years, until her death in 1874, Emily and Lavinia cared for their mother in her convalescence.
“…have never seen a daughter so devoted.” (Harriet Jameson, Lavinia’s neighbor, 11-10-[1882], Container 5, Jameson Papers)
1874, June 16
Edward Dickinson dies in a Boston boarding house following his collapse while giving a speech in the Massachusetts state legislature. Edward’s death away from Amherst strikes Emily Dickinson and the rest of the Dickinson family as particularly tragic; the family has been robbed of a proper goodbye, all together, left only with the “Silence” of death.
“There marauds a sorer Robber –
Silence -” (Dickinson, Fr1315)
1869
The Dickinson family hires Margaret Maher as their primary domestic help. She would remain with the Dickinsons for thirty years.
1866, 27 January
Death of Carlo, Emily Dickinson’s Newfoundland
“Carlo died – […] would you instruct me now?” (Dickinson, L454)
1865, November 29
Birth of Martha Dickinson Bianchi, Emily Dickinson’s niece
1865
The Civil War ends.