Although Stone attempted several times to return to his homeland of Western Connecticut, he never again felt welcome there for very long. While his family remained supportive of Joel - visiting him in prison during the Revolution and taking in his wife and children when he was in England - he was reluctant to return. On one occasion when he did return to his homeland, he was given 48 hours to leave or face the wrath of a vengeful mob. Stone instead often sent his son, William, who knew the land well. This letter, from Stone’s sister, speaks of William’s final journey to Connecticut. He died in November of 1809 at the age of 28.
Litchfield Feb 18th 1809
My Dear Brother and Sister,
We are much pleased with seeing your son William & consider it as a particular favour that he has taken the time to come down & see us, I wish you could be prevailed on to visit your native land once more. I am sure it would be a satisfaction to you. I am sorry you should entertain the smallest idea that you should meet with any abuse from any one individual in this grant of country. Our state of society has not got to that yet, how soon it may I cannot tell. I presume you would not only be treated with kindness & attention by you particular friends, but with civility by all you would meet. I shall refer you to William for particulars respecting ourselves and family, & beg you if your life should be spared till another winter to come and see us.
From your affectionate sister,
Huldah Sheldon
Mr. & Mrs. Stone
Doctor Sheldon desires his affectionate love to you all, give my love to Mary and tell her I am sorry she could not come down with William, hope she will be able to come at a future time.