Hanford went on to earn an A.M. at Harvard in 1909. He died in 1921. Their father, Rev. Hanford A. Edson, was a pastor of the 2nd Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis from 1864-1873. He had also attended Williams, graduating in 1855. Ind. In the letters to their family the boys write about school work, trips, glee club , Y.M.C.A., and domestic chores.
Financial matters are also a concern.
Hanford, the elder brother, contemplates attending seminary during his senior year at Williams. His letters of 1889-1890 focus on deciding if he should attend seminary or take a teaching position at Robert College in Constantinople. In the spring he accepts the position at Robert College for two years. Hanford also plans a trip through Europe prior to beginning his teaching duties in Constantinople. Later letters seem to indicate that he is employed at Williams College, although no specific job is mentioned.