Over 1100 letters were exchanged by John and Abigail

Their letters provide a personal glimpse into early American life—as well as a genuinely amazing marriage. Before the war, John frequently traveled to Boston for business. He spent the majority of the Revolution in Philadelphia working as a representative in the Continental Congress. Later, he would travel to Europe on diplomatic business, and when president, he would spend extended periods away from his loving wife.

John and Abigail diligently kept up their correspondence throughout. Their conversation includes firsthand tales of the independence referendum, Washington's inauguration, and many other events that shaped their fledgling country. Even some letters are dripping with romanticism. In 1782, Abigail wrote, "I look back to the early days of our acquaintance; and Friendship, as to the days of Love and Innocence; and with an indescribable pleasure I have seen close to a score of years roll over our Heads, with an affection heightened and improved by time—nor have the gloomy years of absence in the slightest degree effaced the Image of the dear untitled man to whom I gave my heart."

Historians have deduced from these letters that Abigail had a substantial impact on her husband's career, particularly in managing the family farm and his commercial dealings, including the Adamses' grandson Charles Francis Adams. She saved the Adams family from the financial disaster that some other early presidents, like Thomas Jefferson, experienced after leaving office.