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Statement of Abraham Rivera (August 1928), with captured correspondence

Abraham Rivera, in the words of historian Neill Macaulay, was "a chubby, middle-aged mulatto who spoke both English and Spanish.  During the early years of Sandino's revolt, Rivera, a Bluefields tradesman, had been jailed on suspicion of revolutionary activity; upon his release he had gone to the mountains and become a close friend and confidant of the guerrilla leader [Sandino] and a colonel in his army."  (Macaulay, The Sandino Affair, Duke University Press, 1985, p. 188; photo at right: Abraham Rivera from Anastasio Somoza García, El verdadero Sandino, Managua, 1936, p. 187; same photo at left from newspaper clipping in RG165/77; full image is below)

     This document is from "the early years," during his brief incarceration.  By this time, Abraham Rivera had been commissioned in the Sandino's Defending Army for at least three months (Sandino's first known correspondence to him is dated 17 May 1928, as River accurately states here).  Two and a half years later, on 15 April 1931, Colonel Rivera led a raiding expedition at the Caribbean port city of Cabo Gracias a Dios, which in combination with simultaneous EDSN raids on the properties of United Fruit Company and other US-owned firms on the East Coast, prompted a radical shift in US policy under US Secretary of State Henry Stimson; henceforth the US government would no longer pledge to protect "American lives and property" on foreign soil.  By this time Sandino was writing to Rivera frequently, expounding at length on his philosophical and religious beliefs.  

     In this statement, Rivera tells his Marine & Guardia captors much of what he knows about the rebel movement, which is a lot.  As his interrogators put it, "Seems to have fairly complete knowledge of everything known to us."

     Why did he say so much that was so true?  (The only outright & obvious lies here are that Gen. Girón "impressed him as a guide" and that all the rebels had congregated near Jalapa-Poteca).  And just as mysteriously, why did his captors let him go?  By this time the Marines-Guardia were well accustomed to arresting & incarcerating known "bandits". Most likely, Abraham Rivera bargained an amnesty — accurate information in exchange for his freedom — that he later reneged on.  Whatever the case, all of the information here appears very accurate, and paints a remarkable portrait of the webs of relationships between groups who acting in concert were rapidly gaining effective dominion over much of the huge, sparsely inhabited, and strategically important Río Bocay Valley.

 

STATEMENT OF ABRAHAM RIVERA
AUGUST 24, 1928

Age fifty three years old. Home, Jinotega. Occupation, merchant. Works in Jinotega province and Rio COCO valley. Father JOSE VALORES RIVERA, lives in city of JINOTEGA. Two brothers. Luis Rivera, works for Bragman Bluff Lumber Co. Rafael Rivera, owns coffee plantation near Jinotega. A cousin GUADALUPE RIVERA, from JINOTEGA, Colonel with SANDINO. Last saw GUADALUPE in JUNE in POTECA. The following people in JINOTEGA are said to know ABRAHAM RIVERA: The CASTELLON BROTHERS, merchants, NOGUERAS BROTHERS, merchants, GUSTAVO DUARTES, merchant. States he learned English while working at the PIS PIS mines.
 
Claims first to have met the outlaws at CASA VIEJA about the 20th of April. JIRON was commanding. Claims was on way from JINOTEGA to the mines with coffee by way of BOCAY when he met bandits. Had 400 lbs coffee. Says that JIRON had about 150 men, and was on his way from the mines toward BOCAY at this time. ALTAMIRANO was with JIRON.
 
Claims that JIRON impressed him as a guide and he lead them to the BOCAY river by way of CLAUSA NUSNE and WAIL KRAU. The troops went as far as GARROBO. He then went back to BOCAY with a letter from JIRON to the then acting Commandante at BOCAY, named ROSA VALLECILLO. At BOCAY received supplies which he carried up the river to JIRON. At GARROBO found that JIRON had left and SANDINO was there. Made another trip to BOCAY for provisions. Was using three small boats. Met SANDINO enroute to BOCAY. Had 400 men with him, was traveling both by river and land. He then returned to BOCAY with GENERAL CARLOS SALGADO, and then proceeded up the COCO river with troops, arms and supplies. These arms had been left at BOCAY by AGUERRO. Stopped at MASTAWAS, went to WAMBLAN, at WIWILI General SALGADO went towards MURRA and he went to SANTA CRUZ. Then went down to BOCAY, to see Mr. Webster, and heard that marines were in BOCAY so did not go all the way. Crossed over to BOCAY river by trail that goes from KIBUS to WUINA. Sent toWEBSTER for money, received $50.00, then went back to COCO river and proceeded up the river, meeting and being captured by marine troops. (date 14 Aug)
 
Believes SANDINO now in POTECA mountains. Possibly near JALAPA. Says that he thinks all the outlaws are now together.
 
Thinks present strength about 500. Many of these are HONDURANIANS.
 
Marshall was sick, and died in MASTAWAS. MARSHALL was not considered a prisoner.
 
Following generals are with SANDINO, JIRON, SALGADO, MONTOYA, FERRERA, Colonels ALTAMIRANO, SANCHEZ, RODRIGUEZ, AGUILERA, ESTRADA, COLINDRES, LARGOS, QUINTERO.
 
Have four machine guns. Each man has a rifle. Each man has some ammunition.
 
The GUATEMALA referred to in some of the correspondence is TOMAS GUATEMALA, from JINOTEGA who is now working getting supplies to SANDINO.
 
The commission was given RIVERA by SANDINO at GARROBO on the 17th of May.
 
Knows that SANDINO was receiving money from TURCIOS in HONDURAS and that some messengers were captured.
 
Insists that SANDINO and all of his forces most probably moved up the POTECA river. Bases this assumption on the fact that there is practically no food supplies near GARROBO, and admits that the situation up the POTECA river is almost as bad. Also believes that the troops are being kept near the HONDURANIAN border to cross over to take part in any revolution that may occur. When being told that no revolution will take place, he says then there is no place where they can go.

Seems to have fairly complete knowledge of everything known to us, regarding SANDINO'S supply route through HONDURAS, SEQUEIRA'S death, etc. and it is therefore assumed that he knows more than he has told so far.
 
Will not define his idea of SANDINO'S mission.

 M28.08.24b, RG127/220/5

Ancillary Documents

   Abraham Rivera says he was captured on 14 August 1928, and in fact he was, by Capt. Merritt A. Edson during the Río Coco Expedition (examined in detail by David C. Brooks in his 1989 JLAS article).  Seized along with him were at least 20 individual letters and other documents spanning the 15 months from June 1927 to August 1928, most dealing directly with the unfolding rebellion. In June 2012, the originals were discovered in the US National Archives (RG127/43A/29) and are presented here in JPEG files alongside full transcriptions (in progress). Together they offer a fascinating glimpse into Abraham Rivera's life, activities, and relationships. 

   I thank the Arnold Grant at Lebanon Valley College for funding the research trip that made it possible to discover and digitize these documents; Lebanon Valley College student researcher Daniel Schramm for scanning them; and the kind assistance of E. Arturo Castro-Frenzel for his help with the transcriptions and the corrected Spanish versions, and for his helpful commentaries.   

   We begin with the Marines' own inventory and transcriptions; click on thumbnails to view full images. We see eight pages listing, translating, and transcribing 21 items:

   This material is reorganized in chronological sequence below.  For each document, four versions are presented, where appropriate:  (1) an exact transcription of the original; (2) a translation into standard Spanish; (3) an exact transcription of the USMC-GNN's transcription, translation, and comments if any; and (4) a better English translation.


1.   27.06.05.  Alfred E. "Frenchie" Webster to Abraham Rivera, June 5, 1927.

[No. 10 on the Marines' list.]

"Bocay, June 5th 1927. ¶ Don Abram Rivera. ¶ En El Rio. ¶ My Dear Abram:- ¶ Su pongo que este le encuentre en el rio, y ojala que nos trae alguna buena noticia, pues mandé á Mike hasta la Boca de Waspook y vino anteayer pero solo traiendo las mismas noticias que tenemos de arriva. ¶ Aqui no hay cosa de nuevo, la Magdalina salió de su dificultad el dia despues que si fueron Uds, el 6 de Mayo; tuvo a un baroncito, pero disgraciadamente, nació el pobrecito con un defecto en la nariz y boca, pero como hacer Abram, hay que aguantar los castigos de Dios. ¶ Yo no haya que hacerhasta las cosas normalisan. ¶ Jesus va para Jinotega, para ver que si consiga su vaja. ¶ Si estas en Jinotega todavia, no deja de preguntar Don Enrique, Don Pablo y los Nogueras, que si me tienen corespondencia que me la mandan tambien á Bonifacio, talvez me han venido algunas telegramas de B-fields. Si le es posible, traigame una Caja de Kerosine, 10 lbs Candelas, y 6 potes de Oat Meal. ¶ Damele saludes a mi comadre Petrona y los chiquitos. ¶ Como aqui no hay otra cosa que decirte, dispense la corta carta. ¶ Su affmo ¶ /s/ A. E. Webster."

In standard Spanish: "Bocay, June 5th 1927. Don Abram Rivera. En El Río. My Dear Abram:- Supongo que esta lo encontrará en el río, y ojalá que nos traiga alguna buena noticia, pues mandé á Mike hasta la Boca de Waspook y vino anteayer, pero solo trayendo las mismas noticias que tenemos de arriba. Aqui no hay nada nuevo, la Magdalena salió de su dificultad el día después que si fueron Uds, el 6 de Mayo; tuvo a un varoncito, pero desgraciadamente nació el pobrecito con un defecto en la nariz y boca, pero cómo hacer, Abram?. Hay que aguantar los castigos de Dios. Yo no hallo qué hacer hasta que las cosas se normalicen. Jesus va para Jinotega, para ver que si consige su baja. Si estás en Jinotega todavía, no dejes de preguntar a Don Enrique, Don Pablo y los Nogueras si me tienen correspondencia que me la manden, tambien á Bonifacio, talvez me han venido algunos telegramas de B-fields. Si le es posible, traigame una Caja de Kerosine, 10 lbs Candelas, y 6 potes de Oat Meal. Damele saludes a mi comadre Petrona y los chiquitos. Como aquí no hay otra cosa que decirte, dispense la corta carta. Su affmo ¶ /s/ A. E. Webster."

NOTAS:

[1] en español (Arturo).
[2] en español (Arturo).
[3] en español (Arturo).
[4] "pedir la baja" o "solicitar la baja" significa en español (Arturo).
[5] Don Enrique (Heinrich) Gülke, en español (Arturo).
[6] Idem, probable Don Pablo Möller, en español (Arturo).
[7] The Noguera brothers (Gustavo & bros.) en español (Arturo).
[8] Probably Don Bonifacio Rizo, en español (Arturo).

USMC-GNN translation:  "Abraham Rivera, The River. ¶ My dear Abraham: ¶ I suppose this will find you in the river and I hope that we bring good news, for I sent Mike to the mouth of the Waspuc and came yesterday alone, bringing the same news we had on arrival. ¶ There is nothing new here, Magdalena ended her difficulties the day after you left, May 6, had a boy but unfortunately the poor thing was born with a defect in the nose and mouth, but as Abraham does we have to bear the punishments of God. ¶ I do nothing but the usual things. Jesus went to Jinotega to see if he could get his (vaja). If you are still in Jinotega, don't forget to ask Enrique, Pablo, and the Nogueras if they got the correspondence I sent them, also Bonifacio, perhaps some telegrams from Bluefields have come for me. ¶ If it is possible bring me a can of kerosene, 10 lbs. candles, and 6 boxes of oatmeal. ¶ Salute my child's godmother Petrona and the little ones for me. ¶ As there is nothing else to tell you, excuse the short letter. ¶ /s/ Frenchie Webster"

A better English translation with explanatory notes: "Abraham Rivera, The River. My dear Abraham: I suppose this will reach you at the river and I hope that it will bring us some good news, for I sent Mike to the mouth of the Waspuc and he came yesterday, but he brought only the same news we had from above [1]. There is nothing new here, Magdalena ended her difficulties [2] the day after you left, May 6th, had a boy but unfortunately the poor thing was born with a defect in the nose and mouth [3], but, Abraham, what shall we do? we have to put up with the punishments of God. I don't know what to do until things get normalized. Jesus went to Jinotega to see if he could get his withdrawal [4]. If you are still in Jinotega, don't forget to ask Don Enrique [5], Don Pablo [6], and the Nogueras [7] if they have correspondence sent to me, also Bonifacio [8], perhaps some telegrams from Bluefields have arrived for me. If it is possible bring me a box of kerosene, 10 lbs. candles, and 6 cans of oatmeal. Give my regards to my child's godmother Petrona and to the little ones for me. As there is nothing else to tell you, please excuse for the short letter. /s/ Frenchie Webster"

NOTES:

[1] Upstream.
[2] "Difficulties" of childbirth.
[3] A cleft palate.
[4] "pedir la baja" or "solicitar la baja" means to request withdrawal or discharge from a hospital, military duties, or other responsibilities. In this context it means requesting withdrawal from military duty.
[5] Don Enrique (Heinrich) Gülke, a prominent German merchant. Campesinos outside the town of Jinotega would commonly ask Jinotega merchants to let correspondence be addressed to their houses, since normal post service did not reach the countryside.
[6] Idem, probably Don Pablo Möller, another prominent German merchant.
[7] The Noguera brothers (Gustavo & bros.) had a large commercial house in Jinotega.
[8] Probably Don Bonifacio Rizo, a prominent Jinotega merchant a.k.a. "Don Juacho".

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2.   27.07.26.  María Luisa Fuerta Rivera to Abraham Rivera, Neptune, July 26, 1927.  

[No. 19 on the Marines' list, with second image of rear of letter containing another message, on stationary of the shuttered Eden Mining Company.]

"Julio 26 D./ 27 ¶ El neptuno ¶ Don Abran Ribera Estimado Señor deseo que cuando esta llegue a sus manos gose de buena felisidad nosotros buena grasias a Dios Don Abran deseo saber sinba abenir aberlos tambien dise mi mamita que si le trago los encargos que le iso y que si no los trago aora que se los traiga cuando buelba nosotros Rogando a dios Por usted nosotros lo esperamos todos los dias desiamos berlo Como Siempre deciandole felisidad Reciba nuestros Re cuerdos ¶ S.S. M. Luisa Fuerte R ¶  [on rear:] Para Don Adolfo Castrillo ¶ Cartillas – Libro 1° - Libro 2° - Caton ¶ Semillas de tabaco de D. I. Cruz ó A. Telle[ez] ¶ moral y urbanidad - Muestrario Calíg(ra)fo Spencer"

In standard Spanish: "Julio 26 D./ 27 ¶ Don Abraham Rivera ¶ Estimado Señor ¶ Deseo que cuando esta llegue a sus manos goce de buena felicidad. Nosotros bien gracias a Dios. Don Abraham, deseo saber si va a venir a vernos. También dice mi mamita que si le trajo los encargos que le hizo y que si no los trajo ahora, que se los traiga cuando vuelva. Nosotros rogando a Dios por Usted. Nosotros lo esperamos. Todos los días deseamos verlo. Como siempre, deseándole felicidad. Reciba recuerdos, ¶ S.S.[Su Servidora] M. Luisa Fuerta R."

USMC-GNN translation & commentary:  "Abraham Rivera, Neptune. ¶ Dear Sir: ¶ I hope that when this reaches your hands I will know your good health, we have (?) the good thanks of God. Abraham I want to know if you have had them also. Tell my little mother that if I bring the loads that were made up, if I don't bring them now I will bring them when we come back. ¶ I pray God for you, we await you every day, we want to see you, as always dedicated to your happiness receive our regards, ¶ /s/ María Luisa Fuerta Rivera. ¶ [On rear:] ¶ For Adolfo Castillo, books, ¶ First book - 2nd book ¶ seed of tobacco of Dr. F. Cruz or A Telles morals and desires (?) ¶ Professor Saligrafo Spenser."

A better English translation with explanatory notes: "July 26, 1927 ¶ El Neptune ¶ Don Abraham Rivera ¶ Dear Sir: I hope that when this reaches your hands you will be enjoying all good happiness. Thanks to God we are doing well. Don Abraham, I would like to know if you are coming to see us. My mother also asks if you brought her the goods she asked you to bring. She says that if you did not this time, please bring them the next time you come here. We pray God for you. Every day we desire to see you and as always we wish you happiness. Receive our regards, ¶ Your servant, ¶ M. Luisa Fuerta Rivera ¶ [On rear:] Reading primers - 1st book - 2nd book – Caton ¶ Tobacco seeds. By D. I. Cruz or A. Tell[ez?] Moral y Urbanidad Samplebook of Caligraphy ¶ Spencer [1]"

NOTE:

[1] References are to primary-school primers and texts, e.g. for an updated Spencer's Caligraphy see
http://www.ilunik.com/caligrafia-spencerian [offsite]

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3.   27.08.14.  Eustaguia Rivera to Abraham Rivera, August 14, 1927. 

[No. 21 on the Marines' list.  Original letter missing from collection in RG127/43A/19, making transcription of the original impossible.]

USMC-GNN translation:  "Abraham Rivera. ¶ Dear little brother: ¶ I have received your little letters you have sent me and also the money for the coffee and for a dress. Alfredo gave me $4 more, he said you saw them on the road. Marrita is well, goes to school every day and the teacher says she behaves well. Chepita says she had found out from Rafael that he now ought to be in La Ceiba, Honduras. My father has been sick with more 'miguillas' in the arm; I see my papa more afflicted every day, I don't know why this is done to me but it seems that the same will happen as occurred with my little mother. ¶ God grant that you have been well and that you will return soon. Antonio has given aid to help you from your difficulties and not be late in reuturning. Alfredo gave me two pieces of cashmere for my father. I want to see if he will have it made these days. God has blessed you for your good sentiments. Manuel works in the shoeshops of Pancho, God wants him to learn something that will serve him later. ¶ We all, all embrace you with love and affection, ¶ /s/ Eustaguia Rivera"

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4.   27.08.15.  T. D. Rivera to Abraham Rivera, August 15, 1927.   

[No. 18 on the Marines' list.  Letter inside missing; envelope only.]

"A mi hijo ¶ Abraham M. Rivera ¶ Bocay" 

USMC-GNN translation & commentary:  "To my son Abraham M. Rivera, Bocay: ¶ (Mourning card bearing name of Dolores Rivera and the following message): Dear Son: Luisita and I are a little ill, lightly. ¶ In respect to Sandino's war there is nothing more; some say he is now in Chipote, and others that he has gone away. ¶ I suppose we will see bye and bye. ¶ Jinotega, Aug. 15, 1927."

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5.   27.10.30.  Frenchie Webster to Abraham Rivera, October 30, 1927.  

[No. 9 on the Marines' list.]

"My Dear Abram: ¶ Recibí tu cartita con Felipe en la que me dice que le mande un bote a la bodega de Culi para el 10 de noviembre y hoy me agarran de sorpresa Bastard y Felipe, quienes dicen que quieren ir a trbajar algo con Usted primero. Así es que no tengo un bote grande pero les estoy diciendo a ellos que voy a ver si puedo conseguir el de Wilie Gordon y mandarlo más tarde. Hasta el 25 de agosto pude regresar de Jinotega. Fui bien recibido por los amigos de allá pero casi no he hecho nada de trabajo por haber estado tan mal el lugar de Tilba Crivan. ¶ Toda tu familia en Jinotega estaba bien. Sólo lo la Niña M. Luisa [1] estaba algo enferma pero no de gravedad. Con Bastard le mando cuatro cartas, cumplí con todos sus encarguitos, tambien dí el vestido al Viejo. ¶ Supe ahora después, por Jesús Duarte, que Rafael ya estaba en Jinotega tamaño gordo. ¶ Don Cayetano había ido al interior a traer su surtido. Don Antonio estaba bueno. ¶ Se murió la mamá de los Rizo, Doña Paula. ¶ Las cosas siempre siguen lo mismo. La última noticia que tuve, en el interior todo tranquilo, sólo el lado de Segovia siempre lo mismo. ¶ Mi comadre Petrona y los muchachos estaban buenos. ¶ Yo estoy solo aquí ahora, como tuve que mandar a Mike a arrear las maderas de Guelke [2], Pío [[3] y todos, como estoy tan fregado, talvez así podré comprar sal en el Cabo [4]. Bueno Abram, perdona esta corta carta, y cuando lleguen estos Sumus donde Usted, si acaso va a venir Usted con gente y carga bastante, yo creo que sería bueno que despaches a éstos para atrás ya, para llevar el pipante de Willy de Limnabun mientras uno viene llegando a la bodega. Si no viene para el 12 al 15, talvez no me halla. ¶ Que se conserve bien, Abram, y cuidado, es mejor ser algo cobarde como yo en estos lugares. Ya estamos viejos. Affmo amigo, ¶ Frenchie Webster"

NOTAS:

[1] Probablemente María Luisa Fuerta Rivera.
[2] Enrique (Heinrich) Gülke, un empresario alemán que tenía un gran negocio comercial en Jinotega y era exportador de grandes cantidades de madera.
[3] Probablemente Pío Castellón, un comerciante jinotegano.
[4] Cabo Gracias a Dios.

USMC-GNN translation & commentary: "My dear Abraham (This is in English, the rest is in Spanish):- ¶ I received your little letter by Felipe, in which you tell me to send him in a boat on the Bodega of Culi by Nov. 10 and today Bastard and Felipe got hold of me by surprise and said they wanted to go and work some with you first and I have no big boat but am telling them that I will go get one if I can secure Willie Gordon's and send it later. ¶ I could return from Jinotega up till Aug. 25, I was well received by friends there but did almost no work because Tilba Crivan's place was so bad. ¶ All your family in Jinotega were well, only the baby M. Luisa was a little sick but not seriously. I send four letters by Bastard, complied with all my errands, Rafael was then in Jinotega, big and fat. ¶ Cayetano has gone to the interior to get his supplies, Antonio was well. ¶ Paula, mother of the Rizos, died. ¶ Things are always the same, the last news I had everthing was quiet in the interior only Segovia is always the same. ¶ My child's godmother and the children were well. ¶ I am alone here as I had to send Mike to Gulke's Lumber, Pio and all, as I am very busy, perhaps I can buy salt in the Cape. ¶ Well, Abraham, excuse this short letter, and when the Sumus (Indians)  arrive where you are, if in case you are coming with people and plenty of cargo, I think it will be well to send this back now to take Willy's boat from Limnabum, while one is arriving at Bodega. ¶ If I do not arrive by the 12th to 18th perhaps I will not call. ¶ Take care of yourself, Abraham, and look out, it is better to be a coward like me in these places, we are old now. ¶ Affectionately, ¶ Frenchie Webster ¶ NOTE: (Typewritten and addressed ¶ to Abram Rivera, Pis Pis.)"

A better English translation with explanatory notes
:
"My dear Abraham :- ¶ I received your little letter sent with Felipe, in which you ask me to send a boat to the storehouse at Culi by Nov. 10th. Today Bastard and Felipe surprised me and said that they want to go and work a bit with you first. So I don't have a big boat, but am telling them that I'll see if I can get Wilie Gordon's and send it later. ¶ I could  onlyreturn from Jinotega until the 25th of August. I was well received by friends there but did almost no work because Tilba Crivan's area was in such a bad condition. ¶ All your family in Jinotega is doing well, only the Niña [1] M. Luisa was a little sick but not seriously. With Bastard I'm sending you four letters. I accomplished all of the little orders you had given me and also gave the dress to the old man. Later, through Jesus Duarte, I found out that Rafael was already in Jinotega, big and fat. ¶ Don Cayetano has gone to the interior to get his supplies, Don Antonio was doing fine. ¶ Doña Paula, the mother of the Rizo's, died. ¶ Things are always the same, the last news I had everthing was quiet in the interior. Only at Segovia things are always the same. ¶ My child's godmother and the children were doing well. ¶ I am alone here as I had to send Mike to ride herd on the Lumber of Guelke [2], Pio [3] and all those, for I'm quite penniless and maybe so I can purchase some salt at the Cape [4]. ¶ Well, Abraham, excuse this short letter, and when these Sumus arrive where you are, if in case you are coming with people and plenty of cargo, I think it will be well to send these back right now to take Willy's boat from Limnabum, while one is arriving at the storehouse. ¶ If you do not arrive by the 12th to 15th perhaps you will not find me. ¶ Take care of yourself, Abraham, and look out, it is better to be a bit coward like me in these places, we are old now. ¶ Affectionately, ¶ Frenchie Webster"

NOTES:

[1] Probably María Luisa Fuerta Rivera.
[2] Enrique (Heinrich) Gülke, a German entrepreneur who had a big general store in Jinotega and also exported large amounts of wood.
[3] Probably Jinotega merchant Pío Castellón
[4] Cabo Gracias a Dios

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6.   27.11.18.  Luis Pineda, Bonanza Mine, to Abraham Rivera, November 18, 1927.  

[No. 2 on the Marines' list.]

"Mina Bonanza ¶ Nobre 18/1927 ¶ Don Abraham Rivera ¶ Mina Eden ¶ Estimado Señor: ¶ Debiendo comenzar a practicarse las Elecciones para Diputados y Senadores de la República, rogamos a Ud. Tener la bondad de avisar a los vecinos de esa mina y a los de la linea y de la Bodega de Miranda por medio de los muchachos para que concurran a inscribirse y a votar. La votación queda abierta el domingo 20 de este mes o sea pasado mañana. ¶ Agradeciéndole mucho quedamos de Ud. muy attos S.S. y amigos ¶ Luis Pineda (P?) ¶ Pedro Vasquez"

USMC-GNN translation & commentary: "Sr. Abraham Rivera, Eden Mine. ¶ Dear Sir: ¶ Owing to the beginning of elections for Deputies and Senators of the Republic, we beg you to have the kindness to notify the neighborhood of this mine and of the area and of Bodega de Miranda through the medium of the boys, to gather to register and vote. The polls will be open Sunday the 20th of this month or day after tomorrow. ¶ Thanking you, etc., we remain your servants, ¶ Luis H. Pina D (?), Pedro Vasquez."

A better English translation: "Mina Bonanza ¶ February 18th, 1927 ¶ Mr. Abraham Rivera ¶ Eden Mine. ¶ Dear Sir: ¶ Since elections for Deputies and Senators of the Republic are due to begin, we beg you to have the kindness to send the boys around to notify the neighbors of that mine, the mine railway, and Miranda's storehouse to get registered and to vote. The polls will be open on Sunday the 20th of this month, i.e. the day after tomorrow. ¶ We thank you very much and remain your servants and friends, ¶ Luis Pineda [1] ¶ Pedro Vasquez."

NOTE:
[1] Arturo Pineda, also employed at Bonanza Mine, gave a detailed eyewitness description of Gen. Girón's sacking of the mine in April-May 1928, and is likely to have been Luis Pineda's brother or relative; see TOP 100 PAGE 9.

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7.   28.01.04.  M. A. Thompson, Bocay, to Abraham Rivera, January 4, 1928. 

[No. 20 on the Marines' list.  Map at right pinned to letter, despite being numbered #22; there is no #22 on the USMC-GNN list.]

"Dear Don Abram, ¶ I received letters from my uncle written on the 25 of December, from the foot of curious. He gave me the glad news that Lewis was alive and well, some one of his mozos came and told him that they had left Lewis in Bilway about the 10th of Dec., that he was awfully thin, owing to his illness, but was then entirely better. Don Abram poor old Don Marcelino was killed here on the 30th of Dec., Manzanaus was down at Modesto's place, raising hell with everybody, Marcelino went to bring up Modesto, when Manzanaus jumped on him, wounding him in several places. Marcelino shot him, and returned his wounds with his machete, as it was dark no one could interfere. When a light was lit both of them were dead. [p. 2] Marcelino had his left bust split open, we buried him on the 31st. ¶ Be good to yourself father Abraham, and come quick. Miguel is here but will be leaving again on the 15th. Everybody sends their best regards. ¶ Your friend as ever, ¶ /s/ M. A. Thompson"

USMC-GNN transcription & commentary: "Dear Don Abram, ¶ I received letters from my uncle written on the 25th of December, from the foot of curious. He gave me the glad news that Lewis was alive and well. Some one of his mozos came and told him that they had left Lewis in Bilway about the 10th of Dec., that he was awfully thin, owing to his illness, but was then entirely better. Don Abram poor old Don Marcelino was killed here on the 30th of December. Manzanans was down at Modesto's place, raising hell with everybody. Marcelino went to bring up Modesto, when Manzanans jumped on him, wounding him in several places. Marcelino shot him, and returning his wounds with his machete, as it was dark no one could interfere. When a light was lit both of them were dead. Marcelino had his left bust split open. ¶ Be good to yourself father Abraham, and come quick. Miguel is here but will be leaving again on the 15th. Everybody sends their best regards. ¶ Your friend as ever, ¶ /s/ M. A. Thompson, Bocay"

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8.   28.01.18.  Guadalupe Rivera to Abraham Rivera, January 18, 1928. 

[No. 14 on the Marines' list.]

"El portador Don Abram Rivera anda en negocios propios y de comercio suplico a las autoridades civiles y militares no atrazarle en su pasada. ¶ Patria y Libertad ¶ Guadalupe Rivera ¶ Enero 18 de 1928"

In standard Spanish: "El portador, Don Abraham Rivera, anda en negocios propios y de comercio. Suplico a las autoridades civiles y militares no atrasarlo en su pasada. ¶ Patria y Libertad ¶ Guadalupe Rivera ¶ Enero 18 de 1928"

USMC-GNN translation: "The bearer, Abraham Rivera, goes on private business and commerce. I beg that the civil and military authorities do not hinder him on his journey. ¶ Patria y Libertad ¶ Guadalupe Rivera"

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9.   28.02.08.  B. Garay to Abraham Rivera, February 8, 1928.  

[No. 7 on the Marines' list.]

"Zarpa pipante veloz con dirección a Bocay, al mando su Capitán Antonio Blandón y tres marineros conduciendo la familia de Don Abraham Rivera. ¶ Sackling [?] de Febrero de 1928 [stamped seal reads:] Inspeccion de Pol. ¶ Comandancia Local Sackling ¶ Comarca Cabo Gracias a Dios, Nic."

USMC-GNN translation & commentary:  "Velos started his boat toward Bocay in command of his Captain Antonio Blandon and three. Sailors are conducting the family of Abraham Rivera. ¶ Sackling (5) 8 Feb. 1928. ¶  B. GaraySealed with the seal of Inspector of Police and Hacienda of Cabo Gracias a Dios."

A better English translation: "Rapid canoe is leaving towards Bocay, at the command of Captain Antonio Blandón and three sailors who are conveying the family of Don Abraham Rivera. ¶ Sackling [--] February, 1928. . . ."

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10.   28.05.17.   A. C. Sandino to Abraham Rivera, May 17, 1928. 

[No. 3 on the Marines' list.  Only rear side scanned; impossible to separate from the underlying paper without damaging the document. Evidently Abraham Rivera's commission as a colonel in the EDSN.]

[Transcription of legible portions forthcoming]

USMC-GNN translation & commentary:  "Abraham [Badly defaced; Abraham Rivera's commission]: The undersigned General _____ of the forces defending the national rights of Nicaragua, in use of the powers which that same Army allows him, Resolves: To name the - - - - Abraham Rivera as (chief of the?) traffic in the River Coco - - - in order to - - - - the case - - - - aid (verb) - - - - that - - - - - - Also with the same naming - - - - - Mr Rivera to acquire - - - - - provisions - - - - general headquarters. All that Mr. Rivera does to favor our cause will be approved (by) this (commander?) for (after?) he resolves to do all that he thinks - - - - carrying out - - - - the interests (of?) the Counter Revolution. - - - - - Mr. Rivera to comply faithfully with (the obligations) which (this?) confers. ¶ The - - - - - May 17 of 1928. ¶ Patria y Libertad ¶ /s/ A. C. Sandino ¶ /seal/"

[Likeliest phrasing from similar documents: forthcoming]

English translation of the likeliest phrasing: [forthcoming]

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11.   28.05.19.  Unknown author, no definite date, ca. May 19, 1928.

[No. 1 on the Marines' list.]

"CULEBRA O STOPE O ¶ DATE / May I'19 ¶ CU.FT.BROKEN / 2,646 ¶ WIDTH / 7.2 ¶ TONS / 2.03 ¶ OZ.AU. / 0.80 ¶ TONS REMOVED / 203 ¶ TONS IN STOPE / none ¶ Luis Rivera ¶ 'Sixi Cuass "Wawa" ¶ Mr. Davis"

Likeliest meaning: This appears to be a mining company ledger that summarizes work done at the mine over the first 20 days of May 1928, listing the number of cubic feet of ore crushed (2,646), etc., along with the number of ounces of gold (AU) per ton (0.8, or almost one ounce per ton of ore). But this remains largely conjectural.

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12.   28.05.28.  Porfirio Sánchez H. to Abraham Rivera, May 28, 1928.  

[No. 8 on the Marines' list.]

"Sr. Abraham Rivera V ¶ Estimado Amigo: ¶ Ruegole se digne mandarme en pipante al Cuartel General al soldado Aguilera G para que lo curen de un golpe. ¶ Saludole ¶ Patria y Libertad ¶ P. Sanchez H. ¶ Peña Cruz [1] ¶ Mayo 28 – 1928"

NOTA:

[1] Pareciera referirse a La Peña de la Cruz, la montaña al Oeste de la ciudad de Jinotega, pero es poco probable que sea eso por cuanto Sánchez habla de un pipante y en esa zona no hay ríos navegable. Más bien podría ser "El Caño de la Cruz" (véase: http://www.panoramio.com/photo/69993318, afuera del website).

USMC-GNN translation: "Sr. Abraham Rivera. ¶ Dear Friend: ¶ I beg you to send me by boat to General Salvador Aguilar G.'s barracks because I have received a bruise. ¶ I salute you, ¶ Patria y Libertad /s/ Porfirio Sánchez, Pena Cruz, May 28, 1928."

A better English translation: "Mr. Abraham Rivera ¶ Dear friend: ¶ I beg you to have the kindness to send to me by boat the soldier Aguilera G to the General Headquarters to be treated for a blow he suffered. ¶ I greet you ¶ Homeland and Liberty ¶ Porfirio Sánchez, Peña Cruz [1] May 20th – 1928"

NOTE:
[1] This sounds like "La Peña de la Cruz" west of the town Jinotega, but this is unlikely, since Sánchez is talking about travel by boat and there is no navigable river there. He could be referring to "El Caño de la Cruz" (see http://www.panoramio.com/photo/69993318, offsite).

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13.   28.07.02.  A. C. Sandino, El Triunfo, to Abraham Rivera, July 2, 1928.  

[No. 11 on the Marines' list.]

"El Triunfo 2 Julio 1928 ¶ Estimado companero: ¶ Recibí su nota y la hoja suelta que me mandó y mucha risa me dio el pasquin sin firma de Moncada. ¶ Moncada está en temblores y es por eso que procura desepcional al pueblo. ¶ Lo espero en este campamento.No hay novedad. ¶ Patria y Libertad ¶ A. C. Sandino."

In standard Spanish: "El Triunfo 2 Julio 1928 ¶ Estimado compañero: ¶ Recibí su nota y la hoja suelta que me mandó y mucha risa me dio el pasquin sin firma de Moncada. ¶ Moncada está en temblores y es por eso que procura decepcionar al pueblo. ¶ Lo espero en este campamento. No hay novedad. ¶ Patria y Libertad ¶ A. C. Sandino."

USMC-GNN translation:  "El Triunfo 2 July, 1928. ¶ Mr. Abraham Rivera ¶ Esteemed companion:- ¶ I received your note and the pamphlet you sent me and the lampoon without the signature of Moncada made me laugh a lot. Moncada is in tremors and that is why he deceives the people. ¶ I await you in this camp. There is no news. ¶ Country and Liberty, ¶ A. C. SANDINO"

A better English translation: "Dear companion: ¶ I received your note and the flier you sent me and I laughed a lot at the unsigned lampoon of Moncada. ¶ Moncada is in tremors and that is why he tries to deceive the people. ¶ I await you in this camp. There is no news. ¶ Homeland & Liberty ¶ A. C. Sandino."

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14.   28.07.03.  A. C. Sandino to Abraham  Rivera, no date, ca. July 3, 1928.  

[No. 12 on the Marines' list. Undated.]

"Señor ¶ Abraham Rivera ¶ Ruégole ayudarmele a Guatemala [1], para que nos traiga sal, frijoles, maiz, arroz y las cosas necesarias porque no saldremos mañana, sino pasado mañana ¶ Patria y Libertad ¶ A. C. Sandino"

Nota:
[1] Referencia a Tomás "Tuma" Guatemala; véase TOP 100 PAGE 15.

USMC-GNN translation: "Mr. Abraham Rivera: ¶ I beg you to help us in Guatemala by bringing us salt, beans, corn, rice, and the necessary things, for we will not leave tomorrow but the day after tomorrow. ¶ Country and Liberty, ¶ A. C. SANDINO"

A better English translation: "Mr Abraham Rivera: ¶ I beg you to help Guatemala [1] to bring us salt, beans, corn, rice and the necessary things because we are not leaving tomorrow but the day after tomorrow. ¶ Homeland & Liberty ¶ A. C. Sandino"

NOTE:
[1] Reference to Tomás "Tuma" Guatemala; see TOP 100 PAGE 15.

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15.   28.07.04.  A. C. Sandino to Teresa Villatoro, no date, ca. July 4, 1928.   

[No. 13 on the Marines' list. Undated.]

"Señora Doña ¶ Teresa Villatoro ¶ Mi amor: el Señor Abraham Cent Rivera va para llevarte donde yo estoy que es en Los Montesillos de Oro. ¶ tuyo A. C. Sandino"

USMC-GNN translation & commentary:  "Mrs. Teresa Villatoro, ¶ My love: Mr Abraham (started to write "Centeno" but crossed it out) Rivera is going to bring you where I am which is in Los Montisillos de Oro (hillocks of gold). ¶ Thine, ¶ A. C. SANDINO."

A better English translation: "Ms. Teresa Villatoro ¶ My love: Mr. Abraham Rivera is going to bring you where I am which is in Los Montesillos de Oro ¶ Yours, A. C. Sandino"

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16.   28.07.05.  A. C. Sandino to Abraham Rivera, July 5, 1928.

[No. 15 on the Marines' list.]

"Don Abrahan Rivera ¶ Amigo, va el General Salgado Como Jefe de la Comicion y los Coroneles J. Rodriguez y Jose Mercedes Idiaquez para que salgan a la hora que crean oportuno. ¶ Saludole ¶ Patria y Libertad ¶ A. C. Sandino"

USMC-GNN translation: "Abraham Rivera, ¶ Friend, ¶ General Salgado goes as leader of the commission with Colonels J. Rodriguez and Jose Mercedes Idiaguez (?), for they will leave at the hour they think opportune. ¶ Salutations, ¶ Country and Liberty, ¶ A. C. SANDINO"

A better English translation: "Abraham Rivera, ¶ Friend, ¶ General Salgado goes as leader of the commission with Colonels J. Rodríguez and José Mercedes Idiáquez, so that they will leave at the time they think opportune. ¶ I greet you, ¶ Homeland and Liberty, ¶ A. C. Sandino"

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17.   28.07.06.  Unknown to Agustín Rivera, July 6, 1927.  

[No. 17 on the Marines' list.   Document could not be removed from paper backing without damaging it, so only one side scanned.]

"Don Agustin Ribera ¶ sirvase mandas dos marinos a traer guineos abajo en mi cayuco para mi campamento con el portador de la presente ¶ Jefe De Dia"

USMC-GNN translation & commentary: "Agustin Rivera:- ¶ Please send two marines (sailors?) to bring bananas down in a canoe for my camp with the bearer of this note. ¶ Officer of the Day. ¶ NOTE: (The opposite side has a list of names as follows: ¶ Segundo / Ruperto / Blco / Mor--- / 2 boys ¶ Carlos Corozo / Carlos / Jaenudos / Ramos / Sinforeano / Benedicto / Silvestre / Servando / Jacuerdo / Eurilio / Tamos / Jos--aria / Inez / Felix"

A better English translation: "Don Agustin Rivera ¶ Please send down two boatmen with the bearer of this note to bring up bananas in my canoe for my camp ¶ Officer of the Day"

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18.   28.07.12.  Simón González to Ladislao Palacios, July 12, 1928.

[No. 4 on the Marines' list.]

"El Chipotón, 12 de julio 1928 ¶ Señor Don ¶ Ladislao Palacios ¶ Estimado Compañero: ¶ Por medio de la presente saludo a Ud. muy afectuosamente. - y le pido que a la primera oportunidad se sirva Ud mandar buscar mi macho, del cual tengo noticias esta en el caño de Par Par, por donde salimos de la picada. ¶ Sin mas a que tener el gusto de refirirme soy ¶ Su Afmo. y S.S. ¶ /s/ Simeon Gonsalez"

USMC-GNN translation & commentary: "Chipoton, 12 July, 1928. ¶ Mr. Ladislao Palacios ¶ Dear Companion, ¶ Through this medium I salute you very affectionately and beg that at the first opportunity you send my mule which I am informed is in Par Par brook where we left the trail. ¶ Without more than having pleasure in addressing you, I am, your servant, ¶ Simon Gonzales. ¶ (Word "Constarn" in ink crossed out.) ¶ (The above is typewritten)" 

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19.   28.07.22.  A. C. Sandino, El Chipotón, to Abraham Rivera, July 22, 1928.  

[No. 16 on the Marines' list.]

"El Chipotón, 22 de Julio 1928 ¶ Don ¶ Abraham Rivera ¶ Estimado Don Abraham ¶ Suplico a Ud. que a su regreso de Bocay, con las proviciones déje alguna cantidad de ellas en Mastaguas, al Capitán Aguilar, conforme y según crea Ud. que las necesitan, repartarlas de un modo equitativo. ¶ Patria y Libertad ¶ A. C. Sandino"

USMC-GNN translation: "El Chipoton, July 22, 1928. ¶ Mr. Abraham Rivera ¶ Esteemed Abraham:- ¶ I beg you on your return from Bocay with the provisions to leave a supply of them in Mastaguas with Captain Aguilar, conforming with what you think they need, dividing them equally. ¶ Country and Liberty, ¶ A. C. SANDINO"

A better English translation: "Sr. Don Abraham Rivera ¶ Esteemed Don Abraham: ¶ I beg you that on your way back from Bocay with the supplies that you leave some of them with Captain Aguilar in Mastaguas, according to what you consider they might need, to be distributed equitably."

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20.   28.08.01.  T. D. Rivera to Abraham Rivera, no date, ca. August 1, 1928.  

[No. 5 on the Marines' list. Undated.]

"Abraham: ¶ He llegado a Los Prendedizos a las 4 pm con Merceditas y [familia] y Eustaquita. Espero que si no tienes inconveniente que me consigas bestias para llegar a la finca de Lucas C[eas] [1]. Dime si vienes. Sandino sufrió con su fuerza [...] como él y me dijo que él no podía quedar[se] en un hoyo a esperarme asta [que...] que estábamos en guerra ¶ Tu papa J. D. R."

[1] Probablemente la finca de Lucas Zeas, llamada Los Nogales.

USMC-GNN translation: "Abraham: ¶ I arrived at the Prededizos at 4 p.m with (elurseditas) and family and Eustegonta (?). ¶ I will wait here if it is not convenient to get animals and go to Lucas Cea's farm. ¶ Tell me if (you are coming?). ¶ Sandino went away with his force. I talked with him and he told me that he could not stay in a (?) hole to wait an attack that we might bring on the place where we put the families that were in the war. ¶ Your father, ¶ T. D. R."

A better English translation: [Forthcoming. Regrettably this document was cut off on its right margin during scanning, so a better translation will have to await a return visit to the archives.]

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21.   28.08.01.  Unknown author, El Chipotón, August 8, 1928.

[No. 6 on the Marines' list.]

"El Chipoton 1 de agosto de 1928"

USMC-GNN translation & commentary: "El Chipoton August 1, 1928. ¶ (NOTE: I have seen this handwriting before and think it is Coronado Maradiaga's. Will try to check up on it. E.H.C.)"


Note:  EDS1 means "Edson 1" and is code for the first of two batches of rebel documents seized by Merritt A. Edson, as described at the bottom of the EDSN-Docs homepage.

"The last photo of the Sandinista jefe Abraham Rivera, killed in the attack on Wiwilí". 

Newspaper clipping, no date, ca. March 1934, RG165/77.  As the caption indicates, Rivera was killed during the Guardia's assault on Wiwilí after Sandino's assassination in Feb. 1934; this is obviously the same photograph that appears in Somoza's book.

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