1959 Postcard to CJ & GHU -Dec.13

Caption: Greenbrier - White Sulphur Springs - West Virginia
"A resort that's a way of life"
The superbly Georgian Main Entrance to the Greenbrier recaptures the welcoming spirit and Southern hospitality that have brought fame to this mountain spa for nearly 200 years.

[postmarked Dec 13 1959]

Had a wonderful weekend here but the birthday umbrella came in mighty handy & will have plenty to fill in "My Trip" book.  Thanks alot.  Girls & John were looking forward to weekend with the Johnson.  Love to all, Harold & Jean

1899 Letter to Lucie -Feb.21

Lucie Sarah Brown, born May 23, 1880, would have been 18 at the time of this letter when she was a (freshman?) student at West Virginia University.  This letter appears to be from a suitor (or only a good friend who wants to say good-bye?) who is pressuring her to fulfill her promise, though maybe that is a misinterpretation!  Lucie married Nathaniel Wallace Ballantyne on December 4, 1906, when she was 26 and he was 37.

New Cumberland

Feb. 21, 1899

Miss Lucie:
    My dear friend –

Many a time and oft in the bright and pleasant school-room my thoughts wander from the page in front of me, and stray far away.  Well this afternoon, fond recollections came to my mind, scenes of the past two years, remembrances of enjoyable occasions, I tell you of these, because you know thinking of them would naturally recall to my mind that sweetest of all names, Lucie.  The inevitable result of all this, is this epistle.  You are well aware that "the time has come for the parting," is rapidly approaching, and you also are aware that you promised me, you would surely come to Cumberland at that sacred time.  You will I am sure be kind and considerate enough to write me, and say that you have not changed your mind, but will fulfill your promise; do this I beseech you.

How did you keep warm this cold spell; I do not mean the times you were out sleigh riding for I well know, you would never suffer from the cold there.

Is Morgantown just as dear to you now as it ever was?

No doubt you are anxiously awaiting the arrival of that young and fine looking boy, who expects to leave Cumberland in a short time for Mor.

This is a b. . . town, if any one should ask you; and it keeps getting worse and worse.  I fervently thank the Lord, I have but a few more months to live here.

Just think of it, I nearly forgot to say something about Miss King.

She is just as sweet as ever and we were never better friends than we are now.  Talking about you the other day, she said, "she had not heard from you, for about  – months; but supposed I heard from you every other day."  Well, my dear girl, (Pardon me for using this expression but I cannot help it) please answer this immediately and by doing so you will be performing a good act.

Please read this, without criticizing the penmanship.

I am, and will continue to be, now and forever more

Your friend,

John B. Loekey [sp?]

1938 Pittsburgh versus West Virginia ticket -Sept.24

No details available about this ticket.

1907 John Freeman Obituary -Nov.21

John M. Freeman (1829-1907), third-great uncle of the Ballantyne-Dailey-Uible cousins was born in Pittsburgh in Feb. 1829, died in Toronto, Jefferson County, Ohio in November 1907.  He married Cyrene Peggs in August 1864 and they had two daughters – Lucile Freeman Rogers (1873-1920?),  and Cyrene "Rena" Freeman (1872-1952).  

John, who owned and operated a Sewer Pipe Manufacturing company, was a Civil War Veteran and was the younger brother of James L. Freeman (1809-1892).  James was the maternal grandfather of Nathaniel Wallace Ballantyne (1868-1949).

Following is the obituary from the (New Cumberland WV) Hancock County Independent, published November 21, 1907.

JOHN M. FREEMAN

- - - - -

Pioneer Brick and Clay Manufacturer 

Answers Death's Summons

John M. Freeman, one of the pioneer brick and sewer pipe manufacturers of the Ohio valley, prominently identified with the fire clay industry for nearly half a century, died at his home in Toronto, Sunday morning.

Mr. Freeman had not been in good health for two or three years, but was not confined to the house except for a few weeks prior to his death.  He was in the 88 year of his age at the time of his death.  He was born in Pittsburg, being a son of Thomas Freeman, who came to this county with his family in 1833, and settled at Freeman's Landing.  There the senior Freeman embarked in the clay and brick business and is said to have been the pioneer of that industry west of the mountains.

The business was conducted there for many years, and the family was honored and respected among the most prominent residents of the county.

There were fourteen children, all of whom but two have answered the final summons.  Among those were James, William B., Samuel, Charles A., and John M., the survivors being Miss Virginia of this place and Mrs. Mary Trusdale [Truesdale], of Iowa.

In 1846 John M. Freeman went to Cincinnati and there engaged in the brick, coal and cement business, which he conducted for ten years, and subsequently engaged in similar business i Madison Indiana and after devoting some years to that field, returned to this neighborhood, and embarked in the brick and sewer pipe business at Freeman's station, with his brother, Charles A., which business was continued until it was merged into the American Sewer Pipe Co., in 1901.  The death of Charles Freeman followed about five years ago.

Mr. Freeman [indecipherable: who had recently lived?] in Steubenville with his daughter, Mrs. Lucile Rogers, moved to Toronto, and the days he spent there were days of real enjoyment, because he always seemed glad to get back into the vicinity in which he spent his boyhood days, and here he enjoyed meeting his old friends, the rugged river scenery, the sight of the old factory operated so many years by his venerable father long since dead.

Mr. Freeman was a man of genial social qualities, which made for him many warm friends.  The news of his death therefore will be learned with sadness by all who knew him.  He was a man esteemed in business circles for his honor and integrity.  He was a member of the Second Presbyterian church of Steubenville.  He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Rodgers [Rogers], of Toronto and Miss Cyrene Freeman, of Steubenville.

The funeral services were held at his late home in Toronto at 1 o'clock on Tuesday afternoon brief services being conducted by Dr. Robinson and Rev. Hodil and the remains were conveyed by trolley to the Steubenville cemetery for internment.

1947 New Cumberland First Presbyterian Church Bulletin -Sep.7

Nothing particularly pertinent appears in this Church Bulletin, though N.W. and R.B. Ballantyne are listed in the Session category, while J. Scott Brown and C.A. Ballantyne are listed as Trustees.  A possible theory on why this particular bulletin was saved is that HH attended church in New Cumberland that Sunday, perhaps for the first time.

1967 Sarah Hinerman letter -Feb.13

A  three page letter of which only the parts pertaining mostly to Roberta are being transcribed. . . .

Mon. a.m. [Feb. 13, 1967]

Dear Jean and All,

We rec'd your letter this a.m. and I intended to get at least a card off to you to let you know Roberta had 'made contact'.  She seemed quite happy, seemed to love the school so far as she had found out in such little time.  I was thinking of the one here (S.J.) when she went off to High School in Wash. D.C. and how homesick she got and I was surprised to find young ones who like to go away to school.  S.J. never did get over it, not even in college and as you recall got married half way tro the year, without even finishing at Marjorie Webster.

I asked Roberta as to her visiting permissions, etc. and she said she had not been there long enough to find out for certain.  I told her to find out when we could come over there and take her out to dinner and when she could get any time to visit here.  Since receiving your letter it looks they have a rather austere program over there for letting the students go away but I do hope she can come over on some forced week end, whenever she gets one and does not want to go home.  I take it she will use that week end for your trip to N.Y.  She told me would be going home this coming week end.  At least, I hope the rules are not so strict but that we can go over and take her out to dinner, some time, as aforesaid.

. . . . .

I don't know much about the Friends' School at Barnesville except there were a couple of girls from here attending there when S.J. was in High School.  They were fine girls, – serious type.  I told Roberta about the only contact I had ever had with Barnesville was going to Kirks' furniture store over there which is widely known in these parts.  We bought the carpet for this house there.

I'd better quit this and rustle up some lunch.  You tell Roberta if she ever needs us for any reason or has any time she can take a day or two off and wants to come over here to be sure and give us a ring.  We will look forward to her planning to visit us when her visiting schedule permits.

Regards to Harold and all,

Sarah H

1906 Letter to Lucie -Mar.22

A letter from Lucie Brown Ballantyne's great aunt, Elizabeth Catherine Howlett Spalding[1] .  Notes are added after the transcription.  Paragraph breaks have been added for readability.

March 22nd [1906] Brandon [Texas][2]

Dear Lucie,

Your kind letter received sometime since I should have been answered – I cannot say exactly what I have been doing so much but I am kept very busy – cannot say I have accomplished much – yesterday I really drew my sheet of paper from the box & thought I was already to write the letter I am now trying to write – strange when one is thinking of a distant one & particularly when you wish to perform your duty to them something comes often as a reminder.

The children went to the office & brought me your school pamphlet[3].  I thank you for your remembrance of me notwithstanding my long delay in answering your letter.  The Professor's or Principal's Bereavement is certainly very sad.  I felt deeply for him.  Such a loss is hard to endure.  One can quite realize his feelings while reading of them.  She was I imagine a lovely wife & a loving devoted couple husband & wife.

We certainly in our lives see the mysterious ways of a Loving Father – who does not willingly afflict His Children – My dear Child arrived safely.  She is restless about business & she took me with her to Dallas – after stopping at the Hotel we were invited to the "Texas Baptist University"[4] to make a visit to Katherine[5] – we had a pleasant visit – but thought a great deal was lacking to make it a desirable or progressive school.  Katherine has given up her studies & only taking vocal lessons.

Your Cousin Mary[6] is anxious to see you & her Sister whom she has not seen for many years.  I think she will be out there some day.  I have not heard from Aunt Cora[7] for some time.  I know she is very busy she really accomplishes a great deal.  I wrote to Anna but have not heard very lately from her nor do I know anything about Ella.  I had one letter from Chicago from her.  I answered it.  Lucy[6] writes she is about moving – but does not mention Ray.

I have many sorrows – today I am very deaf – it comes mostly from cold.  Sometimes worse than at other time very great affliction – we have had such disagreeable weather – so cold & dreary.

Cullen[8] would like so much to go away to school – he is near 16 – he is  model of a Boy.  I think his Mother would never let him go so far away – he would make a fine scholar if property trained.  Just received a sad letter to whom I wrote after the death of a dear Mother.  I write many letters to dear Bereaved ones.  It take time but do not consider the time lost – when I know one needs sympathy.

I have at last gotten some pictures taken.  I sent Cora one & will send your Papa one.  I think your Parthenon very nice – glad you are getting on nicely.  Give much love to all.  I hope your Papa is still improving.

Yours lovingly,

E.C. Spalding
[Elizabeth Catherine Howlett Spalding]



* * * * * * * * * *

[1] Elizabeth Catherine "E.C." Howlett Spalding (1824-1913) - sister of Lucy Howlett Brown (1823-1886) aunt of A.W. Brown, great-aunt of Lucie Brown Ballantyne, 2x great-aunt of Jean Ballantyne Uible and 3x-great-aunt of the Ballantyne-Dailey-Uible cousins.  "E.C." as she signs the letter, is living with her son James, a physician, and his family in Texas.  James (1853-1926) is married to Sallie (nee Boone).

[2] Brandon, population of 80 in 2000, is located in the central Texas hill country about 55 miles south of Dallas.  Settled in 1846 and serving as a stagecoach stop, it became a railroad town (after relocating a mile away from the original townsite in order to be near the tracks) in 1888 with the arrival of the St. Louis, Arkansas and Texas Railway.  Population peaked at 450 in 1914, but declined considerably when the railroad was removed in 1936. [Info from TSHA Texas State Historical Society.]

[3]Marshall College, where Lucie was then Prof. of Elocution  The Principal, whose title was changed to President in 1907, Lawrence J. Corbly (1862-1935),was married to Elizabeth "Lizzie" Holland of New Cumberland.  She died unexpected in 1906 and therefore earns a paragraph in this letter.  More information on Marshall College, including a picture of the library in 1910, can be found here.

[4]Texas Baptist University opened for classes in 1905 in Dallas.  Due to inadequate resources it was forced to close in 1912.

[5] Katherine (1887-1950), granddaughter of E.C., 

[6] Mary (1848-?) and Lucy (1856-?)  daughters of E.C.

[7] Cora Brown Crawford (1856-1923), niece of E.C., sister of A.W. Brown, aunt of Lucie Brown Ballantyne.  

[8] William Cullen Spalding (1889-1950), grandson of E.C., became a physician like his father.

1946 Letter to Jean from WVU Librarian -Feb.17

Florence Reese (1900-1986) was an instructor of library science at West Virginia University.  

February 17, 1946

Dear Miss Ballantyne:

I was very happy to hear from you -- I am not at all surprised that you have chosen children's work, for that was what you wanted from the start and usually you come back to the thing which has challenged your interest.  It is an opportunity to have the experience you are having to keep with you if you remain there or to take with you wherever you go.  There are only two children's librarians in this state.

Raney seems to be having a wonderful time with her elementary libraries in Raleigh.

We have a record enrollment with 1500 G'I's.  I have two classes of Library Science 1 with 60, they fill room 8 and we have had to limit the classes had one section with a finish of 33 last semester.  The upper division classes are increasing.  We had a registration of 90 in Library Science.  Plans are on foot to remove partition between 8 and 9 and use a combined group of seminar rooms for a practice collection.  I am glad you like Western Reserve.  Drop a line when you have time always enjoy hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Florence K. Reese

1986 Family Letter from HH & Jean -Jan.26

Sunday, January 26, 1986

Dear Family:

We have just finished dinner in the living room by the fireplace.  Leon Salisbury has been cutting down some of our old trees so we have plenty of wood to use.  The DP&L crew is also to come and cut out some of the bigger trees.

Today at Church was "Women in the Pulpit Sunday."  Ann Bailey, a teacher in the New Vienna Schools spoke on the provocative subject, "Zipper Your Mouth."  The Bell Choir had the special number and we had a good turn out.  Jane Ann Hause ?, her husband and their baby were at the services.

Yesterday, we went to Wilmington in the afternoon, made a stop at the new Super X Drug Store in Wilmington and got a few of their specials.  Supper time found us at East Clinton High School where the Band Boosters were having a supper for fund raising.  Think it was the first time we had been back to the high school for a long time.

Last Wednesday we took off in the truck for West Virginia.  We stayed at an old country inn, the the Wells Hotel in Sistersville that had been in Country Inns, the one the Morgans gave us a few years ago and the ones put out by Norman Simpson (Country Inns and Back Roads).  The next morning we went a few miles north to Paden City to get a load of marbles.  They have quite a facotry there where we saw it in operation and also the Corning factory just across the road.

We just listened to the tape Mary Virginia gave us for Christmas (hadn't been able to find the tape recorder) and enjoyed it so very much – her synthesizer is used along with some background tapes really is a wonderful tape: something to cherish for many years to come.  Also played the tape that Roberta sent us that Anne Hamilton had been sent by her family on her 72nd birthday and found it enjoyable and glad she was willing to share with us.  They had written new words to Yippee-eye-oh (spelling?) and it was so clever.

Interested in hearing how Serena's classes at Roosevelt are going as well as Roberta's at Phoenix Community College on meal planning.  Both of Serena's are math related – computers basic & possible college algebra.  Talked to her on her birthday before any sessions and not able to reach her afterwards yet.  Yes January is a birthday month for Carol, Catherine and Bill Horton also have birthdays to celebrate this month.  Glad to have had X, John, another couple and their two children spend part of last weekend with us.

It was nice having John and X and their friends here last Sunday and Monday (Martin Luther King Day).  We hated to have to leave them Sunday evening but couldn't talk them into going to the concert at Wilmington College where Mary Virginia was singing and playing.  Mie Young's parents were there and they stopped off in New Vienna afterwards to see John and meet X.

[Love, etc.]

1906 Nat to Lucie letter -Jan.17

Lucie Sarah Brown married Nathaniel Ballantyne on 6 Dec 1906.  Here is another installment in the communication he sent to her prior to their marriage.  At the time of this letter Lucie, age 25, was teaching elocution at Marshall College in Huntington, West Virginia.  Nat, 37, was living in New Cumberland.

The 1900 census shows Nat living with his mother, Irene Freeman Ballantyne, born in 1840 she died in September 1906.  In 1900 Nat's brother James (1873-1957) and his wife, Maude, were also living in the household.  James and Maude, and their son, James Jr., moved to Idaho sometime between 1910-1920, and later to Oregon where they are shown living in the 1930 census.  A daughter, Helen, born 1905 died in 1910.  Later in the 1930s, Nat, Lucie & Jean traveled west by train to visit them in Oregon.

1906 was an eventful year for Nat & Lucie with the death of her father Adrian Wilmer "A.W." Brown on May 16, his mother died on September 19, and their marriage on December 4.  Though we know that they were married 110 years ago in December, it appears from the postscript that she has not yet given him the answer to the marriage question.

The scanned 6-page letter is followed by a transcription.

1906 Letter from Nat to Lucie -Jan.17 p.1of6

1906 Letter from Nat to Lucie -Jan.17 p.2of6

1906 Letter from Nat to Lucie -Jan.17 p.3of6

1906 Letter from Nat to Lucie -Jan.17 p.4of6

1906 Letter from Nat to Lucie -Jan.17 p.5of6

1906 Letter from Nat to Lucie -Jan.17 p.6of6

Home, January 17, 1906

My Dear Lucie

Well must give you credit for being so prompt for on my arrival home last evening found your letter on my desk and was so anxious to hear from you that I just cast the others aside (if some of them did contain Checks and Orders) for I wanted to hear from you and learn how you were getting along.  Wrote to you from the City on Monday night and presume you have received it in this, and also sent you a little Box of nic-nacs.  Was into D....lings getting some for Ma and just thought that you might like a few also and had a box sent to you.  Did you receive them and what shape were they in when they arrived.

I'm glad to know you enjoy your Silver for can say that before I took them

P.2
down to you I had to look at them every night and I had them for about 3 weeks.  Must say I do admire my brush and so far have hesitated to use it for am afraid of soiling it.  Think I'll just keep it with the expectation of adding a piece from time to time and may be, some bright future day when I get a complete set can look forward to having them (yours & mine) altogether  eh . . but that will take a long time if only one piece each Xmas.  Of course it doesn't take so many for a man and then some of yours you'll have, won't you?

So you have seen "Simple Susan Simple" again.  Well it's a good play and full of fun.  Would like to see it myself again.  Fully intended to see David Garrick [?] at the Nixon on Monday night and dont you think I went down to see Heart of Maryland and didnt like it at all.  It is a Military play and the time during the Civil War.

Well Lucie have just finished with Mr. Donahoo.  Mr. McKensie and myself who

P.3
were appointed appraisers. (going over Atkinson's personal property) and we had to go over the whole house and appraise everything and you can imagine what a task we had.  Have you ever been there? their house from cellar to attic.  I hadn't ever been only in the Library to the best of my knowledge and it is certainly a "curiosity shop."  The 5 book cases full of books and old papers is certainly interesting to go through and the many pieces of bric-brac and old furniture.  Two bed room suites are of solid walnut with marble tops on the wash stands and dressers and also the curtain [?] stands and we were told cost some 150 to $200 when new.  Will hardly bring 25 or $30 today.  Also some other pieces in the parlor that were handsome pieces in their day.  Then we found so many of their golden wedding presents.  Diamond ring, watch and other pieces of jewelry and such table pieces as napkin rings, salt cellars, etc. that had never been used.  Some in the cases just as they had been presented to them.  And all the box of love letters which you have no doubt heard so much about.  We had to hurry along in order to get

P.4
through so didn't have much time [to] inspect the old curiosities as we would liked to have done.  I presume you read the Will.  Believe he will have more money than was expected and am glad to see it so.  For so many people thot [sic] he wasn't worth anything.  We were two days going over the appraisement.  So you can imagine how tedious it was.

Now almost forgot to tell you that my chickens commenced laying.  Got one egg last Friday but do not know what's the matter for that's the only one and am keeping it to show my rivals when they come in to see us.  Mrs. McAtee says she gets 20 to 25 a day and your's are laying 6 or 8.  I am doing all in power for mine.  Sent away and got some fine poultry food and am somewhat encouraged again.

Yes, am pleased to know that McAtees are going to stay over next summer.  Have been down quite a little since you left and we had some great Games (Pedro).  They often ask if I wouldnt like that you were here to play.  My Dyke has a nice layout almost every time I am there.  We play in

P.5
their room upstairs over the Dining room.  They have a great time with Mr. Byerly.  We invariably find Mr. D swaps and on one or two occasions laid himself out.  They were all away for awhile  one evening last week and he was so full when they got back home that he was helpless.  Mr. Dyke thought it a great joke.

Well Lucie you stated in your last letter that you hoped we would be successful at our meeting that day.  Now when I arrived home went straight to the Pottery and as Mr. Carson failed to be [?] in appearance we adjourned to meet on last Thursday and he was on hand but the judge & Mr. Porter failed to be [?] in appearance so we went a head with the meeting.  We ignored them entirely just as they had been doing with us in the past and now that they have found it out they are puzzled to know what to do but you know Lucie Judge is cunning and he will try to do us if he can so we are waiting anxiously for our Meeting (Annual) on next Tuesday.  We cannot see how we can last but we may meet our

P.6
"Waterloo."  Will let you know how we come out.

Now my dear girl must leave you and am looking for a letter again on the usual day for before the day is over may want something to console me and nothing would please me more.  Unless it would be your own dear self.  Remember me to Misses Harvey, Harkney [?] & any others you can to and take good care of your dear self and do not let that cold get a hold on you.

Called in to see the folks at the Office as went by at noon and they all seemed in good spirits.  Do hope your father won't over do himself again.  He seems to be holding his own well and should he not have a back set he may get pretty well again.

Hoping you are well and happy with much love I will say Au r-Voir [sic]

Yours Affectionately,

Nat

P.S. My dear am going to ask you for that Answer some of these days in the near future.  And you must tell me, Won't You.  You know what I've said before and I mean it, every word of it too.

1905 Nat to Lucie letter - Nov.13

The following letter was mailed from New Cumberland, WV, postmarked 4PM Nov. 13, 1905 addressed to Miss Lucie Sara Brown c/o Marshall College Huntington WV.  In 1900 Nat was living with his younger brother, James, his mother Irene (Freeman) Ballantyne and James' wife, Maude.  Their residence was in the Clay District, Ridge Ave., of New Cumberland.

1905 Nat to Lucie letter p.1 - Nov.13, 1905 – Nathaniel Ballantyne to his future wife, Lucie Brown

1905 Nat to Lucie letter p.1a - Nov.13, 1905

1905 Nat to Lucie letter p.2 - Nov.13, 1905

1905 Nat to Lucie letter p.2a - Nov.13, 1905

1905 Nat to Lucie letter p.3 & 3b - Nov.13, 1905

1905 Nat to Lucie letter p.3a - Nov.13, 1905

Home. 11/13/05 [1905]

My Dear Lucie,

Will now be as good as my word and write to you to day as I promised you in my last to you.  Your letter came the next morning after I had mailed you mine and I'll forgive you for not answering sooner for you must have your hand full these days. and that investigation is surely a strain too, especially when you are compelled to take an active part in detecting her.

Well Lucie this last week has been quite an exciting one for the people here and both Bert and myself have held our own and feel quite elated on the way matters have turned out for both of us.  The trial was very exciting and Bert did himself proud and conducted the trial as one of years experience.  You have received the papers though (The Friday Daily Independent [currently not available online]) and it gave a detailed account of it.  But you should have seen Frank Huff on the stand.  He was certainly dramatic at times and the gestures and expressions were something that would be hard to imitate [page 1a] on the stage.  At times he would get up in the chair and go through this little speech (which it seems he had down perfect) that would cause the whole Audience in the Court room to howl with laughter.  The Court room was crowded and to think the excitement here was equal to the Baxter [?] trial while it lasted.  So you see Bert is certainly getting his hand in right at the start.  Your father was there a great deal too and he seemed so pleased to see Bert do so well.  Lucie Your father has so much better color and he seems to e improving.  He is so determined too and so many people remark that they believe he is going to get well I think myself too that with such a determination as he has and such vitality he will.  He certainly enjoys the horse and buggy.  Now mustnt forget to tell you about myself too.  Believe I did mention to you that some of them here wanted to get me to resign and quit my position up to someone else here at the Bank.
well I wouldnt do it and at our meeting Mr. Bymer [?] congratulated me on the showing we had made.  [page 2] and said he was very well satisfied for to continue as we had been with the same officers so we elected the same over again.  And then we have had so much contention at the Porcelain Works too. and if my scheme works out OK then we will get full charge of it too later on.

Yes we are having quite a time with the Auto where the roads are fit to go out in it.  The folks went to Lisbon and got caught in the mud and had to leave it in Wellsville.  [Wellsville Ohio is about 17 miles  NE of New Cumberland, via East Liverpool.]  Mac and I went after it yesterday and brought it home and we had quite a time riding out twice last night.  They have a friend visiting their a Mrs. Foster [?] from Allegheny not very pretty but a bright girl and we all enjoyed it immensely.  This morning they went to church and Mac and I cleaned it up and it is quite a job.  Was just covered with mud from the Lisbon trip.  After dinner we went to Toronto [Ohio, across the river from NC but 19 miles via the road through Steubenville] and back to Island Creek on the Pike and the roads were fine.  While we enjoyed it and had a fine time often wished that you were along and its too bad you are away just when we are getting initiated.  However am going to have our next [indecipherable] so we will have some rides and some good big ones too.  This was a fine day so much like the day we were enjoying the Drive in Huntington.  How could I help it but think of you so much today. and its [page 2a] six long weeks until you are home too.  So you are intending to visit Mrs. Martin in Parkersburg on Thanksgiving.  You will certainly have a fine time for its a fine town.  and you said you had your fortune told again.  Now why didn't you tell me what it was at least some of it any way.  I am going to see the Clairvoyant at Wellsburg some day when I'm down. but dont know whether I'll tell you about what she tells me or not for you never told me what your's was at Lisbon.  Did you

Say Lucie have heard some more about that little story Kartryn told she heard.  She didnt tell it all.  It seems who ever told it in Toronto gave the impression that I couldnt decide between you and Kartryn.  Now did it ever occur to you that Kate was mixed up with me or with us.  Havent seen her yet for she has been sick as you have heard and if she heard it all she should have told us.  Dont you think so. probably she has told you but I never knew anything until yesterday when I called up on the phone while at Mac's works at Enterprise [?] and the first thing Kate Liggett said, was, that she heard I was to be married.  Said at first [page 3] that it was to you but afterwards stated she heard I was undecided.

Now has it ever appeared to you that any other was baiting me Not for a moment has it entered my mind, but you Know how people get concerned.  I laughed it off and said that was what was the matter.  So many are included on my list and she along with the rest that I couldn't decide.  So she's none the wiser.

The boys gave a dance at the old Swan Hall on Friday eve and they had quite a nice little dance too.  Of course Harry Smith played for them and his timing is something awful at times.  Lara Hill [page 3a] was down and Mrs. Plattenberg invited me to go and of course you know I wouldn't refuse.  She has been making quite frequent trips here of late.  She says her folks are away in Canada and she is visiting among her friends.

Well Lucie their isn't much new here.  Miss McMavern [?] & Rhea were in town today Understand that a go.  soon

Yes needed my tutor for the party at the Fortnightly and am sure I'd have won the prize.  Well, we will have another one when you come home and will look forward to winning then.  Am also looking forward to winning the prize of my life then.  Surely I won't be disappointed Will I?  Now my dearest must say good bye for am billed for Church to night as I missed it this morning so write me soon or when is convenient, or sooner if you can, for you.  Remember me to Mrs. Martin.

With much love I am

Affectionately Yours,

Nat

P.S.
Expect to go to the City the last of the week so be on the lookout for a little package.  Give my regards to Missrs Harvey, Schon & Parson, when you see them.  That last name is so much like the same as the man who I'm having a law with with that it is hard for me to think of it as kindly as I might under different circumstances.  –Nat

 [page 3b] [further] P.S. Since writing you have just learned that Steel [the defendant in the trial] tried to commit suicide.  Bert thinks it his scheme to work the sympathy of the Judge before he is sentenced on Tuesday.  He has feigned insanity all along.

And by the way Lucie have a little Controversy with a Mr. Wm J. Harris of the Miller Supply Co. of Huntington on an arbitrary account and have been wondering if you have met the "Gentleman" or know who he is.  He seems so determined on us allowing a bill for brick we shipped them.  Its such a small account that I'm surprised he keeps following it up so long.  If you know him let me know what kind of a fellow he is as I didnt get to see him while down there.

Sat down at the Office so added a line or two before mailing.  What a grand night.  Makes one feel so lonesome.  The moon looks so much like the night we came in from Fairview.  Do you remember?  But can never be more beautiful. Good bye.  Yours –Nat

1905 Nat to Lucie letter - Nov.7

1905 Nat to Lucie letter - Nov. 7, 1905 – Nathaniel Ballantyne to his future wife, Lucie Brown

Home, Nov 7 '05 [1905]

My Dear Lucie,

Was so disappointed in not getting a letter from you this morning.  Felt it more so on account of it being Tuesday morning and your Sunday letter should have come and now am looking forward to tomorrow and hope I'll not be disappointed.  Will I.

Have had quite a day to day.  First this morning Mr. Gaillard called on me and we had quite a nice little chat.  He told me all about his troubles with the Judge C. and you have no idea what a Crank he is.  Mr. G stated he wouldnt be a tool [?] for him any longer and told him so. and said he would resign from the Committees.  (You understand the Porcelain business) and told the Judge I was the man to take charge and for him to take all matters up with me in the future.  This was certainly unexpected by me to come from Mr. Gaillard, but he meant it and I think I can handle the Judge O.K.  This is what we have wanted all along.  We are getting along fine considering all or have had to go on and our mail is the heaviest of any of the firms here.  We get a big bunch every mail and from any state and even Mexico & Canada.

And then we had a meeting of the Trustees & Directors this afternoon and had quite a time over it too.  Do not know whether I told you or not but Walmer [?] has been trying to force me out and when he tried to show his hand today I succeeded in showing the gentleman up and he resigned so in the future do not think he will try to work anymore games of his on me.  I was sure that everything comes out alright in the end so am feeling quite good over it.

I want Bert to go on the Board if he will and every body on the Board is agreeable so think he will do it.

Now Lucie theres nothing much new.  Suppose you know Kartryn [?] Robb is sick.  Saw Ester yesterday and she said she was a little better but not able to be up yet.  Am sorry for Kate but she hasnt looked well for sometime.  Was in Wheeling and called to see about the gloves and they do not seem to have what you want. but I saw something else in Pgh Saturday that I think would please you and I believe I will send one down to you and the gloves we can arrange for later on.

Now must say good bye as I have to go so write me at once or when convenient for you and I will tell you more news on Sunday.  Hoping you are enjoying yourself and with much love I am

Yours affectionately,          

Nat     

Excuse this as I have no fire and am half frozen.

1835 Freeman's Landing Union Chapel

The following clippings are arranged in slightly different order than they are transcribed, due to their irregular placement on several different pages of the newspaper.  Thomas Freeman (1793-?), one of the founders of the Chapel, is the 3rd Great Grandfather of the Ballantyne-Dailey-Uible cousins.

Thomas Freeman's son James L. Freeman (1809-1892) was the father of Virginia Irene Freeman Ballantyne (1840-1906) who was the mother of our grandfather, Nathaniel Wallace (N.W.) Ballantyne (1868-1949).

Further research would be needed to determine if or how other early members, such as the Browns and Morrows are related.  Partial transcription follows.

Picture of Zalia Church and attendants at 100th anniversary of the founding.
[Identity of "Jennie" is unknown.]

Some of the pastors and officials of the church and some early and present members are pictured.  John. C. Freeman is third from left in back row, Mrs. George Freeman is third from left in front row with Miss Mary Brown fourth from left.

100th Anniversary

Union Chapel Was Founded at Freeman's Landing in 1835.  

Sunday Devoted to Celebration of Founding

The Independent, New Cumberland, West Virginia

Thursday July 18, 1935

The historic M.P. [Methodist Protestant] church at Zalia, Hancock county known in the early days as "Union Chapel of Freeman's Landing" celebrated its one hundredth anniversary of its founding with appropriate services being held Sunday, July 14, 1935.

Services began in the morning and continued throughout the day with intermissions for dinner and supper.  The food was served by the ladies of the church and several hours were spent in a social way, renewing friendships and relating past history of the chapel and its members.

Rev. I.J. Howland is the regular pastor of the church, having been assigned to the charge by the Pittsburgh conference, along with his pastorship of the New Cumberland M.P. church.

The morning sermon was preached by Rev. Samuel Spencer, a former pastor of the Zalia church and Nessly chapel and in the afternoon, Rev. C.A. Daugherty of Empire who has been occupying the pulpit at Zalia delivered the sermon in the afternoon.

Both discourses were appropriate for the occasion and in the evening Rev. Howland delivered the address and his theme was "The Passing Years."  His sermon touched on the early founders of the chapel and the people that have continued in keeping the good work going on for a hundred years.  Rev. Spencer and Rev. Daugherty took part in all the services, while Rev. Howland presided during the celebration.

Mrs. Fred Dunleavy and Mrs. Ruth Jones sang duets at the afternoon and evening meetings and Mrs. Howland gave a reading.  The evening program opened with a song service with twelve choir members, a duet by Rev. Howland and Mr. A.S. Cooper, and a duet by Rev. and Mrs. Daugherty.

Rev. Howland called upon a number of the attendants of the celebration for reminiscences of the chapel and quite a number related interesting history.  

Only three near relatives of the founders of the church were present and they were John C. Freeman of Toronto [Toronto, Ohio is about 20 miles away], N.W. Ballantyne of New Cumberland, and Miss Mary Brown of Toronto.  Miss Mary Brown is the oldest surviving member of the church and her father, James Brown, was a cousin of the Rev. George Brown, the first pastor and one of the organizers of the chapel.  Thomas Freeman, grandfather of John C. Freeman and great-grand-father of N.W. and C.A. Ballantyne of this place was one of the founders of the church, and donated the land.  

John Freeman was a son of Samuel Freeman and the latter a son of Thos. Freeman.  Mr. Freeman gave a history of the church taken from the old family records.

Organized in 1835

The Union chapel, located near Freeman's Landing, now known as Zalia in Butler district this county [Hancock] was organized and services held in 1835.  This county was then a part of the old state of Virginia and the deed for the church property is recorded in Brooke county.  The founders of the chapel were Thomas Freeman and his wife, Thomas Anderson, (unmarried at that time_, James Black and wife, Robert White and wife and John Sutton and wife.  The first meetings were held in an old brick school house until 1857 when they erected the present church.  Rev. George Brown, who was a pastor of the Nessly chapel assisted in the organization.

The Union chapel was at one time one of the leading churches in the county, attended by the Freemans, Ballantynes, several Porter families, the Browns, the L.R. Smith and John W. Morrow families of Kings creek, the Wilson, Bradleys, Andersons, McConnell's, McAdoos, Hugh Irwin and sisters, Reuben Taylors family the families of Johnson Miller, Calvin Grimes, Wm. Jester, the Morans, the Lyons and many others.

George Porter gave the first argan [sic] to the church and Mary Porter Blackburn a daughter played the instrument for 12 years.  Misses Martha and Alice Porter, of Pittsburgh, daughters of the late George and Maria Moren Porter, sent a contribution to the church, but were unable to attend the celebration.  Their mother was a teacher in the Sunday school for many years.

 . . . . . S. B. Goucher spoke as to the early days when he attended Sunay school . . . in the time of the civil war.  He recalled that Freeman's Landing had quite a settlement of people and later yars there were ten brick yards from Kings creek to the Black Horse, New Cumberland.  Bricks were made like in the early days of Egypt, made during the summer when the sun was hot and dried by the sun rays.  In winter time the clay was dug from the hills.  THe brick were transported by Keelboats, there were no railroads in this section.

Thomas Freeman, one of the founders of the church made the first fire brick west of the Allegheny mountains.  [Family history indicates he began in the clay and brick business in 1833 at Freeman's Landing.]

N.W. Ballantyne, a great grand-son of Thomas Freeman was present and was called upon and stated that he had attended this church and Sunday School when a boy and that there was a big attendance, and annual picnics were held, and that this chapel was the leading church in this section of the county.  

* * * * * * * * * *

Union Chapel information from other sources:

The scanned clippings from The Independent  New Cumberland, West Virginia, Thursday July 18, 1935 is a write-up of the 100th Anniversary of a church, originally known as Union Chapel of Freeman's Landing" in an unincorporated community, now known as Zalia, in Hancock County, West Virginia.  According to Wikipedia [1] the community has also been known as Brickyard Bend.

The East Liverpool Historical Society reports that "The Union Chapel of the Methodist Protestant Church was built in 1835 at Freeman's Landing north of New Cumberland?  There were 877 _graves listed in 1995."[2]

THE UNION CHAPEL is described in History of the Pan-Handle in 1879: Is located near Freeman’s Landing, in Butler district.  The Methodist Protestant society of said place was organized in about 1835, by Rev. George Brown, with Thomas Freeman and wife, Thomas Anderson, James Black and wife, Robert White and wife, and John Sutton and wife. The first meetings were held in an old brick school house until 1857, when they erected the present church.  The ministers were the same as those found in the history of the Nessly Chapel.  Rev. John Gregory is the present pastor.  They have a membership of about sixty.

Sabbath School.—In connection with the church, they have had a Sabbath school for a number of years.  During the summer months they have an enrollment of one hundred scholars, T. F. Henderson is superintendent. [3]

Websites listed below were accessed in July 2015

[1] Zalia also known as Brickyard Bend: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zalia,_West_Virginia 

[2] East Liverpool Historical Society, Rest in Peace Part 4 website: http://www.eastliverpoolhistoricalsociety.org/restinpe4.htm

[3] History of The Pan-Handle; being historical collections of the Counties of Ohio, Brooke, Marshall and Hancock, West Virginia.  Compiled and written by J.H. Newton, G.G. Nichols and A.G. Sprankle. Wheeling, W. Va., published by J.A Caldwell, 1879.  https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=2&ved=0CCQQFjABahUKEwjp8_KPndfGAhUHLIgKHen5ChM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.genealogypitstop.com%2FNewton%2FPanhandleHistory.rtf&ei=1TijVam1MofYoATp86uYAQ&usg=AFQjCNGf_GytKGCwiMcWSfiiewWHW_bqMQ&sig2=EqUpf5e4g3OXMI1Utg_PLQ&bvm=bv.97653015,d.cGU&cad=rja

1905 A.W.Brown Letter -Feb. 10

This letter makes me more curious about the West Virginia State Senate in 1905, and A.W. Brown's connection.  Here are a few details that I learned:

• Oliver S. Marshall (1850-1934), from Hancock County, served in the WV State Senate from at least 1897-1901.  He was President of the Senate from 1899-1901.  His oldest son, John (1881-?), later became a delegate to the Republican National Convention from West Virginia in 1920, 1924, 1928 and 1936.  Oliver Marshall's house in New Cumberland is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• Judge Reese L. Blizzard (1863-1941), elected judge of the Sixth judicial district in 1896.  He was appointed US district attorney in 1900 by President McKinley.  He was also editor of a Parkersburg newspaper.

[State of West Virginia,]

[Senate Chamber,]

[Charleston.]

Feby 10 – 1905

Dear Bert and Lucie :

It is now 10 minutes past 7 o'clock, and as I write I suppose you are getting ready for the fortnightly party.  I trust you will have a nice time and that every one will enjoy the occasion to the fullest extent.  The senate adjourned until noon to-day morrow morning.  John Marshall went to Parkersburg to-day with Judge Blizzard.  Mr. Marshall was anxious to have Judge Blizzard meet you Mamma and introduced her to him on the floor of the senate, Mr. Marshall and Mr. Darst have a racket in the senate nearly every day.  Mr. Marshall is too much for him and in fact is one of the best ready debaters in the senate when he wakens up to it and in fact he takes a big interest in the business of the sessions and is generally present right on time.  

Time flies very, very fast here, and as we do get not get up very early in the morning the days are very short.  We never get to the capitol until about 10 a.m.  We hardly even get to any mail until 8 o'clock in the evening.  The mail page brings mail up and we wait until that time at the capitol.  Tonight we [are] waiting in our office on 3rd floor and both writing.  With a world of love,

Affectionately,

Your Devoted

Father AWB

1905 A.W. Brown letters - Jan.17

Two letters from A.W. Brown to his family 1n 1905 indicate that he was in Charleston WV and had something to do with the senate.  According to biographical information (which follows the transcriptions) A.W. had retired as editor of the New Cumberland Independent in 1903.  Perhaps he was in Charleston as a reporter?  We can also infer that he was not in the best of health.  He died 16 May 1906 in his early 50s.  A list of other blog posts about the Brown family follows the biographical information.

1905 A.W. Brown Letter to family - Jan.17 page 1

1905 A.W. Brown Letter to family - Jan.17 page 2

[Hotel Ruffner]

[Charleston, W. Va] Jany 17, 1905

Dear Ola, Bert and Lucie,

This is a beautiful day charming sunshine  and I spend a great deal of time walking in the open air.  I have not done any work of any kind yet, not lifted my hand, but I hope to be strong enough to draw my pay.  The senate so far has simply met at 10 each day for a few minutes and adjourned until the next morning.  The committees will soon report some bills and get down to work in a day or two.

I am feeling very much better and am looking better.  If the scales are right, I have gained two pounds in the past 12 or 15 days.  I was weighed on depot scales at home and weighed 135.  Was weighed here last night and weighed 137.  However I had a heavy pair overshoes on, which would weigh a pound, that I did not have on at Cumberland.  But if I have gained a pound, I am doing well.  If weather continues so pleasant, think I will get a livery horse & take a horse back ride every day for a half hour.  They say it is the best exercise.

Affectionately

A.W.B.

You don't say who you collect money from to live and run the paper.

Better watch supply of news print.  I should think you should order some right away.  I forgot order the 5,000 laundry slips, better have them sent and such other goods as you need.

I won't need to have second check cashed.  Have plenty of money to do until I draw some.

1905 A.W. Brown Letter to wife - Jan. 17 p1

1905 A.W. Brown Letter to wife - Jan.17 p2

[Hotel Ruffner]

[Charleston, W. Va] Jany 17, 1905

Dear Ola,

Wish you would go to [East] Liverpool [Ohio] and order a 100 piece dinner set not to cost over $10.00 and have them ship from the factory by express to Mr. Richer, Gen'l Pass District Passenger Agt.  There is probably some correspondence whereby you can get his full name.  I wrote to him I would have it made & sent by express.  Anyhow, go right up and see Harry.  You can select the combination for $10.00.  I selected for decoration a sort of border of flowers, but you may find something prettier.  I will leave it all to you.  I would suggest you put in coupier [coupe] soup instead of the shallow soup plates.

Bert, if you have not sent rollers yet, I guess you had better put have the boy put in the two big rollers back of old job press, also.

 Affectionately

A.W.B.

I rec'd invitation to Gov's reception Thursday night.  I will mail the invitation.  It is for A.W.Brown & wife.

* * * * *

Biographical Information about A.W. Brown
Adrian Wilmer Brown was born at Wellsburg, Brooke County, Ohio, in 1854 [24Nov1855 per other sources], his parents being John Danforth and Lucie (Hewlett) Brown. John D. Brown, who was born in what is now West Virginia, was a merchant for some years at Wellsburg, where he died aged thirty-nine years, while his wife who survived him to the age of sixty-three years; was born at Richmond, Virginia. Adrian W. Brown passed his boyhood at Wellsburg, where he received a public school education and as a young man secured a position with the Wellsburg Herald. In 1877 he came to New Cumberland, where he founded the New Cumberland Independent, the first issue of which appeared January 10th of that year, from the same building in which it is now published. This republican weekly, published on an old-fashioned Washington hand press, at once gained a good circulation, due to its general worth and excellence and to its championing of all worthy movements in the way of modern progress and advancement. Mr. Brown remained as editor of this newspaper until 1903, when he retired from active affairs and turned its management over to his son. He died three years later, greatly mourned by those who had come to know his numerous fine qualities of mind and heart. Mr. Brown was circuit clerk for Hancock County from 1890 to 1896. He was a member of the Episcopal Church at Wellsburg, and services were held in his own home at New Cumberland once a month. At Pughtown Mr. Brown was united in marriage with Miss Mary Virginia Morrow, daughter of Alexander and Sarah (Wilson) Morrow, of Pughtown, Mr. Morrow having been proprietor of the old Virginia House at that place when it was the county seat. He was also a justice of the peace for many years. Mrs. Brown died in 1890, leaving two children: Robert Morrow; and Lucie, now the wife of N. W. Ballantyne, a sketch of whose career appears elsewhere in this work. Later Mr. Brown married Ola M. Moore, who survives him, but they had no children.  --History of West Virginia, Old and New; published 1923, American Historical Society, Inc., Chicago and New York p.253 (Hancock County section)


Other blog posts about the Brown Family include:

1752 Capt. Oliver Brown

1902 A.W. Brown's birthday letter to daughter Lucie - May 22

1934 Thomas Stephen Brown Obituary includes story of Capt. Oliver Brown -Feb 1

* * * *

The letters are written on stationery from the Hotel Ruffner which was located in Charleston on the corner of Kanawha and Hale Streets in 1885.   At the time it was the biggest building in the city (180 rooms) except for the state capitol which was also built in 1885.  The Ruffner was demolished in 1970.  -- Charleston History Through Postcards, The West Virginia Encyclopedia


East Liverpool, Ohio became known as "Crockery City." During the early twentieth century, the Homer Laughlin China Company was the largest pottery manufacturer in the world. --Ohio History Central