The "3" Years

An incomplete summary of family history of the "3" years:

• Serena and HH were in the Second Grade in January
• MV - Third Grade
• Roberta - Sixth Grade
• John - Ninth Grade
• Serena and HH will graduate from High School
• MV was a freshman in college
• Catherine in her final semester of library school

Family and historical events that happened during "3" years

• Ohio became a state
• President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation
• Cecil J. Uible born
• Mary Uible Horton born
• Gladys Uible Hiestand died
• Katherine Elizabeth Uible born

A box full of details to be shared!  Stay tuned.

1973 MUH Letter - Jan. 4

A long post-holidays letter complete with HA!'s from Aunt Mary. Just like spending the holidays in Florida. Transcription [a fairly true transcription, some of the ..... may be of the wrong number] follows.
* * * * * * * * * *
  Just look at this DATE - JANUARY 4th - 1973  (I haven't written for a LONG TIME)  This "E" is really worn out//......I think 'SANTA' should have mailed me a new typewriter.  HA!

Dear Jean, Harold and Family:

This was a rough, hectic fast-paced XMAS after being in AFRICA last year!  You wouldn't believe all the goings-ons at one time.....company (16 of us with all the Hortons, G'Ma U. and Aunt Sarah); dinners to cook for, invitations OUT, Xmas shopping and the inevitable WRAPPINGS; all the church affairs.....I wish there was some way to really enjoy Xmas without so many far-fares and extra curricula.  HA!

Got the nicest note from Carol, the Choir director and organist, to-day thanking me for my help.  The musical program went real well.....except for the bell ringers....we really fell apart on "Ring out the Bells" and the choir was supposed to sing along with us.....Murphy picked up the wrong bas notes......it was enough o 'crack me up'.....I get amused too easily.  HA!  The Youth Choir is not the best....Carol kept re-writing music and calling rehearsals until that last week was awful......Joe I can see how hectic being an organist-choir=director could be....what a relief AFTER XMAS and EASTER!  Xmas Sunday we had 64 in the choir loft......quite a sight......had some 'imports' to help the tenors and basses for one Sunday.  You'll never believe what I did.....all the Hortons were in church that morning and filled up a row....Cris sat with G'Ma as she sits near the exit and down front; not too much walking that way.  Should tell what led up to this Sunday the 24th but will flash back....ha!  I was really tired on that morning.  At the last minute decided to have Xmas dinner on Sunday after church.  So, on Sat. G'Ma and I went into action......we cooked a lot of things AHEAD so we could sit down right after church.  Remember the cute place cards, Joe?  We took the names of the people not here, reversed the sides and wrote in names of the Horton clan and added some new cards.  Used bits and pieces of Xmasey-ornaments and stapleted them on the top and wrote names in red.  G'Ma brought down her large white linen table cloth which fits our table perfectly.  Had thought about a real informal buffet-type-of-thing with maybe hamburgers, etc. but once we got going we went all out.  HA!  What spurred that on was that in the PM before the 24th, doorbell rang and there was the most GORGEOUS CENTERPIECE........two tall red candles in the center with pine and holly mixed with red carnations and white mums and red with white spots ornamental toad-stools.  That called for a formal setting.....so out went the idea of paper plates, and picnic-style dinner.  Couldn't get over the 'sender'.....Blance and Judge Douglas.....haven't seen them for a year and didn't even send them a Xmas card.....haven't figures it out yet!  Wrote a thank you note today and that was a tough assignment!

This SEQUENCE is really MESSED UP.....I'm wandering again.  HA!  To regress to the 24th!  As Carol says, "That Mary Horton....if she can't upstage everybody she'll try something drastic to call attention."  (She's still talking about my performance on the harpsichord and piano; very appreciative).....I had about 3 hrs. sleep the night before and got up blurry-eyed and really THICK 'IN THE HEAD'.......The choirs processed into the sanctuary and recessed on the final hymyn.  I made the steps going out to the left and in looking at the hymnal trying to find the PLACE mu foot caught on the corner of the communion rail that sticks out at each corner and down I went......FLAT ON MY FACE!  I wish I could have passed out through the floor......but NONE of the FAMILY saw me and as everyone was singing standing up only the people down front saw me sail thru the air.  I delayed the twosome going out by making it a SINGLE in front of me so I must have got up so quick not many realized I had fallen.  I know my face was red as a beet.  I have a big bruise on my left side and skinned left elbow and felt SORE for a couple days but I kept telling myself forget it and BE THANKFUL YOU DIDN'T BREAK ANYTHING!  Did I ever take the kidding......about the drinking before New Year's Eve and sich.....especially from that Donnie Forester..........Foresters entertained the choir the night of the 17th after our concert...open house!

Really enjoyed ALL THE HORTONS.  LOVED THE KIDS.......do you know, they make me a GREAT AUNT.  Golly moses and not even a G'Ma yet.  Larna thought I would make a great G'Ma.  HA!  This will probably be a long time.....if I live that long.  HA!  Hadn't seen Carol for ages and she's a lot of fun.  She and Marianne had a lot to talk about; both teaching in parochial schools but Carol sure has a better situation than Mares!  'Little' CRIS (7) is real cute.  His sister Caroline is a tom-boy and played football with Rob.  Cris nick-named Rob "Sherbert" which does seem to fit.  I wonder why????  HA!  Caroline will not doubt grow into a real attractive teen-ager.  Joan is a 'cutie' an Janet a sweet girl who needs a lot of love!  She wanted to sit by me the night we went to Candlelight service.....that church is just beautiful with all the lights out and 500 candles burning all at one time.  Most effective service we've had there for awhile........You should see the Chrismon tree with all the gold, sparkly Christian symolic ornaments the women made last August.  BEAUTIFUL!  The relatives really got a lot out of this particular service.  They were sure LOYAL METHODISTS!  Rob's group The Choristers, sang at 10:30 AM before regular church service and they came to hear the group and R's solo.  Then after church the choristers went to a nursing home to do their folk musicale; more relaxed there.  The boys wear white trousers and tie with a red and white designed shirt and girls bright red velvety jumpers over white blouses.  Look neat!

You might know while the Buckeyes were here the weather was absolutely rotten.....chilly!  They froze at Disney World and Joe can you believe they waited for 1½ hours to get in to the rides and never attempted the line to the haunted house and Presidents......the best two!  They'll have a good reason to go back!

Marianne FLEW down Wed. after Xmas.  It was great to see her if for such a short visit.  I'm afraid our life is 'too slow' for her active life with Larry and living in the North.  After a day of visiting with us I'm sure she was ready to fly back to Lars.  We took her to the airport on Sunday leaving about 11 for Miami.  Took Uncle Cris with us (Larna didn't want to go) even tho their Glen and family left at 4 that morning for home.  Such a crowded airport; people going everywhere on every air line.  The Everglades air crash was the night before or rather 2 nights???? and was on everyone's mind.  Mares was all up tight over flying but as I told her your chances are good for survival considering the law of averages.  That was a real tragedy for so many families!  They don't seem to know what caused the accident.  Mares and I drove to Orlando on Thurs. and stayed over night with Zoe, Corey and G'Ma Kintner who stayed over in order to get to see Mares. We had a good time an M and I got a lot of conversation in going and coming.  HA!  She wanted to get back to be with Larry over New Year's eve.....a party at the country club....dinner, dance and the works......Fryers belong there....in fact he helped organize it way back there.  Larry and Mares made the cleverest tape and sent us for Xmas.  Also Larry made one of his own and sent it down with Mares.......he is a real comedian.  He can play the harmonica, etc. and his imitation of McGovern was a 'blast'.  I think I'll keep those two tapes for posterity.  Zoe gave Corey and L & M a tape recorder thinking they will tape us ltrs........we had TWO LTRS FROM AUG. TO XMAS.  I WONDER???????  She has her hands full at that school and keeping house.......130 some students and does the janitorial jobs, etc.  No extras thrown in like in the public schools.

Cris worked at Fountains and made a goodly sum!  Never knew when he was coming home for meals!  Sue Kela came in twice to see us.  She introduced us to her husband; seemed like a 'nice' guy.  One Sun. evening Cris brought the MYF group here after church and they baked pizzas, etc.  First year I ever bought a Xmas tree by myself (well, had G'Ma in the car) and it was a FAT ONE and SMELLED so good.  Cris and Beverly Boyette trimmed it one night.  Cris was out LATE most every night with Bev.  How he worked and dated ???????  Guess YOUTH pays off at least for awhile.  HA!

Cris gave us three pieces of LUGGAGE and with the money G'Ma gave us we should be ready or rather are ready to TAKE OFF on another trip.  HA!  At the moment two things are stopping us........G'Ma and Rob.  So, maybe a little later!  If we can agree on place of DESTINATION.....a choice of Hawaii, AFRICA, South America????????Oh, just anywhere......  Bill still would like to tour England!  Bill's favorite gift I believe was the 5-cup electric coffee pot I gave him.  Mares had original gifts.....electric shears for me and electric shoe polish for Bill.  I gave Cris an electric razor (Norelco) and Rob a radio and I should have given him an electric razor........he's beginning to look like a 'nanny goat' under the chin, etc.  Beginning to have a lot of pimples.

Christmas trimmings are all down but not packed away.  Maybe tomorrow.  Sure glad to return to a more normal, routine way of life!  It is fun having Cris and Larna here for the winter.  They have a cute mobile home and seem to be enjoying their leisure.  How about the other HORTONS joining the 'crew'???????

[love, etc.]

1833 James L. Freeman book

James L. Freeman, 1809*-1892, is the great-great-grandfather of the Ballantyne-Dailey-Uible cousins, being the father of Virginia Irene Freeman Ballantyne, 1840-1906, and the grandfather of Nathaniel Wallace Ballantyne.  He married Priscilla Gamble, 1821-1840, who died in December 1840, the month their daughter was born.  He never remarried.  More about Virginia Irene can be found in this blog post about her husband and family, Alexander Bell Ballantyne 1841-1885.

1833 James Freeman's Course of Lessons in Mensuration - Title Page

 According to oscience.info/math-formulas/mensuration-formulas/, Mensuration is the branch of mathematics which deals with the study of geometric shapes, their area, volume and different parameters in geometric objects.  This is more commonly known as a branch of measurement for those of us less mathematically inclined.

Whether this is a school textbook or a workbook is unknown.  It all appears to be done in ink and has 28 numbered pages followed by another 44 pages, for a total of 72 pages.  There are occasional illustrations as shown on the title page above which don't seem to fit with the book's theme.  Though other illustrations, e.g. a picture of a worm on a page with a word problem about apples, appear more relevant.  There are also occasional notes (doodles) done in the same handwriting, e.g. "Snow 5 inches deep and sleighing on this day" surrounded by squiggle marks. On a blank page are the names of Miss Birdie Ballentine and Alex Ballentine along with names of two other boys.  The oldest of James' grandchildren (Nathaniel's older sister) was Virginia "Byrd" Ballantyne Walmer Daley 1865-1947.  Alex – Charles Alexander Ballantyne, 1875-1957, was Nathaniel's youngest brother.  Seems somewhat strange that Ballantyne is misspelled, though may have been written by one of the other boys.  Irene and children's last name is spelled Balentine in the 1880 census.

1833 James Freeman's Course of Lessons in Mensuration - Frontispiece.  

Note the sewn binding on the right margin.  

Transcription follows.

Two fifths of a liquid that in Egypt is found
One fourth of a fruit that grows not far from the ground
One third of an article that useful to man
Two thirds of a fluid that use on the ocean
One fifth of a fruit that in Asia doth grow
One sixth of a river that in Europe doth flow
One seventh of a bird that is rare to be found
One third of a fruit grown on american ground
These letters taken compactly and put in a row
will spell a celebrated and virtuos hero

Three fifths of a name that is plenty
One eight of a river that is in kentucky,
One fourth of a fruit not far from the ground doth grow
Two sevenths of a lake that in America doth flow
These letters taken and put in a row
Will spell a celebrated and virtuos Hero

Will spella celebrated a [in another hand?]

* * * * *
Anyone care to solve this riddle/poem?  Please let me know if you know the answer.

In an effort to be a better transcriber, I'm trying to provide a "true" transcript – one that doesn't correct the spelling or grammar, etc.  This does not help with my typos or sometimes poor efforts of proofreading, so please forgive any errors on my part or in the original.  I need to correct the erros of my ways, if I intend to become a Board-certified genealogist.

*Another family tree on ancestry.com lists 1820 as the birth year of James L. Freeman, probably based on the 1880 census which shows James 60, as head of household living with his daughter [Virginia] Irene, and her four children, Birdie 12, Nathaniel 10, James 9, and Alex B. [Charles Alexander] 4.  I need to look through our family history records (may have a copy of his obituary) and/or talk to our 2nd cousins, Pat Kessel or Mary Frances Gavey to see what verification of James Freeman's dates can be found.

1973 Catherine's letter - Jan 2

Written on a fold-and-mail orange and yellow piece of stationary (a Christmas gift?) part of the sticker shows at the top of this letter postmarked January 1973, postage 8¢.  Roberta would have returned from Africa but evidently was not in New Vienna.  Perhaps we'll find out in a later letter.  Transcription follows.
  
1-2-73
Dear Mom, Dad, Serena, John, and Mary,

Hi!  Got your letter today.  Interesting article about the library in Rumania.  Yes, we got home fine.  Spent our last four days working and now we are doing some stuff around here before school starts again on Thursday.  [Last semester of library school at Western Michigan Univ.]

I'm glad you are enjoying the things we got you, as we certainly are making use of what you all gave us.  X has been wearing his new socks and his slippers.  The shirt is just what he needed to go with his brown pants.

The big pan is really nice.  I used it yesterday for the first time.  X ordered his power tools this morning so the money is also going to be used up.  The scissors are nice, too.  I've been guarding them so I don't lose them to anyone else.

As of right now we are planning to come to Chicago.  Probably via train.  Why don't you bring the thesis with you then.

I got a letter from Ardy right after we got back. [Friend I had gone on Youth Hostel New England bike trip with in 1968 and later that year drove to California with in her VW Bug over the Christmas holidays.  We are still in contact.]  She is a stewardess for Trans International Airlines (a charter that flies out of Oakland, Calif.) and is really seeing the world.

What kind of dog do the Sanker's have?  How much are they selling the puppies for?

Our latest inspiration as far as places to go is British Honduras.  The growing season lasts forever, the people speak English, the land is cheap and at least some of it is excellent agriculturally....  We haven't done much research on it yet.  Maybe you could set up a jump rope folding factory there?  (I haven't had any inspirations specifically concerning jump ropes lately.)

X's aunt is going to bring his Mother down on January 16th.  [She suffered from dementia and unfortunately I didn't have much sympathy at the time – feel some guilt about that now.]  X is really working on redoing the back room so he may have it done by then.  He has bought slate for the floor and has got the paneling already to put up.

See you soon!  Love, C&X

1953 Jean's letter to her Mother - Jan. 1

Jean writes her first letter of 1953 to her Mother. Transcription follows.

 

Thursday

Jan. 1, 1953

Dearest Mother,
We received your long letter today and want you to know that we both signed Bob's paper willingly as the right thing to do – for they are more or less routine papers that are concerned with property regarding the works.  We have no regrets about it.  It's too bad all these papers couldn't have been straightened up long ago.  Bob should have the property & things concerned to West Virginia Fire Clay and not have it such a four family deal everytime business matters concerning it comes up.  I know its useless to tell you not to worry about it but we want you to know we were in favor of it.  That is up to you and Bob about the compensation but he will do the right things by you regarding that.  I think it was grand for Bob to be with you for a few days.  I know you both enjoyed the visit.  Guess Florida has been having pretty cool weather for December.  Mother Uible said they've had to keep their electric stove going most of the time until Christmas when it warmed up more.

Last night Calvin Smith came for dinner – also Melvin and Helen Long.  We planned dinner for 7:30 as it was impossible for Melvin to get here any sooner with all the farm work.  I fixed the tuna fish casserole with some additions that Good Housekeeping suggested in their recipe – chow mein noodles instead of potato chips and cashew nuts – I still like my first recipe better but it was different.  We also had green beans, applesauce, raw carrots, radishes, blue berry muffins, corn sticks, ice cream with melted Hershey Almond bars [& candy (which W.Va. Fire Clay sent) which made wonderful fudge sauce topping] cookies, tea, coffee & milk.  Roberta ate early but Catherine ate with us.  I served it buffet style in the kitchen & we ate in the very front room.  We played monopoly afterwards & had a grand time – it had been so many years since we'd played the game.

Thanks again for all the money you sent – it will go to a worthy Uible cause and you'll hear what whenever we do use it.

I feel absolutely fine now so no need to worry about my "rheumatism."

Wish you had been with us for the holidays.  Best wishes for a happier 1953.

All our very best love, HJC&R

PS While I was repairing our wedding picture – Roberta mistook for scrap paper – Catherine asked "Why didn't you let us in that picture too?"

The Bruces are moving.  They sent us a Christmas card with a snowy picture of their new place – looks real pretty.

Catherine loves to put puzzles together and she's quite quick at it too.  Harold wants to know if I want to start her to school next year – some sarcasm!

1972 Joe's letter to Uibles - Dec. 31

Joe writes a final letter of 1972 after Roberta's visit with him in Senegal.  Joe or Roberta will have to enlighten us as to what a "Boubon bou n'dawl's" might be.  Transcription follows.

 

 

Le 31 décembre 1972

Dakar, Sénégal

Dear Uibles,
Rec'd your aerogramme yesterday.  Roberta and Julie have told you by now our adventures in Africa.  I know they had a good time and I think I did more than they.  I really enjoyed Mauritania   I bought this beautiful rug there – I love it. Roberta, I went downtown again and bought 2 more pieces of material for two more "Boubon bou n'dawl's."  I hope you wore yours off the plane!  Things are so quiet here since you left.  I'm having a hard time adjusting to it.  I liked your company - Pap and Aliou were just into say hello.  Pap has a cold and Aliou was shivering from the cold.  Roberta will tell you about this card.  We stayed not far from the mosque in the picture.  I made a black border and put the picture in a frame.  It makes a nice souvenir, I think.  Did you get all your things through customs?  Someone sent you a Christmas card so I forwarded it yesterday.  I'll do the same with others.  To celebrate the coming new year, I'm going to the movies with Aliou.  I don't feel like a big celebration!

The mother of the family where I eat lunch has been sick for a week now.  It's hard on the whole family.  She's got something wrong with her breast.  They operated at the hospital two days ago but she seemed to get worse afterwards.  I don't know what's wrong.

I would sure like to spend some with you all soon.  Homemade ice cream, a little snow, hot chocolate and a warm fire!

Roberta, I'll send the pictures as soon as I get them.  The colored ones you can send on to my parents and they can keep them.  The black and white ones are for you to keep.  Make copies of my slides that you like.  Well, Happy New Year to you all.  Love, Joe

Agnes Morrow Scandrett book

"LIGHTS ARE BRIGHT, SIR!" The tale of two grandmothers cruising the coast of West Africa in a cargo ship. Told in actual letters from Agnes Morrow Scandrett. Published by Howal Stationary & Printing Co., New York City, 1932.

Agnes Morrow Scandrett, 1869-1953, is a first cousin 2x removed of the Ballantyne-Dailey-Uible (BDU) cousins. She is the daughter of James Elmore Morrow, whose portrait unveiling was featured in the blog on Dec. 2. Agnes was a first cousin to Lucie Brown Ballantyne, and thus the 2x generations removed for the BDU cousins.

The Library of Congress has a microfilm copy of this fancy paperbound book but there are no other public library holdings listed.  Most copies are probably now in the private libraries of family members – like us.  Partial transcription follows.

1932 Title page of  "Lights are Bright, Sir!" The tale of two Grandmothers cruising the coast of West Africa in a cargo ship.  Told in actual letters from Agnes Morrow Scandrett.  Front cover design shown from reverse on left side.

First page of  "Lights are Bright, Sir!" X'd out parts possibly marked as parts not to share during a recitation.  The transciption below will also omit the X'd parts.

On Board WEST IRMO

December 13th [1931]

Dear Family,

Now we are enjoying life and sunny weather – but for ten days we had storms and gales and bounding billows.  This tub has surely pitched and rocked and creaked.  One night everything on the ship seemed to be loose!  Not a bit of land nor a steamer have we seen since we left New York, – nothing but rain and stormy water.  

We have only seven passengers – all white – and no one else is going as far as we are, – all the way to Angola and up the Congo.  If we take on some passengers of color father down they have a different quarter.

It is a great lark for us two grandmothers and we are looking forward to our promised adventures such as riding in a Mammy Chair – a kind of bucket.  And there is even a possibility of an airplane into the interior of the Congo!  Doesn't it sound thrilling?

At first glance our passengers looked to be rather a job lot, but as usual we found them interesting on acquaintance.  Two missionaries – not yet related; an Animal Man who goes every year to bring wild animals from Africa for zoos and circuses; a Cape Verde Island business man – Portuguese, with his little boy (a nice child, though suspiciously dark-skinned).

Pages 6-7  of  "Lights are Bright, Sir!"  Chosen for display because of the Dakar, Senegal connection.

December 14th [1931]

We have furnished everybody a lot of amusement with our appliances.  We use the vibrator every day and the Captain is giving us a room especially for it when the first passengers leave.  I suspect he wants to try it himself!  We are enjoying our wonderful boxes of food, thanks to you all, and for Mary's poetry, too (says one poet to another!)

All these things are a great aid to our popularity.  The Captain gave out a great guffaw when I told him I would bring a Frigidaire the next time!

Every morning we appear at breakfast with the coffee pot and the toaster (everyone likes our toast and coffee), and in the evening with the teapot or the tomato juice.  Did you ever notice that ships never have much use for tomatoes?  In the evenings we have parties with the cakes and candy after we play Bridge with the Captain and the Purser – sometimes the Animal Man.  We have tried Contract, but Allie is a very good player and the Captain has a "system of his own" and so we think he is a good Captain.  Not a bit of liquor has been visible since we sailed, but we do not seem to miss it. 

I really think this trip is much more fun than the de luxe cruises.  The Captain tells a few good stories, – one about the natives' mode of communication.  He said they had a few native passengers, or stevedores, a few days out of Freetown, and they passed close to another ship from which the natives could hail each other.  One thin long chap on the other boat called "Ehe! Ehe!"  The one on our boat called back "Ehe! Ehe!"  That was all.  The Captain said to his boy: "Well, what's the news?  Reply:  "He says Obadiah's wife ran away and married another man!"  And afterward the Captain verified the story and found it true!

I'll save the other stories for another time.  Take care of the cat and the dogs.  And get ready for the leopards!  I'll promise to bring no snakes!!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!  – Mother

Dakar, Senegal

December 16th [1931]

One of our freight ships going home is in port, so after all I ventured only two letters by air mail, as they told us these planes go over the Riff country and are frequently shot down by bandits.  Consequently it is the custom to duplicate all letters and trust to Providence only the hasty ones.  I admit I always have felt that way about air mail anyhow.  (Don't show this part to Charles and Anne [Morrow Lindbergh]).

This place was quite a surprise to us, with its up-to-date docks and quite extensive harbor, with many French cruisers anchored here.  Senegal is under French dominion and the headquarters of the French West African Army.

We enjoyed our stop here very much.  One novel sight was the mountains of uncovered peanuts on the docks, with paths and ramparts of filled bags of peanuts on which the natives walked to empty their loads.  A flock of birds perched on top would frequently and suddenly rise when disturbed by a boat whistle or other sudden noise.  We discharged a large consignment of gasoline (essence!), oil, and tobacco at this port.

All hands went up to town to get some money and helmets.  The Captain took us around and went with us for a drive to Cape Verde, the western outpost of Africa.  Just two very disreputable looking taxis were available.  I chose the open one, and my choice was surely fatal (though no one can every prove to me that the other one would have gone any better!)  We really had a walk for our money, as our car wheezed out and died after we had walked up numerous hills, Captain and chauffeur pushing, and we finally had to be brought home by a stranger, – a kind French lady driving with her baby and her dog.  My French went away up on the top shelf of my mind and she looked quite started and amused when I thanked her.  My memory seems to tell me that I said "Bon Dieu" instead of "Merci."

After this episode, or adventure, we sat at a sidewalk cafe and absorbed some atmosphere to the tune of a brassy band.  It was all very gay and Frenchy and the air was mild.  Beautiful Senegalese maidens were flitting about the table selling peanuts instead of the usual cigarettes.  Many French officers were sitting about, as this is the headquarters of their African army.

We had a delicious dinner in the Cafe de Palais.  The cafe is quite a building with a lofty domed ceiling painted sea green, with voluptuous mermaids swimming about.  One dish was that nice lobster crayfish we had so often in Panama, and we had some real Sauterne.  After dinner we went to a cabaret open to the sky; some of the pillars were the trunks of trees whose tops were green.  It was quite attractive and some pretty white girls (probably slim young devils!) were dancing and singing naughty French songs, dressed at least as modestly as the ones I have seen in New York.  Our purser, who had dinner with us, brought two boys from the other ship, so we were well escorted.  These boys sailed at one o'clock that night, and most of our letters went by them to Boston.

 

Last page (34) of  "Lights are Bright, Sir!"  Top part of page and part of previous page transcribed below.

On  the High Sea

February 25th  [1932]

Dear Rebekah et al:  [her daughter, Rebekah Scandrett Greathouse 1893-1957]

Here we are on our last lap, sailing with a romantic and aromatic cargo.  We are laden with cocoa beans, palm oil, huge mahogany logs, and ginger.  The ginger is right in the hatch by our door, so we are enjoying the scent mixed with the sea breezes.  Quite an improvement on the gasoline and oil we took down, but that was enclosed in drums and did not annoy us over much.

. . . . In Freetown we lost our noisy, useful and amusing Kroo men.  They lined up for the health officers in all kinds of wearing apparel from undershirts and shorts, overalls, to derby hats and shirttails out!  Then they worked like Trojans loading on ginger and at midnight departed in a weird line of boats attached to the lighter, and vanished into the solemn darkness.

Our Animal Man, whom we left in Freetown, came out to see us.  Already he has 400 animals, including snakes, an ant eater, and over a hundred monkeys or baboons and chimpanzees.  (I must say that I am rather glad he and his animals are not going back with us!)  He was very glad to see us....  I decided not to bring home the baby leopards after hearing from you all.

. . . . Farewell to Africa!  – Mother

1972 NV-Peru Exchange

A clipping from the Wilmington News-Journal from 1972.  A letter which Grace wrote in March 1972 after leaving New Vienna was previously posted.  Transcription follows.

John Hughes, Graciela Mejia Coello "Grace" and Serena at Lions Club presentation - Feb. 1972

Mr. John Hughes, president of the New Vienna Lions Club, receives a friendship banner of the Lima, Peru Lions from Miss Graciela Mejia Coello of the Lions International Exchange program. At right, Serena Uible of New Vienna whom Miss Mejia is visiting while in Ohio.

Miss Mejia after her visit with the Harold Uible family will go to the state of Washington to visit the home of another Lions Club member.

She arrived Monday, Jan. 24 at the Port Columbus Airport having flown via Guayaquil, Quito, Panama and Miami.  She traveled with another girl of the Exchange Program, named Bertha Polo, who is with the Colville family of Johnstown.

The local zone chairman, Lion Charles Harsha of Hillsboro, was in charge of making the visitation possible.

In Lima, Miss Mejia has been studying French at the Alliance Francaise and a course for executives secretaries at the Chamber of Commerce.  She is also employed by a group of attorneys from Marcona Mining Company as a bilingual secretary.

During her stay here she has spoken about Peru at the New Vienna Woman's Club, The Sharon and New Vienna Mothers Clubs and to the seventh and eighth grades of New Vienna School.

Last Wednesday evening she spoke of her native Peru at the New Vienna Lions Club at the monthly dinner meeting.  She also showed pictures and answered questions concerning one of the most astonishing countries in the world, Peru.

Miss Serena Uible is planning to go to Lima, Peru early this summer and will be the guest of Miss Mejia's family.

1952 Jean's letter to her mother - Dec. 26

A long letter from Jean to her Mother about Christmas 1952. Transcription follows.

 

[Friday] December 26, 1952

Dearest Mother,
Was so surprised to hear of Bob's being in St. Pete, & know you enjoyed having him if for only those few days.  We received the papers Monday which also explained why the quick visit.

We thought of you so much yesterday & wished you had been with us.  This was the first time we had not been either with the Uibles or with you.  We spent a very quiet day.  The girls enjoyed their things – way too many for one day.  Catherine got a doll, piano, doll bed, colored pencils, coloring book, fancy shoestrings, socks, etc. from Santa, a pastry set & apron & purse from Bob & Harriette & boys, a musical guitar & fancy cut out books from Grandmother & Granddaddy, fancy block set from the Hortons – jumper from the Daileys.  Both the girls got coloring books and huge boxes of crayons from Calvin Smith.  Mrs. Pierce [a neighbor at the Harris apartments – who also had a giant button collection] made them both real fancy dolls out of crepe paper & ribbon – Roberta's is fuchsia & lavender & Catherine's is yellow & green.  Mrs. Campbell [Jeanne Sanker's mother] also sent things which arrived today – a huge coloring book (which Catherine says "will last for ten years," 5 giant crayons, a book with all kinds of clever things about Santa Claus.  She also sent a beautiful gay linen tea towel & a note pad-calendar set with pencil for the kitchen.

Roberta got a sweeper, hammer & long peg set, blocks, socks from Santa – apron & mittens from Bob & H, both of which she needed, overalls & pinafore from the Daileys, rocking chair (musical with name) to match Catherine's & musical hurdy-gurdy box from Grandmother & Granddaddy, a wooden pull toy from the Hortons.  Isn't all that a lot?  I plan to get Catherine & Roberta both new shoes the next time I'm out of town.  Mother & Daddy Uible also gave us money to use.  We are talking of taking Catherine & Roberta down to see Uncle Al's program so will get to Cincinnati for her birthday.

The church had a nice Christmas program last Sunday.  Catherine's class sang Jingle Bells – Mrs. Long had made bracelets out of ribbon & colored tiny bells which were tied on each child's arm – these were so fascinating to them that not many sang.  they all enjoyed the treat Santa had for them afterwards, though.

The choir gave a very nice cantata which they recorded at the same time.  They gave part of it again Sunday evening at the Baptist Church – unison services.

We all went to Turners in Leesburg afterwards and enjoyed a very good dinner there.

Mother Uible gave us some frozen turkey before they left for Florida so we had it yesterday for part of our Christmas dinner.

Harold's Uncle Harry & Aunt Mary invited us over for their family Christmas Eve dinner & celebration but as it always been with all the Uibles & Hortons we declined not knowing whether the weather would be decent.  It turned out just as well for Roberta still has a runny nose & Harold & I both have slight colds & better not to have to be around other people.

We also got an invitation to Frank & Vivian Hiestands' (that's Uncle Dorsa's son – who built the new home) for eggnog from 4-6 Christmas afternoon but again we couldn't decline one invitation & accept another & we had good reasons.

Calvin is coming for dinner next Tuesday and I think I'll invite Melvin & Helen Long from Atlanta, Ohio.  The boys were all good friends.

Take good care of yourself & we're looking for you back in New Vienna this spring.

All our very best love, HJC&R

1972 Philmont Ranch trip

In July 1972 a group of Boy Scouts from New Vienna headed west to Philmont Ranch in New Mexico.  The clipping is transcribed below.  Postcards written by HH from Philmont Ranch can be found at this link: http://uible.blogspot.com/search?q=Philmont+postcard+ranch.    John Uible had intended to go with this group but instead took his "vacation" in the Cincinnati hospital suffering from typhoid fever following a trip to Mexico.

Philmont Scout Ranch, Cimarron, New Mexico - July 1972 - Ben Mathews, Mark Young, Brian Smith, Jim Bernard, Kevin Croghan, Dale Hertlein, Jim Mongold, HH & ranger, Robbie Smith.  Photo taken by Gene Williams.

Local Scouts At Philmont Ranch

As Reported by ROBERT N. SMITH

Early Monday morning, eight intrepid Scouts and their two leaders left New Vienna in preparation for high adventure at Philmont Scout Ranch, Cimarron, New Mexico.

This expedition, representing the Tecumseh Council, Boy Scouts of America, consists of the following Scouts and their leaders:  Jim Bernard, Kevin Croghan, Dale Hertlein, Jim Mongold, Brian Smith, Mark Young, Harold Uible, Gene Williams and Robert Smith.

Traveling by way of two cars, the group sped across Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri; spending the night in Kansas City, Kansas.

Traveling across the rolling hills of Kansas Tuesday, the expedition moved on through the panhandle of Oklahoma and into the one of Texas.  The two-car caravan came to rest at a park outside of Dalhart.  Wednesday morning's drive took the Scouts into New Mexico and at 10:30 tey pulled in to the 347,000 acre Philmont Scout Ranch.

While driving out the group visited several roadside parks with historical backgrounds, as well as the Eisenhower Memorial in Abilene, Kansas, and Capulin Mountain, an extinct volcano now a national monument in Capulin, New Mexico.

* * * * * * * * * *

This post is being cross-posted on the New Vienna History Blog:  http://nvhsmemories.blogspot.com/2012/12/1972-philmont-scout-ranch.html.  

1982 Horton Christmas Letter

Christmas letter in 1982 from Aunt Mary and Uncle Bill includes 90th Birthday celebrations, weddings, grandchildren and more. Transcription follows.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU . . . . . . . AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR TOO . . . . . . .
 
Remembrance . . . . . like a candle, shines brightest at Christmastime ! ! !

At this time of the year, friends are closer to our hearts as we reflect upon the past with memories cherished . . . . . and upon the present with new friendships we hold dear.  These friendships, past and present, give JOY and HAPPINESS to us in our retirement years.

We have been admonished by the more experienced senior citizens as to the importance of staying busy in retirement . . . . doing the things we like to do that brief vacations before did not allow us to do.  We have adhered to this wise counsel and have found the year 1982 to be a busy and happy time!

A 'once-in-a-lifetime' occasion was Grandma Uible's 90th birthday celebration in June, in New Vienna, Ohio.  Then Sept 25th our son Robert married Cindy Bussing in Lake Worth.  Both are teachers at Kirklane Elementary, suburban L.W.; this is where they met.  Cindy's home is in Brazil, Indiana.  She is a graduate of Indiana University.  Our oldest son, Joseph, returned home from Saudia Arabia and served as Best Man. The family, all at the same time, were together for the first time in ten years!

Our annual visit to our daughter, Marianne's home in Lancaster, Pa., was gratifying this year in one very special way.  Robert (8) and Wesley (5) were the center of attention in swimming meets at their local pool . . . . winning ribbons and awarded at the end of the season with a trophy:  "As brothers the most improved swimmers."  Watching them compete was a delight for Grandma and Grandpa . . . can't wait until next summer!

In November we flew to Phoenix, Arizona, to be with our niece, Roberta Uible, Senior Village Supervisor, a project of the county Health Dept., in long term care for the elderly, was an experience long to be remembered . . . . . . . sharing in their activities of bingo, bridge, scrabble, etc.  Sight-seeing tours to various parts of the State was most enjoyable.

Several trips to our son, Cris's home in Statesville, N.C. allowed us to do several things of interest . . . . . a trip to the World's Fair in Knoxville . . . . four days attending the Azeala Festival in Wilmington, N.C. . . . . four days in Charleston, S.C. for the Spoleta Festival . . . . and the Master's Golf Tournament in Augusta.

Yes . . . . we do stay busy in retirement . . . . not to mention Bill's avid interest in Golf and Mary busy with her church affairs and Music.  We get a Bridge game in now and then.  Ha!

IT'S BEEN A GOOD YEAR . . . . . .  A WONDERFUL YEAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

"All things bright and beautiful,

All things great and small,

All things wise and wonderful,

The Lord God made them all."

1992 Roberta & Sid's Christmas Letter

Roberta & Sid's Christmas letter of 1992 – great summary of both Roberta and Sid's families. Transcription not included.
   

1942 Coupon for Gasoline

Published in the New Vienna History Blog is the complete transcript of the Vienna Viewpoints of December 3, 1942.  Here's a coupon of special interest to our family.  Transcription follows.

1942 - Ad & coupon for Pure Oil Store in NV, CJ & Harold H. Uible, Props. - Dec 3 in Vienna Viewpoints (school newsletter)

ANNOUNCING

The opening of your new Pure Oil Store in New Vienna 

and to commemorate the rationing of gasoline, we are 

making you this special offer:

"GAS, FOUR GALLONS FOR A QUARTER" WITH YOUR FIRST RATIONING COUPON

See us for your Anti-Freeze, Thermo-Royal non-rust, 

no poisonous fumes, ceiling price $1.40 per gallon.  

OUR PRICE $1.10.

                                C. J. & Harold H. Uible, Props.

                                  Be SURE with PURE

1982 MV in AZ - Dec. 14

 MV continues her 1982 bell ringing at Metrocenter Mall in Phoenix while staying with Roberta and Marion.  Fiesta Mall in west Mesa, mentioned below, is another struggling mall with declining business and changing demographics.  It was built in 1979.  Transcription follows.

12/14/82
Dear Mom, Dad & Mie Young,

Hi!  It is Tuesday already, so I decided it was time for one last letter before you come out.  What are Mie Young's plans?  As I always say, "no one ever tells me what's going on!"

I received the bill yesterday for my "continuing education."  Thought you might like to see it and perhaps take some action.  The reason for the higher tuition is the two extra hours I will [be] taking ($90 each).  I think everything else is self explanatory.  I will make an effort this quarter to finance my text books, and possibly get a part time job.  I am also putting in my grades which I would like to keep, maybe even frame!  I was really shocked to get an A from Kirk Halliday.  He very seldom gives A's and I know I had only enough points to qualify for a B.

Marion was gone over the weekend – went up North with friends to cut Christmas trees, so Roberta and I just ran around.  Went to Mesa to church, and saw Mrs. Garrett briefly.  That was the only time (in between services) that we could get together.  She asked about you all and when you were arriving here.  After church we went to Fiesta Mall (corner of Southern and Alma School) for lunch and window shopping.  (I spent $5 all day) and then went over to see the Stubb's.  They also asked about you all and couldn't believe you are coming in an RV.

I had lunch yesterday at Farrells in the Mall.  McDonald's everyday gets old fast.  So I decided I would try there   It turns out that Mon-Fri they have a luncheon special for $3 – something different every day.  Yesterday was a mini chef salad (I couldn't finish it), a cup of soup, a large glass of colored water and a sundae.  I thought it was great for the money.  I think I will be frequenting there the rest of the time.

Roberta is still bent on getting a schnauzer.  But Marion says no more than 2 dogs, and of course Roberta can't decide whether Charlie or Toby should go – I think Charlie would be the wise choice.

Gotta go.  Time for a shower then off to work.  It is to be in the upper 60s all week.  With all the rain, the Salt River is flooded.  See you soon.

Love, MV

1982 MV in AZ - Dec. 5

A few weeks back we read postcards about MV's travels from Columbus to Phoenix by bus to work for the Salvation Army at Metrocenter Mall – once one of the biggest and most bustling malls in the west.  MV played her part in mall history by ringing the bell and collecting donations for the Salvation Army.  The mall, which opened early in the 1970s has been on a downward spiral since 1990. Here's an article from the Dec. 10, 2012 AZ Republic: New owner puts Phoenix Metrocenter Mall on a mission.  Transcription follows.

Dec. 5, 1982

Dear Mom and Dad,

It was nice to have the day off from work, except most of the afternoon I was bored – mostly from laziness as there is always work to be done around the house.

I was about to go crazy ringing bells (it's worse than folding jump ropes), so I asked to have Saturdays off – that was no problem as there are only 2 left before Christmas.  [Christmas was on Saturday in 1982.]  My supervisor is Lt. Bell – she's 21, been an officer in the "Army" 2-3 years. I guess she's engaged to this guy who also is in the Army, but not stationed here in Phoenix – possibly Chandler?  My boss, Maj. Pack is about 60-65, very easy going – I have seen the Maj. twice – the day I started and one night he picked up the kettles.  I only see Lt. Bell once a day, which is when she picks up my kettle at night, which takes about 30 seconds.  Otherwise I'm on my own all day.

You've obviously heard about the MCI deal where you can call anywhere (in the US) free for 3 minutes.  One of my friends in Maintenance got me VIP card that way I wouldn't have to fill out the forms – but I can't think of anyone I could call and talk to for only 3 minutes.

I tried to call the Garretts tonight to see about going over to Mesa sometime but they were walking out the door and couldn't talk.  I hope to go over Saturday and possibly spend the night.

I think Marion and Roberta are sick.  We have only been to Swenson's once since I arrived!  Roberta and I did go to Baskin & Robbins one night last week while Marion was gone.  She had a coupon – Sundaes, 2 for 1.

I finished one cross stitch project this week, and started another tonight – mostly out of boredom – I should have it finished by Wednesday.  I hope to get a couple new cross-stitch books with my paycheck Friday.  I will make Roberta, Marion, John and X's Christmas presents out of it.

I am anxious to see how much I am being paid – whether min. wage or possibly more form what I have heard.  Anyway, the first paycheck will be Friday.  I plan to buy and cook dinner or else take Roberta and Marion out.  But judging from what I've seen, they might enjoy eating in more.

Roberta & Charlie have had several run-in's lately, so Roberta is anxious to get rid of him.  She now wants a schnauzer (?).  Marion is making some kind of speech tomorrow at school.  For the occasion Roberta is taking Charlie to the groomer's – then to school for the speech.  Personally, Charlie would be the last invited if I were speaking.

Love, MV

1982 Family Letter - Dec. 19

The last family letter from 1982 as HH and Jean are about to head west in the Salisbury's RV. Transcription follows.

 

Sunday, December 19, 1982

Dear Family:

Sunday School and Church were special today with "skits" in both services.  Frank Young says he is retiring as Santa.

We were in Columbus two nights this week for the Ohio County Com. meetings, with Serena meeting us on Tuesday and then we three met X and John for supper at a Mexican restaurant.  The Ohio Extension Office always gives each Commissioner a "goody bag" with food products from different parts of Ohio, such as cheese, cookies, nuts, corn chips, apples, syrup and other tidbits.

On Friday afternoon six of were sworn in by the Ohio Chief Justice in the Clinton County Court Room for our new terms.  Had an overflow crowd, complete with TV and press coverage.  Always amazed the government runs as well as it does.

Friday evening was the annual Christmas party for the Hospital Board and their guests ... at a Cincinnati restaurant called "John Q" ... what a feast.  It is rather ironic when so many people are lacking for the basics of living.  Our church has been receiving contributions for food baskets, etc. for the needy for the Holidays.

Saturday morning we went to Salisburys to get the Winnebago and "last minute" instructions.  We talked of sleeping in it last night, but decided to enjoy the luxury of our home for another night.  Because of the cold weather we are not putting any water into the tanks for we would hate for freezing weather to burst the pipes.  The RV has so many "gadgets" that we do wonder about our capability in being a quasi-engineer.  Yes, we are looking forward to the experience.

We plan to leave tomorrow afternoon after taking care of some details at the Courthouse and at Wells.  Spring business is slowly coming in, which is good when one considers the general economic conditions.  There was an article in Friday's WSJ that 8937 retail store had gone out of business in the first 11 months of 1982 – a 40% increase over 1981.

The Church Christmas caroling group has just been here ... it was for all those that were "young at heart."  They did have a large truck load of participants.  Our Church is also going to have a 11 P.M. Christmas Eve service.

[Much love, etc.]
* * * * *
HH adds in 2012: Catherine, that trip to AZ in the Winnebago was indeed an experience and we saw many gas stations.  Peaches was always a good sport in handling challenges like that trip and travelling with four children for five weeks, as I recall, in 1962.

1952 Jean's letter to her mother - Dec. 18

Jean finishes her Christmas cards and writes to her mother. Transcription follows

 

 

Thurs – Dec. 18, 1952

Dearest Mother,
The Christmas cards are rolling in & I guess I've about finished with mine.  The Evans sent me one but I don't have their address – did you say 633 Fifth Avenue?  Mrs. Evans put a nice note on it – saying she's just had lunch with you.  Please thank her for me.

We were quite surprised by Mrs. Atkinson and Charles' visit last Saturday.  They wouldn't even sit down.  I presume they saw you in St. Petersburg.  They were so anxious to get beyond Cincinnati that day.

I feel fine now – all my aching joints have left me.  Seems as if it happened all of a sudden & haven't had any soreness since.

Virginia mentioned a box for the children which was to be sent from Florida.  It arrived & I couldn't keep from opening it altho the girls haven't seen it yet.  There's a darling dress – corduroy jumper with bit of jewel on the pockets & fancy buttons to match.  There's also a summer pinafore type really pretty in green and a pair of denim overalls with a fancy figure.

Harold got our Christmas tree today so we'll probably put it up tonight.

Catherine & Roberta have slight colds but it doesn't keep them from looking forward to Santa Claus.

All our very best love, H, J C & R

2012 HH volunteers

On December 8, 2012, Roberta and HH volunteered at the Festival of Cheer. Clipping is transcribed following.

2012 HH volunteers at Festival of Cheer - Dec. 8 - Clipping from Surprise [AZ] Today, Dec. 12, 2012)

Mountain of snow draws Festival of Cheer climbers

Jeff Dempsey, Today Staff

Benevilla celebrated its annual Festival of Cheer Saturday at the Peoria Sports Complex, a day dedicated to the celebration of cultures and holidays from around the world.

Throughout the day, visitors were treated to an eclectic lineup of performances, from dancing to martial arts demonstrations.  But again, as is always the case, the most popular attraction for the children in attendance was the snow.

Two fields of snow, separated into age groups, were crowded even long after the sun had caused much of it to melt away.  John Bruner, a Peoria resident, was there with his granddaughter.  While she played in the snow, Bruner played it smart and set up his own folding chair off to the side.

"The kids are all having a lot of fun," he said.  "So far the snow and the group of kids doing Michael Jackson routines have been the big hits."  Bruner said he could not help but chuckle at his young granddaughter's antics.  "She came up to me just a minute ago," he said.  "And she said to me, 'Papa, the snow is cold.'  I said, 'No kidding?'"

Beverly Beideman, a Ventana Lakes resident, was the festival with her grandchildren.  Some of them were involved in the Girl Scout booths and therefore kept busy all day.  The rest of the grandkids, though?  "I've got the ones that are too young, and I'm walking them around," she said.  "I'm ready to quit, but I don't think they are."  Indeed, even as Beideman said that one of her grandchildren began tugging at her sweater sleeve, urging her on to the next new sight.  As Beideman was led away, she could not help but laugh.  "I'm hoping they get tired soon so I can go sit down," she said.

Harold Uible is a Sun City West resident and a longtime friend of Benevilla.  He has visited the Festival of Cheer for several years but this time he decided to help out.  "I'm volunteering today," he said.  "I'm in charge of picking up trash."

Uible was perched in a spot about in the middle of all the goings-on, and he said from his view everyone seemed to be having a good time, especially the children with all that snow.  "They enjoy it, don't they," he said.  "I think for many of them it's the first snow they've ever seen."

Uible said he has watched the festival grow over the years, and he is looking forward to next year.  "I think it gets better every year," he said.  "And I think attendance is growing too."

1992 MV's letters - Oct 6 & 16

Ginny at four months old and other KY Crowson news from October 1982. The letter typed on Oct. 6 is transcribed first, followed by the notecard from Oct. 16.

 

10/6/92
Dear Mom and Dad,

Sorry that I seem to have lost your itinerary and addresses on the trip [Far East trip with Liggetts, Oct. 4-27] but at least you will have some personal mail when you get home!  Marguerite Sigmon said that Harvey had heard from you last week – I hope that he has been a good help to you (I'm sure you're benefiting from his expertise).  They are a real sweet couple and have been very good to us and to Ginny.  He is getting ready to re-enter the work force.  Centenary UMC just built their new sanctuary and he is head of the audio-visual committee; the folks that installed the equipment at the church have offered Harvey a job, although I'm not sure when he will start.  He did resign from the Board of Directors of the Emmaus Community though to do the job.

We are going to Lexington on Friday to a potluck for the Fall Walk teams and while there, we will probably go to Sears and have Ginny's picture taken.  I exchanged an outfit she got as a gift at Penney's for a pair of cute red bib overalls that would do fine for a Christmas picture.  We still have yet to buy her any clothes (thank goodness) due to the generosity of many good folks.

Ginny is nearly sitting up by herself now.  She really enjoys sitting in our be (propped up with pillows) while we get dressed.  I told you that twice I've gone in to get her up in the morning to find that she has rolled over (stomach to back) but we have yet to witness it.  She is becoming more and more alert -- as I drive to work, it's almost like she can see the trees as we go by (which are just starting to turn and are gorgeous).  There will be many more developments between now and Christmas.

We are looking forward to John and Julie's visit this weekend.  We're hoping that they will get here in time to ride the train at BSNRRA.  Then I plan to make Lasagna for dinner on Saturday night.  I made muffins last night for Sunday breakfast -- Martha White has a new Lemon Poppyseed mix out that is good.  Don doesn't eat Sunday breakfast anyway, so I just made enough for us.

We have sure been enjoying our Sam's membership (warehouse).  On most things (98%) they are quite a bit cheaper; we have paid for our membership in what we have saved, I'm sure.  We always get milk (which is .40-.50 cheaper on the gallon than W-burg) and other things.  Maybe Don could take you there wile I'm on the walk or we can work out some thing else.  We could make even better use of it if we had a deep freeze like at our old house.

I'm enclosing a copy of my budget, etc. for the upcoming year.  I'll get you a copy of the Council on Ministries Handbook that we put out.  Everyone (committee wise) is to put together a budget and goals for the year.

I'll try to write again before you get back.  We miss you!  Love, MV, DL & VK

* * * * * * * * * *
10/16/92
Dear Mom and Dad –

Welcome home!  Hope you had a good trip & we'll be anxious to hear about it.

Ginny had her 4 month check up today and the Dr. said she was doing well.  Her height 25" and weight 14.75 lbs is higher than 3/4 girls her age.  Her head, 48cm is bigger than 90%.  He told us to start her on "ROB BAPP" – Rice, Oatmeal, Barley, Bananas, Applesauce, Peas and Peaches.  One new food each week.  She had been sleeping about 10 hrs/night until about a week ago and she's down to 6 hr stretches so hopefully this solid food will help.

Don is on the Men's Walk this weekend, so we spent last night & will spend tonight here in Lexington, go home first thing tomorrow (Sat).  And since Don won't be home, we're going to Somerset tomorrow night to sleep.

We had a nice visit with John and Julie last weekend.  The trip on the train was cool but beautiful.  The leaves were just starting to turn (this week they are really colorful).

Looking forward to seeing you in 13 days.  I sure appreciate your coming down to take care of Ginny so I can go on the walk.

Love, MV, D & G  

1972 Roberta's letter - Dec. 10

Roberta writes a letter while on the airplane in December 1982. The letter was mailed from Spain (Espana).  From Spain, she and her friend Julie went on to Senegal to visit Joe.

 

Dec. 10, 1972

9:30 pm

Hi!
Tried calling you all a couple times between 6:00 and 7:00 tonight but no luck!

We had a very good trip here – in fact got to the airport a little after 1:00 p.m.!  So had plenty of time to look around, etc!

Our plane was right on time – we were lucky because a lot of the planes were delayed because of fog or something!  Before getting on the plane we all had to go through the security check.

Right after we got on they served 2 7-ups with almonds both times.  We are sitting right behind the 1st class section in the non-smoking area.  The plane isn't full at all – maybe half full!  We are flying in a 747!!

We each bought a "ear-phone deal" in order to have music plus to hear the movie "The Doberman Gang."

My luggage only weighed about 28 pounds – that's both the green suitcase plus the tote bag – all I carried on the plane was the AAA flight bag.  Julie's baggage weighed just less than mine.

[Later] We just got done seeing the movie – The Doberman Gang.  It was really funny – about 5 dogs robbing a bank!  It's now almost 11:30 p.m. US time – 5:30 a.m. Spanish time.

The ride is really getting bumpy.

Mom, sure hope you had a "Happy Birthday" – I found the birthday card I meant to mail yo in my purse tonight.  Sorry about that!

We will have to get used to the time change – I know I'll feel like going to bed 1st thing in the morning!

When I called up Aunt Mary she didn't really have to much to say – said that Joe had written and how he thought he could use comic books in his teaching.

Well better close.  Hope all is fine with everyone.

Love, Bert!

1982 Family Letter - Dec. 12

December 1982 continues in New Vienna with another week on the "go." Transcription follows.

 

Sunday, December 12, 1982

Happy Birthday, Gerry on the 17th of December!

Dear Family:

We have just returned from S.S. and Church and hope to do some writing before we go out for lunch. In fact, this past week has been one on the "Go."

On Monday we went to the Fair Board Dinner at Snow Hill ... they have a new "Chef" and we appreciated it being close to home.  They always have gifts and people draw a slip of paper which contains a very short excerpt from a Christmas song, which you have to match up with another part of the song for that particular gift.

Tuesday evening was the Mother's Club meeting here ... it was a good time for Dad to go to the office.

Some of you will recall the Eveland family and how we ran into some of their relatives in Quebec.  Their musical son, Pete, has opened a restaurant between here and Cincinnati where the waiters and waitresses are students at the U of C Conservatory and they each take turns in singing.  WE were with the group of the New Vienna School and were there for about three hours.  It was a fun place to go.

Thursday evening was not so much fun as Dad went to a ditch hearing in Washington C.H. which involves four counties, possibly the name of the project "Rattlesnake Creek" tells us something.  Anyway we felt an obligation to go as it involves the expenditure of some five million dollars.

We had appointments in Dayton at 7:45 on Friday morning for some X-Rays as part of our physical and we were lucky on the weather, for just north of Dayton the roads were very slippery. Clyde Irwin and a friend cut down the big tree on our corner as it was very rotten.  Did plant two new trees yesterday.

Yesterday was birthday occasion.  Last night we went to the annual Airborne Express Christmas party...that was enough to last us for some time, but it was an experience as there were some 900 people there plus the invitation list included all the City and County officials.  We needed ear muffs for the band.

We've now had lunch at the Friendly Village Inn in Leesburg and several mentioned how our family is diminishing.  First time we've ever gone there just the two of us, on Sunday anyway.  We went after the crowds so only saw some of the Fairview people plus the Wolfroms.

Grace Long [nee Wood, born in Highland County in 1911, her husband Gleason born 1911 died in 1993] has been in the hospital and the word isn't good about her [she died March 1983].  Pam West Mann [daughter of Carl & Harriett, Pam died Dec. 19, 1982 at the age of 35] is also not so well and her parents have gone to New Hampshire – they found more tumor in an inoperable place near the brain.  Betty Thompson's mother, Addie Rulon passed away [at age 83] – she hasn't known anyone for a long time.

We go to Columbus tomorrow for a couple of days to the State Commissioners meeting.  Others are going today and stay until Thursday but that's just too long for Dad.

I've got a start on the Christmas cards but a long way to go.

[Much love to all, etc.]

1972 MV's Birthday Greeting to Mom