1925 or '26 -Harold & Mary Uible Horton photo

 A vintage photo of Harold Hiestand Uible (1925-2019) and Mary Uible Horton (1913-2012) taken in late 1925 or early 1926.

1971 GHU Letter - July 1

 

Thurs. evening [July 1, 1971]

Dear Family --

Another week & perhaps I shall be at home by this time (8:30).  Everyone is gone.  Bill to Lions meeting -- Mary to choir practice -- Robbie to band practice.  I just finished a note to Mrs. Wilson.

We have had 2 or more phone calls from Marianne she has her problems but from now on I think she will be getting along better.  At least I feel better after her call last night.  For they seemed to have so many things to do last week that I did come to the rescue & packed all of her best china & glass ware.  She said not a piece cracked nor broken.  But what to do with it?

I made a call at the Mackey home this afternoon.  Mary had several errands so she dropped me off.  They remarked about my nice Ohio family and Mary V. being a doll in the wedding.  They thought Catherine might still be in High School.  Thought she looked so young.  She & Serena were very attractive girls.  Of course John came in for his share of praise as well as the Horton Clan.  They use to have a friend who taught at Kal. College.

Cris how are times?  Your Sail is still on the boat as your Dad says he has to have a combination to get something open I guess you know what.

If the garden was wet when you arrived home, I take it for granted that the yard needed mowing.  So John keep your account dated.  Then there is a paper bill due this week or next.  Never a let up, is there in bills?

I am still keeping the 8th in mind for checking out & arriving next Thurs. in Cin. at 5:30 unless I hear differently & then I will change my date to suit your plans.  

I tried to go without hose but I soon found out that the air conditioning put too much cool air on my knees.  Oh but it is hot out doors during the day.  I can just see my beautiful sugar trees at home in my mind.  I notice by the paper it is rather warm at home.  

I think Mary is getting cold feet about going to Africa, but yet she wants to see Joe so badly & Bill is just -- shall I say blank?  I wish we could drop in to see Joe & Marianne.

Love,
Mother

1971 MUH letter -late May

 

[undated, but would have been written late May 1971]

Dear Harold and Jean :

Just a note from the desk of . . . . 

I guess we will try using the BROWN HOUSE . . . . if after you get here you'd rather take a MOTEL . . . FINE WITH ME!  I'm wondering if the ONE bedroom is not air-conditioned if you'll be COMFORTABLE???  As I said, just the living room and one bedroom is air conditioned.

How about some of the kids staying here???  It just so happens we are moving two twin beds out of the parsonage tomorrow and guess where to???  1025 North B.  Well, anyway, there are two more twin beds . . . we have the two roll-aways which can be used over at the Browns also if it turns out to be HOT . . .  two more can park here . . . would be no more crowded than in most of the hospitals and at leasat at the moment we ALL are MOBILE!  No one is going to have to sleep in the CAR!

Let G'Ma know whether you will be in on WED. EVE. for a snack.  OK???  I think I'll bake a ham and do a big roast and with hamburger we can snack or EXIST for 3 or 4 days on a LIMITED menu but we'll be eating out Friday night.

Plan to have a bridesmaid's luncheon on THURSDAY and will be taking Serena . . . you men can look out for yourselves.  HA!  G'Mothers, Moms, Aunt Jeanie included.

Say, anybody got any WHITE tablecloths that could be used on tables at the reception?  Sure hate to use the Famous restaurant stuff.  We've got the churches clothes in our dining room for display of gifts.  Guess we could get more from the church to use down there.  (I'm talking to myself right now . . . the 'IN THING' right now!)

Shall I bring my pants suit for the Aug. 15th wedding???  I thought I was 'nutty' looking in retrospect after 25 years to have a wedding at 9:30.  5:30 ???  . . . What's the early morning rush about???

Hope the shoes come this week.  They're all in the process of being done except the LILAC pair and we have been doing them in pairs so they'll come out about the same color . . . HOPEFULLY!

BRING YOUR CAMERAS . . . going to bring any material on your trip???

How did MV's dress turn out?  Does she like it???  Jean, we are plotting to put you and Serena on a job part-time, etc. at the reception.  This reception is not worked out yet.  HELP!  Everything else seems in fair readiness!  I'm counting on the UIBLES to help put this affair across when the time comes . . . we've got several details that we need help on . . . discuss when you all get here!

JUNE 1st is just around the corner!  Oh, me!  I'm wondering what we'll talk about after the wedding???  I'm ready to settle back in my 'rocker'.  HA!

The 'kids' do not know where they will be living.  He has two openers in Orlando area but he's (as well as Mares) all hepped up about living in the Philly area and they are talking about venturing forth in that direction . . . .  Guess they'll have to experiment for themselves.

Any QUESTIONS???  Well, just BE HERE!  See ya on the 16th!  Thought the kids would enjoy being here where the wedding excitement is . . . will need help in answering telephone, doorbell, etc.  Get it?  Why don't you let the kids stay here and just you and Jean stay at Browns?  You can't do anything until I give you the KEY.  HA!

Love,

Mary

[The following handwritten in margins on front and back]

We're not going to be fussy!  Paper plates, cups, etc. all that week!  Should be a lot of mangoes!  We can put cots down hall -- John in Cris's room with Rob!!

Friday -- June 11 -- Shower (here) by Roberta Dicks.  Sunday the 13th -- Open House -- Hortons.  Tuesday 15th -- pick up G'ma.  Wed. 16th Uibles arrive.  Thur. 17th - Luncheon.  Fri. 18th Rehearsal & dinner at Tropical Acres. 

Jean, I have not used your check -- but I'm tempted!  Ha!

Serena:  Want a job to cook & make beds to help Aunt Mary?  I pay fair!! Ha!  (4 days)

Jean:  Do you need any hair appts?  Or is everyone doing their own thing?

1986 GHU Letter -Feb.18

 

[postmarked 2/18/86]

Dear Folks --

If I don't soon write you folks will be here before I know it.  I was thinking that Mary wrote last week but she said to Mary V.  Any way we are looking for you soon & at present the weather is improving.  It is warm & at last the sun is shining more.

Our minister & Mrs. Williams had open house & we called or rather made a visit for the afternoon passed quickly.  The parsonage is very nice.  It is not for me for their are steps & more steps.  Inside & out.  Then a concert given by a group from W.P. Beach.

We have heard from Joe several times & he was so glad it missed raining for a couple of days.  He says the scenery is beautiful but he has trouble sleeping for the noise from the frogs.  He misses modern conveniences.  

Mary is supposed to have the bridge club Wed.  It seems as if they have been having a difficult time to have it when they could all come.

We have new neighbors next door & they seem very nice.  They live across the alley on the north side.  We are glad the other people left for they were not desirable in the neighborhood.

Mary & Bill are hopeful of touring England with another couple in July.

It will be good to see Velma when you come.  But we can decide when you arrive.

Love -- Mother

1985 GHU Letter -Feb.7

 

Feb. 7 -- [1985]

Dear Harold & Jean --

As Mary had her UMC meeting to-day we have been more than busy the last few days.  There are several Circles -- 6 to be exact I believe.  We serve coffee, tea, small pieces of rolls, perhaps some kind of cookie & may be a piece of candy a few minutes after 10 A.M. & that is it for eats.  The meeting program follows, over by 12.  There were 24 of us to-day.  

We have had several rather warm days but much cooler this evening.  We need rain & has been cloudy all day.  Mary turned on the air conditioner this morning but off after the meeting.  Bill has been raking leaves a while each morning for the cold spell we had sure nipped many of the leaves.  My how people can complain when they have a few leaves to rake.  

From your letter you have the days of Feb very much in line it seems.  We will try to get a letter to you if I don't misplace your schedule.  Valentine is coming along but I think I am going to pass up sending them.  For some one else has to shop for them & my little tote all big now except the Great & they all have plenty of things.  I can wish you all a Happy Day.  Mary V. sent me a very pretty one.

Our church has a new choir Director who took over last week.  She had nice music last week.  The man they had has never been one to think much of music I have ever thought.  He stood there but that is about all you could say.  Not once did you ever hear him sing a note, nor did he ever play the organ or piano.  Mary just came in from choir practice & said Mr. ? from the choir had called the police for went out to start his van & no battery.  Sone one had lifted it from the car which was parked in church lot.

Now off to bed.  --

Love, Mother

Photo of CJ, Gladys & Mary in Westboro c1918

Cecil on far left, Gladys on far right, the child is Mary Uible Horton 
c1918

 

1986 GHU Letter -Jan.8

 

[postmarked 8 Jan 1986]

Dear Harold & Jean --

This is the day you were to leave for home (Tues.) I believe?  so I hope you are making it alright.  By the weather report it is cold at home.  Not too warm here.

Have received the tax booklet.  Shall I keep it until you come down or send it along with figures when they are made out.  I expect I will ask Mary to help me when I start upon that job.  It is getting to be a job for me.

We went in to-day to see about a new hearing out fit.  These will just go into the ear.

I am enclosing check for the church collection please put in for me.  

It was interesting to receive the cards & letters from you while on your visit in Phoenix.

Time out to hear Pres. Reg. [Reagen]

Wed. morning -  10:30 A.M. We are having a shower.  Mary is baking a cake for General meeting tomorrow of the Circles at the church.

The visitors are now all gone.  Cris & Angela left Fri. morning.  They called at 10 P.M. & had been home about ½ hour.  

Last week Mary, Angela & myself visited the Flagler Museum.  It had been years since I was there.

I was glad to hear from Mary Va.

Good bye for this time.
Love, Mother

1984 Mary Uible Horton's Letter -Jan.12

 

 TH PM -- Jan. 12, 1984

Dear Family:  (Friend or foe or anyone wishing to give up their precious TIME to read a lot of past detail!!)

Now, where to begin?  (Roberta, have used the liquid (oops) paper in the very first line!!!)  How about Christmas as a starter?  Seemed strange, after having YOUTH in the household ever Xmas for the last 36 years, to have only OLDSTERS around!  Larna invited us for Xmas dinner which was a relaxing day for me after attending S.S., Church, etc.  As there were only 9 of us, she could handle the dinner with ease in her trailer-home.  Was Santa good to all of you?  Seemed odd for 3 adults to be sitting 'under the Xmas tree' opening up gifs, etc.  Appreciate everyone!!  I thought Roberta's gift was very clever.  After we arrived in Phoenix, she gave us a cloth sack on which was written in BOLD RED LTRS.,  "SANTA'S SACK", and Santa's face in white on a BRIGHT RED SQUARE.  And surprised on the inside:  All kinds of practical objects used around the house.  Surprising enough, most of them were items we had just run out of or gadgets we can use and never thought of.  HA!  THANKS BERTA and SID!!!!  (I used the bag to put my dirty laundry in just before returning home . . . ha)  That takes care of Xmas . . . except it's quite a SHOCK to come home from a trip in Jan. and find all the Xmas ornaments on the tree, decorations, etc. and know that ALL THAT STUFF has yet to come down . . . maybe in a couple of days ???

The trip to Arizona sure did pep me up . . . . I've got my second wind for the new year 1984.  HA!!!  But for the H.H. Uibles, and Sid . . . . I don;t know how they survived all the excitement and pre-wedding hustle-bussle with all the relatives arriving on different days and housing and feeding all of us.  We counted up and H.H., Sid, or someone in the family made something like 17 trips back and forth to the airport (picking up and returning).  Thanks to Harold, we stayed at the WestCourt hotel (?) . . . a real swanky place for the first few days.  There were a lot of Ohio State people staying there; followers of the Ohio State football team.  Did anyone watch the game?  Sure was exciting.  We saw the close finish.  A lot of kids were staying there also . . . members of a marching band from northern Florida.  The big Fiesta Bowl parade on New Years Eve . . . which we did not see . . . we were attending something more important that PM.  Roberta's and Sid's WEDDING!!

We were dying to meet this MAN!!  Who had the audacity to capture the heart of INDEPENDENT, CAREER-WOMAN, ROBERTA??? (ha).  We were not disappointed when we met SID!!!  He was a good looking blonde about the same height as Roberta, maybe taller, with "R" shoeless.  A trim physique (sp) . . . tho both he and Roberta said that they were going on a DIET after we all left . . . and shouldn't we ALL, after consuming all the good candy, cookies, and all the holiday goodies!!  He's soft-spoken, witty, good humored, ALWAYS BUSY and helping Roberta . . . the speed he was going he might take over the Sr. Citizen project (Ha . . . watch out Roberta).  I'm sure he will try to slow down "Berta" for to quote him, "She does the job for 3 people"!!!  When I do a letter I really do RAMBLE!!!  Sid seemed very cooperative and patient!!!  A delight to be with!!!  Now the rest of you can draw your own conclusions whenever you have the opportunity to meet him.  

Roberta and family were still doing and fixing for the wedding right up until ½ hour before the wedding.  I understand that Roberta was over at the church before 6:30 AM probably overseeing the Brunch which was to follow the wedding, in the church.  [Followed by a long description of the decor. etc. which is not included here.]

Love to all -- MUH & BILL

1983 GHU letter -Dec.18

 From the "found after the designated year" file, this letter was written shortly before Grandma and the Hortons and the rest of us went to Phoenix for Roberta & Sid's wedding.

Sun. 18th [Dec. 1983]

Dear family - 

My letter writing has some what been neglected lately.  Too many Christmas activities.  Cindy & Rob were here this afternoon with presents & a light supper.  They leave Tues. for Ind. to spend Christmas with her folks.  So we had a little Christmas while they were here.  Also Frances & John dropped in for a while.  Right now Mary joined the choir at 6 o'clock & they were to go out to sing Christmas Carols.  Bill just left to join them at a home where they will have a covered dish supper.  He took a pumpkin pie.

Last Fri. the Lions Club had their Christmas turkey dinner at the Congregational Church.  I was a guest & they had a very nice dinner program.  It rained all day & was fair when we came home.  But what a day & evening.  At least it was nice to get in the car in the garage & we were fortunate enough to park right at the entrance so didn't get wet.  

Last Fri. a lady from the L.W. Play House gave a Christmas Reading for the Literary program which was very good & then there was a tea afterward.  It seems as if there must always be refreshments.  Then you hear all the talk about dieting.

Sat. Larna had a party at the Park house for a couple who had been married for 50 years.  M. & Bill went.  I was invited but since I didn't even know them I didn't go.  Mary said more came than expected.  They served a lunch at 12.  I would say a dinner from what Mary said.  I guess it was a carry in by the guests for it seems as if the Hortons got cake.  This week the V.I.A. [?] tomorrow go to a nursing home to sing & then come back to the church to eat.  Mary goes to play for singing but I don't think I am going.  Wed. there is to be the Church Christmas program with a turkey dinner first.  We plan to attend that affair.  

We must begin to wonder what we will need in Phoenix.  This letter is for the family.  I should have written to you H. & Jean before you left but I don't get to things like I might.  If I have a room with more than the 1 bed one or more of the girls can room with me & that will be fine with me.  

Roberta, I hope things are shaping up for you & every one has a safe trip in traveling.  See you soon.

Love to all

Merry Christmas

Grandma

1980 Family Letter -Dec.10

 

Tuesday evening --

December 9, 1980

Dearest Family -- 

It's getting nearer and nearer Christmas and still have much to do to get ready but do have the spirit, I hope.  Certainly did appreciate the beautiful strawberries and macrame Christmas hangings which you sent, Roberta.   I had seen some strawberries a couple of years ago but these were much more elaborate!  The others just had a felt leaf on top and a gold string by which to hang it.  The walnut shells had been painted red but just had dots of white paint on them instead of the white beads.  Had planned to send money in the last letter to pay for these things but forgot.

The church bazaar was a big success as far as money-wise - they made about $1800, but as Dad says if you'd count your time (all concerned) they didn't make so much but then people aren't willing to contribute much but time.  Hope that yours did as well, Roberta, in comparison.  Kay Carey had made some macrame similar with the blocks spelling J O Y but weren't near as pretty as the ones you sent.

We went square dancing in Hillsboro that night with the Harners and someone noticed Dad's name-tag and asked about Mary Uible -- said she used to live near G'ma's mother -- her name was Signa Hopewell and is now Dixon.  She is very attractive.  Her husband is now retired from the post office and they would like to get to Florida.

We had hoped to have 200 in Sunday School but didn't quite make it.  There were alot of people there but some others obvious for their absence.   Wendell Mahanes sister's husband had been killed in a truck accident.  so they (and his parents) weren't there.  That was Diane Mahanes who was just a year ahead of you, Catherine?  She had two children 10 and 9.  We did have 123 at Sunday School and put on a little program about the history of Sunday School and some of the people reminisced -- Helen Drake, Everett Penn and Mrs. Thornburg.

Sunday noon we had the three Cedarville College Students along with Elizabeth Johnson, who had come over for Sunday School, etc.  We had been invited down earlier to the Sankers for the afternoon as they had tickets for a bi-annual homes tour in their area.  Some of the places seem so unlivable, that makes wonder about the pre planning thought.  Bill Sanker's employer, GE, had recently sent him to Europe on business and they took an additional two weeks for sightseeing on their own, so we saw a few (yes, that is right) pictures of their trip.

Monday was the monthly library day in Dayton and took two of the librarians from Wilmington also.  Dad went along as he had to have another blood test as part of the annual physical and he had no trouble putting in the rest of the day between the County Law Library and the Public Library.  We can take books out of the library for four weeks, which is great for our schedule.

This past weekend was great weather-wise -- washed and waxed the car, cleaned the roof eaves and some general yard work.  Our broccoli is still growing.  Saturday was the first day for the new banking hours at the local bank.  They changed the Friday closing from 3 PM. to 5:30 PM and the Sat. closing from 3 PM to noon.  The personnel seem to like it.

Our dishwasher went on the blink . . . as the water is not coming in.  Did check the fuse and that is not the problem.  Guess perhaps we are lucky that we have not had a problem earlier than this in the 12 years of operation.  Dayes are coming tomorrow.  We got two bushels of Florida fruit from the FFA this past week, which we have been enjoying.

I tried to correct the amount taken in for the bazaar -- they announce tonight that it was $1864 and will be selling more Friday and Saturday at the bank so it should got o $2000.  We had UMW meeting out at Marietta Penn's.  Also heard there that Joanne Gruber is going to teach cosmetology at Laurel Oaks so will only be in her shop on Saturdays.  She should be very good though with the teaching.  I sure don't want to go to Mildred.

Have enjoyed all the telephone conversations and letter.  That was a good picture of you with the group, Roberta, and really a nice letter concerning you that someone had written and hpe something good comes out of her request for a larger senior center.

[Love, Mom & Dad]

1980 Family Letter -Sep.5

Friday afternoon -

September 5, 1980

Deaerest Family --

I know Friday isn't the best day to start a letter for it is old news before it arrives at its destination but at least it is better than not writing at all.

Uncle Bill and Aunt Mary got off yesterday -- Dad and Grandma took them to the Columbus airport and after doing some errands inColumbus, had dinner with John and Carol and got to see their new abode which is real attractive.  Mary Virginia and I wish we could have gone too but both had school so we will be sure to get there another time soon, we hope.  I meant to thank them for the fresh tomatoes and homemade bread they sent before but forgot when I was writing -- anyway a belated thanks.  Guess Carol has been canning tomatoes -- they are lucky to have enough for so many people around here are complaining about the poor crop.  Opal and Ralph Nussbaum even got some of our little ones to can as they haven't had enough to do anything with.

Our apple crops have been more than adequate and many people have been getting and using ours.  The red ones are especially good to eat -- tart and juicy but also okay to make applesauce though not as good as the transparent.

It was good talking to Roberta and Serena on the phone Saturday and Catherine both last Friday and this day too.  Hope you (Serena and the Morgans are all feeling better -- kind of bad to not feel good on the holiday weekend).  Grandma is still planning to come out west  stopping in Phoenix and going to Madras too via Portland but no definite date has been set as far as I know.  We also suggested she might break up the trip by stopping in Chicago and staying at a motel real near the airport so that she could also visit with Serena if it would work out withSerena's time off.

She (Grandma) will have more time to think about it since the Hortons have gone.  We finally got through to Uncle Bill that they could stay over til Saturday or Sunday but by that time there were no good flight connections with vacancies and rather than take a chance on standby reservations they went yesterday but said they would look into what might suit us the next time.  They  had plenty of luggage -- Uncle Bill bought a new set of golf clubs in Lancaster plus they had clothes they had left at Marianne's when they thought they were going back there in June.  They also took some pears and other fruit with them.

Uncle Bill did get in some golfing with Everett Penn and also played with Walter Nichols and then the wives joined them for dinner.  Aunt Mary thought most of the people had aged so much except Walter.  I took her to Mothers Club and she saw several there that she hadn't seen for a long time like Vivian Cochran, Betty Gano and Rachel Mary Bernard.

Dad and Grandma didn't get back to New Vienna til almost 11 PM - Mary Virginia and I had gone to the first Band Boosters meeting of the year and also last evening was the weekly square dance plus a Republican meeting -- planning for Harsha's retirement dinner in Wilmington.

Last Saturday afternoon we went to Cincinnati, tour of the Taft Museum, around downtown and the rejuvenated Union Railway Station, which reopened a few weeks ago with lots of "little shops".  Hope they can make it.  For supper we ate at a restaurant suggested by the Sankers -- the bill for the five of us came to $17 dollar range.  We walked around the neighborhood and "Black Stallion" was playing at the movie and the admission price for the five of us at $7.00 we went "wild" and went to the movie.  All this translated into getting back to NV around midnight.  MV couldn't believe we did all this -- especially the movie for we told her we'd be back probably by 10PM.

Talked to Serena and wish we could plan a weekend to go to Chicago -- MV is involved in the band activities every weekend through the end of October so either we only have Sat. and Sunday or go without her or run almost to Thanksgiving.  But we will work something out for we do want to spend some time with her.  If only we would know more definitely about Mie Young!!!

[Love, etc.]

2000 Family Reunion at Shenandoah -July 4

Standing left to right - Wendy, Gerry, Catherine, Sid, Roberta, Serena, Julie & Andrew, John, Don, Mary & Christian.  Middle Row - Jean, HH, Mary.  Front row - Kate & Ginny

Standing left to right - Wes, Roberta, Mary, John, Catherine, Serena, Joe, Rob, Marianne, Cris, Robert.  Sitting - Jean, HH, Mary, Bea, Laura.  Front row - Wil & Ashlen,  Cameron, Kate & Andrew, Ginny, Christian, Austin, Chad

Standing left to right - Catherine, John, Roberta, Serena, Marianne, Rob, Cris, Joe.  Sitting - Mary, Jean, HH & Mary

The Whole Group

1990 GHU Pictures

Elaine Burton & Grandma 1990

Grandma's 98th Birthday at her house - 6/22/90

Grandma on the beach - Waikiki - not dated

Grandma, Aunt Mary, HH, & Jean - not dated

1990 MUH Letter -June 5

Monday -- June 4th [1990] [mailed to Turkey]

Dear HH and Jean:

Here goes a TRY at typing you a ltr on this weird typewriter . . . it has a heavy touch and makes a lot of noise.  I'm not sure what the different gadgets' are supposed to do?  I'm still wondering if there is a way to lighten up the touch?  It seems so heavy!

We got your first postcard from Pittsburgh.  THANKS!  I imagine the mails are questionable and difficult to find a post office?  When the earthquake hit some where over there, everyone was wondering if any tremors were felt in Turkey?  Sat. nite a tornado struck Harrison, Ohio and more damage done in Indiana.  8 dead, 150 injured.  Two-thirds of the town of Petersburg was destroyed by twisters.  Hundreds were left homeless just two weeks after floods knocked out the town's fresh water supply.  150 homes were destroyed and 120 were damaged when a twister ripped a 5-mile-long path.  Warnings were on TV all evening for the Tri-state area. 

I went to bed around 12 and the fire siren went off once . . . it blew and blew then after a min. or two it started off again.  I found out later that it means a tornado might hit.  I understand some people took refuge in the school house.  I slept peacefully on, not knowing the significance of the noise . . . I thought it was just another bad accident!!!  Should we save the Cincinnati Enquirer???

Mother is doing fine!!  What an appetite!!!  I cooked green beans, canned sweet potatoes and fried (over-fried) steak.  She could even chew the meat . . . better than I could.  Ha!  This house is like an on-going soap opera.  Each 'Aid' has a different sob story to tell.  Kathie says everyone is doing better at their job since I came on the scene!!  I can't get anything done in the way of typing letters . . . not enough privacy . . . a lot of yak-yak!!!  As Roberta said, for me, this has been a "Jot", if you know what that means?  Ha!!!  Guess!!  We've found that she likes the recliner chair . . . seems like it takes off the pressure on her "rear" a good change from her chair.  She hasn't asked about you all except the day after you left when she said, "I'll miss HH & Jean."  She seems more aware of things, and more responsive. 

Sunday was a "WINNER"!!!  Took Mother to S.S. . . only Mrs. Thornburg and Vivian Cochran.  Ev Johnson was sick, no teacher so they just talked.  I understand E.J. has had several attacks of vomiting, etc.  I think going to the hospital for some tests.  I went downstairs to move her.  S.S. room was shut off as they had it decorated in a Hawaiian theme for Bible School.  I peeked in and it was very decorative . . . a lot of preparation.  Mother said she wanted to go home. 

All day was a 'scenario' . . . Having someone here to put her on the pottie.  Gi-Gi and Bob volunteered their time from 11 to 3 o'clock.  Kathie wanted off to go to her in-laws for dinner.  She tried to get a substitute Sat. and called Gi-Gi, she tried but no one available so Kathie said she would stay Sunday.  But GG volunteered and insisted that she go.  Bob was of great help . . . I thought we could take Mother and go out and eat but Bob went back and forth to the farm as he and sons were trying to catch up . . . a race with the weather.  In the PM they had some parties to go to.  GG was a lot of help . . . wherever needed.  They are a NEAT COUPLE!! 

BIG SURPRISE was seeing SERENA briefly on Sat. and Sun.  She was very attractively dressed, both days.  She liked the library.  Stayed at your house Sat. nite and came in here Sun. AM at 8:30.  She wore a neat red suit.  Roberta called me last nite and I understand she was optimistic re her interview.  Then Sun noon MV called from home and while the pot pies were baking they called on us.  They had driven up Sun. AM and Don preached at Russelville.  GUESS WHAT they brought a plastic bag with a note inside - - - belongings in drawer in Room 37.  (I had left more than I thought.)  Ha!  My faith in human nature restored!!  Ha!

I picked 4 boxes of strawberries and Phyllis brought me two.  It's to go to 44º tonight The record is 43º.  Hope you are enjoying your trip . . . but I will be glad when you are back!!  We're enjoying activities at Sr. Citizens.  Bill and Elsie Z invited us over for dinner last Tues. with GG and Bob.  FUN!  Played Euchre and Bill Z has an attractive Pool Room in their house.  "Delish" DINNER!  The weather here is mostly rain and starting this wk, quite COOL.  Feels like Florida's WINTER.

Also Helen Carr and Wib popped in here for a min. on way to eat in Wilmington.  HOPE LTR ARRIVES!!!

Love -- Mary & Bill

1979 Horton Christmas Letter

"It wouldn't seem like Christmas

If we couldn't get in touch

And extend the Season's Greetings

To those we like so much!"

We are on the threshold of the '80's!!  Has '79 been good to you?  My the years are flying by . . . may we make every minute count!!

Bill and I seem to have a set pattern for living -- year in and year out.  So the same Xmas letter could be sent every year!  Ha!  (Hope you burnt last years).   We visit our "kids" two or three times a year -- keep up with our church activities -- Bill is on the golf course every week-end and other days when he can slip out of the office.  For fun we go to Bert Reynolds Dinner Theatre and Lake Worth Playhouse, Civic Music Series and play some Bridge (a lot of improvement needed).  How do you feel about the "Soaps"?  Ha!  When I'm home I "flip" the channels . . . but my favorite is "Young and Restless" and tune in "Days of Our Lives" occasionally, primarily because I got "hooked" years ago  -- the drawing card being they were ALL HORTONS!  HA!

Highlight of the year was our trip in May to England, Wales and Scotland.  We went with another couple and travelled on our own.  We went by train and auto.  The country-side was beautiful -- so green and many lambs on the hillside.  I loved Warwick and Stratford-on-Avon (only warm days we had -- 5 out of 23), also Bath, Chester and Coventry, all in England, were most interesting.  As Bill's parents came from Staffordshire area we looked up one of his cousins and spent a pleasant PM with her.  Amazingly, she looked like his Mother.  Edinburg is a unique town with the old castle on top of the hill.  From there Bill and I went to St. Andrews on a one-day trip . . . the home of Golf.  A historical, old, college town.  We stayed in "B & B's" and enjoyed meeting the hosts and other guests.  Those bkfs really fortifies you for the day!!!  Some of the Spring flowers were in blossom and the parks lovely in London and South England.  Quite cool to us Floridians and the thermal underwear sure felt good!  Ha!

We wish you a HAPPY and HEALTHY 1980!!

'Gettin' close to Christmas

With its message ever new.

Here's my hope -- that Christmas joy

thrills you through and through."

Love, 

Bill & Mary

[Personal Note:]
Just sent Jean a Birthday Note - No News to add!  Nothing new here in this paper but I've plenty of copies!  Ha!  (It's a xerox world)  In way it would be good to get away for Xmas!  How do you plan so well?

1989 MV's Recital Photos -Oct.8

Jean, MV & John

HH, Jean, John, Aunt Mary, Uncle Bill

John, Roberta, MV, HH, Serena, Jean & GHU

1989 Mary Horton letter to HH -Apr.25

TUES. - April 25th (CHAD'S 1st BIRTHDAY PARTY) [1989]

Dear Harold:

It's been a Party week-end!!  Cindy's Uncle and Aunt came Fri. PM late and left Monday PM.  They did not drive this time as they had a dead-line to meet back home.  They flew in and stayed near the airport; which isn't too far from Rob's.  So I didn't have them 'under foot' all week-end.  Ha!  However, the house got a 'new look' (clean anyway) and 2 beds made up unnecessarily.  Sat. Cindy had a party for Chad & relatives with a lot of nice gifts.  Uncle and Aunt were overly generous!!!  Bill and I took Ray and Helen out to dinner that evening and a short tour around Palm Beach and then played Rummy-O.  It was a beautiful evening . . . blue sky and not too warm riding . . . might be a different story on your bike!!!

Then to-day, it was the REAL BIRTHDAY (as if Chad knew the difference???) and she had Mothers and their babies who belong to the "Baby and Me" Club sponsored by the PB School Board.  The two G'Mas were invited!  Like a pre-school nursery with an activity room.  You've never seen so many toys, etc. . . especially after they opened up the gifts!!  Babies all ages and sizes!  All boys but one chubby girl.  They got along real well!  The adults had Pasta, party sandwiches, a salad 'munchie' plate, which you would have gone for.  Drinks, cake and ice cream.  Chad is real cute . . . always a smile . . . he has a great sense of rhythm . . . play that music and he 'sings and sways'!!!  He's an eye-stopper wherever you take him!!!

Tonight we go to Fellowship Class meeting.  Wed. the Youth are putting on a ham dinner.  Executive Bd. meeting Th AM and Choir that night . . . IF I go!!!

Roberta called today!!  She has her plane reservation for OHIO on June 21st . . . or she may have written you . . . flying into Cols.  Fare reasonable!!  Will be fun to see her again.  I understand you and Jean will be on different E.H. Trips???  She said that she hasn't had any cards from you!!  I rated!!  We got 2 cards . . . THANKS!!!

The sewarage line is coming up 11th Ave. (our driveway) tomorrow!!  So a lot of commotion and dust will be flying!!  At least we have our air conditioner on!!  Will have to have the car out of the garage early in the morning.  Not being used to getting into a HOT car . . . . this will be a change!!!  Ted took a weeks trip over to Orlando and is due back Wed. or Thursday.  Probably park in his driveway.  Had thought about taking off before the project got on its way but I have too many loose ends . . . can't possibly be ready too much ahead schedule to head toward  N.C. and Ohio.  We're playing it 'by ear' as to day of departure???  All these huge things are laying on the north side of our street (11th).

How goes the trip?  People must think you're crazy to bike across the USA!!!  What is the incentive to put out that much energy???  I can see biking for FUN . . . but an endurance contest with yourself????  You should have some interesting tales to tell and I want to be around to hear them????  I'm glad Jean is home!  We've talked several times and it is nice for Mother to have her close by!!!  See ya 1st of June???

Love, Mary & Bill

1949 Jean's Letter -Apr.18

All this odd stationery isn't a hint – we're just trying to use it up – ask Virginia if she remembers Hotel Raymond?  [Reminds me of Jean using different stationery for the same reason in 1989 as referenced in her letter to HH on his bike trip!]

Monday --

April 18, 1949

Dearest Mother & Daddy,

We arrived back in Cleveland about 9:00 last night after a very pleasant spring vacation with both you and the Uibles.  Catherine stood all the traveling fine – loved the lull of the motor for the only time we heard from her was our stops either for red lights or rest stops.  The Tuesday we drove to New Vienna was so warm – and yesterday so cold – it kept raining or sleeting the whole way back.  Harold finally had to stop once to scrape the ice from the windshield in order that the wipers would work. 

The girl who was to come to help the Uibles never showed up – she had also promised to help another woman but wasn't able to do either – she's pregnant and not feeling too well.  It so happened that the girl's mother works in the Wells Mfg. Co. (the business that Harold's father has) -- so she agreed to come instead.

Mary had gotten home Sunday so was fairly settled by Tuesday but not feeling too chipper yet.  [Assume Aunt Mary was in the hospital after Marianne was born on April 4.]  Marianne is so tiny -- but just in the short time we were there we could notice how she'd filled out.  Of course they are quite happy that it's a girl yet they had rather expected a boy.  They had planned to name him Christopher after Bill's father and brother.  Joseph takes quite alot of attention as he's at the age of getting into everything & has to be watched constantly.  Mary's going to be very busy when she's back on her own.  He's real cute though & Marianne & Catherine will soon keep him in tow.

Harold's father thinks that the Wells Mfg. Co. is really progressing now and will be quite a stable business so Harold will go in with him after the Bar is over.  He did seriously consider coming to New Cumberland but finally decided on New Vienna. 

Please inform Jeannie that we received our Independent today in tip-top shape with correct address and all so just hope she's not pestered any more by the Cleveland Post Office or us.

Harold's mother brought us some nice things from Florida -- a white seersucker sport shirt for Harold – a combination swirl bush & comb for me and two different kinds of rubber panties for Catherine (one pair like the one's you gave her) and a pair of Playtex rubber ones.  Also a dozen of those knitted diapers – called Pant-Ease – shaped to fit.  They're awfully nice at night cause they are extra warm.

They all seemed to think that Catherine looked like the Ballantynes with her full face and pug nose.  I don't think they expected her to be quite as chubby altho Mary found Joseph's Baby Book and he weighed the same as Catherine at birth and one ounce more than she at ten weeks – 12 lbs 9 oz in comparison  to her 12 lbs. 8 oz.).  He isn't very large now – has a small frame – similar to Bill and also seems to resemble his maternal grandfather.

Mary and Bill gave Catherine a toilet seat which will come in mighty handy in the near future – it's one of those natural wood ones with back and foot rest and guaranteed not to scar the toilet.  (Joseph made some marks on their new seat.)  Harold's Aunt Mary and Uncle Harry [Hiestand] came & brought both Marianne & Catherine two pretty little flannelette kimonos trimmed in pink.  I'm afraid C's are too small altho I haven't tried them on her.   I washed them tonight so Mary may have four instead of two.

Rev. O'Connor called on all of us with his wife an hour after our arrival Tuesday.  Then Wednesday he telephoned & asked if we might be interest in baptizing Catherine & Marianne.  We decided against it until she's a bit older.  Harold did go to Sunday School & I met him & stayed for Church.

Harold was busy cutting lawns & making a garden.  Saturday he cut the grass while it was half snowing.

We brought back four dozen eggs with us which consist all of our complete larder in the refrigerator with the exception of Catherine's formula & medicine.  Eggs there 38¢ a dozen.  Here Grade 3 are 55¢.  Milk has gone down again – 2 qts for 31¢.  Buttermilk is 13¢.  [Dad would have liked seeing the prices!]

Catherine stuck to her schedule quite well while in New Vienna but had to have a cry before she went to sleep each evening – after Mother & Daddy Uible had gone to bed – awakening them each time.  The last two nights she slept downstairs.

Today she has been quite awake and hungry but I think it's making up for yesterday (she slept all day & night and never had a bottle or evening cereal due to our traveling).  I gave her a bath at 6:30 & she was sound asleep by 7:15 – now we're to awaken her at 11:00.

Norma was over and Jane has been fussy today too.  She wanted me to see the new curtains her mother-in-law had made for their living room & bed room – short striped tailored drapes -- pretty but I like long ones better.  In their rush to get things packed into the car they forgot Norma's shoes which had set right by the car door.  The woman above us told her neighbors that Norma & Jim had a big fight & Norma threw her shoes at Jim & then they raced off together.

I was certainly shocked to read about Jesse [or Jane?]  Cunningham's death in the paper – that's too bad when they have such a young baby.

We did the wash tonight & didn't have too much so also did that pink & white machine-made quilt – was so quite dirty as we have been keeping it on top of bed – to pull up for naps, etc.

Will write again soon – hope to hear from you – need a postal card?

Love to all,

Jean, Harold and 

Catherine

P.S. Harold's mother also prefers the name of Catherine to Katie.

1979 GHU Letter to John -Mar.11

Joe Horton notecard: Baker's Cart – Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

March 11th [1979?]

Dear John –

We enjoyed your letter & your application letter for a job was very well written & do wish you success in whatever comes forth for you.  A person has to start some place & then decide as time goes along about the future.

With all the Hortons near for a couple of months it seems as if we have been busy either going to or cooking for a Birthday or something.

The past week we were at the W.P.B. Aud. three times.  Aunt Mary & I attended the Welk (in person) program, the "Hungarian concert."  Their costumes were beautiful & the music & dances interesting but very much the same all through the concert.  Also then Fri. night a very interesting program given by local singers.  They have a very good singing group.  Also a Barber Shop Quartet.  A guest quartet was from Washington state.

Aunt Mary & I hope to go to the Palm Beach play House next week to see the "Miracle Worker" Helen Keller's Life.  The teacher part is played by Melissa Gilbert who is the blind girl in "Little House on the Prairie."  I am very fond of her acting.

Uncle Bill still talks about when he retires but so far he still goes to work & complains about the money he pays out for taxes.  As you know this is tax time again.

We have been going to the church each Wed. evening for dinner, you can't eat out anywhere else for $2.00 & get a big meal.

Rob. goes to his school work faithfully each morning about 7:45 & home by 3:15.  His school is out on Congress.  He & his girl friend are together every day, too often I think.  At the present she has a job & they think marriage is in the future.  I believe you met Kim.  He says they ca't live on his salary as yet.  I believe your folks were to be in Col. this week end.  So you may see them.

Love, Grandma

1968 Mary Horton Letter -Oct.27

[Not sure if this letter was written on 10/27/68, is in response to a letter dated 10/27/68,
 or most likely is in reference to HH's 43rd birthday]

Re: 10/27/68

Tues AM - 9:00

Dear Harold and Jean:

First of all on the 'docket' . . . "HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HAROLD!"  (Why did I use the quote?  Who knows?  Ha!)  At least you're YOUNG looking and seemingly in excellent health . . . . A toast to the bicycles!  Just look at me, and you'll see the exercising pays off when you get to be in your 50's.  So don't stop and Jean, a word from the 'wise' (?) //. . . . BEGIN now don't wait like I did and find it almost impossible to lose a pound.  (I'm now a 'fat slob" of 132).  Harold, we're both QUITE young in contrast to Dad's 80-some years!  Hope you have a HAPPY day.

I've forgotten which week you were going to Washington D.C.?????  That will be interesting for all of you.  A lot to see there and all children should be aware of our country's heritage.  It was awfully dry when we were there . . . . the grass and trees were not very green.  But the capitol unit itself seemed so clean and the size of it gets you!  How many days were you gone (past, present or future)?

Jean, I sure did enjoy your last letter.  I take advantage of you all for I figure Mother passes on my letters (please over-look the possible over-emphasis of family affairs . . . . I don't rant on like this outside of the family . . . . you may get fed up with it . . . . ha), so yours do not come PERSONALIZED!

I was intrigued by your experience in Chicago.  When the kids were little, and BEFORE TV, I used to always listen to the BKF Club.  Would have enjoying seeing that with you!  You know, I had forgotten about Luna going to Spain, but they were in the planning stage when we were there last year.  No, I was not familiar with Peg Bracken, but after you mentioned her and her books, noticed she was writing in the Ladies HJ.  She's very clever . . . .  this was about cooking.  I'd like to read the one on behavior.  Do you watch the To-Day show?  They interviewed Rev. Malcolm Boyd, the Episcopalian minister, and read one of his prayers . . . . I would like to get a paperback on it . . . WILD!  But at least it sounded like the common man uttering a prayer instead of someone living back in the King James era.  Also, if you like controversy . . . did you see those pictures and article in the last LIFE on Show Biz in the churches?  You can see the church which is experimenting and WAY OUT . . . . Episcopalian.  Most of the oddities (we would say) occur in their church.  The article is on using ARTS more in religion.

Harold, appreciate all you and Jean do in Joe's behalf!  This year did not get off to such a good start as last one.  I'm just not happy about that environment down there but he is HAPPILY situated at the present in his new habitat and is convenient to wherever he goes on campus.  (Less riding on that stupid MO of his!)  He has had quite an experience . . . . I told him that just proves you never completely know anyone until you live with him or her . . . so BEWARE when picking out a girl.  I bet you wish we weren't trying to send ALL of our kids to school up NORTH.  HA!  The only way I know to get even is to send yours southward!  Mares received a card yesterday that all her necessary papers were received except for her SAT scores, which she is PESSIMISTICALLY taking again tomorrow.  I don't see WHY those tests are so indicative; too many conscientious students do not do well on tests and cannot work and think clearly under pressure.  Or so I think!  Joe could not have done much worse (they wanted him to take them over) . . . . the teachers could not understand it . . . . that he is in a specialized field, which he is naturally talented and adept.  This is NUTTY too, to be considering a school we've never seen.  HA!  But I'm with Mares and Catherine (and I realize you all have been there) it sounds like a remarkable PLAN . . . she is so afraid she'll be disappointed.  I guess then, it will be Florida State.  She WON'T consider Fla. Southern or Stetson.  (And that is based on prejudice and not logic).

I vowed I was going to WRITE only ONE page, but here I go!

Our past week-end was a FLOP for the kids.  They got out on Friday for teacher conference day and we had DELUGES of rain both Friday and Sat.  Our BIG football game was called off both nights because of the weather.  We will now play Forest Hill on Dec. 2nd.  That is late after the season!  Bill was in Leesburg to the Methodist mens week-end retreat and it was lovely up there.  We just had to stay inside and with the dampness, Cris and I both got worse with our allergies.  He is up to his neck with this float bit.  We've got a huge flat bed out here behind our garage.  They got permission from the owner to cut it down.  It wouldn't even go in their garage they had obtained while getting it ready.  It is eventually to look like a Showboat.  I think Cris is trying to out-do the Seniors . . . . that would a slight faux pax . . . in their eyes at any rate!

I can feel for you all taking Serena to Columbus for 'just a minute.'  I thought it was awful just driving to WPB.  Thank goodness, Rob is going to a NEW man here, who is located just opposite the QUIK CHEK, here in town.  I plan to send him on his bike when he gets around to just the adjustments.  He doesn't have the wires on as yet.  After Halloween he goes in for the second time.  Boy, he needs braces badly.

Bill is chairman of the Methodist Mens Pancake all-day affair this Sat. (The glee club are giving their introductory concert this Sat. nite also.)  Cris enjoys singing a lot.  At the moment he is pretty choked up!  Bill has been busy with the band this year too.  I'm taking a back seat.  I figure it is someone else's turn.  HA!

You can tell Mother that Elsie called this morning and Mr. Decker is doing very well.  The doctor told her that he could come home this week.  He is up and down.  The ? has to be dressed daily, and is still draining.  I imagine he will have to wear a 'Foley' (?) bag.  Bladder problems!  But as she says, he was GONE twice.  The doctors never expected him to make it!  She is getting a professional outfit to clean up the apartment.

Eat an extra piece of cake for me . . . . You can better get rid of the extra calories than I!

Love,
Mary, Bill, & MCR

I hope this isn't too similar to "Cousin Serena" & her barrage of doings & comings!!   See you around the 15th! Nov.  How long can you stay?  Why don't you bring someone along?