Adalisa Louisa Hardaway Scott kept these letters in a drawer in her house. The collection spans August 1913 to December 1942. The letters were taken from the drawer and saved by Jack and Alice Scott when they purchased the farm after Mrs. Scott's death. They were transcribed by Ann Scott Doman and Carol Scott in July and August 1998.
Envelope as follows:
Form 01
Chicago & North Western Railway
From 240 Station
(This envelope must be used only for Company Business.) R'Y B.
To: Mrs. C L Scott Guston, Kentucky
Contents as follows:
Chicago & North Western Railway Co.
Telegram.
All messages for persons on trains (except trainmen) must be enclosed
in sealed envelopes. The exact filing and receiving or sending time, initials
of sending and receiving operators, signal of sending office and name of
receiving office must be entered in every instance.
Peterson, Iowa
Aug. 29, 1913
Dear Ma: While I have a few spare moments, will write you a few lines.
Guess you got my card, stating that I have been
transferred, am at a mighty nice little town and like the work much better
here, than at Algona. Have a dandy place to board, it costs twenty a month.
The folks are Swedes, and are nice as they can be.
Am real sorry to know that Grandma isn't improving.
Hope there will be a change for the better before long.
Went to a show last night. I can afford to go to
things like that when my tickets are free of charge provided I have time.
There is so much to learn that it seems like I am always busy. I sometimes
have to stay here late at night to meet an extra.
How is Papa Fletcher and the boys getting along
with their farm work? It won't seem natural for me not to help cut some
tobacco this fall.
It's train time so guess I had better close for
this time.
Love to all, Harold. Peterson, Iowa
(Note: Grandma is Margaret Cain Hardaway)
Harold's letter starts on page 2 of his numbered pages...
examination upon any subject. You are graded on spelling, writing, grammar,
and the way you state the question, and of course that makes a fellow watch
his corners. But I think that is a very good plan. As it has been too bad
to be out much, I have been smoking the meat today. This morning I helped
Luke take some sheep to the Steavens place about a mile from here, cousin
Albert has about 300 sheep and you know that looks like a big bunch, suppose
we have a good little bunch of lambs now haven't we, hope my yew is fresh
and the owner of about two lambs.
Hope Fletcher and Winfield have good luck with their
hog farm. Tell them I would like to have a share in their stock when
they get organized and ready to do business. Tell them they had better
start a mule farm but not come in this direction to buy mules, I have seen
mules not as good as Beck and Kate, bring over $400. Cousin Albert has
a good bunch to sell the 23rd.
I asked cousin Olive about what you said about the
board, but she would not hear to me giving her a cent and it almost makes
her mad to say anything about it. Cousin Olive would rather have apples
in the fall than money anyway.
We are going to have company tomorrow, and suppose
I will stay at home. I went to the theater Thursday night to a play called
Powhatan, didn't want to go very much but went beacuse Miss Olive wanted
me to go, but after all I enjoyed it very much.
Cousin Albert said for all of you to come to the
sale the 23rd and I will meet you at the station.
As it is about bed time will have to ring off, from
your kid
Harold Scott.
The next page, in the same writing, the same paper, seems to be either
a postscript or the end of another letter.
Mama will you send me that catalogue of the Ekron
school and if you have one of the Irvington school please send it too,
for I would like to have them very much, if it is not too much trouble
to get them:
H.S.
This letter starts in the middle, and goes to the end. It is from Harold's
mother.
get Mattie to help you all you can let her have
one of my hens or anything like that she wants.
If you could get John to fix those planks along
the edge of the house and then have John Scott rake leaves against them.
And then put cedar brush on them to hold them it would make the house so
much warmer. There is a Garage man at Leriver who wants Fletcher and I
would like for him to take it. But he is afraid he is not mechanic enough
to fill the place. Thinks he does not know enough about the big machines
he had expected to go to Glad Brook three days this week with this same
man he is working for, but guess they won't go until it turns warmer. Am
so sorry about Mrs. Witt. When you write to her tell her I have been to
see a lady here who has rheumatism. Has been in bed 12 weeks. Is just now
getting so she can take a few steps the Dr. thinks she will soon be all
right. Wish you could go to see her. There has been quite a few cases of
infantile paralysis 15 miles from here one was closed. Tell John if he
has a little money on hand, wish he would pay any taxes if not I can sign
a check and send it could write more but it is most train time lots of
love to all
Mama
if you have time you can save the funny papers Fletcher and Maytie
enjoy them so much. I will send postage some time.
To: Mrs. C L Scott Guston Kentucky
In envelope: Form 01 Chicago & Northwestern Railroad Company
(This envelope must be used only for Company Business.) R'Y B.
Form 77, 200M6-16-13
Chicago & North Western Railway Co.
Notice. All Rates quoted by this Company are for immediate use and
are subject to change without notice, except the printing of Tariffs and
posting of same as provided for by law.
Dec. 11, 1913
note
My Dear Ma:
Yours & Sis's letter came today. The msg., also. Just
finished reading the news, delighted as well as surprised to know that
we have a new niece & grand daughter guess you and Sis will be going
out before long.
We are having mighty fine weather. The last few
days have been warm as spring. It never has been below zero since I've
been up here. There's lots of time for cold weather yet.
Wish I could have been down there to the hog killing.
Would like to have a good mess of sausage. I will be real proud of grandma's
creff buttons will be just the thing for them, as you mentioned when I
get them.
I certainly appreciated your offer to lower my note
to $30 but it will please me much better to pay you full amount I owe you
as it is more than I could ever repay in money.
Well, guess I'm not much bigger than when I was
at home, weigh 180 all right am feeling fine the good pure air up here
makes you feel fine. I can't get used to the water, don't like it a bit.
It doesn't seem possible for Xmas to be as near
as it really is. Wish I could be at home for bout a week but don't think
that is possible. This time we'll have a good time up here though, for
I have such good people to stay with. Must get busy so goodbye for this
time. Harold.
postcard postmarked 8 a.m., Aug 6, 1914, Brandenburg, Ky
1 c. postage
To: H.W. Scott, Guston, Ky
Farmers' Deposit Bank
of Brandenburg, Ky.
Brandenburg, Ky., 8-6 1914
Received in your favor of_______________-
Accepted
Credited
Entered for Collection
$10.
Respectfully, E.L. Fontaine Cashier
Renwick
Nov. 4, 1915?
Dear Ma -
This is the night I usually go to prayer meeting,
but have a little studying to do, so am not going tonight.
I got the box of flowers alright, they certainly
were nice, could just imagine how everything looked down there, by the
flowers. We are still having ideal weather, never saw a much nicer fall.
Went to a big home wedding last Thursday evening,
at least it seemed big to me. There were over one hundred and fifty guests,
sure had some fine fixings, I never saw quite so much rice wasted, in my
life. The bride & groom were intending to leave that night, but couldn't
get away on account of all kind of jokes & pranks which were planned
against them. So one of the bride's friends & I turned traitor, dressed
up like we were the ones & were slipping out the back way, when they
caught & surprised us, taking me to a car & bringing me nearly
back to Renwick & then returning & the funny part was, they thought
all that time they had the groom, in the meantime the newlyweds had gotten
clear out of the
country.
Believe you asked me what I was getting to eat,
ask Fletcher he can tell you. It's still taters three times a day &
tween meals, have good meat, but never see a biscuit, think when my girl
comes back from school I'll teach her how & have that much done, think
every one should know how to make "drop" biscuits like Sis used to make.
How did the election go, saw in a Chicago paper
that both sides were claiming the victory.
Wish I could have been down to help shread. Tell
Fletcher to compose one of his good tom cat hunts & send it to me.
Did you have many apples to put up this time? Harold,
9:40 pm
Form 78A; 100M 7-21-15
Chicago & North Western Railway Co.
The Pioneer Line West and Northwest of Chicago.
[Notice. All Rates quoted by this Company are for immediate use and
are subject to change without notice, except the printing of Tariffs and
posting of same as provided for by law.]
Renwick, Iowa
Dec. 28, 1915. note
Dear Fletcher:-
Am sending you draft No. 11884, for fifty dollars
($50), hope our transaction will be successful, and believe it will for
your ability as a trader is unsurpassed: Certainly came out fine in your
horse deal. Like to hear of you making a little on the side that way and
I'm only too glad to finance any business enterprise you may suggest (sounds
kinda big doesn't it?) but laying all jokes aside, whenever I can spare
the money, let me know if you see anything in sight and we will come to
terms, you know that was the agreement we made when I left home and if
we can make a little money that way lets hop to it, I feel like my money
is perfectly safe in your hands so don't get frightened and embarrassed
at the notes I send you for they are only intended for records, I think
you understand that though.
Christmas time is over and everyone is back to work
again, suppose we will have another day off the first tho, doesn't make
much difference with me for there's not much doing at any time now.
Where did you spend Christmas? Had a mighty fine
time that day was lucky enough to get three invitations to dinner but of
course I went down to her folks to dine, there were eighteen there and
all Germans and Switzers except me, but believe me I made myself at home
and ate as much as anyone of that Dutch cooking, then in the afternoon
we had some of the finest music you ever listened to.
Wish you could be up some of these nights to enjoy
the good fires and watch the snow drift out across the prairies, I sit
here lots of nights and have all kinds of coon fights and build air castles
but I would just like for you to be here at this time of year, would like
to have a good long chat with you. Haven't made up my mind yet, whether
or not I'm coming home next spring, would be mighty nice to be together
again to plan and work together and to fight you know we have to fight
a little to get along the best, believe, though, you could come near whipping
me now for my muscles are getting soft, I'm still game, however. Now so
far I haven't said much about the girls, only in an indirect way, but I
want to tell you I have the best one in town, and that's not all we are
thick as old Nigg and Jumbo, am sending you a fair description of her so
you can't say she looks like Winfield's old sow; she is a young lady eighteen
years of age and of the very best character and genuine type, she was brought
up by a good old time Mother and fully understands the old time songs,
she knows how to be good without being dull and can be glad and make other
people glad without degenerating into folly; her father is a retired farmer
and lives here in town, he has two other girls, one of them married, the
other teaching school and mine the youngest one stays at home with the
folks. Lots of girls in this country, some are good and some are riffs,
believe the riffs are in the majority, for they believe in being wild and
reckless, but when they get that way I beat a hasty retreat for some place
of safety; How about you? Any body down there much to go with? Who is Ike
sitting to these days. Couldn't you and Erie make connections, better find
you a good one to go to see for there is nothing that will keep a fellow
out of bad company and make a man out of him any quicker than a good, genuine,
Christian girl. But always beware of the other kind for her ways lead to
distruction and disgrace. I've got to go to League tonight and it's time
I was going, so good night; Write me often I like to hear from you. (from
Harold)
P.S. Send the picture back the next time you or Mama writes to me.
From: Renwick, Iowa
To: Mrs. C. L. Scott, Guston, Kentucky
Envelope postmarked Jan 14, 1916
Renwick, Ia
Sep. 29
Dear Ma,
I certainly enjoyed every word of the letter you
& Sis wrote. Write me another like that some day.
We are still having that peculiar weather - the
sun shone today for the first time in a week & it's been so cold.
I have been a busy boy this week, our other man
left last Friday and I have been running things alone, he is back now &
am not so rushed, think I will take a little trip up to Burt about Sat,
Hm! - you know Beula is back and I want to see her before she leaves.
Ma, I'm sending you some stamps to pay a little
postage for me, will you please send me that writing instruction of mine,
you know I put it in that fruit jar box with the rest of my books, might
also put some pictures between the leaves. I'd like to see some old reminders
from down there anyway and show these people where I live, and most important
of all if you still have it send the "Fiddle and the bow" I need something
like that, since I have to debate & etc.
This fall when the leaves begin to turn wish I could
get some pictures of the Old Hills & Hollows. I actually get tired
of this level country, you can't even hear an echo, you know I always did
like to squall just for that purpose.
Are the boys doing any fox hunting these nights?
Too bad I have to miss that this year.
<Rest of letter either lost or Harold did not
say good bye.>
To: Mr. F. M. Scott, Guston, Ky
Goldfield, 6 pm
October 23, 1923 note
Dear Son:-
Was glad to get the package & letter. Sorry
to keep you in the dark so long about the hound.
Went up to see Colemans Sunday - they are still
picking corn have abt. 6M Bu left but figured on going out hunting some
night 1st of the week to see if the foxes bothered any. I should know this
week for sure as Mr. C. said they would try him one night & if a fox
led him out of the country you would get him I think they will let him
go as two or three of the boys are victimes of matrimony & wouldn't
disobey by going out hunting this early in married life. Anyway I'll guarantee
to keep you posted.
I was out Sat. Nite to try out Trim but it was pretty
cold & windy 1/4 inch ice next Am. Didn't go far but he treed a possum
& skunk. Have to keep him tied most of the time. He goes out every
night he is loose & trees a varmint of some kind.
I may decide to send him down latter part of next
month if you still want him - Wish I had your hound up here for a few fast
rounds, think he would let those airplanes alone.
Got my corn all picked - 1/2 day of plowing left
- may take a job east of town picking corn - they are paying from 1 1/2
to 2 1/2 cts per Bu. this year. On the other hand, I may just tend to my
stuff here at home & see what I can do at night. Still have a
surplus of hogs on hand - two sows brought in 25 pigs last week, evidently
ignoring all birth control propaganda & going against the teaching
of Sec. of Ag. Wallace.
Sold 5 lambs avg. 120 lbs. Got 5.15 - Also sold
ten hogs abt 2 weeks ago at 4.50 avg. 200 lbs. Will have 10 or 15 more
ready in abt two weeks. - Price is a dollar lower now. New corn is quoted
at 15 C. oats 15c eggs 20, cream 23 cts and chewing tobacco higher than
a cats back.
These people up here marvel when I tell them you
have cut 4 cuttings of alfalfa in one season & the 5th growth will
hide a shoat. But it does strike me as being an altogether different picture
from the bare lofts one used to see.
Have often wondered how the school board battle
came out. Did King Powell & his loyal vassals win? - I talked to a
fellow in Chicago from Meade Co. who said Powell could can all the school
board and assemble one of his own choosing or one which would be friendly
to his methods of management. But I told him I didn't hardly think so.
The County Organ doesn't seem to have much to say on the issue. Guess they
are afraid of losing patronage if they hash the matter.
Was surprised at the bundle Mr. McDonnold laid on
the door step of the county seat - Tell Old Dry he wants to look into that,
after the 1st of Jan.
Well Son, I want to thank you and all who were in
any way connected with sending the chestnuts. Also the hunters & tourists
who didn't find them.
As Shakespeare would put it "Each nut an ode each
worm a song".
Think I will plant a few of them if my appetite
doesn't decree otherwise.
Wish you could come up & spend till the 20th
of next month with me. The cellar is full to overflowing & have turnips
cabbage & apples yet to go in - figure to butcher a pig or beef this
week if it stays cold - Would butcher & peddle beef if I had a car.
But guess the old Ford has paid its first dividends this yearly standing
idle.
My stenog. has joined the N.R.A. & won't work
for me while she is working at the store. I have a sore thumb & need
the services of one.
Best regards to all & will let you know soon
as I learn anything definite.
C.H.S.
Tues. Morn. October 24, 1923
Dear Maytie and Mother Scott:-
Will add a line or two to Harold's letter to Fletcher.
Don't know as I can add much as he told you all he has been doing so will
tell you what I have been doing.
Yesterday and Sat. I worked at the store don't have
to today as the sick clerk is better so this morning we are going to make
kraut.
Last week I husked popcorn and shelled navy beans
between times but was gone a lot too. Went to Ft Dodge on Wed. purchased
a pair of slippers at Mont. Ward. Have my winter clothes pretty well lined
up - have 3 dresses to remodel and am waiting for someone to help me as
I don't like to do that very well. Am expecting Ethel Cox to spend a couple
of weeks with me and she seems to have a knack for "making over". On Friday
I went to Webster Cy with Father & Mother. Dad went to see a doctor
- has had so much trouble with his leg. I think it is rheumatism. caused
from bad teeth. Think he will have an X ray taken. I go with them tomorrow
again then on home to help Mother with serving her club on Thurs.
We are going to a Box & Pie socieal out in the
Country S.W. of Goldfield tonight. Haven't been to one since that time
we went in Ky.
Have my fall work pretty well lined up Have windows
to wash and a few things to iron and mend up for winter. Guess we will
be butchering soon as I am almost out of lard.
Don't know any especial news from Owasa & Gifford.
Mrs Starr has been sick since Aug - in hospital most of the time - haven't
heard lately. Plan to spend a week or two there this winter, and
will find out about everyone.
Wish you folks might all spend the winter with us.
Plenty of room and lots in the cellar to eat, too much for two people.
Wish you could go on the route with me this P.M. Mrs. Madison is sick and
unable to go. Would stop for a cup of coffee at Mothers and get another
bite at Dora's.
Well it's most mail time - Hope everyone is well.
Love to all
Alma
From: Bx 3
Gifford, Ia
To: Mrs. J. L. Witt
Guston Kentucky
<date probably Oct. 28, 1925> note
These two letters were in the same envelope but were probably not from
exactly the same time.
Monday A.M.
Dear Maggie
Will send a page or two along with Maytie's letter
it is cloudy again this A.M. Hope it don't rain. We all took dinner with
Fletcher and Maytie yesterday. About three O'clock Harold went home to
go to bed and Alma was writing letters the rest of us loaded in to the
roadster and went sight seeing. We went and went and kept going until we
got lost and had to inquire the way back to Gifford. Had a good time saw
lots of pretty houses and fine farmers. Crossed the Iowa river three or
four times. Fletcher was up early this A.M. and ready to go to work before
seven. All he has to do of mornings is to milk Harold's cow. He gets the
mornings milk and Harold gets the nights milk. Harold is so glad to get
rid of the milking. He don't like to have any thing to do when he
comes from work. I think the cow will furnish plenty of milk and
butter for both families. I have two new dresses to <page missing?>
he was going to Mr. Glove's corn field to tie up some shocks of corn he
had cut. Took us to the creek made us cross the creek on a log. He took
Dotty on his back. He took us through a field full of sheep burr
and our stockings were covered. We helped him pick some corn for the chickens.
Dotty certainly enjoyed the trip. She rode on his back. He pretended to
be a horse and scared and buck jumped and ran off. Fletcher says he knows
now where Jesse V. gets her running roaring disposition he say she and
Harold are just alike.
Planned to get this letter off on the four o'clock
train but we decided to wash this afternoon. And did not get it finished.
The other letters came today the big letter was
from Aunt Annie. The reason it was so heavy it was full of blues. I feel
so sorry for her Lawrence has moved to Texas and it has nearly broke her
heart to give them up. Flossie and her husband live in Little Rock Ark
and they are trying to sell out and go there.
Do you remember that Aunt Lilly told us that Aunt
Annie had gotten her back hurt? It happened about a year ago. She was gathering
peaches and fell with her back across a fence nearly broke it and has never
fully recovered. She seems so homesick to see or hear from some of us.
Will send the letter back to you some time.
Maggie did you send the check in that I gave you?
It did not come with this report just had the one from Mr. Ater.
Fletcher still complains of his knees and legs hurting
him, but works hard all the time says that $4 a day looks too tempting.
You know this is the first hard work he has done since he has been up here.
They will be through this job in about 10 days.
They got your letter and check today. I had a letter
from Jesse V. and Ruth had a card from Uncle Jesse yesterday.
Did the late beans and corn and potatoes do any
good. Hope the Sweet potatoes are good. Rained again last night. But is
pretty cool again tonight. Guess you are wondering where I am going to
close this letter. So good bye and love to
all. Mama
Monday afternoon
Dear Maggie
Had thought I was just going to send you a card
but decided I could not put all I wanted to say on a card. Alma and I have
put out a big washing this AM. Harold pumped the water and tended to boiling
the cloths had the boiler out doors. Alma wanted to wash out doors but
Harold and I could not let her, you know it was too cold as the cloths
froze as fast as they were hung up. Mrs. Schope the lady across the street
washed out of doors and she has a little baby about two months old.
I just don't see how they stand it but that is the way most of them do
up here. Alma has to be at the school house at 2:30 to practice for the
entertainment Wednesday evening. Harold and Alma don't think they
are going to get to take the trip they had planned. They have only
gotten passes as far as Kansas City and he thinks they are holding the
other passes up somewhere as they are wanting him to go to work again.
He had wanted to get off for six weeks. He thinks the night work
is not agreeing with him, but Fletcher and I think the work would not hurt
him if he did not try to hunt so much. Some times he does not get
more than 5 or 6 hours sleep and he is supposed to get 8 hours. Fletcher
says he can't stand to hunt like Harold does. He says he wishes he
could take the job for a while $145 a month and not much to do just a care
of knowing how. They talk some times like they would move to the
Depot for the winter and I think that is the thing for them to do no house
rent to pay and no fuel to buy would save at least 20 dollars a month.
Fletcher is not settled think he has an idea he
would like farming in Indiana.
Fletcher picks up a few dollars every little while
with his Auto tools: you need not broadcast this talk until it is a little
more settled. Fletcher's grocery bill last week was only 95 cents
they had beef and their butter and milk and plenty of vegetables.
Harold and Alma have as much milk as Fletcher and Maytie but they drink
their cream and buy butter at 58 cents per pound and it takes three pounds
a week. Maytie is still using Ky lard you know with not making biscuit
a little will go a long ways only uses it for frying chicken. You know
we laughed when Maytie wrote that a bag of bread would last them three
days. Well I guess it was so of course the bag was large and while
Fletcher was working in the garage he did not have as much appetite as
a sparrow but since he has been here and working outside and hunting he
surely eats lots. You would laugh to see him. When he comes to Harold's
looking around to see what he can find, and he usually finds what he wants.
All kinds of bought cakes, pies, jelly, cheese, cream, and most anything
you can think of.
I haven't decided yet when I will start to Indiana
am kinda waiting to see what the chaps decide to do. Mr. and Mrs. Glen
Fagan were here yesterday afternoon. Mrs. Fagan invited me to a big Eastern
Star doings at Eldora the 5th of Dec it would certainly be nice to go but
I know I could not stand the exam. Was sorry to hear that Mollie
was ailing. And don't like it about your sore foot is it that ingrown toe
nail? Had a nice letter from cousin Lena and your card Saturday night
they were both postmarked Guston 6 O'clock Friday evening didn't they come
in a hurry. Harold came in just now and said he and Fletcher were going
out for a while that they thought they knew where there was some revenue
and they were going to see about it.
There is a big sale in the country Wednesday the
Aid is going to serve lunch it would make you dizzy to keep up with all
of the things the Aid here does.
Did you ever get to set out the onions or did the
ground stay too wet. I haven't any work on hand now. Am reading when I
am not writing letters or out on the road. Am starting 4 letters
today. Yours, one to Lizzy, one to cousin Diva and one to Lilly Wright
must write to aunt Mag real soon. When I think of me up here doing
nothing and you down there with so much to do I almost get homesick.
Am sorry the children are getting tired going to school but know it is
hard on them and the weather has not been very good. Tell Mary Lad
I wish she was here to mail my letters. I must have them in the office
by 4 o'clock and it is now 3:30. So good bye and lots of love to
all.
Mama
Tell John Scott to pat Mack on the neck for me
I almost get mad at the papers up here if they hear anything bad about
Ky. They always print it but never put in any of the good things.
Kansas City, Mo.
February 10, 1927.
Dear Aunt Lad:
I heard something one time about your wanting me to write
you a letter and tell you all about my trip out West, but that has been
so long ago that I have about forgotten all about it. Anyway, I had
a good time and wish I could do it all over again. Only next time
I would want a lot of money to spend and longer to stay in the different
places. All I did was just "pass" through the places that I wanted
to see the most. It was really a wonderful trip, and the roads are
good all the way, which made it nice. I think I was through 13 states
in all. I started out from Tulsa and went by the way of Texas, going
through Amarillo and some more towns of not so much importance, and from
there down in New Mexico, through Albuquerque and Gallup, on into Arizona
and through the "desert" and oh gosh it was hot going through there.
I thought I would smother before we got out. It was also hot in the
southern part of California, but after we reached Nicholsville or some
such a place it was pavement all the way to Seattle. I went through
San Bernardino, which is a pretty little town, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles,
San Francisco, Oakland, and on up through Oregon. Portland of course
was on the route, and from there through Spokane and on up to Seattle,
where I stopped. I saw lots of beautiful country, all kinds of fruits
growing in Southern California, flowers all through Oregon and all the
way for that matter. Saw mountains and valleys, and all those things
that I never saw before. I could stand on my cousin's front porch
in Seattle and see Mount Ranier all covered with snow. I never did
get out there tho while I was there. They wanted me to stay longer
and go out, but I thought I had better come back closer to home while I
had enough money to make the trip. I knew if I got broke out there
I never would get back, and I don't think I would like to live so far from
all the folks. Seattle is a beautiful city, such green trees and
shrubbery I never saw before. Beautiful homes and each one different
from the other. Three lakes within the city limits and also the sound.
One could drive forever there and the scenery would always be beautiful.
The streams are clear and lots of fish, but I never cared for fishing.
I was carried away with it all, but all the time
I had an uneasy feeling that I might not get back home. I don't think
I would like to live out there, especially in Seattle, for there are so
many foreigners out there and they just don't look like our kind of people.
They don't have the "class" that the people back here have. I liked
San Francisco fine and it really is a city. I didn't get to see much
of Los Angeles, as we were through there on a Sunday and they didn't stay
long. I passed through Hollywood, but of course I didn't know who
was who. I also had a trip up to Van Couver, and that is a wonderful
drive and such beautiful scenery up along the sound. It is paved
all the way and the road winds around the
mountains in places and it certainly is beautiful. Vancouver
is an old timey looking place and they couldn't tie me there, but it is
beautiful up there. If I ever get rich I will make the trip again
and take more time and see more things. These people that I was with
was in a hurry to make a certain boat up in Alaska. They took their
car up to Alaska with them. My work was finished when I got to Seattle
so I just visited all the time I was there. Carlton lives there,
you know. I enjoyed my visit with them very much. They have
a car and that made it fine for me. The climate there was delightful
while I was
there, only rained once the whole time I was there. It
is awfully hilly tho'. I thought Kansas City was hilly until I went
out there. This town seems level now.
I have been here ever since I came from Seattle,
with the exception of a week Christmas, I went home. I had
an awful time trying to decide whether I wanted to stay here or go back
to Tulsa. If course this is more of a city than Tulsa, but
I like Tulsa fine. Lots better than Muskogee. Of course, I
have been broke ever since I got here from Seattle, but I have managed
not to go hungry yet. My trip home from Seattle was grand too.
I didn't have to change cars at all the whole trip. I was three nights
and three days on the trip. I wasn't tired at all when I got here.
My chum from Shawnee met me here and we spent the Fourth here and then
I just stayed on and got a job and went to work. I worked down at
the Live Stock Exchange most all summer but when I came back here after
Christmas I decided to look for something else, and now I am working for
a lawyer right up town, just a block from "Emery Bird's", of course you
know where that is if you have ever been in Kansas City. I like it
fine so far, but it is different from any kind of work I have ever done
before. My boss has been gone all week and I haven't had anything
to do, but I can imagine how I'll have to hump to it when he gets back.
I look for him this afternoon or in the morning. He is up in Kansas
trying a million dollar oil case. Gosh, if he
doesn't win he will be hard to get along with for awhile, I imagine.
Tom Carlton lives here, but you knew that too.
I remember of hearing you say you saw him while you were here, or something
to that effect. They are getting along just fine. I lived with
them awhile this summer when they were in an apartment, but they moved
to a hotel and I had to move.
What have you been doing lately and how are
everybody back there? I don't hear from anyone back there now.
I seem to have gotten lost from all of you. I haven't any new spring
clothes and doubt if I do have, as I haven't caught up yet. I had
a few clothes left over and that will keep me from going naked I guess.
I have a nice fat beau that takes me to all the movies and to dinner two
or three times a week. I met him last summer, and he has been on
the job ever since. I'm glad to have someone to chase around with as it
would be too expensive for me to take in the shows. He also gave
me my trip home for a Christmas gift. I had about decided I couldn't
afford to go and he said I wasn't going to stay here and be all lonesome,
and he said Old Santa would give me a ticket if that would please me more
than anything else, and I said it sure would, so I thought that was lovely
of him. The folks at home were fine. Dad looks about the same,
only I thought he looked more feeble than I had ever seen him look.
I would like to be where I could see him oftener but don't know where that
would be. Shawnee has a second hand oil boom, as they opened up a
field at Seminole, which is right close to Shawnee, and most of the people
that work out there live in Shawnee and drive out there. Henry and
Eloise had just bought them a nice little home when I was there.
They raised the rents around town, so Henry said he wouldn't pay it.
Clarence is grown and didn't look at all natural to me. Owen and
Claudia was fine too. I had some good old quail while I was home.
You know that is Owen's long suit, hunting quail.
He still has his green house and has enlarged
it quite a bit and sells quite a bit of lettuce out of it. Dad don't
work much any more, and I'm glad he doesn't have to, as he is too old.
He was 78 in January. Claudia had a birthday dinner and invited Henry
and Eloise out as a surprise for him.
You can sit down and write me a letter and tell me all
about all the folks as I haven't heard from anyone lately. I had
a card from Harold and his wife Christmas. I didn't send them any,
I guess they thought I was good. How's old Mag? Still working
hard I guess. I would surely love to see you all once more, but Lord
knows when I'll get to come back to Kentucky, as it seems there is
no such thing as save money any more.
I guess by the time you get this read you will be
good and tired, so will let you rest awhile. I don't have time to
write letters during work hours like I used to in Muskogee, only in a case
like this where the boss is out of town. They work one harder here,
but that place where I used to work has gone to the bad, so the girl that
works there told me. They only have one salesman now and they had
about ten when I left there a year ago. I'm glad I got away when
I did, for no doubt they would have cut my salary or canned me before this.
I think I got out in good time. My girl friend in Tulsa got married
while I was away so that was one reason I didn't care so much for going
back there. I might go back there some time when I learn this business
good, and get a job with some of those oil companies. I imagine I
could get a good salary in the legal department. However, I may never
learn it, so I won't count my chickens before they are hatched.
Give everybody my love and write me a letter one
of these days and tell me all the latest scandals and everything.
As ever your old gal,
Louise
*************************
Address:
c/o The Pennbrook,
604 West 10th,
Kansas City, Mo.
**************************
Shawnee Dec. 26, 1928
Dear Laddie & all
As I am alone here today will write you a few lines and wish you and
all a happy Christmas and New year (Henry & Wife having gone to Oklahoma
City) to see her Sister who is sick with flue. There is many case's of
flue here now. Which is only bad colds, with sneezing & eyes &
nose running with water. I had a spell myself a month ago sneezing every
breath nearly.
Yesterday (Christmas) was a beautiful day, and today
sun shining bright & colder with the wind in the north. Xmas is quiet
here, the small boy leaving off the fireworks they usually celebrate the
day with. I received a nice new Bible & a pair of silk socks
for a Christmas present, and a few greeting cards.
I wish I could be with you all to spend Christmas
and have a big rabbit hunt with the boys. I have been looking for
a letter from some of you for several days, I don't know if Maggie received
the suit case I sent her filled with old clothes, that was too good to
throw away. I thought she could use them for quilt scraps or anything
she saw fit.
The sore on the back of my neck is not well yet.
My eyes does not get any better and can hardly see to read or write so
you must excuse me for my short letter. Write me a long letter soon, telling
me all about the folks & hoping you have a good Christmas yours truly
W. H. Scott
Address me at 129 north Shawnee St., and the postman will deliver at
the door.
From: W.H. Scott
129 N. Shanee st
Shawnee, Okla.
To: Mrs. C. L. Scott
Guston Ky Meade Co.
postmarked Jan 30, 1929, Shawnee, Okla
Tuesday Jan 29, 1929 note
Dear Laddie & all
I have been thinking for days I would answer your
letter of 19th but kept putting it off.
I have been sitting in the house for over 2 weeks
with my foot propped up in a chair with a bad boil on my ankle, so I could
not walk and it is like being in jail to me. I did manage to hobble
up to a barber shop Saturday and get a shave which I had not had for over
a week. We have been having Ice and a little snow for 2 weeks and
the cold gets close to me. The sun is shining today but not so cold.
The coldest day was down to 11 above which was cold for me, I had a letter
from Alma last week must answer soon.
Lula's address is 604 West 10th Street Kansas City
Mo.
I am sending you a picture of the big oil well brought
in near Oklahoma City a few weeks ago which has caused a deal of excitement
there. The well is over 6,000 feet deep and cost over 125,000 dollars
to drill. The big wells near Shawnee are over 4,000 feet deep, so you can
see why the well on Mr. Hicks farm was a failure. The paper says
there is another cold wave coming down from Canada which will reach us
tomorrow, so by the time you get this you may be snowed under so the mail
man can't go.
I sit here by a gas stove and imagine I can see
you all wading snow to the spring & getting in wood to keep things
cheerful during the long cold days.
Tell Maggie to hatch out a good drove of Turkeys
this spring and maybe I will be able to watch over them next summer for
her but I will have to get well before I can make the long trip again.
I cannot write much this time, so write me soon
and tell me all the news of the neighborhood. Owen has remodeled
the old home and made it modern for his new bride to move into yesterday.
So as soon as I can walk I will go out to see them.
Yours, W.H. Scott
Envelope post marked Sept. 14, 1933
Goldfield, Iowa
Two letters in envelope
To: Mrs. C. L. Scott
Guston Kentucky
Wed. eve
Dear folks all:
Was real glad to see Harold Mon night.
Was looking for him. Some people from here were in at Cligo and Aurora
so wrote him at Winfield`s as to how he could come. My chore boy
and I were up in the woods when he came up. The dogs were also glad
to see him. I got along fine while he was gone--stayed alone Sun.
night the only time and one night had seven people with me. Surely
enjoyed the baby and her mama. The baby Peggy is almost 8 months
old and weighs 23 1/2 #. She is such a sweet good natured baby.
Everyone said that she was so nice. I borrowed my neighbors crib
and I have a high chair so was well fixed.
Certainly kept busy while Harold was
gone. Worked at the store 3 days last week--took the route one day
and one day had to go 20 miles to play for a funeral--on Thursday night
a Miss Keith and I entertained our Miss society--served 45 and on Fri.
night took Lena out to Liberty Booster Club program. Surely enjoyed
driving the new car. Father still isn't sure about driving it so
have been doing it for him. Dorothy stayed with me from Wed until
Sat. She is out of a job right now so she will be down real often.
Ruth and her boy friend were here Sun. He lives in Goldfield.
Made 15 pints of tomato catsup today. Have so many nice tomatoes.
Also most every other kind of vegetable. Don't know just how much
fruit and vegetables I have canned but over 200 quarts. Plan to wash
with my neighbor in the morning and take the route in the afternoon.
These neighbors are going to Cligo next week and Harold and I are taking
care of all their livestock etc. Will have all the milk, eggs, etc
and I get the use of the car. Will take the route each day.
Wish you were here to go with me on my 80 mile trip. Am rather tired
so will continue this sometime next week. Hope you are feeling better.
Love to all,
Alma
[on letterhead]
Form 78A R258-200M-2.26.26
Chicago and North Western Railway Company
The pioneer Line West and Northwest of Chicago
Goldfield, Ia
Sept. 14th
Dear Mama:
Am back in IA got here 6PM Monday--left Winfield's
from Jamestown at 8AM Sunday.
All the folks up there planned a meeting at
Fans for last Sun. Was sorry I couldn't attend but had a chance to ride
from Aurora, Ill. so that it best that I shouldn't miss it. Sorry
to hear you had been sick--possibly those two early risings weren't the
best for you -- hope you continue feeling better.
When you come to Iowa, think you had better
come on the train. Its so far ahead of bus transportation especially
for convenience and comfort.
It's much cooler here than when I left Ky.
Feels like we could have frost most any time now--guess we are ready for
it. Cut fodder yesterday & it rained today--figure on plowing
tomorrow.
Tell old man Fletch I possibly will see about
the dog this week. Alma will tell you all the news.
Take good care of yourself and don't work
too hard.
Love, Harold
Friday A.M.
Dear Miss Laddie -
I was sorry to hear you was ailing, but almost know
you are all right by this time. The weather is cool and damp here but not
much rain yet. Ben has gone to Indianapolis today with hogs. He is doing
very well. Looks fine. He is fattening on this strict diet of milk and
cream. Eva is better than I expected to find her. Fannie is so busy with
pigs. Found a bunch of 11. This Am. makes 35 this week. And more than a
hundred in all and a few more sows to hear from. Too many hogs - I think.
Write and tell me all the news. I do love to get letters from home.
Love Sister Mag
Postmark on envelope Oct. 1933 note
Goldfield, Iowa
Tues. noon
Dear Mother Scott & all,
Will start a letter today and perhaps get
it ready to send by Thurs. Seems like every minute is taken these
days. Just now I am waiting for Harold to come to dinner. He
is ploughing today. Has about 3 days left then will have his fall
ploughing done. Our next big job is to get the corn in. Have
picked several loads already for the pigs. I am gathering vegetables
everyday. Have had two light frosts but hasn't hurt anything.
Every thing is still as green as can be. Tomatoes are still ripening
everyday. Have a few jars left to fill. May make some relish
of some kind haven't anything along that line. The cellar will be
well packed this fall. We have so many nice potatoes. More
than we expected and plenty of beets, turnips & carrots. Also
cabbage and navy beans. Have my plants nicely started for the winter.
The fernery is so pretty. Have several kinds of foliages and vines
in it.
Glad you are feeling so much better.
Wonder if you are having rain this week. We have had nice weather
for almost two weeks. We are wondering if you got our letter with
the money in it for your birthday. Hope you did and have spent it
for dried fruit.
Mother, Lena and I went to Ft. Dodge last
Sat. Mother got herself a new winter coat. Brown cloth.
Coming home we had the first flat tire on the new car, but they are easy
to change as the whole wheel comes off--wire wheels and there were two
spare wheels. Surely enjoy driving it. We had it to use on
Sunday. Were invited up to Babler's for dinner. The folks were
there also the two Elmer families. A week ago Sun. we spent with
Mayme Rier Salumys and her husband. They
live right in Clairon now. You know Mr. Riers married last Feb. and
lives on his wife's farm a mile east of Clairon.
We are planning to go see Mr. &
Mrs. Copeland at Clear Lake some Sun. in Oct. possibly the third
Sun. They have had a trip to Kansas and Oklahoma this fall.
Have been here several times this summer. They are Just the same
jolly couple.
Were rather surprised at the announcement
received yesterday--Mary F`s marriage but Harold said he rather expected
it. Where will they live? Would like to see everyone in KY
and In. Harold still tells me about people and things as he happens
to remember them. Guess I would think all the "children" rather grown
up. I know my nieces & nephews up here are getting up in years
& height.
We are expecting Ruth to marry next
although Dorothy may beat her yet. Ruth goes with a young fellow
from Goldfield. So we see her quite often. Dorothy goes with
the same young chap she used to ride to H.S. with. We all like Dorothy
real well. She is a lot like her mother. Darlene is such a
big girl for her age. Is in the 4th grade at school. Think
I told you all of Dora's family were home while Harold was in Ky.
We like all of the new in-laws fine. Fairfield Jr & wife have
two nice little boys--David & Dickie. Mary & Lee keep real
busy I guess. Lee seems to have a good garage business. Mary
helps there in the office and also does part time work in the bank at Fremont.
Donald and Helen each have a job but have a farm rented for next spring.
They are buying their furniture and machinery as they go along but think
Donald can use some of his fathers tools etc as he will be quite close.
Have a rather busy week--a quartette are to
practice here tonight for the PTA at Thrall Fri. night. Plan to go
to a Farm Bureau meeting tomorrow PM to get the lesson on how to cane chairs
and make slip covers for them. Thurs. nite our Miss. Society meets--on
Fri. afternoon the Ladies of the church meet for Aid. The younger
women are to clean the kitchen and the older women will sew. Then
will have refreshments. So I have to work "fast and furious" in between
times.
Took 5 doz. eggs in town today and got 17
cents per doz. Surely glad the price is creeping up. We have
a lot of spring chix to sell and still have all our pigs & lambs waiting
for higher prices.
Today is Pa Madison's birthday so last Sun
a lot of the children came home. We went over on Sun eve. Had
a good time. So many of the bunch sing.
Just purchased me a new rain coat, tam, rubbers
and umbrella so am all outfitted for rainy weather. The money for
the rainy day outfit came in such an unexpected way. It was while
Harold was gone I was asked to go to Galt 20 miles away to play for a funeral--a
rich old bachelor. His niece is a friend of mine and when I received
a card of thanks out fell a $5. bill. The two singers also received
$5 each. It surely was a surprise to us but seems as though he had
provided for that in his will. This niece received 280 acres of unencumbered
IA land. Pretty fine for her. She is the wife of one of the
men I work for at the Store-Market. Harold is to have a new suit
when we sell the lambs. I am pretty well supplied with clothes--need new
shoes and perhaps a wool dress a little later. Have three dresses
I want to alter--am hoping Zoe can come up and do it for me.
Haven't taken the route since Madisons came
back from Chgo but traveled 550 miles that week and earned $12. above expenses.
We have the use of their car evenings and on Sundays so it helps us out
a lot. Harold likes to go to Sat nite shows at E.G. as they usually
are westerns. I don't enjoy those kind so much.
I see this is page eight and its still
Tues. so you may get your letter earlier than I thought. It is now
5:30 PM and I have been in town this P.M. While I was there 8 carloads
of gypsies drove in and such a trove of women got out and went two by two
in all the stores. It kept the "cops" busy keeping up with them.
In spite of all the watching they usually manage to get away with something--slipping
it under their big aprons and dresses. They finally left town--said
they were going to Clarion where there is to be a big celebration tomorrow.
Tues. eve. Just finished practicing with male
quartette. They are singing 2 numbers--Church in the Wildwood and
Aura Lee. It is 10 o’clock and I am tired-ready for bed. Another
Busy day ahead tomorrow. Think perhaps we will wash Thurs.--still
wash with my neighbors as usually do it when it suits her best. So
goodnight and lots of love to all,
Alma & Harold
PS Wed. morn. Discovered I had forgotten to write on back
of this sheet so will add a line. A lovely morning. Although chilly.
Will finish gathering butter beans and tomatoes this am. Go to the
Farm Bureau meeting at 1:30. Harold is ploughing this morning and
getting in a load of corn this afternoon. We are having stewed chicken,
gravy & biscuits for dinner. Come & eat with us.
ALMA
Letter post marked July 1st, 1936
Goldfield, Iowa
My Dear Ma:-
It's 5:15 PM and am just back from Renwick - went
up to a funeral of an Old Neighbor of the folks - a Mrs. Elmer.
Helped John French put up hay this AM.
Got my corn all plowed over yesterday at 4:30 PM
& when I got home the folks & Geneva Hanna were down for supper.
They will be down tomorrow on their way to get Aunt Rachel at Clarion.
Four of the Coleman family were down last Sunday.
Mrs. C is better now.
We plan to go to Luverne the 4th for kinda family
gathering. There are to be big celebrations all around us but I'm like
you - the crowds are too big & tough.
We are having dry weather in this part of the country.
Corn is looking good & a waist high. The oats are beginning to suffer
a little. Believe the radio said you had rain in parts of KY recently.
Hope you folks got some of it.
Think I will go over to Ed & Mayme's for supper
tonight - they are halfway looking for me. Its sure been hot today. Hope
you all have a nice visit the 4th - Give all my regards - Tell Maggie I'll
ans. soon. Love Harold
Letter post marked May 26, 1937
Goldfield, Iowa
Letter dated May 25, 1937
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Ma:
It's 7:40 PM and I'm waiting for the downpour
to cease so I can finish my chores. Has been raining for 1 1/2 hours
& water is standing everywhere & still raining hard. All
of my stock is out except the black mare & colt. Got my sheep
sheared yesterday so they are getting a good bath. Sold my wool for
32 cents . The highest price paid here was 35 cents.
Still lots of corn to be planted & several
fields yet to plow. Can row my corn across the field. Oats
are looking good as well as all grass crops. This rain will keep farmers
from their work for several days. Have an idea Mr. Coleman up north
is about drowned out.
I will have to go down on the river bank &
rescue an old setting goose or let her nest float away as this rain will
take the river out of its banks--all of my little ducks fell a victim to
the coons--I heard the old hen squalling one night so took old Shep &
set him after it. He chased it around quite a bit but that was all
that came of it. Bosco or Trim could have gotten it in a hurry.
I was going in town tonight to practice for
a number for Sunday & two numbers for a township meeting June 3rd but
the 3 boys out in the country called up & said they couldn’t get in.
One of them lives on a mud road & I sure don't blame him for not coming
in.
Haven’t done very much today--dug a few post
holes & set some posts this AM & this PM went up town to make out
my homestead tax exemption papers & loafed rest of the time. ` We had
a nice time Sunday at Copelands. There were 21 folks there &
all brought some part of the dinner & what a dinner-- in the PM all
the men folks drove over to the lake. I got home at 7:45 PM &
found everything OK. Old man Dick was along. I brought almost
a weeks supply of food back with me. Copelands will be down here
for Decoration Day. They sent regards to you.
The garden is looking nice & have plenty
of onions, radishes & lettuce--think there will be a good fruit crop
this time.
May 26th 8 AM
Let up raining around 10 PM. I
went down to see about the old goose & found all efforts of rescue
futile. Also lost several trees along the road where the bank caved
in. My fence was attached to one of the trees & as the bank sank
away it snapped the wire in two & how the sparks did fly. It
is cloudy this AM but doesn’t feel so much like rain. How does the
fruit crop look at this time? I remember you told how big the pears
& peaches were but wondered if there were many. Did you hear
Fletcher say if any of the grafting lived? I know I didn't have the
right kind of wax to use.
Hope you are all well & Matye much better.
It's about our mail time. The section paddies are busy this AM repairing
washouts on the track.
Love to all,
Harold
Envelope post marked August 5, 1937
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Mama:
Have been around the house most of this PM
trying to keep cool. It's been very hot today and is as dry as it
was this time a year ago. Most of Iowa has had plenty of rain but
our locality happens to be the one that is hard hit this time. Some
parts of the state got as much as 4 inches of rain last week. My
corn crop after making such progress is now in the wilted stage and a rain
wouldn't do much good. Have pretty good sweet corn & have sold
several bushels. Just got an order for another bushel for morning
delivery. Have plenty of beans but tomatoes are drying up.
Most all of Iowa had a good oat crop but the rust was pretty bad.
The average around here will run close to 55 bu. per acre.
Mark has turned his cattle in one of his cornfields
as he had run out of pasture & the corn was drying up.
Guess the political situation is at
high tension at this time. Bet it don't worry Pa any which ever way
it goes. Too bad the radio doesn’t reach that far, or I would tune
in and get the results next Sat. Let me know as I would be especially
glad to hear of Silent Diddy's triumph over his vociferous opponent.
I feel that Stith Vallies favorite sons will emerge from this their first
political venture with the full approbation of the majority vote.
Just in case the reverse should occur, we would still have with us two
citizens who hold a conspicuous place in the super-structure of the community
and after they had pulled the political bee's stinger from their cranium,
they would soon settle down & have a good time relating their adventures.
It's chore time--best regards to all,
Harold
Envelope post marked Sept. 9, 1937
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Ma:
Just got through canning some apples
and had started to do my chores but decided to write you before it starts
to get dusk. Have quite a little canned stuff so far this season.
Ma Geigle & Lena have done most of it, however, - think I will
can some plums tomorrow. There are quite a few on the trees yet and have
given so many to folks--could have sold them but wanted to repay some of
the good turns I've received.
We are having nice weather. Has been a little hot last
couple of days but we are promised cooler weather for the next few days.
The horse disease is pretty serious in this country. Mark has one
that had it but I believe it is going to pull through. All the tankage
plants are overloaded. One of the Madison boys is working at LaCross,
Wis. in the rendering works & reports the epidemic is bad up there.
None of my horses have shown any signs of the disease so far, but haven’t
looked at them since morning.
It has been two weeks since I sold my
calves & haven’t been able to find any young ones. Will go down
to Eagle Grove tomorrow & see what they have at the market sale.
Mayme, Ed & myself were up to Mrs. Geigels
for supper this time last week. I was up to John & Marie's last
Tuesday. They were asking about you folks & were real proud of
the picture of Pa [Fletcher?jbs] & Matye & it is a good one.
They say they are sure coming down sometime.
Watermelons are ripe in this country &
there seems to be quite a few but the dry weather last part of July &
first of August just about cooked mine so don't think I will have any.
Mark had the threshing machine this PM. There was some sweet clover
seed threshed this time but the yield was light. The hard rains whipped
out most of the seed.
Minnie and a Mrs. Theobald had a car accident
Monday. Their car turned over landing in the ditch with all 4 wheel
up in the air. Just a few bruises was the extent of their injuries.
Know you had a good time with the children who were there last week.
Hope you & the rest are feeling better. Best regards to all,
Harold
P.S. I carried these stamps in my pocket & the
gum came off of them. hope you have some mucilage.
Envelope post marked Sept. 16, 1937
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Ma:
Just started me a little fire tonight as it's
going to be pretty chilly. We had our first frost last nite but it
didn't hurt things much. You could notice it on the beans and cucumber
vines especially. Parts of Iowa is pretty dry & the hot weather
during the first part of September is having a tendency to make the corn
cure up a little bit chaffy, but we have had plenty of moisture & everything
looks good around here. Practically all corn is past danger from
a hard frost.
Was up to Colemans last Tuesday for supper
& the evening. They had a nice two year old colt that had just
come down with the horse disease which has hit this country so hard.
The rendering plant at Algona handles 30 horses per day & they can't
take care of all they are requested to handle. We also have rendering
works at Humboldt, Webster City & Iowa Falls, all of which are running
at full capacity & turning carcasses away. Marks horse has recovered
& none of mine have taken it up to this time. It's generally
that, that with cool weather the epidemic will subside. Haven’t been
able to get any calves to milk my cows so I have to do that myself.
Think I will go down to the sale tomorrow & see what I can find.
These young pigs sure sell high. Haven’t sold my lambs yet.
They are paying $9.75 up here.
Haven’t been to Renwick for several
days but plan to take up some fruit jars tomorrow or Saturday. Have
a big double jawed trap sitting in my plum orchard tonight. Hope
I catch one of the coons that have been taking so many of the plums.
I’m glad I have screens or believe they would come in the house.
Don't know any news at this time so
Old Man Dick & I will take this in to the train. Hope you are
all well. I greatly enjoyed your last long & newsy letter.
Tell Fletch the coons are bad up here. Can't he help me out?
Harold
Post marked Sept. 23, 1937
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Ma:
I wonder if all this wind we have
been getting today has passed through KY. It has been blowing hard
all day from that direction but we are promised cooler weather for tomorrow
& I can notice some change now.
Have been cutting a little more fodder today
& had to can 3 quarts of peaches which I had figured to eat in the
rough but they wouldn't keep. Have 18 qts canned & they look
real nice. My hens have taken another spurt at laying and I brought
in a nice basket of eggs tonight.
Was up to Boblers for Sunday dinner; reminded
me of old times; there were so many Swiss folks. Am supposed to go
to Luverne this next Sunday. Attended a market day sale yesterday
at Clarion and of course visited Ed & Mayme.
I thought of you on your birthday but didn't get
any where on time to get you something so am sending this dollar bill;
possibly you can get you what you want most.
Don't hear of any new cases of the horse
sickness close around & I think if we get cooler weather the situation
will clear up. Old man Dick just came over & said I should eat
supper over at Grandmas so think I will go.
I've been going quite a little at evenings here
lately & Dick don't get to stay all night with me & he was disappointed
when I told him I would be gone again tonight. Am on the program
at the community meeting. Our quartette tries to practice fairly
regular & we are called on frequently. We sang last Sunday AM
at church.
Don’t have much more to say & I
had better start to get busy. Best regards to all. Hope all
are well.
Harold
Post Mark Oct. 28, 1937
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Ma:
Was going to write you a long letter
last nite but got sleepy & didn't do it.
Was up to Renwick yesterday PM &
brought Ma & Lena back with me & of course they are digging out
the corners today. Have asked the preacher & his wife out for
supper so I killed the old red rooster this AM. Don't know what else
is to be on the menu.
We have had several nice days this week
but is clouding up from the west & I look for some rain & cooler
weather. Hope it doesn't get as cold as it has been.
The leaves all froze & so are turning black. Not the array of
colors here that we saw in Kentucky.
Got the package OK. Those things
may not have much value but I like to have them around. The bunch
of flowers are mighty nice & I have them on the piano in a vase.
They still look nice & fresh. Glad you got the flashlight for
I know you need one.
Yours & Matie's letter came yesterday.
Anything from down there is news so as usual I was glad to get it.
I sent some papers yesterday giving particulars of the wreck. I was
up Monday to the funerals of five that I knew. They weren't all buried
at Renwick and those I didn't attend. You will see by the papers
that 10 were killed. The Hefty boy was badly injured but think he
will be able to come home before many days. That is Rose Hefties
only boy. You know her. And the papers will tell of the others.
Poor little old Jimmy was one mashed beyond recognition.
Especially glad to know Miss Jones condition
has now been thoroughly diagnosed and pronounced as only one thing, which
is under control and on the mend. Know Pa will feel more like going
ahead with his numerous tasks & can enjoy his greatest of all past
times--sound sleep. I must go now & do some fencing. Best
regards to all
Harold
From C.H. Scott
Goldfield, Ia.
To: Mrs. C.L. Scott,
Jamestown, Ind.
c/a H.W. Scott
R.R.
Postmarked 6 pm, Dec. 2, 1937
Goldfield Iowa
Dear Mama: -
You seem to be traveling around these days and I'm
sure you are having a good time doing it; it's fine you and Aunt Magg can
both be in Indiana at the same time to visit your chaps.
You folks have possibly been having plenty of winter
down there also; could note a little change in the temperature this morning
and the wind is in the South-west, hope it warms up a bit. Am working on
my wood supply and have a nice lot ready for the saw. Spent Thanksgiving
at Renwick. Aunt Rachael and folks were there for supper and stayed until
the next day. Went to Humboldt after church Sunday and had dinner with
the Claytons, he is my Bowling Green Buddy.
Had a letter from Matye last week and they seemed
to be getting along fine. Hope she keeps on the mend as she should.
See quite a bit of Johnny these days and can always
tell when he has been here when I'm not at home; he picks up all the stuff
he can find and piles it against the door or fixes up some kind of trap.
Supposed Winfield is thru picking corn by now and
know he is glad. Think everyone is about thru around here and there sure
has been a good yield the country over.
Give my regards to all the folks and make a good
long visit while you are up there.
Harold
Postcard
Postmarked Dec. 3, 1937
Lyndon KY 3 P.M.
To: Mrs. C.L. Scott
Jamestown, Ind
c/a H.W. Scott
Friday A.M.
My Dear Mama -
Hope you are having as pretty weather as we are. Every day this week
has been pretty. Right cold at night but warms up in daytime. Mrs. Pulliam
actually seems better. She surely has a wonderful constitution. They still
sit up with her. Mary Ladd sat up until 1 o'clock last night. We went in
town yesterday to see about getting job in store for Christmas but they
say they have hundreds of applications waiting. I don't think she will
be able to find any thing at all. They don't think they will get in the
new school until 1st of year. I made J.S. pajamas Wednesday. Think we are
going to do some more washing today. We saw Mr. & Mrs. Wasland and
Miss Hoak in town yesterday. Hope all are well. Love,
Maggie
Dear Folks:-
Before going further into the activities of the
day, I deem it vigible to aknowledge your kind letter of recent date.
I view with no little apprehnsion, the fact that
you are keeping count of the letters that pass between us, and I'm sure
this will place me decidedly in the red. I plead with you to consider the
frailties of human nature as they affect the letter writing propensities
of man. I am also informed thru an authoritive source that the daughter
has a huge debit chalked up against me that will have to be removed before
complete domestic tranquility can be restored; to this charge I acknowledge
my guilt and hope to atone in the near future with a long four page letter.
Our cold weather has given way to much milder temperatures,
to which we are all thankful around here. It has surely been cold and had
continued that way for so long. Most all the corn has been picked and farmers
are getting things in shape for the cold weather and snow that we can expect
to decsend upon us at any time. My wood supply isn't up to par but will
start to pile up a sawing for the first of the week; have most of it cut
for the saw.
Was up to Renwick yesterday for a while and will
go up to the folks for dinner. Had expected the Hannah's but don't think
they will get there before tomorrow as they are stopping in Luverne for
a visit before coming on down.
Wish I could be there to go with Fletcher fox-hunting
(Well, there is nothing to keep the boy, why don't he come on down) Is
that what he said?
Friend Johnny was supposed to come on over and go
with me to Renwick this AM but think he is anxious to get the rest of his
corn out of the field; I don't look for him now.
The neighbors over across the track have made great
preperations for the day and I see some extra cars and hear some extra
voices over there. Mark and Minnie are also having company today.
Know Miss Ladd will have a good time up at Maggies
and I think it is nice for her to be up there for a while.
Am glad to know you are returning to your former
state of buxomness and I hope the next time I see you I can truthfully
say "A rugged individual of the type that can withstand the petty &
irritating duties of life; not to mention your apility to consume a large
amount of guinea and squirrel meat".
Now as to your husband: I believe he will one day
be as famous as Burbank. He has unknowingly named a variety of Kentucky
walnut, which is now known in Iowa as the pear walnut. I am quoting from
Johnny and I was greatly amused at him displaying those large walnuts and
calling them pear walnuts; that was the name Fletcher gave them when we
were up in the Ab Morton field, does he remember?
I could write some more but might say something
that would make you mad and then I know you wouldn't write to me again,
at least if I were in arrears.
Best regards to all. The little five watter is now
signing off.
c/h/s
Postmarked Jan. 20, 1938 G. Rap & Sx Falls
TR20, RPO
Letter enclosed, and one coupon for a free taxi ride
From: C.H. Scott
Goldfield, Ia
To: Mrs. C.L. Scott
Guston, Ky
Jan. 20, 1938
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Ma:
I wonder what kind of weather you are having down
there, as there seems to be so many different varieties over the country.
It's cloudy this AM and not very cold and of course we have plenty of snow.
It banked the house up to the first windows with snow. There isn't a bit
of draft on your feet & the house is so easy to keep warm.
I wrote Matye first of week telling of John being
at the hospital for removal of appendix & he is getting along fine.
There have been so many cases here recently.
Hope you and Fletch are fixed comfortably; am glad
he has plenty of feed, this time. Much of Southern and Western Iowa is
dry. South of Des Moines they have only had one little sprinkle of snow,
Wells are dry & streams drying up, stock water is a problem.
I look for the folks to come down with Bablers either
Friday or Sat. as we are having short course (that is in the nature of
a small county fair) I had figured I might take in a fat herford cow but
sold her yesterday.
Havn't butchered any beef or pork this time, as
I didn't raise any hogs but may pick up something a little later. Have
had plenty of domestic foul and wild meat when I wanted it. Still have
a quart or two of meat Matye helped me put up & the last can was good
as the first. Will get this in the mail this AM Hope all are well.
Love, Harold
To Miss Carra Nelle Scott
Jamestown, Ind.
P Ticket
Good for one stop
Mark Choice and hand to Driver
School House
Filling Station
Cornfield
Woods
Any D. Place
Dear Ma:-
It's writing time again and this will be my first
job this morning so it can go out on the route. Dick and I didn't get up
very early this A.M. and in fact we never do these cold winter days, when
there isn't any particular need of it.
Mr. Coleman has a cattle sale today and I may decide
to go if it warms up a bit around eleven o'clock. They are moving down
near Fort Dodge in March and are selling most of their stock; sold 90 head
of cattle a while back and have a hundred more they will sell today.
Was over to Mayme & Edds for dinner yesterday
and up at Renwick for supper. John wanted me to help him get a load of
cobs from South of Clarion and that is the way we planned the day; we went
to Renwick as a side trip, however. John is getting along fine and has
about resumed his former schedule.
We have been having our share of stormy weather,
lately, but yesterday and today is not so bad and believe we will get some
sunshine the way things look now. The worst part of the recent storms were
East and horth of us. We were fortunate, during those high winds from the
North, in the fact that there was no loose snow on the ground in these
parts, but folks weren't so fortunate Northeast of us and the snow piled
up and the storm was so bad the snow-plows couldn't operate.
Was glad to get your letter and also the one from
Maggie you sent along; had a card from Maggie monday, and they seemed to
be getting along fine. Know Old Man Fletch was glad to be on the court,
in as much as it gives him a change and a little ready cash.
It usually happens this way when I leave any letter
writing till the last; It is now close to six o'clock P.M. Have my work
all done but didn't get this letter written this A.M. Seems like Thursday
is when most of my visitors come. Had four callers today but no one for
dinner. Didn't go to Mr. Coleman's sale as I decided it would be pretty
cold to stand around and besides I wouldn't get to do much visiting with
him either. I will have to be going up before long and he plans to come
down here to spend a few days with me before they move.
Dick was just over to borrow a couple of onions;
guess they are going to have bean soup tonight. Plan to go down to Eagle
grove tonight and I may eat a bite down there; am not hungry now as I had
a bowl of good rich milk and brown bread about four o'clock.
Sure enjoy the radio and am glad of the fact I can
twist the dial when some woman starts to yell or the advertising becomes
too odious. Dick usually goes to sleep around nine and I put him over on
the cot and then stay up as late as I want to.
Hope you are all getting along OK and the weather
isn't too bad. Best regards to all.
Harold.
From: C.H. Scott
Goldfield, Ia
To: Mrs. C.L. Scott
Guston, Ky
Postmarked
Feb. 10, 1938
TR20 & RPO
Cedar Rapids & Sioux Falls
Dear Ma:
We are having peculiar weather for this time of
year; it is a drizzle and is freezing on everything. Joe just got back
from up town and his car was a solid coat of ice. He and I were going in
town tonight to observe a dance, but I don't think it will take place because
driving is so hazardous. Yes we go to a dance once in a while to observe
human conduct as exemplified under stress of modern times. Joe gets lots
of facts and information for his sociology work. We see about 85% of the
men and women - boys & girls drinking & smoking cigarettes; some
fights. No regard shown for womanhood and evidently none expected.
It is six fifteen and of course my work is all done.
Got under cover an extra supply of wood. I expect Joe and Dick over tonight.
John was here this afternoon, he is getting along fine. I was over to Humboldt
Sunday after church. Went up to Renwick Tuesday for dinner at the folks
up and to get my washing. the folks up there are getting along fine.
Baked me some corn bread this AM and it is real
good. Had a bushel of sweet corn ground into meal and it was quite the
rage around here, it makes such good much. I always put about a 1/3 whole
wheat flour, sweet cream and baking powder with plenty of eggs. I'm not
suffering from malnutrition by any means and weigh as much as I ever did.
Just heard on the radio that the Dakotas are getting snow, that means we
will be getting it before long. There is almost a solid coat of ice on
the ground now. Tell Matie I received her letter. Mr. Coleman was down
Saturday for dinner, plans to come down for a few days before they move.
Hope you all are doing good.
Harold
Dear Ma,
It is one thirty P.M. and dinner over. Was invited
over to Johns and also Dick dropped over to give me a special invitation,
but just wanted to eat at home today. I don't require a special invitation
at either place as I go over to Madisons any time and unannounced. Today
Mrs. Madison & Marie are celebrating their birthdays and when all of
the kids are there it makes quite a house full.
Today is a beautiful day. The first bright sunlight
we have had for a long time. Have had some mighty cold weather the past
week. The roads have been treacherous most all week; I didn't get out last
night at all. Joe & Dick were both here.
John & I were up to Colemans last Wednesday.
Have an idea they are all moved by now. They have two farms rented down
East of Ft Dodge & just recently purchased 230 acres near where they
were West of Luverne. It is a nice place and cost only $12,000 which
is cheap for this country. Don't know if I told you but have a fresh Holstein
and she sure is doing good. The neighbors are out of milk for a while so
I'm supplying their needs, so with a fresh cow and plenty of eggs I should
keep in good shape.
Know you folks will enjoy the electricity, it makes
that country sound almost like it had gone modern. I am using on an average
of $1.00 per month here and the minimum is 75c.
Read your card yesterday and glad to learn Matye
is doing good. Hope you can all keep well. Love
Harold
From: C.H. Scott
Goldfield, Ia
To: Mrs. C.L. Scott
Guston, Ky
Postmarked March 15, 1938.
Enclosed: Four Newspaper Clippings
March 14, 1938
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Ma:
Dick and I have finished our supper and I had better
start you a letter while the oppurtunity presents itself. We have us two
good fires going and Dick will soon be on the cot asleep: at present he
is here by the side of me looking on.
We are having real nice weather at this time and
have had for the past several days. Frost is starting to go out of the
ground and it won't be long before farmers will be in the field sowing
oats.
Am having to stay closer to home now days as I have
two orphan lambs I got from Johnny. Went to church yesterday and came home
for dinner but at three o'clock I went to Eagle Grove to attend vesper
service at the Methodist church and thereafter I visited one of my old
conductor friends who is retired and now past eighty years old; they are
certainly a fine old couple and always seem so pleased when I call.
Was up to Renwick Thursday and found the folks and
Bablers had gone up to Dora's so I went on to George and Winnie's for dinner
and then went with George to Algona with a load of machienary saw Uncle
Frank Geigel while I was up there; I think you have met them. Ate supper
with the folks and got back in time for my chores. Ma Geigel had a real
bad cold and wasn't feeling so very good but I called up Sunday and she
was feeling better.
Hope Matye is feeling better; tell her Bill McGowan
is very sick with pneumonia at the Fort Dodge Hospital. Bill is a brother
of Winnie's and I'm sure you know them also.
I was glad you sent me the clippings of Uncle Fletcher.
I sure enjoyed the visit we had with them that time we went down.
Guess Old Man Fletch is pretty busy these days,
weather permitting. Hope he likes his hired man and has a good crop year.
News from across the water tonight brings back memories
of 1914-18 and the gathering war-clouds seem to be growing darker and darker
with every news dispatch. We as a nation are fortunate at least for the
present, due to the fact that we have a great expanse of water on the East
& West and friendly neighbors on the North and South; as Ming Fou would
put it "better are good neighbors than high stone walls".
With best regards and hoping all are well.
Harold
(on back side of letter)
March 15, 1938
It's raining this AM; supposed to get colder during
the day with possible snow. First time it has rained since last Fall. Snow
is about all disappeared.
[one clipping is a letter to the editor, from Harold, as follows:]
He Explains This Queer 'Summer Morals' Malady For Us
To the Editor:
In the August 12th issue of The Gazette, you toched
editorially on a subject of vital importance, relative to the spiritual
let-down during Dog Days. Much interest has been aroused in connection
with your comment and we feel this matter should be carried on to its logical
conclusion.
After exhaustive research we herewith submit our
findings. This peculiar malady is scientifically termed "Morbus Sabbaticus;"
reduced to understandable language it becomes plain Sunday sickness and
is a disease peculiar to churchgoers.
The female of the species are less susceptible,
but the male rarely escapes this insidious malady. The incipient stage
appears suddenly on Sunday morning; no symptoms having been felt on Saturday
night. The patient sleeps well, eats a hearty breakfast, but about church
time the attack occurs and continues 'till services are over for the morning;
then the patient feels easy and eats a hearty dinner. In the afternoon
he feels much improved, talks coherently and has complete control of legs
and arms; but if church is mentioned in the evening he has a relapse and
is knocked out for that service. If the patient suffers great agony, occasionally
a self-administered sedative in the form of some recreational diversion
is used. On the following Monday morning all symptoms of the disease have
vanished, to reappear the following Sunday.
A treatment which is considered both therapeutic
and prophylactic may be used with gratifying results and in most cases
affects complete cure. Namely: Rise early, bathe hands and face in cold
water. Mix well into a compound the following ingredients: will, energy,
determination, self-respect, respect for The Day, respect for God's Book,
and respect for God's House. Shake well, and add a little bit of love to
make it sweet. Unless relief comes soon, take a dose as often as necessary
'till church time. For external use, overshoes, rain coats and umbrellas
may be found beneficial.
Cases of long standing which do not respond to this
treatment should be referred to the preacher, who in turn prepares a short
oration similar to the one used by Bro. Rufus Johnsing occasioned by the
demise of Rastus: "We hopes you is gone where we 'spects you aint."
C.H.S.
Postmarked April 10, 1938
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Mama:-
Received your card this AM and glad to hear things
are getting along as well as they are.
I'm sure you folks are having a variety of weather
down there at this time as it seems to be quite freakish all over. We have
had real cold weather and snow storms in this part of the state, while
South of us they have had rain, sleet and snow. Today has been better have
had some sunshine with a chilly South wind but no precipitation.
Most of the oat seeding was complete before the
storm and of course this heavy snow will be fine for the seeding. Southern
Iowa has been deficient in moisture for the last three or four years but
has received quite a bit of moisture during the past month. Last winter
when we had six or eight inches of snow, down there the ground would be
bare.
The folks and Bablers were down last week for the
day and of course they left me with a clean house and some cooking on hand.
They most always bring a big dinner with them when they come and Mr. &
Mrs. Babler seem to enjoy it so much. I was invited along with the folks
and Sam Maurers to have Sunday dinner out to Sam Klassies but I couldn't
get away on account of cantata practice at two PM. We have our last practice
this coming Saturday night and the cantata will be given Sunday night.
We sure have a big bunch of singers and have a mighty good time at the
rehearsals. John and Marie Zimmerman both are in it and a couple from LuVerne
are some of those who come the longest distance to attend.
Since the heavy snow has covered the ground I have
been feeding the robins and have a time keeping the pesky starlings away.
Joe and I shot a bunch of them this morning and will open hostilities the
first thing in the morning. I had quite a picture in contrast this AM when
I looked out the window and saw robins eating winesap apples off of bass
wood trees and the ground blanketed deep with snow.
Have two geese and one chicken hen setting on goose
eggs and will set some more in a few days. One old goose is setting in
the dog-house and the snow drifted in around her till all you could see
was part of her back and head; the chicken hen is setting on the ground
also.
Haven't planted any garden yet but will just as
soon as the ground gets dry again. Should have some onions out now but
didn't get around to do it. Didn't get the vallies of the roof painted
so haven't taken all of the scaffoling down yet; had been waiting to get
a warm dry day to do the work but didn't have any of them last week.
Hope you have good luck with your setting hens and
hope you can soon be living off the garden. Imagine asparagus will soon
be shooting up and you will be able to get a good mess of greens before
long.
Best regards to all; hope all are well. Love,
Harold.
Postmarked April 15, 1938
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Ma:-
Didn't get your letter started yesterday and as
I have to go into town tonight, will send a few words so you will get it
Monday.
Things look quite a bit different outside today
to what it did this time last week. Today we are having showers and it
is rather warm for this time of the year. Buds are beginning to form on
the trees and the plum trees will be in bloom shortly. Raked the yard the
first of the week and it is greening up with the last few warm days and
these April showers.
We gave our Easter Cantata last Sunday night and
everything went along very nice. Had an audience of around 900 people and
a free will offering of $38.00. Think we all derived a lot of good out
of the practices. Our church had its choir practice last night in preparation
for the Easter Sunday music. Have to meet with the male quartet tonight
to prepare some songs for a funeral Sunday.
Guess I am going to have company for dinner Sunday,
so I will have to get the kitchen scooped out and tidy up the front room
a bit. The folks, Bablers and Deans are coming and all I will have to do
is to have the cook-stove going.
Had a letter from the Indiana folks this week and
they spoke of having so much rain but according to the papers you have
had plenty of moisture all down through that section.
Wish you had some of these numerous guineas I have
around here; am afraid if I keep all of them and they reproduce as they
have for the past few years, there won't be room for anything else and
besdies when a bunch like this pass through a garden you can tell they
have been there. They roost in the big elm tree between the house and barn
and you can hear pot-rack any time of the night.
Am without a dog of any description at present but
hope to find a fox terrier pup somewhere before long. The dog the preacher
brought up from southern Iowa proved almost worthless and couldn't trail
me unless I had missed out on one of my bi-weekly foot baths.
See in the messenger where F & M had some neighborhood
callers recently; How does John like hob-nobbing with the big shots? And
is Mr. Chandler going to represent Kentucky instead of Mr. Barkley? Seems
like Mr. Roosevelt plans another big grab bag event. His system of economics
is most bewildering.
Best regards to all,
Harold.
Postmarked April 21, 1938 note
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Ma:-
This is Thursday again and I have had so many interruptions
this week, that I didn't get a letter started before this. Have been sowing
oats and rape today and got all through except the last dragging which
I will do in the morning. It has been cold today with a strong north-west
wind and tonight we are ceratin to have a freeze. Don't think it will hurt
anything very much as the plum blossoms are not quite out yet but if it
is too severe of course it will get them.
Received yours and Maggie's letter and also the
sweet-cakes; Dick and I sure enjoyed them and I still have some left to
munch on. The flowers had their delicate perfume when they arrived but
of course they don't ship as well as Easter flowers; was glad to get them
anyway. About the only thing we have green to eat is rhubarb and dandelion
greens. Have radishes and lettuce coming thru the ground and got some cabbage
and tomato plants yesterday but haven't set them out yet.
Was up to Renwick yesterday to help the folks plant
potatoes; everyone up there is fine. We plan to go to Wisconsin Monday
for a couple of days; plan to be back Wednesday of next week. Uncle Frank
Geigel from Algona is going to drive.
Had a letter from Mayte and intended to write them
a letter also this week but am going to send a card instead as it is almost
train time and I will have to get this in.
Know you and Maggie had a good visit while she was
down. I didn't know it had been so long since she was down there the last
time.
Love, Harold
April 27 1938 at Goldfield. note
5:15 pm.
Dear Relations:
I have been chased away from my outside duties by
the sparkling refreshing April showers on several occasions this afternoon
and just recently the folks from Wis. arrived and left me with a big hunk
of Wisconsin block cheese and I fear I have over-indulged; recalling to
mind the words of Cicero, "We cannot use the mind aright when we are filled
with excessive food" but it would be unfair to use this as subterfuge on
an occasion like this.
Couldn't help but notice how vividly your recent
letter portrayed a rejuvenated & revitalized being. We are glad to
know you are rapidly approaching your former state of salubrity.
Johnny was over last night & wanted to take
me to the show but I was in the first stages of recovery from case of distemper
& thought it best to stay at home but anyway Madisons called up and
wanted us to come over there so I didn't get to bed until ten thirty anyway.
Dick came back and stayed alnight with me. They were celebrating Mrs. Madison's
birthday.
I am viewing with quite a bit of alarm, the progress
to which Meade County and the Old neighborhood is moving. I had thought
her physical boundaries would prove a formidable barrier to civilization
for many years to come.
However, this doesn't seem to be the case and I
shudder to think of the time when I will see Fletcher and John Williams
and some of the other neighbors dressed in golf suits swinging their sticks
across the green and Gid Ammons too dignified to give the starvation yell.
I will also wait in breathless suspense for information establishing the
identity of the matron who pioneers the first bridge party and galluping
tea.
Received an invitation to The Little Lotus Bud's
graduation in May and wish I could be there to hear them during the festivites.
Like the class motto very much; sounds like Mrs. Gregory but don't suppose
she had anything to do with it.
Took in a little night life a couple of weeks ago
here in the city. They have been having public dances, big high priced
orchestras and a packed house from all towns within a radius of 30 miles.
I saw more drunken females than you could put in a tobacco barn, a still
greater number of the young highly embossed kind strutting their insect
appeal before the little he apes of unsteady limb. Ming Fou would have
been at a loss to give a proper description of the orgy, and I fully join
the antievolutionists in their support of absolving the monkey of all blaim
of the human race.
Showers are letting up and it is about chore time.
See editors note on reverse side of this sheet. Best regards to you one
and all.
Editors note:
Civilization as not defined by Webster "A condition, mostly artificial,
wherein, one desire fulfilled is followed by many which can never be fulfilled.
Also Higher wages. Higher prices. Higher cost of plain living. Added cost
to higher living. Everybody having a high old time. Nobody satisfied."
Unquote.
Hope this establishes my former status quo.
Postmarked May 26, 1938
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Mama:-
Will start the morning aright by writing down home
today. This has been a week of cleaning up, mostly in the house. Ma Geigel
and Lena came down Monday morning and Bablers and Mrs. Church came down
last night for supper and took them home. The folks are expecting quite
a bunch for dinner Sunday; think Mr. & Mrs. Copeland will come Sunday
and remain for decoration day. We will have union services at the Presbyterian
church on Sunday; part of the service will be an all mens choir which met
last night for practice. The Baptist minister will preach the sermon.
Dick was just over for help in his vacation bible
study course which is usually the first ten days after school; they go
at nine AM and are thru for the day at noon.
Wonder if you folks are still having dry weather?
We have moisture to spare and it has been so cold all the time. Grass and
small grain look fine but corn is so slow in coming up that a lot of it
just don't. Some farmers have had to replant and there is still some plowing
to be done, especially east of here where they have had more rain.
Last Sunday, John and myself drove over between
Hampton and Eldora to see some folks but didn't get down in the old familiar
territory. We stopped at several places and visited a while and then came
back to Clarion and were at Eds & Maymes for most of the evening.
Sorry to learn Aunt Mag is under the weather. Hope
she is feeling better by this time. Its nice you can drop down most any
time to be with her; I know both of you enjoy that.
Heard some news last night in regard to Kentucky's
political situation; in fact she seems to be in the limelight every once
in a while. We have our primary the seventh of June at which time there
will be, I hope, a weeding out of some of our ultra-radicals will take
place.
Planted some watermellons better than a week ago
and they haven't started to sprout, even. So don't know if I will have
any this season or not; may get a few muskmellons as they do not require
so long a season. Guess I will have to drop down in Old Kentucky about
that time.
Hope this finds you all well and happy; give everyone
my regards and take care of yourself. Love,
Harold.
Postmarked June 23, 1938
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Ma:-
It's pretty early to be writing a letter but there
isn't any chance to sleep in this house. This has been our hottest day
of the year and it has been a real one. Joe and I put in one load of hay
this afternoon and we both had all we wanted. I guess we are both rather
soft and we had to go slow. All growing crops are looking good and these
hot days will put corn beyond circumscribed height by July the fourth which
is a knee high.
We had our weekly outdoor programme up town tonight
and quite a large crowd in attendance. Seems like there has to be something
special going on in Goldfield to hold the trade from going to Eagle Grove;
otherwise the town is pretty much deserted. Its only about five miles to
Eagle and a pavement all the way. I go down real often myself as I like
to visit with my Old Railroad cronies. Last Sat. night I had such a nice
visit with Condr. Lee and his wife. Mr. Lee is 82 years old and is a mighty
fine old fellow.
Last Sunday Johnny and I took a jaunt up by Luverne
and Irvington and landed at Algona. The Danes were having a family picnic
and we joined them. Then we dropped down to Humbolt and ate supper with
Clayton, an Old Bowling Greener. Tuesday, I was up to Dora's for supper
and brought the folks back home to Renwick; then I stopped at Bell and
waited for the cool of the evening.
I see by the paper that Meade County retained its
"licker" and I am now interested in seeing how Mr. Barkley and Mr. Chandler
come out in the primary election. Seems like everyone except the never
sweats and P.W.A.'s are getting all fed up on the present National administrations
methods of running things and I look for a change of policy as time goes
on. Don't know how it is down there; but there is entirely too many full
grown infants up here who expect to be fed by the ravens and use what money
they get hold of to buy unnecessary luxuries. And what Govt. money the
farmers get, they put in bigger macheniary and tractors; take old dobin
to the autction, rent the farm next to them and then cuss because there
is a surplus and oats selling at fifteen cents. Farm hands are almost a
thing of the past. Horse drawn machinery is being sold as junk - shipped
to Japan for munitions and the Red Cross is busy soliciting funds for the
poor war stricken Chinese. Indeed - we are living in a glorious age.
It is starting to cool off a bit and think I had
better turn in for a little sleep before the woodpecker starts his morning
tat-too on the ridge roll just over my bed room window. There seem to be
more birds around here than usual and they sure make melody when day is
breaking and to date, I haven't heard any of them swinging [sic] their
tunes.
Best regards to everyone,
Harold.
Postmarked Aug. 4, 1938.
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Mama:
It will soon be mail time & I just got back
from Renwick, but will get in a few words anyway. Have been building some
sidewalk. Ate dinner & supper at the folks & stopped on the way
back at M Gowans and ate a little more supper - would have liked to stayed
& visited with them awhile but wasn't sure if Joe would be here to
do chores or not.
We are having fine weather and everything looks
fine - gets pretty hot during the day but cools off a little at night -
Have my oats stacked and am glad since we are having so much rain. The
guineas are doing fine - near as I can tell there are around 125 young
ones & 5 nests to hatch. Will have a nice bunch if the coons let them
alone while they are too young to go in the trees.
Sure enjoyed your last letter. You must have been
in the writing mood. Know you have a good time with your goings and comings.
My garden is sure on the boom and I don't make a dent in it - took corn
and cucumbers to Renwick today, some for the folks & some for Bablers.
John & I had supper with Ed & Mayme Sun. eve - Next Sunday had
planned to go to church at Eagle Grove as a guest of a conductor friend
but I understand a former minister is to be here Sunday & hate to miss
seeing him. Hope all are well - you may find it difficult to make this
out. Best regards to all. Harold 8:10 pm
P.S. According to what I read in the papers up here
& hear on Radio, Happy should get it. [Chandler, jbs]
Letter dated Aug 18, 1938
Goldfield, IA
Dear Ma:-
Seems like I have become a biweekly writer instead
of weekly, here of late - Was glad to get your letter with its news &
the picture - Am glad everything is looking so nice down there with the
promise of a bountiful harvest - We can all find joy in an abundance even
if things are cheap, so long as we have not mortgaged our birthright for
a mess of pottage by going in debt for a lot of things we do not need.
Some of our farmers are still trying to get their threshing done. Has been
so rainy here of late. - Well, the coons had to get into my guinea flock
and get some of the little ones that could not fly; they also killed two
nice chicken hens. One of my neighbors shot a coon which was after his
chickens a couple of weeks ago but one coon does not mean anything up here.
Plan to go up to Copelands Sunday. I took the folks
up to Doras last Sunday & they were up there. - Johnny here while ago
and wanted me to go up in Minnesota on a fishing trip but I don't care
to go just now, he usually makes two or four trips up every season. Fishing
has been pretty good around here all Summer but I don't fish much only
in the Wintertime.
Lots of Sleeping sickness among horses in the country
- Mark & I call it poisoning and doctor it accordingly while these
would-be scientists & experts of Ames origin, give them 'shots' - our
success eats on the Vets, they don't like it.
Hope all are well - hope you didn't have it as hot there
as we did last week. Best regards to all, Harold
P.S. 5:30 news on - going to be hot - 102 degrees
in Neb, today - Also rain predicted for tomorrow.
Dear Mama:-
I wonder if you have gotten back home and settled
down for a few days before you start on another visit. Well, I like to
hear about it and know you enjoy doing just such things and I'm for you;
believe I'm a little bit that way myself until wintertime, then I usually
like to dig in and watch the snow fly.
We have had more rain than I have ever seen in the
Fall of the year. This river is on a mild rampage and I understand it is
running wild down around Boone where it empties into the Des Moines River.
Mark has about 15 acres of bean hay cut down and it has gotten all of this
rain but I see the sky is clearing from the Northwest this morning so that
is an indication that we are due for some nice weather.
Made my trip to the Northwestern part of the state
this last Sunday and had the time of my life. Left Humboldt with the Claytons
about nine thirty and was in Sutherland for dinner with Claytons brother
who has a store there; also another brother from Hartley who has a store,
joined us for dinner. Among other things for dinner included black eyed
peas cooked with corn also blackberry preserves and the conversation during
the day was seasoned with plenty of Southern brogue. In the afternoon I
called up some friends at Paullina who came over, so there were five fellows
all of a common heritage and we really felt very much akin. Coming home
we drove about a hundred miles in the rain. Was eleve thirty when I arrived
here and the rain had about subsided.
It will soon be noon and I have squirrel on cooking.
Have a certain way I usually cook it, to wit; fry it till it is almost
done, then slice up a big onion and ripe tomato, adding enough hot water
for the gravy, then let cook until done; it's fine you had better try it
sometime.
The coons still get their revenge for the way I
once so relentlessly pursued them. They usually come when it is raining
and I had to drive one away the other night after he had just about killed
an old hen; don't believe I ever saw signs of so many as there are this
year. Think I will have to send somewhere and get me a dog.
John was over Monday but guess they are about muddied
in over at their place. My next visit of any distance will be down in the
vicinity of Owasa and Gifford; haven't made it down there this year, so
far.
War clouds seem to be hanging pretty low over Europe
and it's hard to guess just what will happen over there.
Hope all are well and everything coming along fine
down there. Best regards to all.
Harold
Postmarked Sep. 28, 1938
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Mama:-
The mosquitoes have run me out of the woods; I was
up there picking up walnuts and carrying them down to the house so the
squirrels wouldn't hide all of them. Figure there would be about a triple
wagon box full in the hull. We have had the most mosquitoes I ever saw
in this or any other country and still have them; our weather is mighty
fine but a cold spell and frost would fix them, as well as the tomatoes
and beans.
Well our water got mighty high that time I told
you the river was rising and in some points in Iowa the rivers were the
highest ever known and especially at this time of year but the rain has
subsided and we have had about ten days of nice weather and the corn is
all past the danger stage. And to anyone who has never seen an Iowa corn
crop, now would be the time to see it. Many farmers have resealed what
they have on hand of the 1937 crop which is a lot of corn. Don't know what
they are going to do for crib room in many instances. Corn on the cash
market is selling for around 37 or 38 cents per bushel. This has been truly
a bountiful season and all should be thankful, were it not for the extra
trimmings and tremendous amount of motorized farm machenery they have purchased,
necessitating a high price for everything they produce.
Mr. Coleman and three of his boys were here for
dinner yesterday and you should have seen our dinner. We took the rifle
up in the timber and brought back four squirrels; wasn't long before I
had them in the big iron skillet and after they had cooked a while I smothered
them in onions and ripe tomatoes; also boiled a kettle full of potatoes
and mashed them, seasoning with plenty of rich cream and that, with bread
and butter, constituted our meal. Don't know when I have had so many squirrels
as there is now, and I'm making good use of them. Took two nice young ones
down to Mr. and Mrs. Lee at Eagle Grove last Saturday night and they were
sure pleased to get some of that kind of meat.
Sunday, I was up to Bablers for dinner; they had
quite a few of the old Swiss neighbors also. Have no particular place in
view for next Sunday, so may go down to Jake and Marie Trickeys.
Don't suppose Fletcher's old hound will tree coons?
I have been trying to locate a hound somewhere but they are hard to find.
Coons haven't bothered me for a couple of weeks.
Hope all are well; lots of love, Harold.
Postmarked March 9, 1939
To Mrs. C.L Scott
Lyndon, Ky
c/a J.L. Witt
From C.H. Scott
Goldfield IA
Dear Mama:
Just ate my bite of supper and will write you a
little note to put on the train tonight. Have been up to Mark's part of
the afternoon visiting with him. It is still winter up here and don't look
much chance for settled weather. Isn't much a fellow can do except haul
manure or cut wood. It has thawed some today and water has been running
down toward the river,but hasn't covered the ice yet. There usually has
to be four or five feet of water on top of the ice before it breaks up
and starts to float. Should we have a rain with all of this snow, I'm confident
we would have high water around here. Snow is predicted for tonight with
rising temperature. This has been some steady winter weather since I got
back to this country. I'm sure I like the Kentucky winters the best.
Was glad to get the papers and your letter. Our
illustrious cousin seems to be right up in the front ranks. He should have
a few good red corpusles and I hope he has. Sure would like to see them
get that persimmon blight stopped before it goes too far. And tell J.S.
I enjoyed the article about the mounds; maybe what we will find down at
the bone cliffs will make that look like a bed-time story.
Sorry to hear of the mash-up you told about; it's
regrettable, but it sheds new light on "why tigers sometime eat their young".
Rudy has gotten back from Seattle and was talking
to him this PM, so guess we will be visiting back and forth. Was at home
all day last Sunday. Ate too much baked sweet potato Saturday night for
supper and didn't feel too hot Sunday; but I got the house aired out good
and everything is OK. The flu almost reached epidemic proportions here
in Iowa; the school here has been pretty hard hit and Shortie's wife came
home from a visit in Eastern Ia. last Tuesday and the folks over here was
as far as she could go; she is better now. I'm not particularly afraid
of such things but don't believe in going to public gatherings when things
like that are so prevailent; would go and wait on folks if I could do them
any good, however.
Haven't heard from those Doods down home since I
been home but according to the Messenger, they are all up and around. Know
Dotty will have a good time there; and how are the other chaps. Tell J.S.
wish I had been there to have gone up to the corner with him. Hope the
dog gets sick again when I come down (but not bad).
Hope Maggie & John are both up and around again.
Suppose M.A. had a good time with her recent appearance before the public.
Have a good time at B-burg & tell all the folks howdy. Love
C.H.S.
Postmarked May 11th, 1939
Goldfield, Ia
Dear Mama:-
While my spargrass [sic] is cooking will write you
a letter. It's getting close to noon and I usually come in in time to hear
the news on the radio while I'm getting dinner.
Took an old goose off the nest this morning with
six goslings and I sure had a fight. There was another goose setting in
the same shed and both geese were trying to mother the little goslings.
Two old ganders, as proud parents were also guarding things. Think I suffered
the worst casualty, in the nature of a skinned shin, but I ralled &
returned with a horse blanket and a lath; cracked two old ganders over
the head and threw the horse blankets over the goslings and brought them
here in the yard and later brought over the old goose. Geese sure can fight
and I'm sure there is nothing that can bother them when they all finish
hatching and are turned out together.
It's been so cold and dry the past week that I haven't
gotten any garden planted to speak of. Apple trees are starting to bloom
and think we will have a fair crop. The plumbs have been in bloom for some
time. Most of the farmers have the greater share of their corn planted,
however some have discontinued on account of the dry weather.
Seems like next Sunday is Mothers day again, and
it brings us to especially realize just what Mother has meant to us in
the past and is meaning to us in the present. The sphere in which Mother
moves & has her being, exerting her influence for good, is univerally
recognized as being that sphere wherin the best things of life and the
fruits of the spirit are made manifest. Therefore, thought and memory,
not merely once a year, but often and often, many times a year, pierce
the distance from here to there and I thank Heaven for a good Mother.
Can imagine Maggie and the folks will be down there
Sunday if the weather and roads are good. Would like to slip up on John
Scott and Fletcher, hiding somewhere in their rendezvous and hear them
making plans for some big future expedition or undertaking.
The news today, gave the weather report as continuing
cold, with frost in many sections tonight. There was frost last night but
not enough to cause any damage around here. Parts of Minnesota it froze.
Am sending you some balsom seed. Also sent Matye
some. You can plant them most anywhere and they should be thinned down
to about 6 or 8 inches; some of the plants, however, if in rich soil get
to be as big around as a wash tub and they have mighty pretty flowers.
Are you still doing lots of neighborhood visiting?
When you get around down there you will have to go up and spend a week
with Maggie's folks; I know you always have a good time up there, even
if you and Sis do get into difficulty trying to get each other not to work
so hard; those quarrels --- I used to think I would have to whip both of
you to make you simmer down. (Wonder where I got that word)
Hope you have a good time Sunday and some of the
kids are down. Have been wanting to go to Eagle Grove and get you something
but haven't gotten down, yet. Love to all
Harold.
Letter post marked April 14, 1939
written on back of letter: Henry M. Pulham ranger pine mountain state
park
Goldfield, IA
Dear Miss Ladd:
I started to write you a letter last night after
I had put Dick to bed but got what I wanted to write all mixed up with
what was being said on the radio, so put it off until today.
We are still having our winter. The ground has been
freezing hard at night and didn't thaw a bit all day Tuesday. Easter Sunday
was quite nice except for being a little cold in the morning. The afternoon
was bright and fairly warm. We had a big attendance at church; the service
was unusually long on account of receiving the new members into the church
and communion service. John and I had a special invitation to spend the
day at Fairmont, Minn. but I had a part in the special music for Easter
so didn't like to leave. John went anyway and took Mrs. Geigel & Darlene
along with him.
Looks like we were in for a good rain; the wind
is in the South and has been blowing hard all day; the clouds are hanging
low. Most of the farmers in this part of the country have their oats in
the ground but about twenty miles north of here they haven't started to
seed. It won't take them long, after they get started with their big machinery
and tractors.
I had dinner at Eagle Grove, Sunday and attended
the Vesper services at the Methodist church at four thirty; they surely
had some fine singing.
Sorry to hear of the unseasonable weather down there
at this time when the fruit trees were in bloom; this should have been
the year for a good peach crop. Don't think our fruit is hurt as you can't
see any buds as yet. We most always have apples and plums and a few grapes,
there has been a few times that a freeze got them after they had set on
the tree.
Eagle Grove is having a three day district music
contest, starting today and ending Saturday evening. I may go down tonight
if it doesn't look too much like rain; usually meet up with some folks
from other towns that I have known. Several towns from Hardin County are
on the list to appear. Think the content comprises five or six counties.
Know you are having a good time at home after your
winters visit; but if the weather gets too bad, you had better tear out
again and wait until Spring really arrives. Guess it will arrive up here
some of these times as it always has, but winter is hanging on a mighty
long time; there was two or three days in March when it got as high as
82 degrees, and since that it has dropped to about 10 above.
Other day I was over across the river looking for
my geese and found a nice bunch of fish in a shallow pond that had gotten
in it when the river was out of its banks when the ice was going out. It
wasn't very cold that day and I got out in the water and herded them up
in the narrows, got some old pieces of tin from the junk yard and corralled
them; they were all carp, but this time of year their meat is tender and
sweet.
Hope the puny folks are all better. Best regards
to everybody. H.
Postmarked April 24, 1939
Goldfield, IA
Enclosed - a frost stick wrapper, and a note from Dick also
Dear Mama;
Your package received April 19th; and it was very
nice. Gave the folks across the tracks some of them. Planned to take a
few up to the folks at Renwick last Saturday but forgot them. Also recd.
the letter, Saturday and the post card along with a letter from Dot and
one from Maggie recd. today. Think the preacher was out here the evening
I was supposed to write to you and we visited too long.
Had dinner at home Sunday and in the afternoon Dick
and I made a few fashionable calls. We went over to Marvels (the Reichters)
out to Amossons and up to Johnnys. Sunday was a real nice day, only the
wind blew mighty hard. Has been windy today but warm; think all the snow
melted today. We had a regular blizzard last Monday, had about 7 inches
of snow here and in the Northern part of the state, roads were blocked
for two or three days.
Have been digging out some stumps today and getting
ready to plow my garden: Want to plant some spuds and some of the early
stuff this week. Think about next week I will do a little painting and
may paper one room.
Tomorrow is practice night. Am in a mixed quartet
for a number to be given at the Liberty Twp. schools and for a special
number for church next Sunday. I had much rather sing in our male quartet
but every once in a while we have a mixed qtet. guess it's because we four
fellows have sang so much together and know what each other is going to
do and then I suppose it sounds pretty good as we harmonize together and
folks seem to like it. Anyway we have a good time getting to practice and
a chance to sing.
I see a car just drove up and I rather suspect it
is John; and he enters the door with two frost sticks; well, Dick and John
are eating the frost sticks and I may get some of the conversation mixed
up in what follows.
Think Dick is writing you a note, also. I always
show him the part of the letter where his name is mentioned and he always
grins.
Was up to Renwick last week and had dinner with
the folks. A week ago Sunday was up to George & Winnies for Dinner.
It rained most all day.
Glad to know the Hardaways are all on the mend again.
Hope all the rest of you keep well.
Will write more the next time, but don't have any
news and have said about all there is to say at this time. And I want to
again thank you for the cookies (sweet cakes)
John is going back into town so will ride in with
him and mail this and Dottys letter. Love to all, Harold
[spelling exact]
Dear Grandma:
Harold gave me a few and boy wear they good.
It is the warmest night we have ever had we share
can hear the frogs croaking I sheare wich you wear hear. I am going to
stay with Harold tonight.
How are you folks done 'home I hope you are fine.
Tell Matye and Dotty and Fletcher hallow fore me.
Your Frind,
Dick
[Frost Stick Wrapper]
Save These Bags For Gifts
Frostick Reg. U.S.Pat.Off.
Hutchinson's
Ice Cream on a stick
U.S. PAT NOS. 1,470,524-1,718,997
5c
Hutchinson Ice Cream Company
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Net Weight 1 1/2 OZ.
Letter dated October 12th, 1939
Goldfield, IA
My Dear Ma: -
Seems like I'm a little behind in my correspondence.
But such is the one of many frailties of the species.
Think the last time I wrote you we were in the midst
of very hot and dry weather. The scenes have shifted and we have had some
quite cool days & nights this month. Last night there was frost, I
think about the third one we have had. Have had some rain but not enough
to soak the ground to any appreciable depth. The river started to move
a little but will soon be dry again unless we have some more rain.
Haven't had any wells to work on this week, so far,
but expect to start on one West of Goldfield, momentarily. Have all of
the garden stuff taken care of. Had quite a few of the black-eyed peas,
the seed of which I got from Winfield last Spring. Potatoes were pretty
good, but I don't use many of them.
Don't know if I told you of the Gifford folks coming
up a few Sundays ago. We sure had a nice visit and they all asked about
you.
Last Sunday I spent the afternoon at Eagle Grove
with Heinei & "Mother" Kircher; He is a retired conductor and I have
known them about as long as I have anyone in Iowa. She is a great big woman,
6 feet tall and weighing around 285 pounds, good natured and full of fun.
He is much smaller and as jolly as she.
Last Friday night, Johnny and I went to a box social,
East of Eagle Grove. We managed to get inside for the duration of the program
but when it came time to auction off the boxes, it became so overcrowded
and so stuffy that I couldn't stand it any longer so I withdrew and it
wasn't long until Johnny came out. We went into conference and decided
that even if there were several boxes which evidently had charming attachees,
there would still be that risk of uncertainty so we withdrew to less congested
areas of Eagle Grove for the remainder of the evening.
Suppose Pap [Fletcher, jbs] has his wheat in the
ground by this time and possibly is taking things a little easier. How
did you enjoy the Meade County Fair? Would like to have been down there;
I'm sure I would have seen about all the people I know in the County.
Don't have any pigs at this writing but they will
start to coming about first of next week. I may decide to sell them soon
after weaning time or thereabouts and if I do, there will still be time
to spend the greater part of the winter in fairer climes. You know we have
to do these things so long as we are forced to strive in the marts of economic
strife & gain. I am still hopeful that there will be some retiring
farmer who will want to buy a place in town and decide on this as his future
home.
Love & Best regards to all.
PS Tell Matye the first rainy evening or the first
snow will drape the mantle of inspiration about me, resulting in a reply
to her letter.
Dear Mama:-
I've decided not to join the throng who hangs gates
upside down, and tips over PWA houses etc. Have been expecting to hear
something outside, as Dick usually plays a few pranks. Have a good fire
here in the kitchen and have just finished supper. Made me a hash of rabbit
meat, onions, potatoes and tomatoes and of course had bread and butter
and plenty of rich milk. Sweet Pea [probably a pig, jbs] was highly gratified
with his portion.
Have been cutting wood today and will cut tomorrow
if Walter doesn't call on me to help him. We are having clear cold weather
and am afraid we will go into the winter with very little moisture and
many cisterns dry. Corn picking, I would say is 2/3 complete and another
big crop is in the offing. Wish you could see the steel bins at all elevators
in all towns. Much of the 38 crop and practically all the 37 crop which
was under seal has been shelled and delivered to the elevators. Many of
the farmers bought their steel bins and are storing this corn on their
farms, receiving seven [sic] cents per bu. which goes a long way in paying
for the bin. Practically all farms have complied with the AAA and are sealing
the 39 crop over and above their feeding requirements for the coming year.
There is some corn on the cash market for we little fellows to buy at 38
to 40 cents. Last year many of the farmers sealed all their corn at 57
cents and bought on the cash market for 36 cents; this year, however, not
nearly so many are doing it. And the big question mark??? What are they
going to do with all this corn that is piling up? Well, we will let Mr.
Wallace do the worrying and I'm sure he is one man who would like to see
a lean year. True the acreage has been cut down but with the advent of
hybrid there seems to be about as much corn raised as usual.
Sorry to hear you have been under the weather and
hope you are on the mend. Have an idea, since you have been changing eating
tables so often, recently, you have a tendency to overeat. Its my honest
opinion, but I wouldn't want it to get around, that good cooks kill more
over-indulgent men than the poor ones do. Now just watch me when I come
down and you will see that I don't practice what I preach.
Had a bunch of callers from Owasa & Iowa Falls
Sunday before last and I happened to be away as usual. Quite often I find
a note when returning, indicating that someone has been here during my
absence.
Am getting plenty of eggs to eat and some to sell.
My white rock pullets will not start to lay until the first of the year.
I eat lots of eggs and am getting plenty of milk and cream. Have two bushels
of wheat and with my sweet corn meal and some soy beans, I should get fat
this winter.
Take good care of your self and give my regards
to the well folks as well as the sick ones.
Love, Harold
P.S. Recd. Maggies card this AM saying Miss Ladd was on the move
again. I'm sure you are having a nice time and will recuperate in a hurry.
Know you will enjoy the green-house at this season of the year and the
comforts of the home. Now don't you and Maggie quarrel about who is doing
too much work; both of you take it easy and have a good visit. How is the
APA [sic] and all the rest of the household? It's turned real cold
during the afternoon and will freeze hard tonight; think I will stay around
the fire here at home.
Harold.
[Empty Evelope, postmarked Jan. 8, 1940. From C.S. Scott Goldfield
Ia to Mrs. C.L. Scott Lyndon Ky. c/a J.L.Witt]
Dear Mammy:-
It's pretty hard for me to stay in out of this rain
as it is the first we have had for many, many days. Yesterday was the hottest
day I ever saw, I believe. The wind was blowing from the s-w and seemed
to be about as hot as the breeze that strikes you as you open the oven
door to look at the biscuits. The rain just started about 15 mins. ago
and was preceded by hailstones as big as guinea eggs. There wasn't any
wind and the stones came straight down. It was amusing to watch the geese
and other poultry, but they had sense enough to get under the trees. There
wasn't enough hail to damage anything to speak of. There is quite a little
electricity at this moment but the rain has stopped. Seems to be a mass
of cold air moving in from the arctic circle and hope you folks get some
too, that is if it is as hot down there as it has been up here. Corn and
gardens are hurt quite seriously. Corn had started to tassel and those
that were out is cooked. I can see lots of white caps in my field.
Well, me and my partner were the low bidders on
the school work and we are now in the midst of a rush season. We have also
a request for a new well. Tackled the toughest job, first, and started
to work on it last Tuesday. We do all the work from decorating the interior
to digging holes or pits for the pooparahs. Yesterday, the heat about got
me down; I was blasting some big rocks to use in the foundation and the
dynamite got me down. We wouldn't have worked in the afternoon, regardless,
so we took the PM off.
Last Saturday, I went on a little trip. Left home
about 9:30 AM and stopped off at Dows for awhile to see some folks and
then on to Iowa Falls, where I purchased me some specs and fraternized
with some of the good brothers and sisters. Got down to Owasa in time to
eat supper with Jake and Marie Trickey and went to Eldora for the evening.
Came back with Jake and Marie for the night and Sunday AM spent part and
of the time visiting friends. Was down to Guy's and Zoe's for dinner and
got to see some friends who were there also for dinner from Des Moines.
After it cooled off a bit, I started making the rounds at Gifford and left
down there about seven PM. Stopped in at Rudies and Marians on my way back
and was there till about ten thirty, and then on home. Had a real nice
time and got to see so many folks I hadn't seen for so long. All the folks
at Gifford and Owasa were asking about you and FM & D.
Well, it is raining real hard and there isn't much
wind. Hope we get two or three inches. I may get a chicken or two drowned
which refused to be rescued. Some hens stole their nests out, and the little
chickens are wild as they can be. Received your letter this week and hope
Pap has recovered from the trots. Best regards to all, and hope all are
well.
Love, C.H.S.
Post Card
Postmarked Lyndon, Ky, 7 AM, Feb 1, 1941
To: Mrs. C.L. Scott Guston KY
Fri. Night
My Dear Mama -
I meant to send you a card last night but Bud left
before I got one written - well now haven't you enjoyed this sunshine today.
I think you should be getting out some. Bud and I wanted to go down so
bad tomorrow but seems like it can't be arranged. He is going to do some
work for Mr Wilcut on his barn. I have been finishing up some sewing today,
don't think I am going to have so much to do next week. The news from Miss
Mamie is that she is very low. Tell Edith Lillian doesn't have mumps and
is feeling fine. I talked to her last night and today. Margaret heard from
her Achievement test and she made 10 point 3 which means she is up past
the second year in high school. She has at least seemed to be over her
cold. If it suits, J.S. and I will probably be down next weekend but we
don't want to disturb anybody's plans. Did John F. go away first of week?
Love Maggie
Goldfield, IA
Postmarked April 10, 1941
Dear Folks. -
The change in the time of our night train seems
to have disrupted my writing habits. I used to be able to do my work, eat
my supper and then write and mail a letter, but since they go at six o'clock,
it doesn't seem like I can get a letter started on them.
This morning looked kinda rainy, so Walter didn't
come over and I worked here about the place till noon. This afternoon we
went out South West of Renwick and worked on a well. We are down 118 feet
and the indications are pretty good for water. Had quite a bit of trouble
with sand shooting up in our casing; sometimes to a height of forty feet
and of course we just had that much more to clean out before we could go
down any further.
I mailed Pap a package this morning. It contained
some alfalfa seed and some flax. The alfalfa may be something entirely
different but it was bought for Cossak; the very best seed in the line
of the species. The flax can be sown like oats or can be cultivated in
narrow rows, just as a matter to keep the weeds down. Flax are used for
a good many things; the main use is for the oil and the pulp or fiber for
live stock. However, the seed are good to use in different ways for cooking.
If a person needs a good laxative, there is nothing better than a table
spoon full, soaked over night in water. Of course it would be better if
they could be ground up. If a tablespoon full won't do the job a half of
tea cup will.
Took in 7 dozen eggs this AM and bought me a few
concentrates at the grocery. A fellow has to have a few things on hand
this time of year but I rely mostly on milk, cream and eggs. Haven't planned
my garden, but don't think I will put out very much.
Know you folks are having a good time keeping house.
Wish I could drop in some night for supper. Hope you both keep well. Guess
Matye is having a good time out at her sisters in Oklahoma. Hope the bus
trip didn't tucker her out and it possible wouldn't if it didn't happen
to be crowded. Is Dotty still working up at the Fort? Hope she has a good
job by now.
Went to church Sunday and had my same class of boys.
We got along fine. Had dinner with Mr. and Mrs. Wear and long toward evening
I went down to Eagle Grove. They had some Easter singing at the Legion
Hall Sunday night but I didn't go as I had heard the same thing previous.
Last night, Geo & Winnie stopped by and we three went down to Rudies
& Marions. Haven't been up to Renwick this week, but Winnie said Mrs.
Geigel wasn't feeling very good.
Again, I say, I hope everyone is well. Tell Aunt
Mag, many thanks for the letter. Regards, CHS.
Still too wet to work in the fields and there is
still frost in the ground. No oats sown. Feed yards are knee deep. Every
one has gone hog wild up here. You can't hardly buy a brood sow. There
should be a big pig crop & if things don't go one sided over across
the pond, they should be a good price next Fall. Eggs are 19 cts. Corn
around 50.
Goldfield, IA
Postmarked May 1, 1941
To: Mrs. C.L. Scott, Guston, Ky
Dear Mama:-
I read your letter yesterday after I came back from
work and was glad to hear of the surprises and to know you are fine. Didn't
work at the well business today, so have been doing some cleaning up and
put out a few cabbage & tomato plants. It has been threatening rain
most all day and has been raining in some parts of Iowa but we haven't
gotten but a few drops around here. Johnny dropped in while ago and we
chatted while I was washing dishes and pans and scrubbing off the tables.
Am glad I get one meal out per day as it is pretty hard to cook at this
period of the season. Think I got kinda spoiled by being down there so
long and having someone else do all the cooking, I haven't seemed to get
settled back to where my own cooking seems good, anymore. I guess it was
the good cornbread, raw gubbers and those big platters of roast beef that
still haunt me.
Was up to Bablers last Sunday for dinner. They had
lots of other company including Mrs. Geigel & Lena and part of the
Deans. I didn't go to church but was at Sunday school. The Madisons were
having a big day and I wanted to see them before I went to Renwick. It
was Mrs. Madisons birthday celebration and quite a few of the children
were there; of course there are 14 living children and it is hard for all
of them to get home at once.
I think most of the farmers have all of their oats
in by now and are getting ready for corn. The ground is working nicely
but could stand a rain. My new seeding North of the house is looking fine
and should make a good crop if the dandelions don't shade the ground too
much. Guess I should have torn up the surface with the cultivator and disked
it besides but I think it will be OK anyway.
Didn't sell my calf when I got back as decided to
make a baby beef out of it. It's better than four months old and can't
milk the old cow dry. I usually get from a gallon to two gallons after
it has all it wants. Would get another calf but am afraid it might have
the contagious scours and that's a mighty bad disease to have on a place.
I'm sure your yard looks pretty and I know the valley
must look very pretty also. Sweet clover is beginning to make pretty good
pasture up here and other grasses are showing up. In here where it is protected,
the blue grass is plenty good enough to pasture and I have the cow out
across the road where she seems to get her fill without much difficulty.
It's five o'clock and I want to get up town before
the stores close so had better hurry along. Hope all are well and am sure
there is plenty of work to keep everyone out of mischief. Best regards
to all. C.H.S.
Goldfield, IA
Postmarked Nov. 26, 1941 note
To: Mrs. C.L. Scott, Lyndon, KY C/O J.L.Witt
Dear Mama:-
The clock just struck ten, but will write this letter
tonight as I might have a dozen and one things to do tomorrow. Got thru
the carpenter job and have two wells to put down as soon we can get the
casing. Have been cutting some wood and kinda cleaning up from the past
three weeks which I didn't find much time to do anything around the house.
Last night I dressed five guineas and delivered them around different places
this evening; also took a goose up to the folks at Renwick for the Thanksgiving
dinner. I had lots of fun taking the dressed guineas and leaving them at
places where I am invited to dine so often. Last year I dressed ten ducks
for this occasion, and I should dress three or four this time. Don't
know if I ever told you of Mr. & Mrs. Kircher; He is a pensioned railroader
at Eagle Grove and they go by the name of Mother and Heinie. You never
stop laughing from the time you enter until you leave their house. They
are the jolliest old couple I ever saw and have known them since 1914.
I had quite a chat with them tonight.
Got my horses home today and after I drag some wood,
I will either sell them or let them out to some farmer for their feed.
It's a shame to see these good horses selling for the price they are bringing.
Also sold the big calf. I don't know what he weighed out but I asked 85
dollars and got 82.50. Isn't so bad for a sucking calf. The other one is
about ready to sell and he is worth between 25 and 30. The old cow could
handle two calves, but don't think I will get another one unless I see
something that doesn't have to be kept too long.
There is a big basket ball game in town tonight,
the first one of the season and I had planned to go, but by the time I
got home and got the house warmed up, decided I wasn't needed up there.
Have had some chances to sell geese for Thanksgiving,
but have been gone all the time. I expect some of them to call tomorrow.
Geese are a pretty good price, 12 cents and I think I will just catch them
up and sell the whole caboodle and not fool around with catching one at
a time. Chickens aren't a very good price and mine are eating their heads
off. Think I will sell the old hens this week sometime and if I can't sell
the roosters for breeders, I'll put them on the block.
Got a card, I think it was yesterday, from you.
Glad to hear everything is fine down there (except the roads). Pa [Fletcher?,
jbs] should have every pig path rocked out that way, in view of his political
status --- We have had some real cold weather the past week and was promised
a blizzard, but it didn't get much farther than the Dakotahs. Don't think
it is freezing any to speak of tonight. I think most of the beans have
been harvested. Many of the combines were going all night when the weather
permitted. Mrs. French has been quite low the past week. Mrs. Geigel plans
to have 26 for Thanksgiving. Hope it's a nice day. Best regards to all.
C.H.S.
This clipping offers a little comment of the pheasant
season that closed last week; thought Fletcher might enjoy it.
Thursday 5:00 pm
Didn't put this letter in the box this morning, so will have to take
it in town. Don't know where I would get any news to add, so will say the
weather is fine; lots of people out fishing along the river. Have twelve
quarts of apples on the stove, cooking. May can a few more as I like apple
sauce along with fish and rabbit. Guess I will give most of the plums away
if I can find anyone who can use them. Had company last night so didn't
get in to the program & band concert.
You spoke of your ear; don't you think it would
be possible that there is some hard wax that needs cleaning out? Hope you
get it straightened up.
Love, C.H.S.
Goldfield, IA
Letter dated May 4, 1942 note
Dear Mama:-
It's after 11 PM and I just got things straightened
around for the night. Had some extra work in the kitchen and don't think
I will have to work tomorrow so don't make much diffence if I do get to
bed later than usual.
Your card came today, and will say we could spare
you some of our rain, and also some of the cold weather if you wanted it
thrown in. It actually froze last night. There was ice on the tanks this
morning and a heavy frost was visible on the roofs. Glad I don't have out
any tomato plants. A few farmers are thru planting corn, but it will be
just too bad if the cold wet weather continues for very long. Had planned
to spend last Sunday in Des Moines, but it was so cold and rainy Sunday
morning that we postponed the trip until next Sunday. Was invited down
to Rudies for the day but didn't go down there either. I like to go down
there when it is nice out of doors, so Rudy and I can browse along the
river.
Walter and I are still on our five inch well down
by Woolstock and reached a depth of 120 feet today. We should strike water
within 15 feet. Had an unusual experience today when we struck a gas pocket.
I had gone to Woolstock to get some gasoline and when I got back, Walter
had stopped the machine and was listening to the rumbling. As soon as I
got my nose close, it reminded me of the sulphur wells down there. We didn't
strike a match as it was too near the buildings.
Suppose you have your sugar ration book by this
time. I will get mine sometime Wednesday. Have a little over four pounds
on hand, so will have some coupons cut out of my book. I don't use a half
pound per week. Some weeks I don't use any. Have a little canned fruit
on hand and some jell. [sic] Think we will all find out that we will be
better off with less of the crystals, but I do like a little brown sugar
once in a while; and the strange thing, brown sugar is always quite a bit
higher up here than the white.
Have my plowing all done and will get the planting
done just as soon as the weather permits. Had a tractor to do the work,
so am getting quite modern along with the rest.
Imagine the children will be down there this next
Sunday if it's a nice day. John S. hasn't gone to Panama yet, has he? Glad
to know that Gid [sic] is able to be around again. Possibly, with the right
diet, a little special attention and proper sanitation, he will come thru
in good shape.
Not much news from this quarter, only that I have
six of the finest pigs in the country. Love CHS
P.S. You might prepare the boys for another Iowa
oddity;;;;
I killed
two rats and mortally wounded two more with one shot from the 22, a few
evenings ago.
Letter dated June 8, 1942
Dear Aunt Lad:
Was just sitting here thinking about you so thought
I would just write you a few lines. You see you didn't think I ever thought
of you did you, but you are wrong. I am feeling pretty good these days,
much better than I have for the past three years, so maybe I am going to
live after all.
I went down to Tulsa, Oklahoma over Decoration day
to see Bill and Fern, spent two nights there, left Friday night and back
here Sunday night. They are getting along just fine and are as happy as
can be. Henry and Eloise came over from Shawnee Saturday night, they are
both well. Owen is working at a defense plant in Norman, Oklahoma, so he
can't get away as he works Sundays and all. It is a Naval training station
they are building. He hasn't been working there long, but seems to be tickled
he has something to do. Bill doesn't know when he will have to go to war.
I guess his job where he is now is rather vital, but he is in Class 3-A
I think. He doesn't have to worry about getting a comission as the government
is crying for men in his line of work. I hope nothing happens that he will
have to give up his nice little home that they bought after they were married.
It will be real pretty when the trees and shrubbery and flowers, and grass,
all get growing good.
How and where is your "William" and when does he
graduate from West Point? Every time I hear a radio broadcast, or see a
picture from there I always think maybe I will see or hear his name. I
listened to Vox Pop the night they were broadcasting from there. I feel
so proud of him - he may not be another "General MacArthur" but he will
be good enough for us, won't he? But I always feel sad too when I think
of all the boys whose lives will be sacrificed, I never see a soldier walking
down the street that I don't get a lump in my throat. Have any of the boys
been drafted, or enlisted, yet, I mean the Scott tribe? There are so many
of them I forget their ages and whether they will have to go or not.
How are you feeling these days? I hope you are good
for a long, long time yet. Is Aunt Kate still living? She must be awfully
old if she is.
We are having some real summer now after a late
cool start. I didn't like the cool weather but neither do I like the hot.
Hard to please. Now that they are freezing all the charge accounts I will
have to go naked when my present clothes wear out. The cost of living has
sure gone up.
Well, can't think of any more questions so better
close. Hope you can write me sometime one of your newsy letters and remember
me to all, especially Maggie. Lots of love to you and be careful this hot
summer don't run around too much.
As ever, Lula
Goldfield, IA
Letter marked June 19th, 1942
Dear Mama:-
I went to work as usual this morning over at Thor;
but the rain chased us home at 10 oclock. There was a heavy rain north
and west of us but not very much fell around here. I have some hay down
that was cut last Monday. It is the heaviest crop of alfalfa I ever saw.
Hope the fellow comes out this PM and turns it with the side delivery rake.
I had it cut on shares; for half. Hope to cut the next two crops myself
and have it bailed in the field. I don't have any hay tools and hate to
borrow any. Mr. Coleman has an old mower that is in pretty good shape and
I figure on going up there after it as soon as I have time.
I see in your letter today that you are also getting
a surplus of moisture. Well, I had much rather see too much rain than a
return of those hot dry years that we had in the middle thirties. Everything
is looking the very best and the foliage of everything seems so luxuriant
and healthy.
It has cleared off and looks like we might have
some nice weather for a few days. I should go down to Eagle Grove this
afternoon and get some chickens. Am not quite decided if I should get some
that are two or three weeks old, or just day old ones. The twenty five
that I put with one hen seem to be doing fine. Purchased them some wheat
yesterday; it cost 93 cents per bushel. My pigs are doing fine but thought
I should slacken up on their corn diet and give them some wheat or oats.
Seems like young pigs do so much better on some other cereal except corn,
until they have reached about 100 pounds.
I'm sure you folks had a fine time last Sunday and
would like to have been there with you. What is John Scott's status quo
in regard to the draft? Have they decided that his vocation is necessary
to the vital industry of war materials? I know up in this country, those
kind of people are hard to find and there are calls sent out about every
night over the radio. That Bill seems to be quite an enterprising and ambitious
young chap. The way it seems, now, flying is the most important part of
their training. Do they still have some soldiers at Fort Knox, in connection
with the civilian contingent? Wonder if they won't have to expand again,
soon.
When I had my hay cut, I salvaged a guinea, one pheasant,
and one hen pheasant got away minus a leg. It was all quite gruesome, but
guess it couldn't be helped. Figured on getting some young rabbits but
decided my meat supply was ample.
There don't seem to be any news; and you have heard
my week end happenings many, many times. I still move in about the same
social circle. Nothing drastic ever seems to happen.
Hope all are well. I'm sure you enjoy the company
that drops in on you so often. Hope it doesn't get such a busy place down
there, that this old and approved custom has to side-track for this chaos
and indecent haste we find prevelent in so many places. True, this is an
emergency, but I hope it don't break the chain of tradition.
Best regards to all----------C.H.S.
Goldfield, Iowa
Letter dated July 28th, 1942
Dear Mama:-
Here it is with July almost gone and the mosquito
season in full swing. I just got home from Mr. Wear's. Went up there pretty
soon after supper and chatted him awhile. He has a man staying with him
since Mrs. Wear died. This man is a pretty good cook and has quite a little
store experience; so they seem to be getting along fine. Speaking of mosquitos
they sure are bad this year; owing to the wet weather, and of course I
am here on the river besides.
Joe and Marie are back from Northern Minn; where
they have spent several weeks. Joe teaches this time down near where Mayme
& Edd live. Joe & his nephew stayed all night with me last night.
Mrs. Madison had a full house over there and sent a couple of them over
here.
Didn't work this morning on account of the rain.
Started raining sometime during the early morning hours and rained until
around nine o'clock. Got some weeds cut around my cornfields. Wish you
could see my corn; it is about the nicest I ever saw. One more rain will
make it. Hope we don't have any hail or hard wind storms. Some of these
folks who figure on combining their oats may get hit pretty hard.
The oats are dead ripe and of course are going down and the weeds and grass
is coming up. Some of them cut their oats with a binder and let them
come out in wind rows and this has its good features, but if there happens
to be a prolonged wet spell the oats get close to the ground and start
to sprout. I think, about half the crop is in the shock and the threshing
machines will start as soon as the weather will permit.
You should have seen me driving geese tonight with
the car. They had gotten up to Mark's by way of the river and I had to
bring them down the road; and believe me, I shoved them when I got behind
them. If I had tried to bring them down the river, they get over next to
the far bank and just set and paddle. I have guided them down with the
rifle and that works pretty good. A little hard on ammunition, however.
When they start for the far bank, I just shoot in the water as close to
them as I dare, and that seems to guide them down the stream in good shape.
I was up in the country of ten thousand lakes last
Sunday. Wayne Rasmussen and I started out from his place around seven AM.
Stopped at Renwick and had breakfast. Got Lena and landed in Fairmont about
11 AM. Mrs. Geigel had spent the week up there with her sister and we brought
her back. It sure is a nice place up there. Lakes all round the town and
extend for several miles to the South. Wish you could have seen me riding
a bicycle on the lake. Sounds odd, doesn't it: That will be one for John
and Fletcher to figure out. This bicycle had two pontoons and the peddles
operated a stern wheel.
Sure got lots of good out of the folder you sent
me. Think I told you how long it was coming.
I heard on the radio tonight, that Uncle Sam advocated
that these factory workers take a vacation and build up their reserve of
energy; I sure wish John Scott could come up and spend a week or ten days
with me. I think, however, that he has a pretty good time just in coming
down there and spending the weekends, and it's sure nice that he can. What
kind of work is Mary L. doing now?
Wish you had about 22 of my ducks. Think you would
eat one about every day so you would get rid of them. They are mighty pretty
and I have lots of fun watching them; but they eat their heads off. Of
course they could make their own living on the river, but they like their
corn after they get used to it. Every once in a while, some strange ones
come dragging in with the others and they soon cultivate a taste for corn.
Hope all are well and best regards. Love, Harold.
Goldfield, IA
Letter dated August 19, 1942
Dear Mama:-
Presume this letter will find you in the land of
the Hoosiers. Hope you made the trip in good shape, and I'm sure you are
having a good time. It's nice that Margaret Alma can accompany you on this
trip and I'm sure you have enjoyed having her with you at home, part of
the Summer.
Am staying at home today. Canning some peaches and
apples. It's a nice day to work but I didn't look up a job last night,
and have a few things here at home that needs attending to. Guess most
everyone has plenty of water as we haven't had a call for wells for better
than a week.
The weather seems to be settled, and everyone is
hoping that this big crop of corn will have a chance to mature before frost.
Don't believe I ever saw such a crop. Yesterday, I was helping a neighbor
haul in baled hay, and our road out to the hayfield took us thru his corn.
Some of the hills had five and six nice ears, but every stalk had at least
one nice big ear. This neighbor I just spoke of, and myself, really put
up hay on a big scale. We used the tractor and had it hitched to a skid,
and behind the skid, we had a rubber tired wagon. We hauled between 70
and 75 bales at a trip. Our trips were rather long ones; about a mile or
a little more. I was good and tired when dark came; and it was almost dark
when we had finished topping out the rick of bales. There is lots of hay
in the country, but most of it has been somewhat damaged by the excessive
rainfall. I harvested my second crop in fairly good shape, it got rained
on, however.
There is plenty to eat in this country at all times,
but at the present time there seems to be a superabundance. I have four
kinds of beans in the garden; also sweet corn, tomatoes and that is about
all. I especially enjoy the bush lima beans. They are so easy to cook,
and seem to stick to my ribs. Marie has about garnered her winters supply
from my garden. Have furnished several bushels of beans and sweet corn
to a variety of good hearted matrons. Am sure glad to have something to
give away once in a while, as it seems to be I am usually the recipient.
Some wild varmint committed depredations on Dick's
chicken coop, last night, killing 20 of his six week old chickens. Something
got after mine a few weeks ago, but I opened up a blitzkrieg with my old
fouling peace and nothing has been back since. There are lots of coon in
the country, but they haven't found my chickens, yet. The ducks stay on
the river at night, but they just play with the marauders. When they are
little, many a duckling pays dearly for his freedom of the great open places
but those that survive are surely fine specimens. Have forty three, and
it sure is fun to watch them on the river.
How do you find all the folks in Indiana? How long
do you figure on remaining? Suppose you will have to return in time for
M.A. to prepare for school. Our school starts on the 31st; of this month.
It has been rather difficult to procure teachers. There seems to be a shortage.
Believe I told you that Joe teaches 40 or 50 miles South of here. They
have been here for two weeks; Joe and I have our sessions but it doesn't
seem to clear up the foreign situation to any noticeable extent.
Well, Miss Ladd, have a good time with the folks
and stay as long as you can. Give my best regards to all. C.H.S.
Letter dated August 26, 1942
Dear Aunt Ladd:
It is raining pitchforks this morning so thought
it would be a good time to answer your sweet leter. I would have answered
sooner but was waiting to get the pictures back from Henry and he is a
slow-poke when it comes to writing. He was glad to see the pictures, especially
Fletcher's since they were sort of buddies back in the old days. He said
he looks like Uncle Charlie. I was so glad to get them myself, and think
they are all grand and hate to send them back but I don't blame you for
wanting to keep them, and I didn't see anything wrong with Fletcher's clothes,
think he looks grand, and so does your Bill, and hank you for the compliment
in saying that Dottie reminds you of ME, my goodness if I had ever been
that pretty I know I would have been "stuck up". Reminds you of me, huh,
her with the curly hair and little feet, and me with hair as straight as
a string and big feet, well, as I said before, thank you for the compliment,
and thank you for letting me keep the picture.
I'm glad to know that your "gang" are all doing
so well and hope they can keep up the good work. Ft. Knox is close to where
Lizzie Stiles lives, Cecilia, I was over at Ft. Knox the last time I was
in Ky, went over there with Lela Mae, she was attending some sort of a
party there, but I didn't stay for the party. No doubt it has changed immensely
since I was there I think in 1935 or 6. I wish I didn't live so far away
so I could run out to see you once in a while, wouldn't we have a good
time?
Owen is working at the Naval Training station at
Norman, Oklahoma, he has been working nights for some time now, guess he
is getting along all right, of course Henry is still with the factory at
Shawnee, they have a contract to make 50,000 war pants by December, so
he is kept busy. Bill hasn't been called to the army yet, it may be that
his work is vital to war industry, but I haven't heard from him for some
time, not since I was down there in fact, he is the world's worst writer,
and Henry is next. I may go down to see them when I get my vacation but
am not certain yet. They say the trains are so crowded now, with so many
soldiers going "hither and yon", and I sure couldn't stand up although
I hear people do have to stand sometimes. The soldiers comfort comes first
in everything to my notion, every time I see one it makes me sick to think
what they are in for. Thousands of lives will be sacrificed and I wonder
if the world will be better when it is over.
I laid in some clothes for next summer while they
were having sales, got three dresses and a blouse, one is a black crepe
with red pansies which I think I can wear under my fur coat this winter,
another is a crepe dress with jacket, striped, blue and rose, and the other
is a brown linen two piece, and the blouse is white permanent finish organdy
with tucks down the front, all hand made, was $8.95 and I paid $2.95 for
it. I got the whole mess for the price of one good dress. All I have to
buy this winter is a hat and purse. If the war industry could use old hats
I could sure donate a pile of them, why I save them is beyond me. Nothing
looks funnier than an out-of-date hat.
Well, I guess I had better cut this out and try
to find something to do before the boss comes in, although I doubt if he
comes down unless it stops raining. He isn't feeling very well and looks
bad I think and I just sort of hold my breath for fear he will drop off
like so many of them are doing these days. He is 80 years old.
How is dear Maggie, give her my love, and also all
the others and to you the best love of all. Thanks again for the pictures
and hope they get back home safely.
As ever, Lula
Goldfield, IA
Envelope postmarked Sep. 3, 1942
To Mrs. C.L. Scott, Jamestown, Indiana
c/a H. W. Scott, RR
Dear Mama:-
Just had my dinner and there isn't much rushing
this afternoon, so will answer the letter I received this morning. So you
let the others go on home; well, that's the thing. I know you will have
a good time messing around with the Hoosiers; wish I was there to mess
around with all of you. Lots of news in your letter as I hadn't heard any
word from that quarter for a long time. I didn't know but what Bud had
joined up with the air force, as I seem to have gotten that impression
the last time I was down there. Eagle Grove and Clarion have combined in
making it possible for a school of instructions in aeronautics with the
flying field at Clarioin. The enlistees do their studying at the Eagle
Grove Junior College. The rank and file appears to be very much depleted
around this part of Iowa and they have started to take married men with
dependents. John F. has been deferred until February, Gordon Bell left
for a camp in Kansas last Wednesday a week ago. So far, I haven't been
able to sell my place and get things in shape --- just in case Uncle Sam
should tap me on the shoulder. The town electrician and a lathe man, who
are around 53 and 60 respectively, have been called in for an examination.
I listed my occupation as farming; best fitted for telegraph opr. and as
having two years experience in the lumber business. I still have a good
squirrel eye and they may want me to help bring the Japs down out of the
rubber trees.
It's going to be chilly tonight. We have had rain
the past night and day (Tues. nite & Wed.) and today it is clear. There
was a report of frost at some places in the Northern part of the state
last week. A little frost wouldn't do much harm at this time, but the beans
couldn't stand a hard one and the corn is not in shape to stand a freeze.
It's a little early for much cold weather but we can look for a frost at
any time. I hope none of you folks needed any plums. I have bushels of
them going to waste. There were some neighbors here this AM to pick up
some. I took a few real ripe ones over to Mrs. Madison to make some of
her famous plum sunshine.
My friend, the Editor and his family have moved
to Nebraska and I sure will miss them. Don't believe I ever knew a much
nicer family. The children were models in any age in place. Two of the
boys are in the service, one girl is married, one girl in school at Des
Moines and three still with their parents. This little clipping is by their
father. The lad mentioned, just graduated from high school last year and
joined the air force about two weeks ago.
Last Tuesday evening, Geneva stopped by on her way
to Des Moines and we drove down to Eagle Grove for supper. This is her
second year as teacher in the Des Moines schools. Her two brothers are
teachers; one an instructor in radio at some government school in Minn.
and the oldest brother is a professor in Stanford University California.
John and his sister went up North in Minn. to spend
a week or so fishing. A couple from down near Davenport were along and
I was supposed to go with them, but I was most too busy and its most awfully
hard to get someone to look after things when you are away.
Now, have a good time, Miss Ladd and give all the
folks my best regards. Thanks for sending the clipping. Am returning it,
herewith. Love. C.H.S.
Goldfield, IA
Letter dated October 2, 1942
Between supper and news time
Dear Miss Ladd:-
My, My! but it is hard to keep up with you. I wonder
where you will be visiting next. I'm sure you have enjoyed it all, and
it's mighty nice that you can visit around like that.
I sent a letter to Lyndon after you had left there.
It was addressed to Maggie and everyone who cared to read it. Glad to know
John Scott is doing good and is still able to be around home most of the
time.
You mentioned about having frost, in your last card
sent me; well, we have had all kinds of winter weather -- weather that
has broken all previous records. The last few days have been clear and
hot, with the thermometer up in the eighties. I didn't have my third cutting
of alfalfa mowed, and the snow mashed it down, somewhat; but I have it
in the bale out in the field. Plan on putting it up tomorrow afternoon.
Walter and I are working up Northwest of Renwick
on a new well. We don't plan on working tomorrow as we have some home jobs
that need looking after. I want to get my hay put up; get some cobs put
in the shed before they get wet and a few more shocks of fodder cut. I
helped John shell corn last monday. He shelled around 3,000 bushels, so
that makes a lot of cobs, and they are good fuel to start fires with and
do a little cooking.
Dick stayed with me last night and we had our breakfast
together this morning. Mrs. Madison had gone down to Marie's for the night.
Edna has been home for a few days. She is now living near Chicago.
I salvaged quite a few things from the garden before
the freeze and have a nice basket of tomatoes. Dug my peanuts a few days
ago. Had about a hat full of nice ones and have been robbing the hills
for some time before I dug them. In a good long season, I believe we could
grow some pretty good ones. Have a fresh cow just around the corner, and
I hope it isn't too far around the corner. The dairy sells milk at 11 cents
per quart; but I get bootleg milk at seven cents per quart. No one is allowed
to sell milk in town without a license and other regulatory measures to
numerous to mention.
This country will not have the touch of color this
Fall as it did last season at this time and later. The leaves will turn
dark and fall off when we get our next rain. I'll never forget how pretty
it was down there that fall John and I were down. Wish you had one of my
pears to eat when they get ripe. They are about the best I ever ate, I
do believe. Still have some apples on the trees and they don't seem to
be hurt in the least; in fact, I think some cold weather is good for them.
Geneva stopped by on her way to Minnesota this evening
and had four Des Moines school marms with her. I felt quite honored but
sorry I didn't have on a bow tie; Had on my white cap, however, so presume
that will suffice.
Took a young rooster along to Renwick this morning
and left it at Mrs. Geigels; so, Walter and I were there for dinner. I
brought some of it back for supper. The Evangelical Ladies Aid is serving
a chicken supper at Renwick tomorrow night and Mrs. Geigel said she had
a ticket bought for me, but don't think I can get up; We have our choir
practice.
Well, Miss Ladd, I hope you found things in good
shape when you got home; with eggs in every basket. You and Miss Maggie
can visit each other and rehearse the highlights of your recent adventures
to Indiana.
Hope all are well and I send best regards to each
and everyone. Harold.
Goldfield, IA
Envelope postmarked Dec. 3, 1942 note
Dear Miss Ladd:-
I am a little late in putting my washing out to
dry, but I went hunting this afternoon and just left it on the stove to
cook. It will dry in a hurry here in the house as I have both stoves going.
The sheets will go out on the line tomorrow.
Well, winter is upon us in real old style fashion.
We have a good 12 inches of snow on the level. So far, there hasn't been
enough wind to pile it up to speak of. Started in snowing a week ago tonight
and last Friday night another heavy blanket was dumped upon us. I know,
for I was out in most of it and had to dig my way back into the garage
when I got home. It is about ten degrees below at this time and is clear.
It's sure nice to have plenty of feed and wood handy when we become tied
up like this; although, I have enjoyed getting out and cutting wood in
the snow. A fellow can always keep warm when he has something like that
to keep him busy. Have been hunting a few times and have kept myself &
some of
the neighbors stocked with fresh meat.
Had a letter from both Winfield and Maggie, recently,
and Winfield sent me Bud's [Winfield's son?, jbs] address, so will have
to write them some of these winter days while I have plenty of time. Guess
I'm like most all men in the respect that I don't like to write letters,
but sure like to pull them out of the mail box. Also had a Christmas card
from Sargt. Stanley. Wonder where the boy is? It wouldn't surprise me if
he got to be a Lieut. I always figured he had the stuff in him that takes
to make it wherever he might be and under most circumstances.
Walter and I haven't worked for about a week. He
called me up last Friday and had a pump job, but I had other arrangements
and didn't go out on the job. We have two wells to put down if and when
the weather permits. It isn't so bad working in the wintertime at that
job if we can keep out of the wind. In real cold weather, our outside overalls
freeze and we have that perfect protection from the cold, all except our
hands.
Haven't been up to Renwick for quite a little while.
Had a card from Lena last week saying Mrs. Geigel had a bad cold. They
have an oil heating system and have been quite gravely concerned about
getting enough fuel to keep the temperature up to seventy. I think Mrs.
Geigel could stand it even better than Lena could.
Sold seven geese for Thanksgiving. Received 16 cents
per pound. They were quite heavy; one weighing 18 & 1/2 pounds. Still
have 22 of my ducks. Some of them strayed too far on the river and got
shot and some got into flocks of wild ones and are no doubt down in the
heart of Texas by this time. Guess the old hens have gone on a strike,
as I'm not getting any eggs. Have four or five dozen in my Kentucky basket
and they come in handy, when I need a change of diet. Think I have
six or eight this week. I usually soft boil them and then have some toast
and coffee to fill up the extra space. Milk is my chief diet and I use
lots of it. Don't know how I would get along without it. Haven't
gotten my corn ground for meal but must try and get it done tomorrow. Kinda
looked for Dick over tonight and we were going to have a corn shelling
and pop some corn. Didn't get any walnuts this time out had some left from
last year and they are still good.
Seems like I always finish up my letters on the
top of the page. Guess I will have to get bigger pages. Don't think there
are many cars on the road, due to gasoline rationing and the snow. I suppose
if the roads would have been good and not so cold, I possibly would have
been out. It's nice to get snowed under, however, and I always find plenty
to do, and then I have time to read.
Hope all are well, down that way and best regards
to one and all.
Love, C.H.S.